Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to plan a perfect visit to Kataragama, from transportation to weather and travel tips. Your complete Kataragama travel guide with things to do in Kataragama Sri Lanka.
Transportation
By Bus
The most common option is by bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal, a 256 km journey taking approximately six hours.
- Regular buses available throughout the day
- Cost: Approximately LKR 500-800 per person
- Air-conditioned options available at higher prices
By Train
Take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Beliatta, then hire a taxi for the remaining 86.4 km.
- More scenic but requires taxi transfer
- Train cost: LKR 300-1000 depending on class
- Taxi from Beliatta: Approximately LKR 3000-4000
By Air
The nearest airport is Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), about 100 km from Kataragama.
- Limited flights available from Colombo
- Taxi from airport: Approximately LKR 5000-7000
- Fastest but most expensive option
Travel Tips
Weather
Trip Budget Calculator
Estimate your trip expenses
Estimated Budget
Suggested Itineraries
Make the most of your visit with these carefully planned itineraries for different durations.
1-Day Visit
Perfect for a quick pilgrimage
Morning
- Visit Kataragama Temple for morning puja (6:00 AM)
- Explore Kiri Vehera stupa
Afternoon
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Visit Menik Ganga for ritual bathing
Evening
- Attend evening puja at Kataragama Temple (6:30 PM)
- Dinner and departure
3-Day Visit
Spiritual and wildlife experience
Day 1: Sacred Sites
- Morning: Kataragama Temple and Kiri Vehera
- Afternoon: Menik Ganga and Sella Kataragama
- Evening: Evening puja and cultural experience
Day 2: Wildlife Safari
- Early morning: Yala National Park safari
- Afternoon: Rest and relaxation
- Evening: Local cuisine experience
Day 3: Historical Sites
- Morning: Tissamaharama and Tissa Wewa
- Afternoon: Sithulpawwa Rock Temple
- Evening: Final visit to Kataragama Temple
5-Day Visit
Complete southern experience
Days 1-2: Kataragama
- All sacred sites and temple experiences
- Cultural immersion and local cuisine
Day 3: Wildlife
- Full-day Yala National Park safari
- Wildlife photography opportunities
Day 4: Historical Tour
- Tissamaharama and ancient sites
- Sithulpawwa and Maligawila Buddha Statue
Day 5: Beach Day
- Day trip to nearby beaches
- Relaxation and departure
Ready to Experience Kataragama?
Start planning your spiritual journey and adventure to one of Sri Lanka's most sacred destinations.