Colombo to Mirissa: How to Get There (Train, Bus, Taxi + Costs)
Getting from Colombo to Mirissa seemed simple enough when I first looked it up; jump on a train, ride the rails down the Sri Lankan coast, and arrive a few hours later at the beach. Easy, right? Well… not exactly. In reality, my train was delayed by three hours, there were no first-class seats, no air-conditioning, and I spent most of the unexpectedly long five-plus-hour ride sitting on my bag on the floor.
If you are trying to figure out the best way to travel between Colombo and Mirissa, or in the opposite direction, this guide breaks down all your options, from trains and buses to taxis, Ubers, and tuk-tuks. I am sharing everything I learned the hard way so you can choose the option that best suits your travel vibe (and hopefully avoid a sweaty floor nap on your backpack).
Oh & as always practice sustainable tourism while traveling, please :)
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Your Travel Guide to Getting from Colombo to Mirissa
The view from Parrot Rock over Mirissa Beach in Sri Lanka.
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Table of Contents
Overview of Transport Options Between Colombo & Mirissa
Taking the Train Between Colombo & Mirissa
Taxi, Uber, & Ride-Sharing Services Between Colombo & Mirissa
Bus Services from Colombo to Mirissa (& Vice Versa)
Independent Travel: Tuk Tuk, Car, & Scooter Rentals Between Colombo & Mirissa
Overview of Transport Options Between Colombo and Mirissa
Mirissa is about 156 kilometers (roughly 97 miles) from Colombo, Sri Lanka. The journey takes around 2.5 hours by car, 4 to 5 hours by train or bus (depending on the type of service and number of stops), or 4.5 to 6 hours by tuk-tuk.
If you are arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Negombo and planning to travel to Mirissa or anywhere along the southern coast, you will first need to make your way to Colombo Fort Railway Station. Most long-distance trains and buses depart from here.
Pro Tip: There are not many food options around Colombo Fort Railway Station aside from a few small carts selling nuts, fruit, and local snacks. I recommend grabbing your food and drinks before the long journey ahead.
Negombo (Airport) - Colombo (Fort Railway Station):
Bus 187:
Departure Point: Katunayake Airport Bus Station (just outside the airport terminal)
Destination: Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah), a 500-meter walk to Fort Railway Station
Schedule: Every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Fare: Approximately 110 (LKR)
Travel Time: Around 45 minutes, though it depends on traffic conditions
Taxi:
Travel Time: Around 1 hour, depending on traffic
Cost: 5500+ LKR or around 18+ USD.
How to Book? I booked mine through my accommodation, but you can also use Uber.
Pro Tip: I do not recommend using PickMe for getting around. Drivers often ask for extra money once they arrive at your pick-up spot, and you need a local phone number to sign up.
Tuk-tuk: I have not personally taken a tuk-tuk between Colombo and Mirissa, and I would not recommend it unless you are really up for a long, sweaty journey. It might be cheaper than a car or taxi, but it will take twice as long; think 5 to 6 hours on slower roads with no air-conditioning and uncomfortable seats. If you are carrying big bags or a suitcase, it is going to be a packed and bumpy ride.
You can rent your own tuk-tuk while in Sri Lanka, which is a fun option for shorter distances. Just be aware that you will need to get a local driver’s permit and take a quick lesson first. I think tuk-tuks are best saved for short trips between towns along the southern coast, not cross-country missions like this one, but it can be a lovely way to see the country if you have some more time and do not mind making many stops along the way.
Taking the Train Between Colombo and Mirissa
Me sitting on the floor of the Sri Lanka train from Colombo to Mirissa.
Catching the train from Colombo to Mirissa is fairly straightforward. The harder part is the journey itself, especially if your train ends up delayed.
Departure Station: Fort Railway Station, Colombo
Arrival Station: Mirissa Railway Station
This station is slightly outside the main area of Mirissa, so you will either need to walk the 15-20 minutes to your accommodation, or hire a taxi.
