Jaffna to Colombo Bus Timetable

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Via Karainagar, Kilinochchi, Vavuniya, Anuradhapura, Puttalam, Expressway, Colombo

Route No: 87 Distance: 435km Duration: 8h 40m

Route Stops:

Karainagar Ponnalai Vaddukodai Sangarathai Junction Sithankerny Pandatharippu Vilan Junction Tellippalai Mallakam Chunnakam Maruthanarmadam Inuvil Kokkuvil Jaffna Nawathkuli Chawalachcheri Meesalei Kodikamam Palai Elephant Pass Paranthan Kilinochchi Mankulam Vavuniya Medawachchiya Rambewa Anuradhapura Nochchiyagama Kalaoya Puttalam Palavi Chilaw Wennappuwa Negombo Expressway Colombo Wellawatte Dehiwala Mt. Lavinia Rathmalana Soysapura
Normal
Not available Share what you know
Semi Luxury
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Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Super Luxury
6:30 PM
Departure

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Route: Karainagar → Soysapura

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Traveling from Jaffna to Colombo

Plan your journey from Jaffna to Colombo 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 Jaffna to Colombo route is a long-distance journey connecting the northern peninsula with the capital city. This route is typically served by large, comfortable luxury coaches, often running overnight to allow passengers to sleep through the 7-9 hour journey. The route passes through the A9 highway, crossing the Elephant Pass and traveling through the northern and north-central provinces. For many travelers, the night bus is the preferred choice as it saves a day of travel and offers a direct, air-conditioned service between these two major cultural hubs of Sri Lanka.

We currently track 1 route variant (including route number: 87) for this journey from Jaffna to Colombo. 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 Jaffna - Colombo route are continuously updated based on real-time information from passengers and bus operators. The information below was last updated in March 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 Colombo → Jaffna timetable for return journey options. For connections to other destinations, browse our complete Sri Lanka bus routes directory.

Travel Tips for Your Journey from Jaffna to Colombo

Planning Your Trip

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

What to Expect on the Way

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

Frequently Asked Questions: Jaffna to Colombo

The Jaffna to Colombo route has 1 scheduled departure. Services include Super-Luxury. Check the timetable above for exact times by bus type; data is updated from passenger feedback.

This route offers Super-Luxury services. The fare is approximately Rs. 2700. See the timetable above for per-service details.

Route number 87 serve the Jaffna to Colombo corridor across 1 variant. Each variant may have different stops or timings.

This route serves 41 stops. Key stops include Karainagar, Ponnalai, Vaddukodai, Sangarathai Junction, Sithankerny. Other stops are listed in the timetable. Stops can vary by variant—see the timetable sections above for full details.

Yes. You can find the return timetable here: Colombo → Jaffna.

Expert Travel Resources

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