Sri Lanka offers several airports that connect this tropical paradise to the rest of the world. From bustling international hubs to smaller domestic terminals, airports in Sri Lanka serve as your first glimpse of this vibrant island nation.
This guide walks you through the 8 major airports in Sri Lanka, from terminal facilities to transportation options. Whether heading to Colombo for business or catching a connecting flight to surf spots down south, you’ll find everything you need for a seamless arrival.
Here are some of the most popular airports in Sri Lanka with airport codes to help you plan your trip:
|
Airport Name |
Type |
Airport Code |
|
Bandaranaike International Airport |
International |
CMB |
|
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport |
International |
HRI |
|
Ratmalana International Airport |
International |
RML |
|
Jaffna International Airport |
International |
JAF |
|
Batticaloa International Airport |
International |
BTC |
|
Anuradhapura Airport |
Domestic |
ACJ |
|
Sigiriya Airport |
Domestic |
GIU |
|
Koggala Airport |
Domestic |
KCT |
1. Bandaranaike International Airport
Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lanka’s busiest international gateway, handling over 10 million passengers annually. As the country’s flagship airport, it connects the country to more than 100 global destinations and serves as the main hub for SriLankan Airlines.
Address: Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited, Canada Friendship Rd, Katunayake 11450, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uzeexgFA7h6WAuW69
Airport Code: CMB
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +94112264444
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 33 km from Colombo City
Operating Airlines: SriLankan Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, and many other international carriers operate from this leading facility, among the best airports in Sri Lanka.
Terminals: Terminal 1 (International), Terminal 2 (New international, under construction), and Terminal 3 (Domestic).
Services & Amenities:
- Accessible toilets, wheelchair assistance, and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility
- Free Wi-Fi throughout terminals
- Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, bars
- Serendib Lounge, Palm Spirit Lounge for premium travelers
- Currency exchange, day rooms, and shower facilities
Nearby Attractions:
- Negombo Beach: A popular coastal town with golden sands, vibrant fish markets, and beach resorts just 15 minutes from the airport.
- Colombo Fort: Colombo’s historic and commercial core features colonial architecture, museums, and bustling markets.
- Viharamahadevi Park: The largest park in Colombo has beautiful lotus ponds, walking paths, and the National Museum nearby.
- Gangaramaya Temple: A renowned Buddhist temple combining traditional architecture with modern elements and a fascinating museum of artifacts.
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2. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport
Credit: Wikipedia
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport is Sri Lanka’s second international airport, located in the southern province. This modern addition to the airports in Sri Lanka was designed to accommodate large aircraft and serves as an alternative gateway to the country.
Address: Mattala, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kQ1wmfcW8amJzBwe8
Airport Code: HRI
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +94472031000
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 31 km from Hambantota City
Operating Airlines: SriLankan Airlines and limited international carriers serve this developing hub among airports in Sri Lanka.
Terminals: One passenger terminal handles both domestic and international flights.
Services & Amenities:
- Modern check-in, immigration, and baggage facilities
- Accessible facilities for passengers with reduced mobility
- Basic passenger amenities, including waiting areas and restrooms
- Cargo handling facilities
- Car parking
Nearby Attractions:
- Bundala National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for migratory birds, elephants, crocodiles, and diverse ecosystems.
- Hambantota Beaches: Secluded, pristine beaches offering tranquillity away from tourist crowds and excellent sunset views.
- Hambantota Bird Sanctuary: Protected wetland habitat showcasing numerous bird species in their natural environment.
- Yala National Park: Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserve, known for having the world’s highest leopard density, is located within driving distance.
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3. Ratmalana International Airport
Credit: Wikipedia
Ratmalana International Airport, the oldest among airports in Sri Lanka, now serves domestic and limited international flights. Located closer to Colombo’s city center than Bandaranaike, it offers convenient access for business travelers and domestic connections.
Address: New Airport Rd, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SD76puAjMXqo6LtV7
Airport Code: RML
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +94112623030
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 20 km from Colombo City
Operating Airlines: Cinnamon Air, domestic carriers, and limited international services operate from this historically significant facility among airports in Sri Lanka.
Terminals: One terminal serving both domestic and limited international operations.
