Kalutara is about 42 kilometres south of Colombo on the A2 coastal highway, making it an easy half-day trip from the capital or a convenient stop on the way to Bentota, Hikkaduwa, or Galle.
By train, frequent services run south from Colombo Fort station to Kalutara South and Kalutara North stations. The journey takes around an hour. The train hugs the coast for much of the route and is a pleasant way to travel.
By bus, air-conditioned express services from Colombo Central Bus Stand cover the distance in around 90 minutes, though local traffic near Colombo can extend this. Buses continue south to Beruwala and beyond, so Kalutara is a natural stop rather than a terminus.
Tuk-tuks and three-wheelers are available at both stations for getting to hotels, the beach, or the sights.