Colombo to Vavuniya Bus Timetable

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Via Route 15-7

Route No: 15-7 Distance: Duration:

Route Stops:

Colombo Vavuniya
Normal
6:30 AM
Departure
10:30 AM
Departure
2:50 PM
Departure
4:20 PM
Departure
6:25 PM
Departure
Semi Luxury
4:20 AM
Departure
5:00 AM
Departure
5:30 AM
Departure
6:00 AM
Departure
7:00 AM
Departure
8:00 AM
Departure
9:30 AM
Departure
11:00 AM
Departure
11:35 AM
Departure
12:05 PM
Departure
12:40 PM
Departure
1:10 PM
Departure
1:45 PM
Departure
2:15 PM
Departure
3:25 PM
Departure
3:55 PM
Departure
4:50 PM
Departure
5:25 PM
Departure
5:55 PM
Departure
7:05 PM
Departure
8:00 PM
Departure
9:05 PM
Departure
10:05 PM
Departure
11:10 PM
Departure
Luxury
7:30 AM
Departure
9:00 AM
Departure
Super Luxury
Not available Share what you know

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Route: Colombo → Vavuniya

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Via Route 57-3

Route No: 57-3 Distance: Duration:

Route Stops:

Colombo Vavuniya
Normal
2:40 AM
Departure
10:30 PM
Departure
Semi Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Super Luxury
Not available Share what you know

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Route: Colombo → Vavuniya

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Via Route 87-2

Route No: 87-2 Distance: Duration:

Route Stops:

Colombo Vavuniya
Normal
Not available Share what you know
Semi Luxury
12:20 AM
Departure
1:00 AM
Departure
2:30 AM
Departure
3:40 AM
Departure
4:45 AM
Departure
5:25 AM
Departure
6:00 AM
Departure
7:15 AM
Departure
8:00 AM
Departure
9:05 AM
Departure
9:45 AM
Departure
10:20 AM
Departure
10:50 AM
Departure
11:30 AM
Departure
12:20 PM
Departure
1:35 PM
Departure
2:20 PM
Departure
3:35 PM
Departure
4:20 PM
Departure
5:00 PM
Departure
5:40 PM
Departure
6:20 PM
Departure
7:00 PM
Departure
7:40 PM
Departure
8:20 PM
Departure
9:00 PM
Departure
9:30 PM
Departure
10:20 PM
Departure
11:00 PM
Departure
11:40 PM
Departure
Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Super Luxury
Not available Share what you know

Get Directions to Bus Stops

Route: Colombo → Vavuniya

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Traveling from Colombo to Vavuniya

Plan your journey from Colombo to Vavuniya 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 Vavuniya route connects the capital with an important northern province town, serving as a key transit point for travelers heading to Jaffna and the northern peninsula. This journey follows multiple route numbers including 15-7, 57-3, and 87-2, traversing through the north-central and northern provinces. Vavuniya is strategically located on the A9 highway, making it an essential stop for long-distance travel to Jaffna, Kilinochchi, and other northern destinations. The journey typically takes 5-6 hours, passing through the cultural triangle region including Anuradhapura, before continuing north. Vavuniya serves as a commercial and administrative hub for the Vanni region, with good accommodation and dining options, making it a convenient stopover for travelers. The route is well-served with semi-luxury, normal, and luxury services, offering options for different budgets and comfort preferences. This connection is essential for travelers heading to the northern province, pilgrims visiting northern temples, and those exploring the Vanni region's cultural sites. The route offers glimpses of the transition from the wet zone to the dry zone, with changing landscapes and agricultural patterns along the way.

We currently track 3 route variants (including route numbers: 15-7, 57-3, 87-2) for this journey from Colombo to Vavuniya. 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 - Vavuniya 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 Vavuniya → 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 Vavuniya

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 Vavuniya route

What to Expect on the Way

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

Frequently Asked Questions: Colombo to Vavuniya

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

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

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

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