Our Address:
SUNDARA BAY, KINGFISHER PIZZA PARADISE, 91 A VIJAYA ROAD, TANGALLE, 82200
We are located in a place called Medaketiya…
Tangalle is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, celebrated for its pristine beaches, swaying coconut palms, and relaxed atmosphere. Offering a quieter alternative to the island’s busier beach destinations, it’s the perfect place to unwind while exploring stunning coastline, local culture, and nearby natural attractions.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to get to Tangalle. Whether you’re traveling from the bustling capital or the laid-back beaches, getting here is part of the adventure. Below is a breakdown of how to reach Tangalle from key destinations in Sri Lanka:
From Colombo (Approx. 195 km | 3.5–4.5 hours)
By Car/Taxi (Most convenient)
Duration: 3.5–4 hours
Route: Colombo → Southern Expressway (E01) → Matara → Tangalle
Tip: Taking the Southern Expressway is the fastest and most comfortable option. Private taxis and ride-sharing services such as PickMe and Uber Intercity are widely available.
By Bus
Take an express bus from Colombo (Maharagama or Pettah) to Tangalle.
Duration: 4–5 hours
Cost: Budget-friendly, approx. LKR 700–1,200
By Train
Take the coastal train from Colombo Fort to Beliatta (the southern terminus), then continue to Tangalle by taxi or tuk-tuk (approximately 30–40 minutes).
Duration: Around 4.5–5.5 hours
Note: A great option if you’d like to enjoy Sri Lanka’s famous coastal railway.
From Arugam Bay (Approx. 225 km | 4.5–5.5 hours)
By Car/Taxi
Duration: Around 4.5–5 hours
Route: Arugam Bay → Pottuvil → Monaragala → Wellawaya → Hambantota → Tangalle
Tip: This scenic drive passes through national park regions and rural villages.
By Bus
There is no direct bus to Tangalle.
Route: Arugam Bay → Monaragala → Hambantota → Tangalle
Duration: 5–6.5 hours depending on connections
Cost: Approx. LKR 500–900
From Ella (Approx. 135 km | 3–3.5 hours)
By Car/Taxi
Duration: Around 3 hours
Route: Ella → Wellawaya → Hambantota → Tangalle
A popular route connecting Sri Lanka’s hill country with the south coast.
Scenery: Tea plantations, waterfalls, forests, and coastal landscapes.
By Bus
Take a bus from Ella to Wellawaya, then connect to Hambantota or Tangalle.
Duration: Around 4–5 hours
A budget-friendly option with regular daily services.
From Tissamaharama (Approx. 75 km | 1.5–2 hours)
By Car/Taxi
Duration: Around 1.5 hours
Route: Tissamaharama → Hambantota → Tangalle
A straightforward drive along the southern coastline.
By Bus
Direct buses frequently operate between Tissamaharama and Tangalle via Hambantota.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost: Around LKR 200–400
From Kandy (Approx. 250 km | 5.5–6.5 hours)
By Car/Taxi
Duration: 5.5–6 hours
Route: Kandy → Nuwara Eliya or Bandarawela → Ella → Wellawaya → Hambantota → Tangalle
A beautiful journey through Sri Lanka’s central highlands before reaching the southern coast.
By Bus
Take a bus from Kandy to Ella or Wellawaya, then transfer to a bus heading towards Hambantota or Tangalle.
Duration: 7–8 hours
Cost: Approx. LKR 600–1,000
Nearest Airport
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) is approximately 50 minutes from Tangalle.
- Taxis and private transfers are readily available at the airport.
- Ideal for domestic flights and selected international arrivals.
Final Tips
- Best time to travel: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Transport apps: PickMe is available in many southern areas, while local taxi services are widely available.
- Tuk-tuks: Easy to find throughout Tangalle for short trips around town and nearby beaches.
- Navigation: Google Maps works well throughout the region. Download offline maps before travelling if you’ll be passing through remote areas.