Colombo Fort Railway Station is Sri Lanka's main railway hub, handling trains to every corner of the island. This guide covers everything you need to know—platforms, ticket counters, facilities, and how to navigate this busy station.
Station Overview
Official Name: Colombo Fort Railway Station (කොළඹ කොටුව දුම්රිය ස්ථානය)
Station Code: CLF
Opened: 1877
Platforms: 10
Daily Passengers: ~100,000
Location: Fort, Colombo 01
Ticket Counter Guide
The station has 20+ ticket counters. Here's which counter to use for your destination:
Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily. For night trains, buy tickets earlier in the day.
Platform Guide
Station Facilities
- Waiting Rooms: 1st class and general waiting areas
- Restrooms: Near platforms 1 and 6 (small fee)
- Food: Cafeteria, snack stalls, platform vendors
- Left Luggage: Cloak room available (daily rate)
- ATMs: Multiple banks near main entrance
- Information Desk: Near main hall
- WiFi: Limited free WiFi in waiting areas
Getting To Colombo Fort Station
From Airport (BIA): Express train from Katunayake South station (30 mins, LKR 300). Or taxi/PickMe (1-1.5 hrs, LKR 3,000-4,000)
From Pettah Bus Station: 5-minute walk east
By Tuk-Tuk: Tell driver "Fort Railway Station" or "Fort Station"
Nearby: World Trade Center, Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, Galle Face Green (15 min walk)
Tips For Navigating The Station
- Arrive 30 mins early for long-distance trains to find your platform
- Check display boards near main hall for platform announcements
- Porters available (red jackets) — agree on price first (~LKR 200-500)
- Peak hours: 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM — very crowded
- Keep valuables secure — busy station attracts pickpockets
- Reserved seat? Your ticket shows coach and seat number
Conclusion
Colombo Fort Station can feel overwhelming on your first visit, but it's actually well-organized once you know which counter and platform to use. Arrive early, double-check your platform on the display boards, and you'll be on your way to some of the world's most scenic train journeys.
