Sri Lanka Airports Guide 2026: Complete Arrival Guide from Landing to City (What Every Tourist Needs)

Your plane is descending over the Indian Ocean, lush green landscapes coming into view, and you’re about to land in Sri Lanka—one of Asia’s most captivating destinations. But before you can explore ancient temples, pristine beaches, or wildlife-rich jungles, there’s one crucial step: arriving at Sri Lanka’s airport and navigating the arrival process.

Don’t worry—Sri Lanka’s main airport is modern, efficient, and designed with international tourists in mind. Whether you’re arriving for the first time or returning for another adventure, understanding the airport layout, arrival procedures, and available services will help you transition smoothly from airplane to adventure.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Sri Lanka’s airports: which airport you’ll arrive at, step-by-step arrival procedures, how to get a local SIM card, currency exchange options, transport from airport to city, and insider tips to make your entry seamless.

First time in Sri Lanka? Complete your travel preparation with our Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide 2026 for comprehensive destination planning, and check your Sri Lanka Visa Guide 2026 to ensure your travel documents are ready.

Quick Overview: Sri Lanka’s Airport System

Before diving into details, here’s what you need to know:

The Essentials

Main International Airport:
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) - Handles 99% of international arrivals

Location:
Katunayake, approximately 35km north of Colombo

Airport Code:
CMB (often listed as “Colombo” on flight bookings)

Total Airports:

• 1 primary international airport
• 1 secondary international airport (limited use)
• 6+ domestic airports

Your Arrival:
Unless specifically booked otherwise, you’ll arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).

What to Expect

✅ Modern facilities comparable to major Asian airports
✅ English widely spoken by staff and signage
✅ Tourist-friendly services and clear directions
✅ Efficient immigration with dedicated tourist lanes
✅ 24/7 operations for all essential services
✅ Multiple transport options to any destination

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB): Your Gateway to Sri Lanka

Airport Overview

Official Name: Bandaranaike International Airport
Common Names: Colombo Airport, CMB, Katunayake Airport
Location: Katunayake, Western Province
Distance to Colombo: 35 kilometers (22 miles)
Opened: 1967 (modernized multiple times)
Annual Passengers: 10+ million (2025)

Why This Airport Matters

Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lanka’s primary aviation hub and will be your entry point to the island. Named after Solomon Bandaranaike, former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, the airport has undergone significant modernization to handle growing tourist numbers.

Recent upgrades (2024-2026):

• Expanded terminal capacity
• Improved immigration processing
• Enhanced duty-free facilities
• Better ground transport organization
• Upgraded WiFi and digital services

Terminal Layout & Facilities

The airport has one main terminal handling all international flights, divided into:

Arrivals Hall (Ground Floor):

• Immigration counters
• Baggage claim areas
• Customs clearance
• Meeting point
• Ground transport

Departures Hall (Upper Floor):

• Check-in counters
• Security screening
• Immigration
• Duty-free shopping
• Boarding gates

Key Facilities Available 24/7:

Essential Services:

• Immigration & customs
• Baggage services
• Information desks
• Airport security
• Medical assistance

Tourist Services:

• Currency exchange counters (4 locations)
• ATMs (multiple banks)
• SIM card counters (Dialog, Mobitel, Airtel)
• Tourist information desk
• Left luggage storage

Comfort & Convenience:

• Free WiFi (first hour free, paid extended access)
• Restaurants (local & international)
• Cafés (Starbucks, local chains)
• Duty-free shopping
• Prayer rooms
• Smoking areas (outdoor)
• Baby care rooms

Transport Services:

• Official taxi counters
• Ride-hailing app pickup zones
• Airport bus stops
• Private transfer booking desks
• Car rental agencies

Step-by-Step Arrival Process at Colombo Airport

Let’s walk through exactly what happens from the moment you land until you exit the airport.