Buying Tickets
You can purchase train tickets directly at the station at Colombo Fort Railway Station. Just walk up to the ticketing window and let them know where you are heading. When you buy your ticket, the officer will also tell you which platform to wait on.
There are usually multiple trains per day, but keep in mind that some make more stops than others. I recommend asking the ticketing officer which train is the most direct and what time it departs. If tickets are sold out, do not panic; there are often one or two more trains later in the day.
If you want to book ahead, 12GoAsia is an option, although it may not always show every train. Ticket prices are anywhere from 1 to 6 USD, depending on class, time of day, etc. Keep in mind that just because you have booked a first-class ticket, you might not be in first class. Sometimes the trains will change last minute to one without a first class attached.
Train Classes
First-class tickets (with A/C and assigned seats) are not always available on this route. Most travelers end up in second or third class.
The second class has fans and padded seats.
The third class is more basic; usually bench seating and no fans.
Neither the second nor the third class has assigned seating, so if it is busy, you might end up sitting on the floor (as I did). The train cars do get oversold, and it can feel pretty packed, especially during peak hours.
Comfort + Conditions
There was no restroom on the train I took, or if there was, I did not find it.
The only baggage storage is on the floor or on small overhead racks, which are not super secure if you have loose or heavy items.
Windows open in both second and third class, which helps with airflow, but it still gets SWEATY.
I suggest packing your own food and water. There are a few carts at the station selling snacks, nuts, and drinks, but not much else.
At Fort Railway Station, there is a special restroom for foreigners (weird, I know), but you will need to ask a staff member for the key.
When to Travel
Peak times are mornings (commuters heading to work), evenings (people heading home), and weekends or holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend traveling between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, although this can vary during holidays or random delays.
Also, anticipate your train to be late or slow. Mine was delayed by three hours, and the ride took over five hours in total.
Safety & Final Thoughts
I do not recommend hanging out of the train doors, even if it looks fun on social media. It is genuinely dangerous, especially with trees and bridges so close to the tracks.
Do not hold your phone or camera outside the window in tourist-heavy areas (like Ella). Phone snatching is a real thing, and some people wait in the bushes just for that.
I do not know how often the trains are cleaned, so bring hand sanitizer and wipes if that is something you care about.
A hand fan is also handy, especially if it is raining and you cannot open the windows.
If you are squeamish about sitting on the floor, a light blanket or mat is useful.
And if all else fails, just plan for a long, sweaty journey followed by a well-earned hot shower.
My Train Experience:
I had originally planned to catch the 8:00/9:00 AM train from Colombo to Mirissa, but it was delayed until almost 1:00 PM. To make matters worse, the morning trains were combined into one, and there was no first-class carriage available that day. For more than two-thirds of the journey, we had no seats, so I ended up sitting on the floor, half-asleep with my head in my hands, completely drenched in sweat.
At each stop, locals would hop on and off, selling drinks and snacks. Most stops lasted between two and ten minutes, and many passengers stepped off just to get some fresh air.
We finally arrived nearly five hours after leaving Colombo, utterly exhausted. That train ride wore me out, and after that experience, we mostly opted for buses or private taxis for the rest of our trip.
Taxi, Uber, & Ride-Sharing Services Between Colombo & Mirissa
Like I mentioned earlier, the two main ride-sharing apps in Sri Lanka are Uber and PickMe. I did not have much luck with PickMe. Drivers would show up, then ask for more money than the app quoted. It was a waste of time between waiting around, saying no, and eventually just calling an Uber anyway.
Because of that, I recommend sticking with Uber or asking your accommodation to arrange a ride for you ahead of time. Just be sure to agree on the final price before you get in. I did not take this option myself, but I was quoted around 12,000+ LKR (about 40+ USD) for a mini car, which fits two people plus backpacks or small luggage. That is likely the low end of what you will pay for a taxi or Uber from Colombo to Mirissa.
The trip takes about 2.5+ hours without any stops. If you want a direct, fast, and hassle-free way to get from Colombo to Mirissa, this is your best bet, especially if you book ahead. Just keep in mind that if you are starting from Bandaranaike International Airport in Negombo, the price will be a bit higher since it is a little further north of Colombo.
