Kandy to Dambulla

Kandy to Dambulla by Train

Traveling from Kandy to Dambulla by train is not the most convenient or comfortable option, but it is the most affordable. There are no direct trains from Kandy to Dambulla, so you will need to transfer at least once. The trains are also not very frequent, so you may need to adjust your schedule to fit the train timetable.

The journey from Kandy to Dambulla by train typically takes around 6-10 hours, depending on the transfer times. There are three direct trains from Kandy to Polgahawela, which is about 2 hours away. From Polgahawela, you will need to transfer to another train to Habarana, which is about 3-4 hours away. From Habarana, you can take a bus or taxi to Dambulla, which is about 1 hour away.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of the train journey:

• Departure from Kandy: There are three direct trains from Kandy to Polgahawela:

  • Train 5001 departs at 05:00 AM and arrives at 06:40 AM
  • Train 5003 departs at 01:10 PM and arrives at 02:30 PM
  • Train 5005 departs at 06:25 PM and arrives at 08:21 PM

• Transfer at Polgahawela: Once you arrive at Polgahawela, you will need to transfer to another train to Habarana. There are several trains that depart from Polgahawela to Habarana throughout the day. The waiting time for the next train can vary from 51 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the train you choose.

• Arrival in Habarana: The journey from Polgahawela to Habarana takes about 3-4 hours. Once you arrive in Habarana, you can take a bus or taxi to Dambulla, which is about 1 hour away.

Things to keep in mind when traveling from Kandy to Dambulla by train:

• The trains are often crowded, especially during peak travel times.
• The trains may not be on time, so it is important to be patient and flexible.
• There is limited luggage space on the trains, so it is important to pack light.
• If you are traveling with young children or elderly family members, the train journey may not be the best option, as the multiple transfers can be tiring and stressful.

Kandy to Dambulla by Bus

Traveling from Kandy to Dambulla by bus is the most convenient and comfortable option. There are direct buses from Kandy to Dambulla, and the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic conditions. There are air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses available, as well as state buses and regular buses. Air-conditioned buses are more expensive, but they are more comfortable and there is a higher chance of getting a seat.

Bus departures from Kandy to Dambulla are available from morning to evening, but they are not very frequent. It is best to check the bus schedule in advance and book your tickets if possible.

Here are some tips for traveling from Kandy to Dambulla by bus:

• Book your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
• Arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
• Choose an air-conditioned bus if the weather is hot.
• Bring water and snacks with you, as there may not be any vendors selling food and drinks on the bus.
• Be prepared for traffic jams, especially during the peak season.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a convenient and comfortable way to travel from Kandy to Dambulla, taking a bus is the best option. If you are on a budget or traveling with a lot of luggage, you may want to consider taking a train. However, be prepared for a longer and more tiring journey.