Before Landing: In-Flight Preparation

During your flight:

1. Arrival Card (if required)

• Sometimes distributed on flight
• May be completed electronically at immigration
• Fill in: Personal details, passport info, Sri Lanka address, purpose of visit

2. Customs Declaration

• Required if carrying restricted items
• Filled out on plane or at airport
• Declare: Large amounts of cash, expensive items, restricted goods

3. Have Ready:

• Passport (with 6+ months validity)
• ETA approval (digital or printed)
• Return ticket booking
• Hotel address or contact
• Pen (for any forms)

Pro tip: Complete all forms during the flight to save time at immigration.

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Step 1: Disembarkation (5-10 minutes)

What happens:

• Plane parks at gate or aerobridge
• Follow signs for “Arrivals” or “Immigration”
• Clear directional signage in English
• Staff available if you’re confused

Follow the crowd—everyone is going to immigration.

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Step 2: Immigration & Passport Control (15-45 minutes)

Queue selection:

• Look for: “Foreign Passport” or “Visitors” lanes
• Avoid: “Sri Lankan Nationals” lanes (unless you’re a citizen)
• Multiple counters usually operating based on flight arrivals

Wait times:

• Peak hours (evening arrivals): 30-45 minutes
• Off-peak: 15-25 minutes
• Express lanes sometimes available for business class

At the immigration counter:

Officer will:

1. Take your passport
2. Ask for ETA approval (some scan it automatically)
3. Ask standard questions

Common questions:

• “Purpose of visit?” → Tourism/Holiday
• “How long are you staying?” → [Number] days
• “Where are you staying?” → [Hotel name or city]
• “Is this your first visit?” → Yes/No
• “Do you have a return ticket?” → Yes [show if asked]

What the officer does:

• Scans passport and ETA
• Verifies your visa status
• Checks passport validity
• Takes fingerprints (sometimes)
• Takes photo (sometimes)
• Stamps your passport with entry stamp

Entry stamp shows:

• Entry date (today’s date)
• Visa type (Tourist)
• Validity period (30 days from today)
• Immigration officer signature

Important: Check your stamp before leaving the counter. Make sure the dates are correct!

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Step 3: Baggage Claim (10-20 minutes)

Finding your luggage:

• Multiple baggage carousels
• Digital screens show flight numbers
• Find your flight number
• Wait at corresponding carousel

Baggage services:

• Free trolleys available (no coins needed!)
• Porter assistance available (tip: 200-500 LKR)
• Damaged luggage counter if bags are damaged
• Lost luggage office if bags don’t arrive

Pro tips:

• Take photo of your baggage claim ticket
• Watch for your bags carefully (similar-looking luggage)
• Keep valuables in carry-on, not checked bags

If your luggage is lost:

1. Don’t leave airport
2. Go to airline’s baggage desk immediately
3. File missing baggage report
4. Get reference number
5. Provide hotel address for delivery
6. Keep all documents

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Step 4: Customs Clearance (5-15 minutes)

Two channels:

Green Channel (Nothing to Declare):

• Most tourists use this
• Walk straight through
• Occasional random checks

Red Channel (Goods to Declare):

• Use if carrying restricted items
• Declare valuable items
• Pay duties if required

Items requiring declaration:

• Amounts over $15,000 USD cash
• Professional camera/video equipment
• Drones (require prior approval)
• Large quantities of alcohol/tobacco
• New electronic items (laptops, cameras)
• Commercial goods

Restricted/Prohibited items:

• Illegal drugs (severe penalties)
• Firearms and weapons
• Explosives
• Pornographic material
• Counterfeit goods
• Certain medications (check before travel)
• Endangered species products

Sri Lanka is very strict on drugs. Penalties are severe, including death penalty for trafficking.

Alcohol & Tobacco allowances:

• 2 bottles wine or spirits (1.5L total)
• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars
• Amounts above require duty payment

If stopped at customs:

• Be polite and cooperative
• Answer questions honestly
• Show receipts if asked
• Usually routine checks, don’t worry

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Step 5: Arrivals Hall - Your Entry Point (10-30 minutes)

You’ve cleared immigration and customs. Welcome to Sri Lanka!

