Kataragama to Colombo Bus Timetable

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Via Tissamaharama, Hambantota, Southern Expressway, Makumbura, Maharagama

Route No: EX 01-12/32 Distance: 275km Duration: 5h

Route Stops:

Kataragama Tissamaharama Hambantota Southern Expressway Makumbura Maharagama Nugegoda Colombo
Normal
Not available Share what you know
Semi Luxury
Not available Share what you know
Luxury
2:20 AM
Departure
3:20 AM
Departure
4:00 AM
Departure
5:00 AM
Departure
10:15 AM
Departure
11:45 AM
Departure
12:40 PM
Departure
2:15 PM
Departure
Super Luxury
11:30 AM
Departure

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Route: Kataragama → Colombo

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Via Tissamaharama, Hambantota, Tangalle, Matara, Galle, Kalutara, Panadura, Moratuwa

Route No: 32 Distance: 285km Duration: 8h

Route Stops:

Kataragama Tissamaharama Debarawewa Weerawila Hambantota Mirijjawila Ambalantota Ranna Tangalle Matara Galle Kalutara Panadura Moratuwa Colombo
Normal
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Semi Luxury
N/A
Departure
Luxury
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Super Luxury
Not available Share what you know

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Route: Kataragama → Colombo

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Traveling from Kataragama to Colombo

Plan your journey from Kataragama 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 Kataragama to Colombo route offers travelers a comfortable return journey from the sacred pilgrimage site back to the capital, utilizing the Southern Expressway for efficient travel. This approximately 275-kilometer journey follows route EX 01-12/32, passing through Tissamaharama, Debarawewa, Weerawila, Hambantota, and the Southern Expressway before reaching Makumbura, Maharagama, and Colombo. The expressway route provides a fast 5-hour journey, making it convenient for travelers returning from pilgrimage visits or wildlife safaris in Yala National Park. Kataragama, one of Sri Lanka's most important multi-religious pilgrimage sites, attracts thousands of devotees annually, and this route ensures comfortable access back to Colombo. The journey passes through the southern province's diverse landscapes, from the dry zone interior to the expressway corridor. Travelers can choose from luxury and super-luxury services, with air-conditioned coaches providing comfort for the long journey. This route is essential for pilgrims returning from Kataragama, tourists returning from Yala National Park visits, and travelers exploring the deep south's cultural and natural attractions. The expressway option is particularly popular, offering speed and comfort for the return journey.

We currently track 2 route variants (including route numbers: EX 01-12/32, 32) for this journey from Kataragama 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 Kataragama - Colombo 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 Colombo → Kataragama timetable for return journey options. For connections to other destinations, browse our complete Sri Lanka bus routes directory.

Travel Tips for Your Journey from Kataragama to Colombo

Planning Your Trip

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

Frequently Asked Questions: Kataragama to Colombo

Departure times for the Kataragama to Colombo 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 Kataragama and Colombo depends on traffic, bus type and route variant. Express services are typically faster than normal services along the same corridor. Peak hours in Kataragama or Colombo may add 30-60 minutes to travel time.

Normal buses from Kataragama are standard public transport. Semi Luxury buses offer air conditioning. Luxury buses provide premium comfort with reclining seats for the journey to Colombo. Super Luxury buses offer the highest level of comfort.

Fares from Kataragama to Colombo 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 Kataragama operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some luxury services to Colombo may accept advance bookings. We recommend arriving early at the Kataragama bus terminal.

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

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