Colombo to Balangoda Bus Timetable

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Via Route 98-6

Route No: 98-6 Distance: Duration:

Route Stops:

Colombo Balangoda
Normal
2:10 PM
Departure
5:30 PM
Departure
6:10 PM
Departure
Semi Luxury
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Luxury
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Super Luxury
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Route: Colombo → Balangoda

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Via Route 99-4

Route No: 99-4 Distance: Duration:

Route Stops:

Colombo Balangoda
Normal
4:00 PM
Departure
Semi Luxury
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Luxury
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Super Luxury
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Route: Colombo → Balangoda

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Traveling from Colombo to Balangoda

Plan your journey from Colombo to Balangoda 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 Colombo to Balangoda route connects the capital with an important town in the Ratnapura District, serving as a gateway to the hill country and providing access to several natural attractions. This journey follows route numbers 98-6 and 99-4, traversing through diverse landscapes from the coastal capital to the hill country region. Balangoda is strategically located in the Ratnapura District, serving as a commercial and administrative center for the region. The journey typically takes 4-5 hours, passing through the transition from coastal areas to the hill country, with changing landscapes and agricultural patterns along the way. The town is known for its agricultural activities, particularly rice and tea cultivation, and serves as a gateway to attractions in the Ratnapura District including Sinharaja Rainforest access points. Travelers can choose from normal bus services, with regular departures throughout the day. This route is essential for travelers exploring the Ratnapura District, nature enthusiasts, tea tourism, and those seeking cooler temperatures and mountain scenery. The journey offers diverse landscapes, from coastal areas to hill country, showcasing the variety of Sri Lanka's geography.

We currently track 2 route variants (including route numbers: 98-6, 99-4) for this journey from Colombo to Balangoda. 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 Colombo - Balangoda 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 Balangoda → Colombo timetable for return journey options. For connections to other destinations, browse our complete Sri Lanka bus routes directory.

Travel Tips for Your Journey from Colombo to Balangoda

Planning Your Trip

  • Arrive early: Arrive at the Colombo bus station at least 15-30 minutes before departure, especially during peak hours
  • Check bus types: Normal buses from Colombo are cheapest but may have frequent stops; Luxury buses offer comfort but cost more
  • Peak hours: Avoid traveling from Colombo 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 Colombo to Balangoda route

What to Expect on the Way

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

Frequently Asked Questions: Colombo to Balangoda

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

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

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

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

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