The train from Colombo to Galle is the cheapest, most scenic and most Sri Lankan way to start a south coast trip. For much of the journey it runs along the coast, with palm trees on one side and the sea almost within reach on the other.
It is also easy to get wrong. Some trains have reserved seats, most do not, the classes feel very different and the booking system can be unreliable.
This guide covers the Colombo to Galle train: times, classes, ticket prices, how to book, which side to sit on, and how to get from Galle station to the fort.
Colombo to Galle by train: the quick facts
- Distance: roughly 115 km
- Journey time: about 2 hours 11 minutes on the fastest express, and usually 2.5 to 3 hours. Slower trains can take over 4 hours.
- Cost: from about LKR 240 in third class, about LKR 500 in second and about LKR 990 to 1,100 in first, where it is available
- Departs from: Colombo Fort station
- Arrives at: Galle station, close to Galle Fort
Fares and times come from recent guides, so check them against the day's timetable.
Is the train the best way to get to Galle?
It is the best choice for views, price and atmosphere. A taxi or the expressway bus is faster and more comfortable, especially with heavy luggage, and the train can be crowded and slow.
Our Colombo to Mirissa and Weligama guide compares all your options for reaching the coast, and our guide to the coast without a car covers getting around once you are there.
Timetable: when do trains leave?
Services change, so check the official timetable for your date. Guides list typical departures from Colombo Fort of around:
- 6:50 am
- 8:35 am
- 10:30 am
- 2:40 pm
- 3:50 pm
- 5:50 pm
- 7:30 pm
The 2:40 pm and 3:50 pm departures are listed as the ones with first-class carriages. Express trains take around 2 hours 15 minutes, while slower services stop at more stations. Most services also run on to Matara. Always check which station your train starts from, because some services start or end at Maradana instead.
Train classes and prices
Third class
The cheapest option, at about LKR 240. It is mostly unreserved, gets very crowded with commuters and has basic facilities. It is fine for a short hop, but not for a long journey with luggage.
Second class
About LKR 500. Second class is the usual choice for visitors. It is more comfortable, with more padded seats. Unreserved second class is bought at the station on the day, and does not guarantee a seat. Reserved second class has a numbered seat.
First class
About LKR 990 to 1,100 on the services that offer it. It is reserved, usually air conditioned and the most comfortable, but not on every train. Older guides say there is no first class on this route, so check the specific train when you book.
Our pick
If you can book it, second class reserved is a good balance of price and comfort. If you cannot, arrive early for unreserved second class and be ready to stand for part of the journey.
Reserved vs unreserved tickets
- Unreserved tickets are bought at the station on the day. They cannot sell out in advance, but they do not guarantee a seat, and on busy services you may stand.
- Reserved tickets have a numbered seat and cannot be bought on the day of travel. You must book them ahead.
Only certain trains offer reserved seats, so check before you plan around them. Seats sell out well in advance in peak season.
How to book a reserved seat
- Online: reserved tickets can be booked through the official Sri Lanka Railways portal at railway.gov.lk, up to about 30 days before travel. Guides note that the site is sometimes unavailable and can reject foreign cards.
- Third-party sellers: some agents sell tickets online for a fee. They are easier, but cost more.
- At the station: the ticket windows at Colombo Fort sell unreserved tickets on the day, and sometimes reserved seats if you plan ahead.
If your dates are fixed, book the moment the 30-day window opens.
Which side should you sit on?
Sit on the sea side. Heading south from Colombo, the coast is to the west, so the ocean is on your right in the direction of travel. One guide says left, so look at the map, and pick the window that faces the water. Some carriages face backwards, so check your seat before the train leaves.
The line hugs the coast for most of the journey, and the views get better the further south you go.
The doors are open
Trains in Sri Lanka often run with the doors open, and passengers sit or stand near them. Read why Sri Lankan trains leave the doors open before you go. If you want to hang out of a door for photos, be careful, hold on and keep your phone away from the edge.
Arriving in Galle
Galle station is close to Galle Fort, so you can reach the fort on foot or by a short tuk tuk ride. Agree the fare before you set off.
- Our Galle travel guide covers where to stay and what to do.
- Our Galle Fort walking guide is a good first stop.
If you are heading further south, many trains continue to Matara, and Weligama and Mirissa have their own stations. Check that your train stops where you need it.
Tips for the journey
- Travel light. Luggage space is limited, especially in third and unreserved second class.
- Go early. Morning trains are cooler and less crowded.
- Avoid weekends and holidays if you can, because they are busier.
- Carry small notes for tickets, and keep your valuables close.
- Bring water and a snack. Vendors come through the train, but it is useful to have your own.
- Know your stop. Announcements are not always clear, so watch for the station name.
Is the train worth it?
Yes, if you travel light, you have time and you want to see the coast. It is the cheapest option and one of the best ways to start a trip.
Skip it if you have large bags, are short on time or arrive tired from a long flight. A taxi or the expressway bus is easier. If you are staying in Colombo first, our Colombo stopover guide is a good place to start.
A few things we would know before booking
Do not assume you can buy a reserved seat on the day.
Reserved seats must be booked ahead.
Do not assume every train has first class.
Only some services carry it. Check the specific train.
Do not sit on the wrong side.
Pick the window facing the sea.
Do not rely on the official website working.
It can be slow or reject foreign cards. Have a backup plan.
Do not forget to check your starting station.
Most trains leave from Colombo Fort, but some start at Maradana.
Frequently asked questions about the Colombo to Galle train
How long is the train from Colombo to Galle?
About 2 hours 11 minutes on the fastest express, and usually 2.5 to 3 hours. Slower trains can take over 4 hours.
How much is a train ticket from Colombo to Galle?
About LKR 240 in third class, LKR 500 in second class and around LKR 990 to 1,100 in first class where available. Check current fares.
Can I book a seat in advance?
Yes, on trains with reserved seating. You can book online up to about 30 days ahead through railway.gov.lk.
Can I buy a ticket on the day?
Yes, for unreserved second and third class, at the station. Reserved seats cannot be bought on the day.
Which side has the sea views?
The sea is on the right in the direction of travel when heading south from Colombo. Choose a window facing the water.
Which class should I choose?
Second class reserved is the best balance of comfort and price. Third class gets very crowded.
Is there first class on the Colombo to Galle train?
On some services, such as certain afternoon departures. Check the specific train.
How do I get from Galle station to Galle Fort?
It is close, so you can walk or take a short tuk tuk ride.
Is the train better than the bus?
The train is more scenic and cheaper, while the expressway bus or a taxi is faster and more comfortable.
Final thoughts
Most people reach the south coast in a car. The train is slower and a bit rough around the edges, and it is also the one you will remember.
Book a reserved second-class seat if you can, sit on the sea side, travel light and give yourself a full morning.
By the time you step off at Galle with the smell of salt in the air, the trip has already started.