Taxi & Uber Scams in Sri Lanka: What to Watch For
Unfortunately, scams do happen, especially with ride-sharing and taxis. Here are a few common ones to be aware of:
Drivers asking for more money upon arrival, even though the fare is previously set in the app.
Taking longer routes on purpose to increase the price.
Requesting toll fees separately, even though tolls are already included (especially with Uber).
Not ending the trip after drop-off, causing the fare to keep rising in the app.
If you are arriving at the airport, I strongly recommend booking your ride in advance. There have been reports of scammers near the terminal pretending to be Uber or PickMe drivers and trying to lure travelers into overpriced or unlicensed rides.
Bus Services from Colombo to Mirissa
The best bus to reach Mirissa is the Colombo–Matara route, which departs from the Colombo Central Bus Stand in Pettah. There are plenty of departures throughout the day, and the trip takes between 4 and 5 hours, depending on stops and traffic. You pay fares in cash onboard to the driver, so bring smaller bills. One-way ticket prices range from 410 to 750 LKR (approximately 1.36 to 2.50 USD).
Keep in mind, bus drivers can be a little wild, with frequent stops and sudden speeding, so this might not be the best choice if you get car sick easily.
If you are on a budget, the bus might be your best bet, at least it was for me. After a hot, crowded, and seatless train ride, I found myself taking the bus more often and genuinely preferring it. Overall, it felt a bit more comfortable and less chaotic (even though the drivers can be a bit insane). I would recommend the bus over the train, oddly enough.
Buses run frequently throughout the day, so even if you miss one, another will probably come within 10–15 minutes.
One thing to note: Not all buses stop directly in Mirissa town. Some may stop in nearby Weligama or Matara, which means you will need to grab a tuk-tuk or local bus for the last 10 to 20 minutes to reach Mirissa itself. It is a quick and easy ride, but something to keep in mind when planning your trip. Drivers and locals in the area can help you figure out which bus to take to finish your journey. They were always super helpful with this. Your local accommodation can also help you navigate which buses are best, so do not be afraid to ask.
Bus Tips:
You do not need to book ahead; buses leave frequently.
There are no seat reservations, just take the first available.
Luggage space is minimal, so expect to keep bags at your feet or squeeze them behind the last row.
Be sure to press the stop buttons on the bus when you reach the spot where you want to hop off.
Tuk Tuk Rentals Between Colombo & Mirissa
A local tuk-tuk riding around with surfboards on its roof.
Since I have not driven a tuk-tuk between these two spots myself, I do not have much firsthand info. But when I looked into renting one in Mirissa or Weligama, prices ranged from about 9 USD to 25 USD per day. The longer you rent, the cheaper the daily rate.
Most rental companies also require a refundable deposit of around 100 USD. Insurance is usually included, covering damage, personal injury, and third-party liability. Worth it for peace of mind.
You will need an international driver’s license, a valid local permit, and some basic training to drive one legally in Sri Lanka. Unless you have plenty of extra time, I recommend saving tuk-tuk rentals for shorter trips or cruising between nearby towns further down the coast.
If you want some more information on renting a tuk-tuk and how to obtain a permit, head here!
Travel & Safety Tips for the Colombo to Mirissa Journey
Colombo to Mirissa Travel Tips
Bring cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) for snacks, coconuts, or small vendors at and around stations/buses. Cards are rarely accepted.
Expect delays and bring plenty of water or grab a coconut before boarding. Trains and buses can be hot, especially in second and third class.
Watch your belongings, especially if you are seated near open doors or windows.
Trains and buses get crowded, especially during peak hours. Be respectful and give locals space if you have a large bag.
Remember, if you are renting your own tuk-tuk, you will need a local driver’s license and a short training session. Driving is on the left side of the road in Sri Lanka, and the traffic can be chaotic.
Pack mosquito repellent, especially for longer, more rural routes where the train might stop for longer periods.