Arrivals hall layout:

• Multiple exit doors
• Tourist services on both sides
• Clear signage to transport
• Meeting point for pickups

Essential services immediately available:

Tourist Information Desk:

• Free maps and brochures
• Questions answered
• Directions provided
• Hours: 24/7

SIM Card Counters (Priority #1):

• Location: Right side after customs
• Providers: Dialog, Mobitel, Airtel
• Open: 24/7
• Get this FIRST before anything else!

Currency Exchange:

• Multiple counters
• Competitive rates
• Hours: 24/7
• Or use ATMs for better rates

ATMs:

• Multiple machines
• Accept international cards
• Dispense Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR)
• Fees: 300-500 LKR per transaction

Transport booking desks:

• Official taxis
• Private transfers
• Tours and packages

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Getting a SIM Card at the Airport (Essential!)

This should be your FIRST priority after clearing customs.

Why You Need a Local SIM Card

Absolutely essential for:

• Google Maps navigation
• Calling tuk-tuk drivers/hotels
• Using ride-hailing apps (PickMe, Uber)
• Staying connected
• Emergency communications
• Booking services online
• Translating Sinhala/Tamil

Cost vs value:

• Price: $5-15 for tourist package
• Value: Priceless for hassle-free travel
• Alternative (no SIM): Constant wifi hunting, getting lost, unable to call anyone

Trust us: Get the SIM card. It will save you hours of frustration.

Available Providers & Packages

Our recommendation: Dialog (best coverage in rural areas and national parks)

How to Buy at Airport

Location: Right side of arrivals hall, clearly marked counters

Process (5-10 minutes):

1. Go to counter (Dialog recommended)
2. Show passport (required for registration)
3. Choose package
   • Tell them: “Tourist data package”
   • Typical: 10-20GB + local calls
   • Duration: 30 days
4. Payment
   • Cash (USD or LKR)
   • Credit card accepted
5. Staff activates SIM
   • Insert in phone
   • Staff test it works
   • Explain how to check balance
6. Done!

What you receive:

• Activated SIM card (nano, micro, or regular)
• Tourist package activated
• Local phone number
• Instructions card

Pro tips:

• Buy at airport (easier than finding shops later)
• Dialog has best coverage (worth paying slightly more)
• Keep your original SIM safe
• Take photo of your new number
• Save it in phone contacts

Coverage & Speed

4G LTE coverage:

• All cities: Excellent
• Tourist areas: Excellent
• National parks: Good (Dialog best)
• Remote villages: Limited
• Beaches: Excellent
• Hill country: Good

Typical speeds:

• 4G: 10-30 Mbps
• 3G: 2-5 Mbps (rural areas)
• Sufficient for: Maps, messaging, browsing, social media
• Can handle: Video calls, streaming (lower quality)

Top-Up & Extensions

If you run out of data:

• Top-up at any shop displaying provider logo
• Purchase online via app
• Reload vouchers at convenience stores

Checking balance:

• Dialog: Dial #456#
• Mobitel: Dial #177#
• Airtel: Dial *125#

Currency Exchange & Money at the Airport

Understanding Sri Lankan Currency

Official currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR or Rs.)

