Bandaranaike Airport Transfers (CMB)

Welcome to the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. Arriving in Sri Lanka is an experience for the senses, with warm tropical air, lush greenery, and the promise of island adventures. This guide covers the essentials of Bandaranaike Airport Transfers and the airport's facilities, ensuring your seamless entry into this beautiful country.

CMB Airport Overview

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), also known as Katunayake Airport, serves as Sri Lanka's main entry point for international travelers. Located in Katunayake, approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) north of Colombo, it serves as the hub for travelers heading to the capital, the beaches of Negombo, or the cultural triangle. While it is a single-terminal facility for international flights, it is busy and vibrant, operating 24 hours a day.

Airport Structure

The airport is relatively compact compared to major global hubs, making it easy to navigate. Bandaranaike Airport features one main terminal building for international arrivals and departures.

• Arrivals: Located on the ground floor. After clearing immigration, you pass through a unique duty-free area famous for selling household appliances like washing machines and fridges, a local curiosity.
   
• Departures: Located on the upper level. Security checks here are thorough, so we recommend having your travel documents ready.
   
• Navigation: You can easily walk from the check-in counters to the boarding gates without the need for trains or shuttles.
   

Bandaranaike Airport Lounge Options

If you have a wait before your flight, the airport offers several lounges to relax in away from the bustle of the public waiting areas.
 

• Araliya Lounge: A comfortable space for business class passengers and eligible cardholders, offering refreshments and quiet seating.
   
• Lotus Lounge: Another premium option providing a serene environment.
   
• Executive Lounge: Available for walk-in passengers for a fee, offering food, beverages, and Wi-Fi.
   
• Palm Strip Lounge: A popular choice for travelers looking to unwind before departure.
   

Parking at Bandaranaike Airport

For those driving to the airport, there are dedicated parking areas located a short distance from the terminal. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking facilities. A shuttle bus service operates between the remote car parks and the terminal building, though many travelers find it easier to be dropped off directly at the departure porch.

Hotels near Bandaranaike Airport

Since the airport is nearly an hour from Colombo, staying nearby is often a smart choice for late-night arrivals.
 

• Serenediva Transit Hotel: Located inside the airport terminal (airside). You do not need to clear immigration to stay here.
  Vivanta Colombo, Airport Garden: A luxury hotel located just 5 minutes from the airport on the lagoon.
   
• Jetwing Beach (Negombo): While not right next door, the Negombo hotel strip is only 20 minutes away and offers a beachside start to your trip.

Transportation Options From/To CMB Airport

TravelThru Transfer Service 

Navigating Sri Lankan roads can be chaotic for first-time visitors. TravelThru specializes in airport transportation services that prioritize your safety and comfort. When you book an airport transfer with us, you avoid the aggressive touts that often congregate in the arrivals lobby.

Your professional driver meets you in the arrivals hall holding a clear name sign. We'll take care of your bags and get you to your comfy, air-conditioned ride. Whether you are heading to a hotel in Colombo or a resort in Galle via the Southern Expressway, we provide a fixed price. You can easily reserve your airport rides on our website, ensuring you have a trusted driver ready the moment you land.

Other Transportation Alternatives

• Expressway Bus: Runs from the airport to Colombo Fort Central Bus Stand. It is cheap and air-conditioned but only stops at the main station, requiring a tuk-tuk to reach your hotel.
   
• Airport Taxi Transfers: There is an official taxi counter in the arrivals lobby. You can prepay, but vehicle quality varies, and queues can be long.
   
• Ride-Hailing (PickMe/Uber): PickMe is the local favorite. However, drivers are sometimes restricted from picking up directly at the arrivals curb, requiring you to walk to a specific car park with your luggage.
   
• Tuk-Tuks: Not recommended for airport transfers due to lack of luggage space, safety concerns on highways (they are banned from the expressway), and exposure to heat/pollution.

Things to Do near Colombo & Negombo

• Negombo Fish Market: If you have an early morning arrival, visit this bustling market just 20 minutes from the airport.
   
• Lotus Tower: Visit South Asia's tallest self-supported structure in Colombo for panoramic views of the ocean and city.
   
• Galle Face Green: Walk along the oceanfront promenade in Colombo at sunset and try the famous "Isso Wade" (shrimp fritters).
   
• Gangaramaya Temple: Explore this eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture in the heart of the city.
   
• Pettah Market: Get lost in the chaotic, colorful streets of Colombo's bazaar district (Red Mosque is a must-see).

How to Get Around Sri Lanka

TravelThru Chauffeur Service

To explore Sri Lanka's winding hill country roads or coastal routes comfortably, our chauffeur service is the best solution. We provide experienced local drivers who understand the unwritten rules of Sri Lankan traffic. You can book a car for a multi-day tour to Sigiriya, Ella, and Yala National Park. You simply relax and enjoy the scenery while we handle the driving.

Other Options

Three-wheelers (Tuk-tuks) are the most common way to get around Colombo for short distances. Always ask for a metered taxi or negotiate the fare before you get in. Public trains are a scenic and incredibly cheap way to travel to Kandy or Galle, though they can be very crowded.