Sri Lanka rail journey guide
Colombo to Anuradhapura train timetable and tickets
Updated 2026 Colombo to Anuradhapura train timetable, fares, classes & online booking. Official Sri Lanka Railways schedule for the ancient sacred city – AC Intercity, Yal Devi, Rajarata Rejini and more.
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Quick facts for this journey
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Colombo to Anuradhapura train timetable
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| Train No. | Train Name | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Days | Classes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4021 | Intercity (AC Intercity) | 05:45 | 09:10 | 3h 25m | Daily | 1st, 2nd | Tickets |
| 4077 | Yal Devi (Long Distance) | 06:35 | 10:40 | 4h 05m | Daily | 1st, 2nd, 3rd | Tickets |
| 5452 | 5452 (Long Distance) | 08:50 | 14:14 | 5h 24m | Daily | 2nd, 3rd | Tickets |
| 4093 | 4093 (Express Train) | 09:40 | 14:36 | 4h 56m | Sunday only | 2nd, 3rd | Tickets |
| 4017 | Uttara Devi (AC Intercity) | 11:50 | 15:29 | 3h 39m | Daily | 1st, 2nd | Tickets |
| 4085 | Rajarata Rejini (Express) | 13:45 | 18:46 | 5h 01m | Daily | 1st, 2nd | Tickets |
| 4003 | Intercity Express (AC Intercity) | 15:55 | 19:48 | 3h 53m | Daily | 1st, 2nd | Tickets |
| 5067 | 5067 (AC Intercity) | 19:15 | 00:01 | 4h 46m | Daily | 1st, 2nd | Tickets |
| 4089 | Night Mail Train | 20:30 | 00:48 | 4h 18m | Daily | 2nd, 3rd | Tickets |
| 50005 | 50005 (Special Train) | 23:20 | 04:10 | 4h 50m | Friday only | 2nd, 3rd | Tickets |
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Journey guidance
Fares, classes and practical route notes
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Journey overview +
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💰 Colombo to Anuradhapura Train Fares (2026)
| Class | Approx. Price (LKR) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Class (AC Intercity) | 1600-2500 | $4.90-$7.70 |
| 2nd Class (Reserved recommended) | 800-1200 | $2.50-$3.70 |
| 3rd Class (NOT recommended) | 270-500 | $0.85-$1.55 |
*3rd class is unreserved and very uncomfortable for 4‑5 hours – avoid. AC Intercity trains offer the best comfort.
Choose Your Class: First, Second, and Third Class +
1st Class – Air‑conditioned comfort (AC Intercity trains)
First class air‑conditioned compartments are available on 4021, 4017 (Uttara Devi), 4003, and 5067. These offer comfortable reclining seats, large windows, and a quiet atmosphere. The journey takes 3.5‑4 hours. Book at least 2‑3 weeks in advance – these are very popular among tourists and pilgrims.
2nd Class – Best value (Reserved recommended)
Second class is available on all trains. Reserved 2nd class on AC Intercity trains and expresses (Yal Devi, Rajarata Rejini) is comfortable. Unreserved 2nd class can be crowded – we strongly recommend reserving a seat. For daytime travel, Uttara Devi (11:50) and Yal Devi (06:35) are good options.
3rd Class – NOT RECOMMENDED for this long journey
Third class is cheap but unreserved with wooden benches. On a 4‑5 hour journey, it’s extremely uncomfortable, especially in the heat of the dry zone. Avoid 3rd class unless you are an extreme budget traveler and don't mind standing or sitting on a hard bench for hours.
Plan Your Journey Upfront +
For the fastest journey, take 4021 (05:45) – only 3h 25m. For a comfortable daytime ride, 4017 Uttara Devi (11:50) is excellent. The best views are on the right side (east) as you head north, where you'll see paddy fields, coconut plantations, and ancient irrigation tanks. Avoid the midday heat by taking a morning or late afternoon train.
Reserved vs Unreserved Ticket +
Reserved Tickets – Guaranteed Seating (ESSENTIAL): Reserved tickets provide a guaranteed seat for this long journey. Always choose reserved for 1st or 2nd class – you will regret an unreserved ticket on a 4‑5 hour trip.
Unreserved Tickets – Not recommended: Unreserved tickets (3rd class) mean you may have to stand or sit on a wooden bench. Only suitable for extreme budget travellers who don't mind severe discomfort.
Plan Your Departure from Colombo Fort +
Colombo Fort station is your departure point. Arrive at least 45‑60 minutes early for morning trains. Pack snacks, water, and a power bank – the journey is 3‑6 hours. The dry zone can be hot, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket for evening trains.
✅ Pre-departure Checklist
- Arrive at Colombo Fort station 1 hour before departure.
- Carry printed or digital ticket (screenshot).
- Pack plenty of water – dry zone is hot and dry.
- Bring snacks – vendors are irregular on this route.
- Power bank, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Light jacket for evening trains (5067, Night Mail).
Where to Stay in Anuradhapura? +
🚍 Bus Station Nearby
Anuradhapura New Bus Stand is about 1.5 km from the railway station – 10‑15 min walk or 5 min tuk‑tuk (150‑200 LKR). Buses run to Colombo, Kandy, Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee.
🚖 Taxi in Anuradhapura
Book a Taxi Now →📅 Best Times to Visit Anuradhapura +
| Months | Weather | Activities | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec–Mar | Dry, sunny, 25‑30°C | Sightseeing, stupa visits | Best weather, coolest | Peak season, crowded trains |
| Apr–May | Hot, occasional showers | Sightseeing | Fewer tourists | Afternoon heat (35°C) |
| Jun–Sep | Dry, hot, 28‑35°C | Early morning sightseeing | Low season, cheap hotels | Very hot during day |
| Oct–Nov | Inter‑monsoon, mixed | Sightseeing | Green scenery | Unpredictable rain |
Tip: The best time to visit Anuradhapura is December to March (cooler and dry). Avoid the midday heat (12‑2 PM) and carry plenty of water. Wear light, modest clothing when visiting sacred sites.
Colombo to Anuradhapura Train Stops +
Major stops: Colombo Fort → Ragama → Gampaha → Polgahawela → Kurunegala → Maho → Tambuttegama → Anuradhapura.
🚧 Missed your stop? How to return to Colombo
🚆 All Trains on This Route
Intercity 4021 Yal Devi (4077) Uttara Devi (4017) Rajarata Rejini (4085) Intercity 4003 AC 5067 Night Mail 4089
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