Approximate exchange rates (2026):

• 1 USD = 300-320 LKR
• 1 EUR = 330-350 LKR
• 1 GBP = 390-410 LKR

Denominations:

• Bills: 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000 LKR
• Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10 LKR

Typical costs:

• Tuk-tuk ride: 200-500 LKR
• Local meal: 500-1000 LKR
• Water bottle: 100-150 LKR

Currency Exchange at Airport

Location: Multiple counters in arrivals hall

Operating hours: 24/7

Exchange rates:

• Slightly less favorable than city rates (2-5% difference)
• Still acceptable for convenience
• Better than hotel exchanges

Recommendation: Exchange only what you need for first day:

• Airport to hotel transport: 2,000-3,000 LKR
• Meals: 1,500-2,000 LKR
• Tips and small purchases: 1,000 LKR
• Total: Exchange $20-30 at airport

Exchange more later in:

• Colombo city (better rates)
• Major hotels
• Banks

Using ATMs at the Airport

Better option than exchange counters for larger amounts

Location: Multiple ATMs in arrivals hall

Banks available:

• Commercial Bank
• Bank of Ceylon
• Sampath Bank
• HSBC

Accepted cards:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• Maestro
• Cirrus network

Withdrawal limits:

• Usually 40,000-100,000 LKR per transaction
• Depends on your bank
• Can make multiple withdrawals

Fees:

• Sri Lankan bank fee: 300-500 LKR per transaction
• Your bank’s international fee: 2-4%
• Total cost: ~$5-7 per withdrawal

Pro tip: Withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees (2-3 withdrawals total for whole trip rather than 10 small ones).

Money Tips for Arrival

What to bring: ✅ Credit/debit card (backup payment)
✅ Small amount USD cash ($100-200)
✅ Emergency credit card (separate from main one)

What NOT to bring: ❌ Traveler’s checks (rarely accepted)
❌ Large amounts of cash (security risk)
❌ Damaged/torn bills (won’t be accepted)

Smart money strategy:

1. Exchange $20-30 at airport (immediate needs)
2. Use ATM in Colombo for bulk cash (better rates)
3. Keep credit card for hotels and tours
4. Carry mix of bills (small denominations useful)

Budget planning: Check our Sri Lanka Travel Cost Guide 2026 for complete budget breakdown and daily expense estimates.

Transport from Colombo Airport to Your Destination

Getting from the airport to your hotel or first destination is straightforward with multiple options for every budget.

Distance & Travel Times

Traffic note: Colombo traffic is heavy during:

• Morning rush: 7:30-9:30 AM
• Evening rush: 5:00-8:00 PM
• Plan accordingly!

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Option 1: Official Airport Taxi (Recommended for First-Timers)

Best for: First-time visitors, families, those arriving late at night

How it works:

Official taxi counters:

• Located in arrivals hall (can’t miss them)
• Clear signage: “Pre-Paid Taxi”
• Multiple companies operating
• Open 24/7

Process:

1. Go to counter
2. Tell them destination
3. Pay fixed price upfront
4. Receive voucher with taxi number
5. Exit airport
6. Find your taxi (staff help you)
7. Give voucher to driver
8. No additional payment needed

Costs (approximate, 2026):

• Colombo city: 3,500-4,500 LKR ($12-15)
• Negombo: 1,500-2,000 LKR ($5-7)
• Kandy: 12,000-15,000 LKR ($40-50)
• Galle: 15,000-18,000 LKR ($50-60)

Advantages: ✅ Fixed price (no meter manipulation)
✅ Safe and licensed drivers
✅ Professional service
✅ Vehicle tracking
✅ Complaint mechanism
✅ Large vehicles available
✅ Child seats available (request ahead)

Disadvantages: ❌ More expensive than ride apps
❌ Less flexibility once booked
❌ Tourist pricing

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Option 2: Ride-Hailing Apps (Best Value)

Best for: Budget travelers, tech-savvy visitors, flexible travelers

Available apps:

PickMe (Most Popular):

• Like Uber but Sri Lankan
• Wide coverage
• Competitive pricing
• English interface
• Cash or card payment
• Download before you travel

Uber:

• Available but less common than PickMe
• Primarily in Colombo area
• International app (familiar interface)

How to use:

Before arrival:

1. Download PickMe app
2. Set up account
3. Add payment method (optional - cash works)

At airport:

