How To Get From Kandy To Kitulgala
If you are wondering How to get from Kandy to Kitulgala, you are reading the right article.
Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka and Kitulgala is famous for white-water rafting and natural beauty. The distance between these two locations is 80 km and the duration of your journey can be from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the mode of transport.
Kandy to Kitulgala by Taxi
Hiring a taxi is the most comfortable and convenient way to get from Kandy to Kitulgala. Especially if you are carrying luggage, traveling with family, or just looking for a stress-free ride, this option allows for maximum flexibility and minimal hassle.
The most trusted and reliable taxi booking service in this country is Sri Lanka Driver guide. The company offers experienced drivers and vehicles for your safe and comfortable journey. The drivers have deep knowledge about local attractions, culture, and history.
Journey Details
- Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours (depending on traffic)
- Cost: LKR 10,000–15,000 ($30–$45), depending on the vehicle and driver
- Route: Typically along the A1 highway via Gampola or Peradeniya, then south through Ginigathhena
The journey itself is scenic, passing through tea plantations, misty hills, and lush forests. If you are traveling by taxi, you can also stop at points of interest like Ramboda Falls or tea estates along the way. Taxis offer door-to-door service and allow you to customize your stops.
To book your taxi, visit the official website of Sri Lanka Driver guide and after adding all the details, a driver will contact you.
Book With Sri Lanka Driver Guide – Get a Quote
Kandy to Kitugala by Train
Kitulgala does not have a train station of its own, so you will need to take a train to a nearby station and then continue the journey by bus or taxi.
Closest Train Stations to Kitulgala
- Ginigathhena (closest, about 15 km away)
- Hatton (further but better connected, around 35 km away)
The best route would be-
- Kandy to Hatton by train
- Hatton to Kitulgala by bus or tuk-tuk
Train Journey Details
- Kandy to Hatton:
- Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Fare: LKR 100–500 ($0.30 to $1.50), depending on the class (3rd, 2nd, 1st)
- Frequency: Several trains daily on the Kandy–Ella main line
From Hatton, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kitulgala. The road trip from Hatton to Kitulgala takes about 1.5 hours. You can book train tickets online or from the railway station. Traveling by train will give you the best views and local experience. Even if the train follows an indirect route, it is an affordable option.
Kandy to Kitulgala by Bus
Taking a bus from Kandy to Kitulgala is the most budget-friendly way to travel, but also the most challenging for those unfamiliar with Sri Lanka’s public transport system.
Types of Buses
- Government (SLTB) Buses—Red buses that are cheaper but may be crowded.
- Private Buses—White buses that may have more frequent service but variable comfort levels.
Routes and Transfers
There is no direct bus from Kandy to Kitulgala.
Option 1: Via Peradeniya and Ginigathhena
- Take a local bus from Kandy to Peradeniya Junction (about 20–30 minutes).
- From Peradeniya, take a bus towards Hatton or Nawalapitiya, and get off at Ginigathhena.
- From Ginigathhena, take a local bus or tuk-tuk to Kitulgala (15–20 minutes).
Option 2: Colombo-Bound Bus
- Some Colombo-bound buses that depart from Kandy pass through Kitulgala. You need to ask if the bus will stop there.
- This is a more direct option but depends on bus schedules and driver willingness to stop.
Journey Details
- Total Time: 3.5 to 5 hours
- Cost: LKR 300–500 ($1–$1.50) total
- Departure Points: Kandy Bus Stand or Peradeniya Junction
This option is best for adventurous budget travelers or those looking to experience local life up close. But if you have family traveling with you or you are carrying enough luggage, a bus cannot be a great option. Check the bus schedule in advance to avoid delays.
Kandy to Kitulgala Best Route
This sums up How to get from Kandy to Kitulgala. For utmost comfort and a personalized travel experience, we suggest you book a taxi on Sri Lanka Driver guide. From door-to-door service and pickup at your own time to privacy, it offers the best services.
If you are traveling on a budget and also want to explore the local scenario of Sri Lanka, you can opt for a bus or train to travel from Kandy to Kitulgala. Use this article as your guide to follow the route.
Editorial Staff is at Sri Lanka Driver Guides are Sri Lanka travel experts.