Services & Amenities:
- Basic passenger facilities for domestic and corporate travelers
- Aviation training facilities
- Corporate jet operations and Fixed Base Operator (FBO) services
- Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) facilities
- Ground transportation services
Nearby Attractions:
- Sri Lanka Air Force Museum: Fascinating collection of aircraft, equipment, and memorabilia chronicling the country’s aviation history.
- Mount Lavinia Beach: Historic beach area with golden sands, colonial hotel, and vibrant restaurants and nightlife.
- Colombo City Centre: Easy access to shopping malls, restaurants, and cultural attractions of Sri Lanka’s commercial capital.
- National Zoological Gardens: Extensive zoo in nearby Dehiwala featuring diverse animal collections and elephant shows.
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4. Jaffna International Airport
Jaffna International Airport is a vital link to Sri Lanka’s Northern Province. This recently upgraded airport facility in Sri Lanka primarily connects Jaffna to destinations in southern India and domestic locations, supporting regional tourism and business.
Address: Palali, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PwX48ADxzXAdQMkU9
Airport Code: JAF
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +94112263380
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 20 km from Jaffna City
Operating Airlines: SriLankan Airlines, Alliance Air, and other regional carriers serve this important northern hub among Sri Lanka’s airport facilities.
Terminals: One terminal handles domestic and international (primarily India) operations.
Services & Amenities:
- Passenger check-in, immigration, and baggage handling
- Waiting lounges and restrooms
- Ground transportation services
- Basic passenger facilities
Nearby Attractions:
- Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil: Magnificent Hindu temple with intricate architecture, colorful festivals, and cultural significance dating back to the 10th century.
- Jaffna Fort: Impressive 17th-century Portuguese-Dutch fortress offering historical insights and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Casuarina Beach: Tranquil shoreline with distinctive casuarina trees, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
- Jaffna Public Library: An iconic cultural landmark rebuilt after the civil war, housing important Tamil literary works and historical documents.
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5. Batticaloa International Airport
Credit: Wikipedia
Batticaloa International Airport serves Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. This emerging facility in the network of airports in Sri Lanka offers domestic connections and limited international services, providing crucial air access to the east coast’s beautiful beaches.
Address: 570 Trincomalee Highway, Batticaloa, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2WdCH7iSQ4E2XXw8
Airport Code: BTC
Category: Domestic with limited international flights
Phone: +94654549966
Distance from City Center/PrimeLocation: 4 km from Batticaloa City
Operating Airlines: Domestic carriers and charter services connect this developing airport to other Sri Lanka airport facilities.
Terminals: One terminal serving domestic and limited international flights.
Services & Amenities:
- Basic passenger facilities, including waiting areas and restrooms
- Baggage handling and check-in
- Ground transport access
- Limited retail and dining options
Nearby Attractions:
- Batticaloa Fort: A historic Portuguese fort surrounded by scenic lagoon waters with remnants of colonial architecture and strategic importance.
- Batticaloa Lagoon: Famous for its singing fish phenomenon, offering boat tours, fishing experiences, and beautiful sunset views.
- Kallady Beach: Pristine shoreline with calm waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and experiencing authentic local coastal life.
- St. Mary’s Cathedral: Impressive 200-year-old church showcasing unique architectural elements blending European and Sri Lankan styles.
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6. Anuradhapura Airport
Anuradhapura Airport provides air access to one of Sri Lanka’s most historic cities. This domestic facility among airports in Sri Lanka mainly serves tourism and domestic connectivity needs, bringing visitors closer to the island’s ancient cultural treasures.
Address: A13, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8jtPBSxiK1sSzfso9
Airport Code: ACJ
Category: Domestic
Phone: +94252222138
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 7 km from Anuradhapura City
Operating Airlines: Domestic carriers and charter services operate from this cultural gateway among airports in Sri Lanka.
Terminals: One terminal handles domestic flights.
Services & Amenities:
- Basic passenger services, including waiting areas and restrooms
- Limited commercial passenger amenities
- Runway suitable for domestic aircraft operations
- Ground transportation options
Nearby Attractions:
- Sri Maha Bodhi: The world’s oldest documented tree, grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Ruwanwelisaya: Magnificent white stupa standing 103 meters tall, an important pilgrimage site since 140 BC.