1. Get SIM card first (need data!)
2. Connect to airport WiFi (or use data)
3. Open PickMe app
4. Enter destination
5. Confirm pickup point (follow airport signs for ride-hailing area)
6. Book ride
7. Driver arrives (5-15 minutes)
8. Show driver your name/booking
9. Enjoy ride

Costs (typical, 2026):

• Colombo city: 2,000-3,000 LKR ($7-10)
• Negombo: 800-1,200 LKR ($3-4)
• Kandy: 8,000-10,000 LKR ($27-33)
• Galle: 10,000-13,000 LKR ($33-43)

Advantages: ✅ Cheapest option (30-40% less than taxi)
✅ Transparent pricing
✅ Track driver in real-time
✅ Driver ratings/reviews
✅ Flexible cancellation
✅ Payment options (cash or card)

Disadvantages: ❌ Requires smartphone and data
❌ Wait time (5-20 minutes)
❌ Surge pricing during peak times
❌ Some drivers don’t speak English well
❌ Occasional cancellations

Pro tip: Book immediately after getting SIM card while still at airport (WiFi) rather than struggling outside.

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Option 3: Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Most Convenient)

Best for: Groups, families, luxury travelers, those with lots of luggage

How it works:

• Book online before arrival
• Driver meets you at arrivals with name sign
• Immediate departure, no waiting
• Direct to destination

Booking options:

• Hotel booking (many hotels offer this)
• GetYourGuide, Viator (international platforms)
• Local companies (via email/WhatsApp)

Costs (approximate, 2026):

• Colombo city: $20-35
• Negombo: $10-15
• Kandy: $60-80
• Galle: $70-90

Advantages: ✅ No waiting or hassle
✅ Meet and greet service
✅ Help with luggage
✅ Usually English-speaking drivers
✅ Can book larger vehicles
✅ Set price, no surprises
✅ Professional service

Disadvantages: ❌ Most expensive option
❌ Must book in advance
❌ Less flexible (fixed time)
❌ Cancellation policies vary

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Option 4: Airport Bus (Budget Option)

Best for: Solo budget travelers, backpackers, light luggage

Route: Airport → Colombo city (various stops)

Cost: 150-250 LKR ($0.50-0.80) - incredibly cheap!

Duration: 1.5-2 hours (much slower due to stops)

How to find:

• Exit arrivals hall
• Look for bus stop signs
• Ask staff “Airport bus to Colombo?”
• Bus #187 is main route

Schedule:

• Frequent departures
• Every 30-60 minutes
• 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM (limited night service)

Advantages: ✅ Extremely cheap
✅ Local experience
✅ Simple route

Disadvantages: ❌ Very slow (many stops)
❌ Crowded during peak times
❌ No luggage space for large bags
❌ Uncomfortable with heavy luggage
❌ Not recommended at night
❌ Language barrier

Realistic assessment: Only suitable if:

• You have minimal luggage
• You’re not time-sensitive
• You’re comfortable with crowded local transport
• You’re an experienced budget traveler

For 99% of tourists: Not recommended. The $5-10 saved isn’t worth the hassle.

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Our Transport Recommendation

First-time visitors: Official airport taxi (safest, easiest)

Returning visitors: PickMe app (best value)

Groups/families: Pre-booked transfer (most convenient)

Ultra-budget solo: Airport bus (if you must, but reconsider)

Night arrival (after 10 PM): Official taxi or pre-booked transfer only

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI): The “Other” Airport

Quick Overview

Location: Hambantota, Southern Province
Distance from Colombo: 240 km (3.5-4 hours)
Airport Code: HRI
Status: Limited operations

Why It Exists

Built in 2013 as Sri Lanka’s second international airport, Mattala was intended to:

• Reduce congestion at Colombo airport
• Serve southern tourist destinations
• Be close to Yala National Park
• Act as regional hub

Reality: Severely underutilized, often called “world’s emptiest airport”

Current Operations (2026)

International flights:

• Very limited
• Occasional charter flights
• Some seasonal routes
• Mostly cargo operations

Who uses it:

• Specialized tour groups
• Charter flights
• Cargo operations
• Occasional commercial flights

Should You Fly Here?

