Via Expressway, Negombo, Puttalam, Anuradhapura, Vavuniya, Kilinochchi, Karainagar
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Route: Soysapura → Karainagar
View Full Route on Google MapsTraveling from Colombo to Jaffna
Plan your journey from Colombo to Jaffna 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.
We currently track 1 route variant (including route number: 87) for this journey from Colombo to Jaffna. 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 - Jaffna 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 Jaffna → 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 Jaffna
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 Jaffna route
What to Expect on the Way
- • Payment: Cash only - carry small denomination notes (Rs. 50, 100, 500) for your fare to Jaffna
- • Luggage: Small bags can be kept with you; larger bags stored near driver or in compartments on the Colombo - Jaffna bus
- • Stops: Normal buses to Jaffna 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Found outdated information?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 Jaffna route.
Frequently Asked Questions: Colombo to Jaffna
Departure times for the Colombo to Jaffna 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 Jaffna 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 Jaffna 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 Jaffna. Super Luxury buses offer the highest level of comfort.
Fares from Colombo to Jaffna 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 Jaffna may accept advance bookings. We recommend arriving early at the Colombo bus terminal.
Yes, you can find the return timetable here: Jaffna → Colombo.
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