Question 1

How long is the train journey from Colombo to Anuradhapura?

Accepted Answer

The intercity express from Colombo Fort to Anuradhapura typically takes around four hours, covering approximately 204.9 km. Slower stopping services can take five hours or more. Booking a reserved seat in advance is advisable for the intercity service, especially on weekends and Poya days.

Question 2

Is there a direct train from Kandy to Anuradhapura?

Accepted Answer

There is no direct rail connection between Kandy and Anuradhapura; the two lines do not link directly. Travellers usually travel by road between the two cities, which takes roughly two to three hours by private vehicle or bus via Dambulla.

Question 3

How do I get from Anuradhapura station to the ancient ruins?

Accepted Answer

The station is in Anuradhapura's New Town, around 3–4 km from the main archaeological sites. Three-wheelers are available at the station exit, bicycle hire is popular given the flat terrain, and private transfers can be arranged in advance. Cycling is a particularly convenient way to move between scattered monuments in the sacred zone.

Question 4

Can I visit Wilpattu National Park from Anuradhapura?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Wilpattu National Park's main entrance is around 30 km west of Anuradhapura, making the city a natural base for safari trips. Most operators run early-morning game drives, so staying overnight in Anuradhapura allows you to reach the park at dawn when wildlife activity is highest.

Question 5

What is the station telephone number for Anuradhapura Railway Station?

Accepted Answer

The station contact number is 025-2222271. You can call to ask about current schedules or platform information, though for the most up-to-date timetables, checking with Sri Lanka Railways or a local agent is recommended.

Question 6

Do I need to buy tickets in advance for the Anuradhapura train?

Accepted Answer

Reserved seats in first and second class on intercity services should be booked in advance, particularly during public holidays, Poya days, and the Poson festival period in June. Third-class unreserved carriages are available without prior booking but can be very crowded on busy travel days.

Question 7

Which station do I get off at for Mihintale?

Accepted Answer

Mihintale Junction is the neighbouring station north of Anuradhapura on the Northern Line. From there, three-wheelers and buses make the short trip up to the sacred hill complex at Mihintale, which is a key site associated with the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.

Question 8

What is the best time of year to travel to Anuradhapura?

Accepted Answer

The driest and most comfortable months for visiting are roughly May through September and then December through February. The Poson Poya period in June is culturally significant but draws large pilgrim crowds. Avoid travelling during the peak of the north-east monsoon in November if possible, as rains can be heavy.

Vertrekt	Richting	Trein	Rijdt
12:30 am	Kankesanthurai	Mail	Dagelijks
01:40 am	Colombo Fort		Alleen op zondag
02:20 am	Kankesanthurai
05:00 am	Colombo Fort		Dagelijks
05:15 am	Medawachchiya · begint hier		Alleen op werkdagen
07:13 am	eindigt hier · vanaf Medawachchiya		Alleen op werkdagen
08:15 am	eindigt hier · vanaf Talaimannar		Dagelijks
09:15 am	Colombo Fort	Uttara Devi	Dagelijks
09:17 am	Colombo Fort	Intercity	Dagelijks
10:45 am	Kankesanthurai	Yal Devi	Dagelijks
01:42 pm	eindigt hier · vanaf Colombo Fort	Intercity	Alleen op zaterdag
01:45 pm	Medawachchiya · begint hier		Alleen op werkdagen en zondag
02:00 pm	Mount Lavinia	Yal Devi	Dagelijks
03:31 pm	eindigt hier · vanaf Medawachchiya		Alleen op werkdagen en zondag
03:35 pm	Kankesanthurai	Uttara Devi	Dagelijks
04:32 pm	Mount Lavinia		Dagelijks
05:00 pm	Colombo Fort · begint hier		Alleen op zondag
05:00 pm	Medawachchiya · begint hier		Dagelijks
05:00 pm	Talaimannar Pier · begint hier		Dagelijks
06:40 pm	eindigt hier · vanaf Medawachchiya		Dagelijks
06:45 pm	Vavuniya		Dagelijks
11:10 pm	Colombo Fort	Night Mail	Dagelijks

Anuradhapura Railway Station

Anuradhapura spoorwegstation dienstregeling

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Anuradhapura from Negombo City

Anuradhapura Sacred Area Entrance Ticket

Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Ancient Cities Tour from Trincomalee City