How to get a bus from Kandy to Dambulla?

Hop aboard one of the air-conditioned Route 41, 42, or 43 intercity buses from the Kandy Goods Shed Bus Stand. These buses keep coming at short intervals throughout the day, and the ride takes roughly two to three hours before you reach the main Dambulla bus station.

No pre-booking is needed for these public routes; just stow your luggage, then pay the conductor in cash once you are on board. If you can, try for a window seat on the left side of the vehicle, because the scenery across the verdant Matale hills looks especially striking during the trip.