Sri Lanka Airport Guide: Immigration, Transport & Tips

The main international gateway to Sri Lanka is Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), commonly known as Sri Lanka Airport or Colombo Airport, code CMB. Located in Katunayake, just 35 km from Colombo, CMB is Sri Lanka’s primary international airport. Before 2020, BIA handled over 10 million passengers annually. In recent years (2022–2024), traffic has been lower at around 5–7 million as the airport continues to recover.

Bandaranaike International Airport serves as the hub for SriLankan Airlines and connects travelers to destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond. CMB offers essential services like visa processing, SIM card purchases, currency exchange, and various transport options to help you start or end your Sri Lankan journey smoothly.

How Many International Airports Are in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka officially designates five airports as international (CMB, HRI, RML, JAF, BTC), but in practice, only Bandaranaike (CMB) and Mattala Rajapaksa (HRI) handle regular international flights. Smaller facilities, but all offer basic passenger services, restrooms, parking, and ground transport connections.

Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is the hub for SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier, and handles flights to destinations worldwide.

What is the Main International Airport in Sri Lanka?

Bandaranaike International Airport, often called Colombo Airport, is Sri Lanka’s busiest airport, named after former Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike.

Airport Name	IATA Code	Location	Notes
Bandaranaike International	CMB	Katunayake	Main hub, near Colombo
Mattala Rajapaksa International	HRI	Hambantota	Serves the south/east regions
Ratmalana International	RML	Colombo (suburb)	Limited international flights
Jaffna International	JAF	Jaffna	Connects to northern Sri Lanka
Batticaloa International	BTC	Batticaloa	Serves the eastern coast

Key Facts About CMB

Location: Katunayake, 35 km north of Colombo.
Code: CMB (IATA).
Terminals: Bandaranaike Airport has three main terminals:

• Terminal 1 – International Flights: Handles most international arrivals and departures.
• Terminal 2 – still under construction as of 2025, with completion delayed. It is not yet operational.
• Terminal 3 – Domestic Flights: Used for local airlines and flights within Sri Lanka.

Guide to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

How to Get to and From the Sri Lanka Airport?

Getting to or from CMB is straightforward, with multiple transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

By Taxi (Fastest Option)

Taxis are the most convenient way to travel to Colombo or nearby areas like Negombo.

• Cost: LKR 3,000–5,000 (USD 10–17) to Colombo; LKR 1,500–2,000 to Negombo.
• Booking: Use the official taxi counter in the arrivals area or apps like PickMe or Uber.
• Travel Time: 45 minutes to Colombo (traffic-dependent); 15 minutes to Negombo.

By Tuk-Tuk

Tuk-tuks are best for short rides around Negombo or to nearby train stations (LKR 500–800). Traveling all the way to Colombo by tuk-tuk is uncommon and would cost much more.

By Bus (Cheapest)

Public and private buses connect CMB to Colombo and other cities.

• Express Bus (Route 187): Runs 24/7 from CMB to Colombo Fort. It takes from 60–90 minutes to Colombo and costs around LKR 150–300.
• Private AC Buses

More comfortable, costing LKR 500–800.

By Train

The nearest train station is Katunayake South, a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride from the airport. It takes around 1 hour to get to Colombo and costs LKR 50–100.

Car Rentals

Car rental desks at CMB offer vehicles for self-driving or with a driver.
Cost starts at LKR 5,000/day (USD 17) with a driver.

This airport offers modern amenities such as lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange services.

Facilities and Services at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA)

CMB is equipped with modern amenities to ensure traveler comfort, whether you’re arriving, departing, or transiting.

Check-In and Immigration

• Check-In: 48 counters in Terminal 1, with self-check-in kiosks for select airlines.
• Immigration: Fast-track lanes for business class and premium passengers. Most travelers must apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online before arrival. Visa on arrival is limited to a few exceptions and should not be relied upon.
• Customs: Strict on tobacco and alcohol limits; declare items to avoid fines.

Dining and Shopping

• Restaurants: Options include Burger King, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and local eateries serving rice and curry or kottu roti. Prices range from LKR 500 to 2,000 per meal.
• Duty-Free: Shops offer electronics, jewelry, tea, spices, and souvenirs. Popular brands include Johnnie Walker and Swarovski.

The Buddha statue is located in the transit area at Bandaranaike International Airport.

Others Services

• Lounges: Lotus Lounge and Araliya Lounge offer Wi-Fi, showers, and buffets (access for USD 25–50 or via Priority Pass).
• Wi-Fi: Free for 30 minutes; paid plans available.
• Currency Exchange: Banks like the People’s Bank and ATMs are in the arrivals and departures areas. Rates are better outside the airport.
• Medical Services: A 24/7 clinic is available for emergencies.
• Prayer Rooms: Quiet spaces for religious practice.

Bandaranaike Airport (CMB) Arrival Guide

Immigration & Visa

• ETA Visa: Get yours online before flying.
• On Arrival: Fill the arrival card, and join the "Foreign Passport" queue.
• Processing Time: 15-45 mins (peak hours longer).

Collect Luggage

• Baggage Claim: Near the immigration exit.
• Tip: Check tags match—theft is rare but possible.

Customs & Exit

• Duty-Free Allowance: 2L alcohol, 200 cigarettes.
• Currency Exchange: Rates are poor—withdraw LKR from ATMs instead.
• Departing from Sri Lanka Airport (CMB/BIA) Guide
• For your departure, ensure you allow ample time.
• Check-in & Security: Arrive at least 3 hours before your international flight. Check-in counters can be busy. Security checks are thorough.
• Duty-Free Shopping: A good opportunity for last-minute souvenir shopping, especially for famous Sri Lankan tea.
• Airport Tax: The airport tax is generally included in your air ticket fare for international departures, so you typically won't pay it separately at the airport.

This airport offers modern amenities such as lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange services.

FAQs About Sri Lanka Airports

Is the Sri Lanka airport safe?
Yes, the airport is safe, with proper security and friendly staff.

Can I sleep at the Sri Lanka airport?
Yes, but facilities are basic. A few airport lounges offer nap areas for a fee.

Is There a SIM Card Counter at the Airport?
Yes! As soon as you exit arrivals, you’ll see booths from major mobile operators as Dialog, Mobitel, and Airtel.

How early should I arrive before my flight?
For international flights, arrive 3 hours early. For domestic flights, 1.5–2 hours is enough.

Is there a train from the airport to Colombo?
No, but buses/taxis are easy.

How many airports are in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has over 20 airports, but Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the main international hub.

Is the Sri Lanka Airport good for layovers?
Yes! It offers lounges, food, duty-free shopping, and nearby hotels like Serenediva Transit Hotel.

Sri Lanka Airport (CMB) is more than just a place to pass through—it's the start of your Sri Lanka adventure. With this guide, you’re all set to navigate the airport like a local.