Colombo Fort to Kandy Train Schedule – Timetable, Train Numbers & Tickets
Planning a train journey from Colombo Fort to Kandy, Sri Lanka? This guide brings together the departure times and train details from the supplied timetable, along with useful information about journey duration, ticket reservations, railway stations, travel planning and frequently asked questions. Check the Colombo Fort to Kandy train timetable, train numbers, departure times, ticket booking details, station information and travel tips.
Colombo Fort Railway Station is a major railway hub in Sri Lanka, while Kandy is a popular destination for visitors exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake and the surrounding hill country. Travelling by train can be a convenient way to reach Kandy from Colombo.
Colombo Fort to Kandy Train Timetable
The table includes services shown as departing from Colombo Fort and travelling to Kandy, Badulla or Hatton. Some trains continue beyond Kandy, so check whether your chosen train stops at Kandy and confirm the arrival time for your date.
| Departure from Colombo Fort | Reported arrival at Kandy | Train destination | Operating days in supplied timetable | Train type | Train No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:55 AM | 9:00 AM | Badulla | Daily | Long distance | 1005 |
| 7:00 AM | 9:31 AM | Kandy | Daily | Long distance | 1009 |
| 8:10 AM | 10:38 AM | Badulla | Daily | Long distance | 1007 |
| 8:50 AM | 11:26 AM | Kandy | Saturday, Sunday and holidays | Long distance | 1031 |
| 12:40 PM | 3:58 PM | Hatton | Daily | Long distance | 1023 |
| 3:35 PM | 6:06 PM | Kandy | Daily | Long distance | 1029 |
| 4:35 PM | 7:39 PM | Kandy | Weekdays are listed; holiday operation needs confirmation | Long distance | 1035 |
| 5:45 PM | 8:58 PM | Kandy | Daily | Long distance | 1039 |
How to read this timetable: Times are shown in 12-hour format for easier reading. Arrival times at Kandy and operating days are taken from the supplied data and should be checked against the official timetable before making travel plans.
Timetable details to double-check
- Train 1035: The original table lists this train twice at 4:35 PM with conflicting weekday descriptions. It has been consolidated into one row here; confirm its operating days before travelling.
- Trains 1005 and 1007: These are listed as services to Badulla. Confirm the Kandy stop and arrival time for the selected date.
- Train 1023: The supplied destination is Hatton. Verify that it stops at Kandy and check the current schedule if Kandy is your destination.
- Arrival and departure columns: The original table shows the same time for arrival at and departure from Colombo Fort. This guide uses the time as the reported departure time from Colombo Fort.
Official Train Timetable and Online Booking
Use these official resources to check the latest schedule and find out which trains offer seat reservations.
| Official train timetable | Search Sri Lanka Railways train schedules |
| Online seat reservation | Official Sri Lanka Railways reservation portal |
| Railway website | Sri Lanka Railways official website |
| Railway information hotline | 1971 — check availability and service details before relying on this number. |
Advance seat reservations are available on eligible services through the official portal. The railway’s reservation FAQ states that advance reservations can generally be made up to 30 days before travel, subject to availability and the rules applicable to the selected service.
Colombo Fort Railway Station Details
| Station name | Colombo Fort Railway Station |
| Railway line | Main Line |
| Telephone number in supplied data | 011-2434215 |
| Distance reference in supplied data | 0.000 km from Fort |
| Google Maps | View Colombo Fort Railway Station on Google Maps |
Arrive at the station early enough to find your platform, check any departure announcements and organise your ticket. If you have reserved seats, keep your reservation confirmation and identification details accessible.

Kandy Railway Station Details
| Station name | Kandy Railway Station |
| Telephone number in supplied data | 081-2222271 |
| Distance reference in supplied data | 120.737 km from Colombo Fort |
| Google Maps | View Kandy Railway Station on Google Maps |
The distance shown above is the figure in the supplied information. Telephone numbers and station details should be verified with Sri Lanka Railways if you need to contact the station directly.
How to Book a Train Ticket from Colombo to Kandy
- Check the train timetable: Search Colombo Fort as your departure station and Kandy as your destination.
- Select your travel date: Train services and available seats may differ on weekdays, weekends and public holidays.
- Check reservation availability: Use the official Sri Lanka Railways reservation website to see which services offer reserved seats.
- Choose the available class: Available options depend on the train and may include first-class, second-class, third-class or observation saloon accommodation.
- Complete the booking: Follow the official website’s instructions and check that payment and reservation confirmation are successful.
- Keep your ticket ready: Save your e-ticket or booking confirmation and bring the identification required for your reservation.
Booking reminder: A train appearing in the general timetable does not necessarily mean that reserved seats are available. If the online portal shows no seats, check another departure or ask Sri Lanka Railways about the available ticket options.
Travel Tips for the Colombo–Kandy Train Journey
- Check the latest schedule: Do not rely only on a saved timetable or an old screenshot.
- Reserve early for busy dates: Weekends, public holidays and popular travel periods can be busy.
- Confirm the destination: Some trains continue beyond Kandy. Check the stopping stations before boarding.
- Choose your class carefully: Reserved and unreserved accommodation may differ by service. Confirm the options for your specific train.
- Allow extra time: Reach Colombo Fort before departure rather than arriving at the last minute.
- Keep valuables secure: Keep bags and personal belongings close to you throughout the journey.
- Plan onward transport: If you are visiting Kandy’s attractions or accommodation, arrange your onward transport from the railway station.
- Check for service changes: Engineering work, weather and operational updates may affect train movements.
Places to Visit in Kandy
If you are travelling to Kandy for sightseeing, you may wish to plan time for some of the city’s best-known attractions. Check local opening times and any entry requirements before visiting.
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: One of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist religious sites.
- Kandy Lake: A well-known landmark for a walk and views around the city centre.
- Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: A large botanical garden located outside central Kandy.
- Kandy city centre: A place to explore local shops, markets and restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the first train from Colombo Fort to Kandy in the supplied timetable?
The supplied table lists a departure at 5:55 AM for train 1005, which is shown as running to Badulla. Confirm its Kandy stop and arrival time using the official timetable for your travel date.
2. How long does the train take from Colombo Fort to Kandy?
The supplied schedule lists journey times of approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 20 minutes for the entries shown, depending on the train. Actual journey duration may vary, so check the current schedule before travelling.
3. Does the train timetable operate every day?
Several entries are marked daily, while train 1031 is listed for Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Train 1035 has conflicting operating-day information in the original data. Confirm each service before making plans.
4. Can I book Colombo to Kandy train tickets online?
Yes. Sri Lanka Railways provides an official online seat-reservation portal. Available trains and seats depend on the date and service. Visit the official reservation website to check your options.
5. How early can I reserve a train seat?
The official reservation FAQ states that eligible seats can generally be reserved up to 30 days before travel. Check the booking portal for the current rules and availability for your selected train.
6. What is the distance from Colombo Fort to Kandy by rail?
The supplied information gives the distance as approximately 120.737 km. The exact distance may vary depending on the measurement reference used.
7. What should I do if my train is not listed on the booking website?
Check the official timetable first. The train may not offer online reservations for your selected date, reserved seats may be unavailable, or the service details may have changed. Contact Sri Lanka Railways or check at an authorised railway station for guidance.
8. Where can I check the latest Colombo Fort to Kandy train times?
Use the official Sri Lanka Railways timetable search and enter your departure station, destination and travel date.
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Editorial note: This article is a travel-planning guide, not a live train-tracking service. Always verify train times, stopping stations, operating days, fares and seat availability with Sri Lanka Railways before departure.
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