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A bus station in Sri Lanka. (source)

Buses are a common mode of transport in many countries around the world, in Sri Lanka buses have their own unique identity. Love them or hate them, buses are a major part of Sri Lankan lives.

Private buses have their own fan clubs, whilst SLTB buses are more reliable and cover more routes. From the hustle and bustle of the city to the more scenic routes outside of Colombo, a bus ride in Sri Lanka is unforgettable.

Private Buses

Private buses are a mainstay of Sri Lankan pop culture and lifestyle, with dedicated fan clubs in some cases. The first private bus was introduced to the country in 1907, and has since created its own identity.

Private buses can be easily spotted by their various colours, and loud Sri Lankan pop music, most times the interior of the bus is vibrantly decorated. These paired with the driver’s ‘fast and furious' driving style is what has given private buses their infamy. Some buses are even given endearing nicknames, like fan favourites ‘Dam Rajina’ (The Purple Queen) and ‘Dangaya’ (The Naughty One).

The ‘Dam Rajina’ (right) and ‘Dangaya’ (left) (source, source)

Private buses have no connection to the national service buses. Each bus or fleet of buses is owned and managed by individual bus owners or bus companies. Private bus owners have their own association and are unionised which often causes issues with the national bus service –SLTB.

Private bus models are usually, Ashok Leyland or Tata, and range from basic to super luxury. Despite these issues, private buses are a popular transport option in Sri Lanka, and are here to stay.

A non-AC normal private bus next to a super luxury AC private bus. (source)

CTB Buses

CTB buses, now known as SLTB buses, are a government-run bus service. These buses can be recognized by their signature red colour and slower, more careful driving. Due to strict protocols regarding safety implemented by the Government, the state-bus drivers are more careful than their private bus counterparts.

CTB buses (source)

You will find no loud music or bright lights in CTB buses, it’s purely there to serve its purpose to the people. Some CTB buses are the newer Ashok Leyland or Tata models, but the old colonial buses are still in use in certain regions.

The first CTB buses used in 1958 were the German-made Mercedes-Benz that were taken over from the annulled private bus services. CTB buses have a strict timetable therefore, the drivers don’t have the need to compete with other drivers on the same route.

The signature fire engine red SLTB bus next to two private buses at a bus station. (source)

If you are looking to travel around Sri Lanka, buses are your best bet. Now with Magiya you can safely travel to almost any location around the island.