- Jetavanaramaya: Once the world’s tallest stupa, it is still one of the most massive ancient brick structures with significant archaeological importance.
- Tissa Wewa: Ancient man-made reservoir created in the 3rd century BC, now offering scenic views, birdwatching, and historical significance.
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7. Sigiriya Airport
Sigiriya Airport serves the famous Cultural Triangle region. This strategic facility in the network of airports in Sri Lanka provides convenient access to UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient kingdoms, making it popular with tourists exploring Sri Lanka’s historic heartland.
Address: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7nmNh41A61WYMGoM7
Airport Code: GIU
Category: Domestic
Phone: +94 66 2286701
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 17 km from Dambulla Town Centre
Operating Airlines: Charter services and domestic carriers use this tourism-focused facility among Sri Lanka’s airport facilities.
Terminals: One domestic passenger terminal.
Services & Amenities:
- Basic amenities, including a waiting area and restrooms
- Runway suitable for small aircraft
- Mainly supports charter and tourist flights
- Ground transportation to nearby attractions
Nearby Attractions:
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient palace ruins, spectacular frescoes, and breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.
- Sigiriya Museum: Modern facility providing archaeological context, historical information, and artifacts related to the ancient royal complex.
- Dambulla Cave Temple: UNESCO-listed rock temple complex housing 153 Buddha statues, stunning murals, and centuries of religious history.
- Minneriya National Park: A conservation area famous for “The Gathering,” where hundreds of elephants congregate around the ancient reservoir during the dry season.
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8. Koggala Airport
Koggala Airport serves Sri Lanka’s popular southern coast. This domestic airport in Sri Lanka provides air access to the historic city of Galle and the region’s beautiful beaches, catering primarily to tourists and domestic travelers.
Address: Koggala, Sri Lanka
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zpBWm65YJwPovHFaA
Airport Code: KCT
Category: Domestic
Phone: +94912283144
Distance from City Center/Prime Location: 14 km from Galle City Centre
Operating Airlines: Domestic carriers and charter services operate from this southern facility among the airports in Sri Lanka.
Terminals: One domestic passenger terminal.
Services & Amenities:
- Basic passenger facilities, including a waiting area and restrooms
- Runway supports Dash-8 and ATR-72 aircraft
- Limited retail and dining options
- Ground transport available
Nearby Attractions:
- Galle Fort: UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, boutiques, and ocean views.
- Koggala Lake: Scenic inland waterway offering boat safaris to see cinnamon islands, bird life, and traditional fishing practices.
- Unawatuna Beach: Horseshoe-shaped bay with turquoise waters, coral reefs, and beachfront restaurants consistently rated among Sri Lanka’s best beaches.
- Sea Turtle Hatcheries: Conservation centers along the southern coast where visitors can learn about and support sea turtle protection efforts.
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Top 5 Places You Must Visit in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s incredible diversity shines through its ancient cities, pristine beaches, and lush tea plantations. When you fly into the airports in Sri Lanka, you’re just hours away from these remarkable destinations. We’ve handpicked the top 5 places that showcase the best of what this island nation offers.
|
Place |
Location |
Highlights |
|
Sigiriya Rock Fortress |
Central Province |
Ancient rock fortress, frescoes, panoramic views, UNESCO site |
|
Temple of the Tooth Relic |
Kandy |
Sacred Buddhist relic, ornate temple, daily rituals, UNESCO site |
|
Galle Fort |
Southern Province |
Colonial-era fort, museums, cafes, ocean views, UNESCO site |
|
Udawalawe National Park |
Sabaragamuwa/Uva Province |
Elephant safaris, birdwatching, and natural landscapes |
|
Nuwara Eliya |
Central Highlands |
Tea plantations, cool climate, colonial architecture, botanical gardens |
Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Central Province)
Sigiriya, also known as the Lion’s Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic attractions. This ancient rock fortress, built in the 5th century, rises nearly 200 meters above the surrounding jungle.
Visitors climb through landscaped gardens, past the famous “mirror wall” with ancient graffiti, and can view renowned frescoes of celestial maidens. The summit offers ruins of the royal palace and breathtaking panoramic countryside views.
Best For: History enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Temple of the Tooth Relic (Kandy, Central Province)
The Temple of the Tooth Relic is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple houses the revered tooth relic of the Buddha, which holds immense spiritual significance in Sri Lanka.
