Shankari Devi Temple is a revered spiritual site located in Sri Lanka, known for its serene atmosphere and cultural significance. Many travelers visit this temple to experience its peaceful surroundings and rich heritage.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Shankari Devi Temple from major cities in Sri Lanka. You will learn about train, bus, car travel options, and practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Colombo to Shankari Devi Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy scenic views and a relaxed journey. Sri Lanka Railways operates trains connecting Colombo with nearby towns close to the temple.

• The nearest major railway station to Shankari Devi Temple is Kandy Railway Station, about 30 km away, with frequent trains from Colombo Fort Station taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Train fares from Colombo to Kandy range from LKR 100 to 400 depending on class, with options including second and third class for budget travelers and first class for more comfort.

• Trains can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, so booking tickets in advance via the Sri Lanka Railways website or station counters is recommended.

• The train route passes through beautiful hill country landscapes, but be prepared for occasional delays during monsoon season due to track maintenance or weather conditions.

• From Kandy Station, you can take a local bus or taxi to Shankari Devi Temple, which is about a 45-minute drive, with taxis available outside the station.

Bus

Buses are a cost-effective and widely used mode of transport in Sri Lanka, connecting Colombo and other cities to towns near Shankari Devi Temple.

• Direct buses from Colombo Central Bus Stand to Kandy are frequent, with travel times around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Bus fares typically range from LKR 150 to 300, with air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options available; air-conditioned buses offer more comfort for longer journeys.

• From Kandy, local buses or shared three-wheelers can take you closer to Shankari Devi Temple; the last-mile connectivity may require some walking or a short taxi ride.

• During peak festival seasons, buses can be overcrowded, so it is best to travel early in the day to secure a seat and avoid delays caused by heavy traffic.

• Bus stops near the temple area are limited, so confirm with the conductor or locals about the best drop-off point to avoid confusion.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving yourself or hiring a car is a flexible way to reach Shankari Devi Temple, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

• The route from Colombo to Shankari Devi Temple covers approximately 120 kilometers via the A1 highway and local roads, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

• Car rentals are available in Colombo with options ranging from budget cars to SUVs; ensure you have a valid Sri Lankan driving license or an international driving permit.

• Road conditions on the main highways are generally good, but some rural roads near the temple may be narrow and less maintained, requiring cautious driving.

• Toll plazas on the highways require cash payments; keep small change handy to avoid delays at toll booths.

• Parking near Shankari Devi Temple is limited, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during weekends and religious festivals.

Flight

Flying is not a practical option for reaching Shankari Devi Temple due to the temple’s location and the absence of nearby airports. The closest major airport is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.

• From Bandaranaike International Airport, travelers typically proceed by road or rail to Colombo city center before continuing to the temple by train, bus, or car.

• Domestic flights within Sri Lanka do not serve routes close to the temple, so air travel is limited to international arrivals and departures.

• Using flights for this journey would increase travel time and cost without significant convenience.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time visitors to Shankari Devi Temple, helping you navigate the journey smoothly and confidently.

• Start by booking your train or bus ticket from Colombo to Kandy in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, to ensure availability and preferred seating.

• Arrive at Colombo Fort Railway Station or Central Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and confirm your platform or bus bay.

• Carry some local currency (LKR) for small expenses like snacks, water, and local transport from Kandy to the temple, as card payments may not be accepted everywhere.

• Upon reaching Kandy, hire a prepaid taxi or use a trusted ride-hailing app like PickMe or Uber for the 30 km journey to Shankari Devi Temple to avoid confusion and overcharging.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry water for the final stretch, as some parts near the temple may require walking on uneven paths.

• Check temple opening hours and local festival dates ahead of time to plan your visit when the temple is accessible and less crowded.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses, as pickpocketing can occur in busy Indian and Sri Lankan transport hubs.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food unless it is freshly prepared to prevent stomach issues common among travelers in Sri Lanka.

• Book train tickets via the official Sri Lanka Railways website or authorized agents to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats.

• Use local three-wheelers or prepaid taxis for short distances instead of hailing random cabs to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Pack light but include a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon months (May to September) as sudden showers can disrupt travel plans.

• Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting the temple to show cultural sensitivity and avoid any inconvenience.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Shankari Devi Temple is during the dry season when travel conditions are favorable and the temple is less crowded. Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months to prevent delays and road issues.

Peak festival periods can cause traffic congestion and accommodation shortages, so plan your trip accordingly for a more peaceful experience.

• Avoid traveling during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April, as roads and transport services are heavily booked and crowded.

• Monsoon rains from May to September can cause landslides and road closures in some hilly areas near the temple, so check weather forecasts before traveling.

• Early morning departures from Colombo help avoid city traffic and provide a smoother journey to the temple.

• Visiting during weekdays rather than weekends reduces crowding on trains, buses, and at the temple itself.

Arrival at Shankari Devi Temple & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Shankari Devi Temple, you will find limited public transport options, so pre-arranged taxis or local three-wheelers are the best way to reach the temple entrance. The area is peaceful with a few small shops offering refreshments.

Accommodation options are limited close to the temple, so many visitors stay in nearby towns like Kandy or smaller guesthouses en route. Local buses and tuk-tuks provide short-distance travel, but prepaid taxis offer the most reliable service for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Shankari Devi Temple is by taking a train from Colombo to Kandy, followed by a taxi or local transport to the temple. This combination offers comfort, scenic views, and reliable schedules, making it ideal for most travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport will help you avoid common travel hassles. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey to Shankari Devi Temple and enjoy a peaceful, culturally rich visit in Sri Lanka.