What’s the cheapest way to travel around Sri Lanka?

Public buses are usually the least expensive way to get around Sri Lanka, with fares often being only a few dollars for crossing huge chunks of the island. Third-class train travel is also pretty budget-friendly for certain lines or connections.

The government-run (red) and private (blue/white) buses go to almost every corner, and they operate with high frequency. Still, even if they’re very inexpensive, the buses are often jammed, lack air conditioning, show erratic and fast-paced driving, and they give barely any spare room for larger luggage. Trains feel like a gentler low-cost option, with striking scenery along the way, but the rail system is mostly limited to the coastline and the central highland areas.