Colombo to Mannar Bus Timetable

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Via Route 4

Route No: 4 Distance: Duration:

Route Stops:

Colombo Mannar
Normal
Not available Share what you know
Semi Luxury
1:25 AM
Departure
6:40 AM
Departure
7:30 AM
Departure
8:50 AM
Departure
9:25 AM
Departure
10:05 AM
Departure
11:10 AM
Departure
4:00 PM
Departure
7:20 PM
Departure
8:40 PM
Departure
10:00 PM
Departure
11:20 PM
Departure
Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Super Luxury
Not available Share what you know

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Route: Colombo → Mannar

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Traveling from Colombo to Mannar

Plan your journey from Colombo to Mannar 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 Mannar route connects the capital with the northernmost point of the mainland, offering travelers access to one of Sri Lanka's most unique destinations known for its causeway, wildlife, and proximity to India. This journey follows route 4, traversing through the north-western and northern provinces. Mannar is famous for the Mannar Causeway, a bridge connecting the mainland to Mannar Island, and is known for its unique geography, wildlife (including wild donkeys), and historical significance. The journey typically takes 6-8 hours, passing through diverse landscapes from coastal areas to the drier northern regions. The town offers access to beautiful beaches, the historic Baobab tree (believed to be over 700 years old), and provides the closest point to India's Rameswaram. Travelers can choose from semi-luxury bus services, providing comfortable travel for the long journey. This route is essential for travelers exploring the northern province, those interested in the Mannar Causeway and island geography, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers seeking unique destinations off the typical tourist trail. The journey offers glimpses of the transition from wet zone to dry zone, with changing landscapes and agricultural patterns along the way.

We currently track 1 route variant (including route number: 4) for this journey from Colombo to Mannar. 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 - Mannar 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 Mannar → 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 Mannar

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 Mannar route

What to Expect on the Way

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

Frequently Asked Questions: Colombo to Mannar

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

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

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

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