The temple complex features intricately carved buildings, daily rituals, and vibrant ceremonies, especially during the annual Esala Perahera festival. Visitors can witness the evening “Pooja” ceremonies and explore the temple’s museum.
Best For: Cultural travelers, religious pilgrims, and architecture admirers.
Galle Fort (Southern Province)
Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Originally built by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch, this living fortress now houses boutique shops, cafes, and hotels within its historic walls.
Walking along the fort’s ramparts offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The area features historic churches, mosques, museums, and the iconic lighthouse, creating a perfect blend of European and Asian cultures.
Best For: History buffs, photographers, and food enthusiasts.
Udawalawe National Park (Sabaragamuwa/Uva Province)
Udawalawe National Park is among the best places to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife. The park is renowned for its large elephant population, visible year-round in their natural habitat.
In addition to elephants, visitors can spot water buffalo, sambar deer, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Early morning safaris provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities in this scenic conservation area.
Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, nature photographers, and family travelers.
Nuwara Eliya (Central Highlands)
Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England,” is a picturesque hill station famous for its cool climate and rolling tea plantations. The town features colonial architecture, well-manicured gardens, and a distinctly British atmosphere.
Visitors can tour the Pedro Tea Estate, stroll through Hakgala Botanical Gardens, boat on Gregory Lake, or enjoy the misty mountain scenery. The journey to Nuwara Eliya is considered one of the world’s most beautiful rail trips.
Best For: Tea lovers, photographers, and those seeking cooler climates.
FAQs
What are the accommodation options near major airports in Sri Lanka?
Major airports in Sri Lanka offer various lodging options. Bandaranaike International Airport has several nearby hotels like Jetwing Lagoon and Negombo beach resorts, while Mattala and Jaffna airports have developing hospitality sectors with mid-range and budget options near these top airports in Sri Lanka.
What are some of the facilities at Sri Lankan airports?
Sri Lanka airport facilities include duty-free shopping, dining options, currency exchange, free Wi-Fi (especially at international terminals), prayer rooms, and lounges. The best airports in Sri Lanka, like Bandaranaike, also offer baggage storage, medical assistance, and premium passenger services.
What transportation options are available from airports in Sri Lanka?
Airport transportation in Sri Lanka includes taxis, airport shuttles, and bus services at all major airports. Bandaranaike offers airport express buses to Colombo, while other airports have pre-paid taxi services. Car rentals are available at international airports and some domestic facilities.
How can I travel between different airports in Sri Lanka?
Domestic flights connect many airports in Sri Lanka, with SriLankan Airlines and Cinnamon Air offering scheduled services. Alternatively, private vehicles, buses, and trains connect major cities near these airports, though travel times may be longer than air travel.
What items cannot be brought into Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka enforces strict customs regulations at all airports in Sri Lanka. Prohibited items include narcotics, weapons, endangered animal products, and certain plants. Fresh produce, meat products, and religious artifacts require special permission or declarations upon arrival.
How much is 1 USD in Sri Lankan Rupees?
Based on current exchange rates, one United States Dollar (USD) is approximately 320 Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR). Currency exchange services are available at all international airports in Sri Lanka.
Which are the nearest airports to popular Sri Lankan destinations?
The main airports in Sri Lanka near popular destinations include Bandaranaike Airport (CMB) for Colombo, Sigiriya Airport (GIU) for the Cultural Triangle, Koggala Airport (KCT) for southern beaches, and Trincomalee Airport (TRR) for eastern coastal attractions.
What procedures should be followed if belongings get lost inside a Sri Lankan airport?
For lost items at airports in Sri Lanka, contact the airport’s lost property office immediately. Items lost on aircraft require contacting the airline directly. The best airports in Sri Lanka maintain dedicated offices for handling lost belongings, with systems to register and track missing items.
Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Most visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving at airports in Sri Lanka. This can be obtained online through the official immigration website. Some nationalities may require additional visa processing, so check requirements before travel.
What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
The best time to visit depends on which regions you plan to explore. December to March is ideal for the west and south coasts, while the east coast is best from April to September. The central highlands offer pleasant weather year-round, making travel through airports in Sri Lanka possible in any season.
