Ask a local
How do I get from Colombo airport (CMB) to my hotel?
A quick, honest answer from a Sri Lanka travel expert.
Quick answer
The fastest and safest option is a pre-booked private transfer. Bandaranaike International (CMB) is 35 km from Colombo (around 45 minutes on the expressway) and 90 km from Kandy (3 hours). A private car costs about USD 25-40 to Colombo hotels and USD 60-80 to Kandy - your driver waits inside with a name board, helps with bags, and includes tolls. Taxis from the rank are cheaper but less reliable at night.