Download an eSIM to help navigate the buses. I always use Airalo for my eSims.
Be careful with the street dogs. Most are kind and well-fed in touristy areas, but rabies does exist in the country (in more animals than just dogs). I highly recommend getting the rabies vaccination before traveling. The disease is fatal.
Mistakes can happen, especially when surfing, so I recommend always having some form of travel medical insurance. Safety Wing is by far the best travel medical insurance. It has saved me numerous times by covering hospital visits when I was sick during my travels in Asia.
Emergency Contact Number: Police: 119 | Ambulance: 110
You can find a complete list of Sri Lanka’s Emergency #’s by location here.
For Taxis, Ubers, and PickMe:
Agree on the price before the ride if not using the app, and do not be afraid to walk away if it feels off.
Uber > PickMe. In my experience, PickMe drivers often ask for more money once they arrive.
Expect to pay more if traveling from the airport.
Watch for scams, like toll fees being added or trips not being ended in the app.
Book in advance from the airport to avoid scammers pretending to be your driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I stay in Mirissa?
If you want to stay close to the downtown area and have easy access to a variety of restaurants, I recommend booking an accommodation along the coast near Mirissa Beach.
Best Accommodation Options in Mirissa For Every Traveler:
Backpacker/Hostel Option: The Hostel (Dorm) or Bird House
Best Low-Budget: Glamour Mirissa or Mirissa Cocoon (I stayed here and it sufficed. Nothing special though, just a budget accommodation).
Best Mid-Budget: Mimoza Mirissa
Best High-End Budget: Peacock Villa or D Canal House
Best Luxury Budget: The Nine Mirissa or Coastline Mirissa Boutique Hotel & Spa
You can also find hotel deals at Agoda and Hostel World! You can help support my travel blog by clicking and booking through the links at no additional cost to you!
How long does it take to travel from Colombo to Mirissa?
It usually takes around 2.5 to 5 hours, depending on what you are taking and how bad the traffic is along the route. You can reference the information in the article above for which form of transport takes how long.
What is the cheapest way to get from Colombo to Mirissa?
The bus is probably the cheapest option.
Can I take a train directly from Colombo to Mirissa?
There is a train that stops in Mirissa; however, the others will stop in either Weligama or Matara. You can ask the station ticketer for more accurate information on train stops.
Are taxis or ride-sharing apps available from Colombo to Mirissa?
Yes, taxis and apps like Uber work on this route, but they can get pricey compared to the bus or train. It depends on whether you prioritize budget options or faster journeys.
Is it safe to rent and drive a tuk-tuk from Colombo to Mirissa?
Driving a tuk-tuk from Colombo to Mirissa is not something I would recommend unless you know what you are doing and plan to make some stops along the way. The tuk-tuk is better for short trips once you are in town or nearby.
There Are So Many Stray Dogs In Sri Lanka, How Can I Help?
The easiest thing you can do is feed them. You can give them plain white rice and boneless chicken or any other boneless meat, as well as dog food. Many grocery stores sell dog food, but keep in mind that some dogs are picky eaters—do not take it personally if they do not eat what you offer. Of course, a starving dog will eat just about anything. Leaving out some water in a plastic bowl or even an empty coconut can also be helpful. Coconut water is highly hydrating and can benefit dogs as well.
Many dogs, especially those further from tourist areas, are afraid of human interaction. If a dog seems hesitant, simply place the food and water nearby and step away to give them space. I promise they will eat once you leave!
If you come across an injured or sick dog, you can notify Animal SOS, a non-profit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes stray animals in need. They currently have over 2000 dogs!! WECare is another incredible group providing veterinary care and sterilization programs to improve the lives of street dogs.
If you notice a dog with fleas or ticks and plan to stay in the area for a while, you can reach out to either organization for help in getting medication to distribute.
If you have more time, consider volunteering with one of these organizations to make an even bigger impact. I volunteered with Animal SOS, and it was a truly amazing day that left my heart even fuller.
Visiting Parrot Rock in Mirissa? Here is what to expect and whether it is worth it.
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