Batticaloa to Colombo Bus Timetable

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Via Polonnaruwa - Habarana

Route No: 48 Distance: 315km Duration: 7h 45m

Route Stops:

Batticaloa Eravur Chenkalady Valachchenai Habarana Dambulla Kurunegala Nittambuwa Kadawatha Colombo (Bastian Mawatha)
Normal
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Semi Luxury
8:30 PM
Departure
Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Super Luxury
10:00 PM
Departure
8:30 PM
Departure

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Route: Batticaloa → Colombo (Bastian Mawatha)

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Via Mahiyanganaya - Kandy

Route No: 15/88 Distance: 325km Duration: 9h 30m

Route Stops:

Batticaloa Maha Oya Mahiyanganaya Kandy Peradeniya Mawanella Colombo Fort
Normal
7:00 AM
Departure
Semi Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Luxury
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Super Luxury
Not available Share what you know

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Route: Batticaloa → Colombo Fort

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Traveling from Batticaloa to Colombo

Plan your journey from Batticaloa to Colombo with confidence using our comprehensive bus timetable. This page provides detailed departure times, route information, and practical travel tips to help you navigate Sri Lanka's extensive bus network.

The Batticaloa to Colombo route is a critical long-distance corridor linking the Eastern Province to the commercial capital. The primary route (Route 48) travels via Polonnaruwa and Kurunegala, preferred by luxury operators for its flatter terrain and faster travel times (~7-8 hours). A secondary route (Route 15) offers a more scenic journey via the Mahiyanganaya '18-Bend' road and Kandy, typically used by SLTB and normal services. In 2026, many of these buses are equipped with GPS tracking and are bookable via digital platforms like eseat.lk. Night services are the most popular, allowing travelers to reach Colombo by dawn.

We currently track 2 route variants (including route numbers: 48, 15/88) for this journey from Batticaloa to Colombo. Each variant may have different stops, bus types, or travel durations, so review the options below to find the service that best fits your schedule and budget.

Our timetables for the Batticaloa - Colombo route are continuously updated based on real-time information from passengers and bus operators. The information below was last updated in February 2026. While we strive for accuracy, bus schedules can vary due to traffic conditions, weather, or operational changes.

If you're traveling in the opposite direction, check out the Colombo → Batticaloa timetable for return journey options. For connections to other destinations, browse our complete Sri Lanka bus routes directory.

Travel Tips for Your Journey from Batticaloa to Colombo

Planning Your Trip

  • Arrive early: Arrive at the Batticaloa bus station at least 15-30 minutes before departure, especially during peak hours
  • Check bus types: Normal buses from Batticaloa are cheapest but may have frequent stops; Luxury buses offer comfort but cost more
  • Peak hours: Avoid traveling from Batticaloa during 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM weekdays for a more comfortable journey
  • Weather: During monsoon season (May-September), allow extra time for potential delays on the Batticaloa to Colombo route

What to Expect on the Way

  • Payment: Cash only - carry small denomination notes (Rs. 50, 100, 500) for your fare to Colombo
  • Luggage: Small bags can be kept with you; larger bags stored near driver or in compartments on the Batticaloa - Colombo bus
  • Stops: Normal buses to Colombo stop frequently; Express services have limited stops for faster travel
  • Help: Locals are generally helpful - don't hesitate to ask Batticaloa bus station staff for assistance

Need more comprehensive travel guidance? Check out our Essential Travel Tips page for detailed information about bus types, etiquette, safety, and cultural insights.

Found outdated information? Help fellow travelers by contributing updated timetable data for the Batticaloa to Colombo route.

Frequently Asked Questions: Batticaloa to Colombo

Departure times for the Batticaloa to Colombo route vary by service and day. Check the timetable sections above for the latest departures across Normal, Semi Luxury, Luxury and Super Luxury services. Times are updated regularly based on passenger feedback.

Journey duration between Batticaloa and Colombo depends on traffic, bus type and route variant. Express services are typically faster than normal services along the same corridor. Peak hours in Batticaloa or Colombo may add 30-60 minutes to travel time.

Normal buses from Batticaloa are standard public transport. Semi Luxury buses offer air conditioning. Luxury buses provide premium comfort with reclining seats for the journey to Colombo. Super Luxury buses offer the highest level of comfort.

Fares from Batticaloa to Colombo vary by bus type. Normal buses are the most affordable, while Super Luxury buses cost more but offer premium comfort. See the specific fares in the timetable sections above.

Most bus services from Batticaloa operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some luxury services to Colombo may accept advance bookings. We recommend arriving early at the Batticaloa bus terminal.

Yes, you can find the return timetable here: Colombo → Batticaloa.

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