Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is in Katunayake, north of Colombo. Kandy is about 100 to 115 km inland, depending on the road. A private taxi takes around 3 to 3.5 hours door to door, and is the most comfortable way to make the trip after a long flight.
Travel time and route
Your driver chooses between the expressway route and the older Kandy road, depending on traffic and the time of day. Expect around 3 hours at night or early morning and up to 3.5 hours or more in daytime traffic. The last section climbs into the hills, so the road becomes slower and more winding as you approach Kandy.
Late-night arrivals are common and are no problem: the driver tracks your flight, waits in the arrivals hall with a name sign, and reasonable waiting for delays is free.
Taxi, train, or bus?
| Option | Time | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Private taxi | About 3 to 3.5 hours | Door to door, any arrival time, room for luggage, stops on request |
| Train | Longer overall | No train from the airport itself; you first travel into Colombo Fort station |
| Bus | Often 4 hours or more | Cheapest, but changes and heavy luggage make it hard after a long flight |
Stops worth making on the way
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a short detour near Kegalle.
- Cashew stalls at Cadjugama, on the old Kandy road.
- The Kadugannawa Pass viewpoint as the road climbs into the hills.
- A rice-and-curry lunch stop, ATM, or SIM card shop if you need one.
Stops are agreed when you book, so the price is fixed before you land. If you would rather go straight to your hotel and rest, that is fine too.
Going back to the airport
For an international departure, plan to reach the airport at least 3 hours before your flight. Your driver will suggest a pickup time from Kandy that leaves a buffer for traffic. Many travelers combine the return with a final stop, for example a night in Negombo near the airport.
How to book
Send your flight number, arrival time, hotel in Kandy, number of travelers, and luggage on WhatsApp. You get a fixed price per car (not per person) and no deposit is needed. See all airport transfer options or the Kandy destination page.