Colombo to Kurunegala Bus Timetable

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Via Warakapola And Nittambuwa

Route No: 06, 6/588 Distance: 93.4km Duration: 2h 50m

Route Stops:

Colombo Nittambuwa Warakapola Kurunegala
Normal
5:20 AM
Departure
5:50 AM
Departure
6:05 AM
Departure
6:25 AM
Departure
6:40 AM
Departure
7:00 AM
Departure
7:40 AM
Departure
8:20 AM
Departure
9:00 AM
Departure
9:30 AM
Departure
10:00 AM
Departure
10:30 AM
Departure
11:00 AM
Departure
11:30 AM
Departure
12:00 PM
Departure
12:30 PM
Departure
1:00 PM
Departure
1:30 PM
Departure
2:00 PM
Departure
2:30 PM
Departure
3:00 PM
Departure
3:30 PM
Departure
4:00 PM
Departure
4:30 PM
Departure
5:30 PM
Departure
Semi Luxury
8:00 PM
Departure
Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Super Luxury
Not available Share what you know

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Route: Colombo → Kurunegala

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Traveling from Colombo to Kurunegala

Plan your journey from Colombo to Kurunegala 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 Kurunegala route is a key connection linking the capital with the north-western province's administrative and commercial hub. This approximately 93-kilometer journey follows route numbers 06 and 6/588, passing through important intermediate towns including Nittambuwa and Warakapola. Kurunegala, known as the 'City of Elephants' due to the large elephant-shaped rock formation nearby, serves as a strategic gateway to the Cultural Triangle, including access to Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Anuradhapura. The journey typically takes 2-3 hours, making it an ideal day trip or stopover destination. The route is well-served with frequent normal bus services throughout the day, offering affordable travel options for both locals and tourists. Kurunegala itself is a bustling provincial capital with good accommodation options, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding cultural and natural attractions. The route passes through scenic countryside, transitioning from the coastal plains to the drier interior regions. This connection is essential for travelers heading to the Cultural Triangle, pilgrims visiting the many temples in the region, and those exploring the north-western province's diverse attractions.

We currently track 1 route variant (including route number: 06, 6/588) for this journey from Colombo to Kurunegala. 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 - Kurunegala 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 Kurunegala → 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 Kurunegala

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 Kurunegala route

What to Expect on the Way

  • Payment: Cash only - carry small denomination notes (Rs. 50, 100, 500) for your fare to Kurunegala
  • Luggage: Small bags can be kept with you; larger bags stored near driver or in compartments on the Colombo - Kurunegala bus
  • Stops: Normal buses to Kurunegala 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 Kurunegala route.

Frequently Asked Questions: Colombo to Kurunegala

Departure times for the Colombo to Kurunegala 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 Kurunegala 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 Kurunegala 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 Kurunegala. Super Luxury buses offer the highest level of comfort.

Fares from Colombo to Kurunegala 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 Kurunegala may accept advance bookings. We recommend arriving early at the Colombo bus terminal.

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

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