99% of tourists will NOT use this airport.

Use only if:

• Specifically booked tour starting in south
• Charter flight arranged
• Special business reasons
• Significantly cheaper flight (check if savings offset transport costs)

Disadvantages:

• Very limited flight options
• Far from most tourist destinations (even southern ones)
• Less developed facilities
• Limited transport options
• More expensive ground transport to most destinations

Our advice: Unless you have a specific reason, stick with Colombo (CMB).

Domestic Airports in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has several domestic airports, but most tourists won’t need them.

Domestic Airport Network

Major domestic airports:

1. Ratmalana Airport (Colombo) - Closest to city
2. Sigiriya Airport - Near Cultural Triangle
3. Batticaloa Airport - East coast
4. Trincomalee Airport - East coast
5. Jaffna Airport - Northern Sri Lanka
6. Koggala Airport - South coast

Domestic Flight Services

Operators:

• Cinnamon Air (seaplanes & small aircraft)
• FitsAir (charter)
• Helitours (helicopters)

Typical routes:

• Colombo ↔ Sigiriya (30 mins vs 4 hours by car)
• Colombo ↔ Trincomalee (45 mins vs 5-6 hours)
• Colombo ↔ Jaffna (1 hour vs 7-8 hours)

Costs:

• One-way: $100-200 USD
• Scenic flights: $150-300 USD

Should You Use Domestic Flights?

Advantages:

• Massive time savings
• Scenic views
• Comfortable
• Unique experience

Disadvantages:

• Expensive (10-20x cost of bus/train)
• Limited schedules
• Weight restrictions
• Miss scenery/culture of ground travel

Worth it if:

• Limited time
• Connecting with international flights
• Higher budget
• Physical difficulties with long drives

Not worth it if:

• Budget travel
• Time available
• Want authentic experience
• Enjoy scenic train/car journeys

Our recommendation: Sri Lanka is small. Ground transport (trains, private car) offers better value and experience for most tourists.

Essential Arrival Tips for First-Time Visitors

Before You Land

✈️ During Flight:

• Fill out arrival card (if distributed)
• Set phone to airplane mode, then turn on upon landing
• Have passport/ETA ready
• Review your accommodation address
• Prepare first-day cash (USD)

📱 Phone Preparation:

• Ensure phone is unlocked for international SIM
• Download offline maps (Google Maps)
• Download PickMe app
• Screenshot hotel address (in English AND local script)
• Charge phone fully

Immediately After Customs

Priority order:

1. Get SIM card (5-10 mins)
→ Makes everything else easier

2. Small currency exchange or ATM (5 mins)
→ Get 5,000-10,000 LKR for immediate needs

3. Orient yourself (2 mins)
→ Check airport map, find transport area

4. Arrange transport (5-20 mins)
→ Official taxi, PickMe, or pre-booked pickup

What to Avoid at Airport

❌ Don’t:

• Accept offers from unofficial “taxi drivers” outside
• Exchange large amounts at airport (rates not best)
• Agree to “tours” from random people
• Leave luggage unattended
• Forget to check visa stamp dates
• Buy overpriced tourist SIM from hotels (get at airport!)

✅ Do:

• Use official taxi counters or ride apps only
• Keep small bills separate for tips
• Take airport WiFi password if available
• Photograph baggage claim ticket
• Note down your taxi/driver details

Safety Tips

Sri Lanka airports are very safe, but:

• Watch your belongings in crowded areas
• Don’t flash large amounts of cash
• Use official services only
• Keep passport in secure pocket
• Have copies of important documents
• Trust your instincts

Cultural Etiquette

From airport onwards:

• Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered for temples)
• Remove shoes when entering temples
• Ask before photographing people
• Learn basic Sinhala: “Ayubowan” (hello), “Bohoma Istuti” (thank you)
• Be patient—Sri Lankan time is relaxed

Weather Considerations

2026 travel weather: Check our Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka 2026 for complete seasonal information to match your arrival dates with ideal weather.

