Bus Travel in Colombo.

Colombo is a thriving metropolis that serves as a sort of financial waterhole where people from all walks of life hustle to make a living. 
But how does one circumnavigate their way through the trecherous labyrinths of Colombo's districts? If you choose to take the dangerous path of the Common Man, then the first thing you need to do is educate yourself on how the public transport system works. 

If you're clueless as to which bus to take where, there's a great app called busroute.lk developed by a local company that shows you which bus to take. You just have to enter your current location and your destination and voila! Download it here.

You could also check out routemaster for a more detailed description on which buses to take to go to your destination. 

Also check out the YAMU page where we've concisely summed up the main Colombo bus routes via infographic.

Pros:

  • They're cheap. It's incredible how a tuk-ride from my house to work costs approximately Rs.450 but the total amount by bus comes to Rs.60. You don't have to worry at all in terms of money.
  • Depending on the times, they're quite fast. If you're on a bus during peak traffic hours, then there's a lot of competition between different buses and they'll employ their usual madman driving skills, basically flying through the streets and occasionally missing a few stops.
  • You get to reduce your carboon footprint: no extra fumes!
  • Going somewhere new by bus is a great way to experience the sights and the people of the city, without having to worry about directions or the like.

Cons:

  • Buses aren't exactly a smooth, quiet ride. Expect it to be packed when you get in in the mornings or far worse at about 5:00PM – 8:30PM since that's when everybody gets off work. More people = less air, less seats, and more body odour.
  • You can't always expect a seat. It's pretty much first come first serve, so prepare to stand during busy times.
  • You must ALWAYS have your bus fare in cash (and change). They're not going to take the time to give you change, and sometimes the conductors might even get pissed off. 
  • Sometimes the drivers are alarmingly bad, they'll cut through tiny spaces and leave you gasping for breath. 
  • Chances are high of you getting groped or having some horndog pervert hump your shoulder while you're seated. If this happens, don't be afraid to stand up for yourself as most people are aware of unpleasant experiences like this happening and will help put a stop to it should it ever happen.

Bus etiquette:

  • DO give up your seat for a monk. Front row seats are usually reserved for the gentlemen of the robe, so if you want to be culturally appropriate/respectful then it is advisable to offer your seat. 

  • DO offer your seat to a pregnant woman/woman with a baby. There are stickers that show which seats are reserved for either the pregnant women/mothers.

  • DO offer your seat to an elder person. This isn't really an enforced rule as most people don't really care, but out of common courtesy you'd be doing them a favour. 

  • DO keep your bags guarded at all times. If you choose to use the overhead shelves to store your bags, then remember to keep an eye on them at all times. Theft count is very low here but it's good to be prepared.

  • DO hold on TIGHT if you're standing, as riding the buses while standing is an experience equivalent to a roller-coaster. You don't want to be flung around in a moving bus, it isn't exactly fun.

  • DO dress APPROPRIATELY when you're on a bus. Wearing stilettos while some poor guy is trembling in his slippers isn't a good idea. Also the bus is home to many creeps so try your best to not wear a bodycon dress in an overly crowded bus. I'm all for female empowerment but the stares, if not the gropes, will make you deeply uncomfortable.

  • DON'T forget to carry change. Bus conductors are busy people and they'll get impatient if you present a Rs.1000 note for a Rs.10 ride. Always keep your bus fare in the Rs.50 and under range.

  • DON'T EVER stand at the ENTRANCE/EXIT on the bus. This is DANGEROUS and the consequences can be fatal. 

So have a nice trip, you'll get used to the craziness in time, and happy travels! Please contact us via comment or email at info@yamu.lk if you have more questions. 

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

The Sweetest Valentine’s Treat from The Sweet Room!

by Shamrina Carim February is here and love is in the air—So is the irresistible

Kamu

Sawan for Seven! A Gigantic North Indian Meal from Rosewood Ceylon

By Shamrina Carim If you’re craving an indulgent North Indian meal that brings together bold

Kamu

Culinary Adventure at Long Feng by Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo : The Chinese Food Festival 2025

If you’ve never journeyed to China, a  grand opportunity to immerse yourself in its true

Kamu

Cheers Pub at Cinnamon Grand Colombo: The Ultimate Spot for Great Vibes, Delicious Food, and Fun

By Sharon Nonis Looking for a place that blends great food, refreshing drinks, live music,

Highlights Kamu

Across Borders: A Culinary Bridge Between India and Sri Lanka Through Peshawri’s Timeless Flavors

By Vimasha Vishvadari Peshawri, a renowned restaurant chain, originated from the iconic Bukhara restaurant in

Highlights Kamu

Tenkū – a hidden Gem of the Japanese Cuisine

By Vimasha Weerawansha Ambience  The Kingsbury Rooftop offers a breathtaking panorama of the cityscape and

Highlights Kamu

Trending.

Radisson Hotel Colombo Achieves Hotel Sustainability Basics Certification

Radisson Hotel Colombo proudly announces its certification in Hotel Sustainability Basics, a globally recognized framework

Trending

Celebrate Love This Valentine’s Day at Cinnamon Grand

Indulge in the ultimate romantic experiences this Valentine’s Day at Cinnamon Grand. From an exquisite

Trending

Love This Valentine’s Day at Cinnamon Lakeside

This Valentine's Day, immerse yourself in romance with an array of exclusive experiences at Cinnamon

Trending

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style at Cinnamon Red

Indulge in the ultimate romantic experiences this Valentine's Day at Cinnamon Grand. From an exquisite

Trending

Mount Lavinia Hotel Celebrates World Pizza Day with Special Guest Chef Roberto Radoni

Mount Lavinia Hotel’s celebration of World Pizza Day on February 9th was an unforgettable gastronomic

Trending

A Valentine’s Day to Remember at The Kingsbury

This Valentine’s Day, let your love story unfold at The Kingsbury, Colombo. Set against the

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Colombo’s BYOB Gems: 15 Perfect Spots to Pair Your Drink with Delicious Food

by Vimasha Weerawansha Are you on the hunt for dining spots where you can bring

Yamu Guide

14 Romantic Places to Spend  February 14th – Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you're looking for the perfect place

Highlights Yamu Guide

Valentine’s Gift Guide for Him 2025

by Fathima Rukaiya Looking for the perfect way to show your special guy how much

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Valentine’s Day Picks for Her 2025

By Fathima Rukaiya, With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, hearts are filled with anticipation.

Highlights Yamu Guide

New Year’s Eve at The Kingsbury Colombo

Embrace the wonder of Christmas with a world of joy and togetherness this New Year’s

Trending Yamu Guide