Landing at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and heading to Kandy? For many travellers, Kandy is one of the first major destinations on a Sri Lankan holiday. The city is surrounded by green mountains and is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, while the journey itself takes you away from the coastal area and into Sri Lanka's beautiful central hills.
Bandaranaike International Airport is located at Katunayake, around 30 kilometres north of Colombo, so travelling from the airport to Kandy is not the same as simply travelling from Colombo city to Kandy.
There are several ways to make the journey, including private car or van, bus and train. The right option depends on your budget, luggage, comfort level and whether you want the journey itself to be part of your Sri Lankan experience.
Private Car from Colombo Airport to Kandy
For travellers who want a direct and comfortable airport transfer, a private car with a professional driver is one of the easiest choices.
Your driver can meet you at the airport, help with your luggage and take you directly to your accommodation in Kandy. You don't need to first find a bus station or railway station, wait for a connection or change vehicles during the journey.
This is particularly useful if you have just completed a long international flight.
A private transfer also gives you more flexibility. If you need a break, want to stop for refreshments or would like to take photographs along the way, you can discuss this with your driver.
Why travellers choose a private transfer
- Direct airport-to-hotel journey
- No need to change vehicles
- Comfortable space for luggage
- Flexible stops along the way
- Convenient for families and groups
- Professional driver handling the journey
- Pickup arranged according to your arrival
Sri Lanka Tourism notes that chauffeur driven cars are a recommended travel option, while road travel can be affected by traffic and the country's road conditions.
Colombo Airport to Kandy by Bus
Travelling by bus is one of the more economical ways to explore Sri Lanka. The country has an extensive bus network covering many destinations, with both government and private bus services operating around the island.
However, travelling directly from the airport to Kandy by bus can require more planning than a private transfer. Depending on the service and your route, you may need to travel to a bus station and connect with another service.
For travellers with a backpack and a flexible schedule, this may not be a major issue. But if you have several suitcases, children or have just arrived after a long flight, carrying luggage between connections can be tiring.
Best for: Budget conscious travellers who don't mind a longer or more complicated journey.
Colombo Airport to Kandy by Train
The train is one of Sri Lanka's most memorable ways to travel, particularly if you want to experience the country's railway culture and scenery.
Sri Lanka Railways operates services on the Colombo–Kandy route, including intercity and express services.
However, there is an important point for airport arrivals:
There is no railway station directly at Bandaranaike International Airport.
You first need to travel from the airport to a railway station and then begin your train journey towards Kandy.
That makes the train a great travel experience, but not necessarily the simplest airport transfer.
Which option should you choose?
Choose a private car if: you want convenience, comfort and a direct journey.
Choose a bus if: your main priority is keeping transport costs low.
Choose the train if: you want to experience Sri Lanka's railway journey and don't mind arranging the additional transport needed to reach the station.
Start Your Kandy Journey with Zentigo Travels
If you prefer to arrive in Sri Lanka, collect your luggage and go directly to your hotel without worrying about connections, Zentigo Travels can arrange a private Colombo Airport to Kandy transfer.
Tell us your arrival details, number of travellers and preferred vehicle, and we can help arrange a comfortable transfer for your journey.