Upon arrival:

• Hot and humid year-round (25-32°C)
• Dress in light, breathable clothing
• Stay hydrated
• Airport is air-conditioned, outside is not!

First Day Recommendations

Arriving morning/afternoon:

• Head to nearby Negombo for beach rest (15 mins from airport)
• Explore Colombo briefly (1-2 hour city tour)
• Start journey to first major destination

Arriving evening/night:

• Stay in Negombo (closest beach town, 10km)
• Or book Colombo hotel near airport for convenience
• Start fresh journey next morning

Don’t attempt long journeys (4+ hours) immediately after long flight—rest first!

Airport to City: Route Planning

Popular First-Destination Routes

Option 1: Negombo (Easiest)

• Distance: 10 km
• Time: 15-25 minutes
• Why: Beach rest, closest to airport
• Stay: 1-2 nights to recover from flight

Option 2: Colombo City

• Distance: 35 km
• Time: 45-90 minutes (traffic dependent)
• Why: Explore capital, shopping, start tour
• Stay: 1-2 nights

Option 3: Direct to Kandy

• Distance: 130 km
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Why: Skip Colombo, head to cultural heart
• Stay: 2-3 nights

Option 4: Coastal Route (Galle)

• Distance: 150 km
• Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
• Why: Direct to beaches and colonial charm
• Stay: 3-4 nights

Our recommendation: Unless you’re on a tight schedule, spend first night in Negombo for rest and beach relaxation.

Sample Itineraries from Airport

Classic 2-Week Route:

• Day 1: Arrive → Negombo (rest)
• Day 2-3: Colombo
• Day 4-6: Cultural Triangle
• Day 7-9: Kandy & Ella
• Day 10-14: South coast beaches

Beach Focus Route:

• Day 1: Arrive → Negombo
• Day 2-14: South coast beaches (Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle)

Complete planning: See our Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide 2026 for detailed itineraries and destination information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airport do tourists fly into in Sri Lanka?

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo is where 99% of tourists arrive. It’s Sri Lanka’s main international airport with connections to major cities worldwide. A second international airport exists in Hambantota but has very limited international flights.

How far is Colombo Airport from the city?

35 kilometers (22 miles) or approximately 45-90 minutes by car depending on traffic. Morning and evening rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 5-8 PM) significantly increase travel time. Budget 60-75 minutes for most journeys.

Is Colombo Airport tourist-friendly?

Yes, very tourist-friendly. The airport features:

• English signage throughout
• Staff who speak English
• Clear directional signs
• 24/7 tourist information desk
• Modern facilities
• Efficient immigration
• Multiple transport options

First-time visitors navigate easily with minimal confusion.

Do I need to print my Sri Lanka visa (ETA)?

Recommended but not always required. Immigration can access your ETA electronically using your passport number, but having a printed copy:

• Speeds up the process
• Serves as backup if system issues occur
• Some airlines check at departure

Best practice: Print 2 copies and save PDF on phone.

Can I get a SIM card at the airport?

Yes, and you should! Multiple providers (Dialog, Mobitel, Airtel) have 24/7 counters in arrivals hall. Tourist packages cost $5-15 for 10-20GB data plus calls. The SIM is activated immediately and essential for navigation, ride-hailing apps, and communication. Get it before leaving the airport—it’s much easier than finding shops later.

Are ATMs available at the airport?

Yes, multiple ATMs from major banks are available 24/7 in the arrivals hall. They accept Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro cards. Fees are approximately 300-500 LKR ($1-2) per transaction from the Sri Lankan bank, plus your bank’s international fees (2-4%). Withdraw larger amounts to minimize transaction fees.

What’s the best way to get from airport to hotel?

