Getting There and Away

Stunning beach sunset at Mirissa, Sri Lanka, with colorful skies and serene waters.
Prince Srivastava, Pexels

Mirissa, Sri Lanka, can be accessed through key transport hubs primarily located in Colombo, the capital. The Colombo Fort Railway Station and the Colombo Central Bus Stand serve as major departure points for long-distance travel to the south. Closer to Mirissa, the Matara Bus Station acts as a significant regional hub, while Weligama and Mirissa have their own railway stations.

Train:

Traveling by train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Mirissa or Weligama Railway Station offers a scenic journey. The travel time typically ranges from 2 hours 58 minutes to 3 hours 50 minutes. Ticket prices for Second Class are approximately LKR 230-260, and Third Class tickets cost around LKR 125-145. Direct trains operate a few times a day. Both Mirissa and Weligama stations are slightly outside the main town area, requiring a short tuk-tuk or walk to reach accommodations.

Bus:

Buses are a cost-effective way to reach Mirissa. From Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah) or Fort Station, you can take a bus heading towards Matara. The journey to Matara Bus Station typically takes between 2 hours 35 minutes and 5 hours, depending on the type of bus and traffic conditions. From Matara, a short tuk-tuk or local bus ride will take you to Mirissa in under 15 minutes. Public bus fares range from approximately LKR 215-750. Air-conditioned luxury buses using the Southern Expressway can reach Matara in 2 to 2.5 hours, costing LKR 560-750.

Taxi/Private Car:

For a direct and more comfortable journey, hiring a taxi or private car is an option. From Colombo, including Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), to Mirissa, the travel time is generally 1 hour 58 minutes to 3 hours. Costs vary significantly based on the vehicle type and service, ranging from approximately LKR 22,000-27,000 (around $62-$145 USD) from Colombo city. From Colombo Airport, prices can start from LKR 40,780 or approximately $40-$88 USD. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and PickMe may offer fixed prices.

Tuk-tuk:

While not suitable for long distances from Colombo, tuk-tuks are readily available for short transfers from Weligama or Mirissa railway stations to your accommodation, or for navigating within Mirissa and to nearby beaches. Negotiating the fare before starting your journey is advisable.

Flights:

Mirissa does not have its own commercial airport. Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the main international gateway to Sri Lanka, from which onward ground transportation to Mirissa is required.