Sri Lanka's commercial hub of Colombo has excellent transportation links to all parts of Sri Lanka and direct connections by air and sea to many overseas destinations. An international airport and domestic airport located in the suburbs, public transport, taxis, and rental cars provide visitors with fast, efficient and reliable transportation to their destinations.

Arriving by Air

Sri Lanka has an international airport and several domestic airports. The Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake, formerly known as the Colombo International Airport is located north of Colombo and served by many international airlines. It's around a 45 minute drive from the outskirts of Colombo.


Getting Around Colombo

Taxis from the international airport to Colombo are reasonably priced and depending on traffic, the travel time is around 45 - 50 minutes. A network of public and private bus services operate throughout Colombo and the suburbs, enabling visitors to easily travel around the city.


Car Rental

Rent-a-car companies can be found in Colombo and in major towns. Chauffer driven vehicles are also available to travel around Sri Lanka at an affordable price. Travelling with a driver cum guide is the best option as he will know all the best shopping centres and prominent tourist attractions.


Taxis

Round-the-clock taxi services are available in Colombo. Taxis have metres and most are air conditioned. For further details, contact the hotel's reception desk or refer the many listings in the telephone directory.


Three Wheelers (Auto)

An excellent mode of transport when travelling short distances, three wheelers / tuk tuks / autos also commonly known as trishaws, can be found in plenty throughout the island. These do not have metres, so be prepared to negotiate on a fare before embarking on a journey.


Self Drive

Being a developing country, the state of most roads is good, but no expressways can be found. However, major tourist attractions are easily accessible. Visitors may find that the behaviour of some local drivers has much to be desired.
Private Van Rental
It's possible to hire a private van with a driver in most towns. However, tourists are usually over charged. Therefore, it's recommended to contact them through your local hosts.

Public Transport

Bus Services:

The Sri Lanka Central Transport Board, 11 cluster bus companies, regional bus companies, and privately owned buses maintain an island wide network of buses. Bus fares are among the cheapest anywhere in the world. Semi-luxury and air conditioned buses are available. The Central Bus Stand in Pettah (Colombo 11) provides express and inter-city express services to major towns in the country.


Rail:

The Sri Lanka Government Railway offers a reliable and efficient service to major towns in all parts of the country. Places of interest include Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Bandarawela, Talawakelle, Galle and Matara. The intercity express train service is available daily between Colombo and Kandy. Special tours by the 'Viceroy Special' vintage steam train are also available. For more details, contact: Railway Tourist Office, Fort Railway Station, Colombo.