Colombo Fort to Anawilundawa Train Timetable & Tickets 2026 – Times, Prices & Booking Guide
Last updated: 19 May 2026 • All data from Sri Lanka Railways
The train journey from Colombo Fort to Anawilundawa covers about 100 kilometers along the Puttalam line, heading north‑west. Anawilundawa is a small rural town best known for the Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary and Wetland – a Ramsar site of international importance. This route takes between 3 and 4 hours, offering a peaceful escape into Sri Lanka’s lowland dry zone.
With only 26 weekly trains, the schedule is limited, so planning ahead is essential. Services are a mix of commuter and mixed trains, providing basic but affordable travel. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a quiet retreat, this guide will help you navigate the infrequent schedule and enjoy the journey.
Distance: ~100 km. Approximately 26 weekly trains (4 daily services, some with limited days).
Colombo to Anawilundawa Time Table
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💰 Colombo to Anawilundawa Train Fares (2026)
| Class | Approx. Price (LKR) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd Class (Reserved recommended) | 500-700 | $1.55-$2.15 |
| 3rd Class (NOT recommended) | 250-350 | $0.75-$1.10 |
*No 1st class on this route. 3rd class is unreserved and can be very crowded – avoid.
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Choose Your Class: Second and Third Class Only (No First Class)
2nd Class – Recommended (Reserved available)
Second class is available on all four trains. We strongly recommend reserving a seat, especially for the 04:00 early morning and 17:18 evening trains. The journey is 3‑4 hours, and unreserved 2nd class can become crowded with local commuters. Reserved seats guarantee a place and better comfort. Train 3425 (17:18) is the fastest (2h 52m) and a good choice for an evening arrival.
3rd Class – NOT RECOMMENDED for this long journey
Third class is available on all trains but is unreserved. Seats are basic wooden benches, and carriages can be busy, especially near Colombo. For a 3‑4 hour journey, 3rd class is acceptable if you’re on a tight budget and travel during off‑peak hours (midday). Avoid 3rd class on Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings when locals travel to/from Colombo.
Plan Your Journey Upfront
For the fastest journey, take 3425 (17:18) – it’s the shortest at 2h 52m. For birdwatching, the morning trains (3404 at 04:00 or 3411 at 07:40) will get you to Anawilundawa in time for the best wildlife viewing hours. The route runs through flat, dry lowlands with paddy fields, coconut plantations, and small villages. The best views are on the right side (west) as you head north, where you’ll occasionally glimpse the coast near Negombo and Chilaw.
Reserved vs Unreserved Ticket
Reserved Tickets – Guaranteed Seating (RECOMMENDED): Reserved tickets provide a guaranteed seat for this 3‑4 hour journey. Always choose reserved 2nd class on this route to avoid standing.
Unreserved Tickets – Not recommended: Unreserved tickets (3rd class) mean you may have to stand. Only use for off‑peak travel on a tight budget.
Plan Your Departure from Colombo Fort
Colombo Fort station is your departure point. Arrive at least 45 minutes early, especially for the 04:00 train when the station is quiet but platforms can be hard to find. The station has basic food stalls and restrooms. Since the journey is 3‑4 hours, pack snacks, water, and a power bank. The train can be bumpy in the dry zone, so secure your luggage.
✅ Pre-departure Checklist
- Arrive at Colombo Fort station 45 minutes before your train.
- Carry printed or digital ticket (screenshot).
- Bring binoculars – you might spot birds from the train.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks – vendors are scarce on this line.
- Power bank for your phone – no charging points on the train.
- Sun hat and sunscreen – the afternoon sun is strong.
🏨 Not Been in Colombo Yet? Check Out Following Hotels
- The Kingsbury Colombo – $130 USD
- Cinnamon Grand Colombo – $120 USD
- Hilton Colombo – $115 USD
- C1 Colombo Fort Hostel – $15 USD
Where to Stay in Anawilundawa?
🏨 Hotels in Anawilundawa
- Anawilundawa Eco Lodge – Mid ($35 USD). Near the sanctuary.
- Chilaw Beach Resort – Mid ($45 USD). 15 km away, beachfront.
- Puttalam Rest House – Budget ($20 USD). 25 km away.
- Village Homestay – Budget ($15 USD). Local experience.
🍽️ Restaurants in Anawilundawa
- Anawilundawa Hotel – Local rice & curry ($3 USD).
- Chilaw Food Center – Short eats, snacks ($2 USD).
- Bird Sanctuary Café – Light meals, drinks ($4 USD).
- Puttalam Bake House – Bakery items, tea ($2 USD).
🏞️ Top Things to Do in Anawilundawa
- Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary – Ramsar wetland, 150+ bird species, 2-3 hours
- Mangrove Boardwalk – Bird hides, walk through mangroves, 1 hour
- Kalpitiya Lagoon – Dolphin watching, kayaking (30 min by taxi), 3-4 hours
- Chilaw Beach – Quiet beach, local fishing, 1-2 hours
🚍 Bus Station Nearby
Anawilundawa does not have a large bus stand, but buses stop on the main road (Chilaw – Puttalam road) about 1 km from the station. Buses to Chilaw (15 min), Puttalam (45 min), and Colombo (2.5 hours).
🚖 Taxi in Anawilundawa
Book a Taxi Now →📅 Best Times to Visit Anawilundawa
| Months | Weather | Activities | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec–Mar | Dry, sunny, 25‑30°C | Birdwatching, wetland walks | Best weather, clear skies | Moderate crowds |
| Apr–May | Hot, occasional showers | Sightseeing | Fewer tourists | Afternoon heat |
| Jun–Sep | Southwest monsoon, rain likely | Indoor activities | Lush greenery, quiet trains | Frequent rain |
| Oct–Nov | Inter‑monsoon, mixed | Sightseeing | Green scenery | Unpredictable showers |
Tip: The best time for birdwatching in Anawilundawa is December to March. Early morning visits (before 9 AM) are most rewarding. Avoid the hottest hours (12‑2 PM).
Colombo to Anawilundawa Train Stops
Major stops: Colombo Fort → Maradana → Ragama → Gampaha → Negombo → Kochchikade → Nattandiya → Chilaw → Anawilundawa.
If you overshoot Anawilundawa, the next station is Madurankuliya (15 km away). From there, take a train back – services run every 2‑3 hours.
🚧 Missed your stop? How to return to Colombo
If you miss Anawilundawa, get off at Madurankuliya and take the next train back to Colombo. Return journey takes 3‑4 hours. Alternatively, take a bus from the main road to Colombo (2.5‑3 hours).