For first-timers: Official airport taxi (fixed price, safe, easy)
For budget travelers: PickMe ride-hailing app (30-40% cheaper)
For groups: Pre-booked private transfer (most convenient)
Not recommended: Airport bus (unless extreme budget)

Cost to Colombo: Taxi $12-15, PickMe $7-10, Bus $0.50

How long does immigration take at Colombo Airport?

15-45 minutes depending on arrival time. Multiple flights arrive simultaneously during peak evening hours (6-10 PM), causing longer queues. Off-peak arrivals clear in 15-25 minutes. Have your passport, ETA, and arrival card ready to expedite the process.

Can I exchange money at the airport?

Yes, multiple currency exchange counters operate 24/7. Rates are 2-5% less favorable than city banks but acceptable for convenience. Recommendation: Exchange only $20-30 for immediate needs (transport, meals), then use ATMs in the city for better rates on larger amounts.

Is there free WiFi at the airport?

Yes, but limited. The first hour is free, then paid access is required. The connection is adequate for checking emails and messages but can be slow during peak times. Better option: Get a local SIM card immediately for reliable internet throughout your trip.

What should I do if my luggage is lost?

Don’t leave the airport. Immediately go to your airline’s baggage service desk (located near baggage claim). File a missing baggage report with:

• Your baggage claim ticket
• Flight details
• Hotel/accommodation address (for delivery)
• Contact number

Get a reference number and keep all documentation. Most lost luggage is found within 24-48 hours and delivered to your hotel.

Are there hotels near the airport?

Yes, many options at various price points:

• Airport hotels: Within airport complex ($50-100)
• Negombo: 10km away, beach town ($20-80)
• Airport zone: Surrounding area ($30-70)

Recommendation: If arriving late (after 8 PM) or departing early (before 8 AM), stay in Negombo rather than traveling 1+ hour to Colombo.

Conclusion: Your Smooth Arrival Guaranteed

You’re now fully prepared for your arrival at Sri Lanka’s airport! With this comprehensive guide, you know exactly what to expect from the moment you land until you reach your first destination.

Your Arrival Checklist

Before landing:

• [ ] Passport ready (6+ months validity)
• [ ] ETA printed (2 copies + saved on phone)
• [ ] Arrival card completed
• [ ] Hotel address noted
• [ ] Phone charged and unlocked

Immediately after customs:

• [ ] Get SIM card ($7-10 - essential!)
• [ ] Exchange small amount ($20-30)
• [ ] Arrange transport (taxi/PickMe)
• [ ] Connect to internet

Within first hour:

• [ ] Message family you’ve arrived safely
• [ ] Verify hotel reservation
• [ ] Check visa stamp dates
• [ ] Relax—you’re in Sri Lanka!

Your Next Steps

1. Complete your arrival preparation:
✅ Apply for Sri Lanka Visa (ETA)

2. Plan your complete journey:
✅ Read Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide 2026

3. Choose the right time:
✅ Check Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka 2026

4. Budget properly:
✅ Review Sri Lanka Travel Costs 2026

5. Check current conditions:
✅ See Latest Travel Update

Welcome to Paradise!

From the moment you step off the plane, Sri Lanka welcomes you with warm tropical air, friendly smiles, and the promise of unforgettable adventures. Your arrival is just the beginning of an incredible journey through:

• 🏖️ Paradise beaches with golden sand
• 🏔️ Misty mountains covered in tea plantations
• 🐘 Incredible wildlife in pristine national parks
• 🛕 Ancient temples with 2,000 years of history
• 🍛 Mouthwatering cuisine bursting with flavor
• ❤️ Genuine hospitality from the warmest people

You’re prepared. You’re informed. You’re ready.

Welcome to Sri Lanka—your adventure starts now! 🇱🇰✨

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Last updated: January 7, 2026. Airport information and procedures subject to change. Always verify current information before travel.

Questions about arriving in Sri Lanka? Drop them in the comments, and we’ll help you prepare! 💬