How much is a taxi from Colombo airport to Kandy?

A fixed-price taxi from Colombo Airport (Bandaranaike International, CMB) to Kandy starts from £54 / ~US$68 for a saloon (up to 4 passengers), from £70 / ~US$88 for a 6-seater MPV, and from £87 / ~US$110 for an 8-seater minibus. The price is fixed at booking with no hidden fees or surge pricing, and includes meet & greet at the arrivals hall.

How much does a taxi from Colombo airport to Galle cost?

Colombo Airport (CMB) to Galle starts from £70 / ~US$88 for a saloon, from £92 / ~US$115 for a 6-seater MPV and from £112 / ~US$140 for an 8-seater minibus. The drive takes about 2h 15m on the Southern Expressway. Bottled water and free child seats are included.

How do I pre-book a taxi from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)?

Enter your pickup (Colombo Airport / CMB) and drop-off on our home page, choose your date and flight arrival time, select a vehicle and pay online or on arrival. You receive instant email and SMS confirmation with your driver's name and phone number. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup.

Can I hire a private driver in Sri Lanka for my whole trip?

Yes. Private driver-and-car hire (known locally as a "chauffeur tour") is very popular in Sri Lanka. We offer daily rates from about US$65 per day for a saloon including driver, fuel and driver's meals/accommodation, with discounts for 7, 10 and 14-day itineraries. Ideal for the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya–Kandy–Ella) or a full island tour.

How do I get from Mattala Rajapaksa Airport (HRI) to the south coast?

From Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI, near Hambantota) we operate fixed-price transfers to Tangalle (~45 min), Mirissa (~1h 15m), Yala (~1h) and Galle (~1h 45m). Useful for visitors on Colombo → Mattala domestic connections or charter flights. Pre-booking is recommended as public transport from HRI is limited.

Are baby seats and child seats available for Colombo airport transfers?

Yes — rear-facing baby seats (0–12 months), forward-facing child seats (9 months–4 years) and booster seats (4–12 years) are all available FREE of charge. Just tick the option when booking, or add a note, and the driver brings the correct seat to the arrivals hall.

How long does the drive from Colombo airport to Kandy take?

The drive from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to Kandy takes about 3h to 3h 30m depending on time of day. Early morning (before 7 am) is fastest. Our drivers monitor traffic and choose between the A1 via Kurunegala or the Central Expressway to keep the journey smooth.

Is it safe to use a pre-booked airport taxi in Sri Lanka?

Yes. Pre-booking a taxi avoids the main risks at CMB arrivals: unmetered touts, surge pricing and language barriers. Our drivers are licensed, insured and English-speaking, vehicles are air-conditioned and well-maintained, and you get a driver name, photo and plate number by email before you land.

What is the cheapest way to get from Colombo airport to Colombo city?

A fixed-price private taxi from Colombo Airport (CMB) to Colombo city starts from just £22 / ~US$28 for a saloon, and the drive takes about 40 minutes. This is faster and more comfortable than the airport bus (~LKR 200 / ~US$0.70 but slow with luggage) and removes the need to haggle with unmetered taxis at arrivals.

Do I pay in Sri Lankan Rupees, USD or GBP?

All prices on the site can be shown in GBP, USD, EUR or LKR — use the currency selector at the top of the page. You can pay online by card in any supported currency, or in cash to the driver in LKR or US$ at the pre-agreed fixed price.

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Destination Guides

Explore Anuradhapura & Polonnaruwa: Sri Lanka’s Ancient Wonders

May 15, 2026·7 min read·13 views

Discover the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa with Colombo Airport Transfers. Enjoy hassle-free travel with expert guides.

Unveiling the Ancient Kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa

Embark on a journey to Sri Lanka's ancient heartlands, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where history whispers through every stone and stupa. Renowned for their rich heritage and cultural significance, these UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer a glimpse into the island's illustrious past.

What Makes Anuradhapura a Must-Visit?

As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Anuradhapura is a treasure trove of history. Founded in the 4th century BC, it served as the capital of Sri Lanka for over 1,300 years. Visitors can marvel at the sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be the oldest living tree with a known planting date, and the magnificent Jetavanaramaya, the world's tallest stupa at the time of its construction.

Exploring Anuradhapura's sprawling ruins can take a full day. Hiring a knowledgeable guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical context.

Why Should You Visit Polonnaruwa?

Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, offers a more compact and easily navigable experience. Popular for its well-preserved ruins, it provides a fascinating insight into ancient Sinhalese culture. The Gal Vihara, with its colossal Buddha statues carved into rock, is a highlight not to be missed.

Consider renting a bicycle to traverse the archaeological park at your own pace. It's an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to cover the 3 km stretch of ruins.

How Long Does It Take to Travel Between These Sites?

The journey between Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa is approximately 100 km and takes about 2 hours by car. Why not make your travel seamless by booking with Colombo Airport Transfers? Our English-speaking drivers ensure a comfortable ride with fixed USD pricing and free child seats to suit your travel needs.

Can You Visit Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa in One Day?

While it is possible to visit both sites in a single day, it would be quite rushed. For a more in-depth experience, consider dedicating a full day to each kingdom. This approach allows you to appreciate the intricate details and stories behind the ancient relics.

For a stress-free tour, our Toyota HiAce 9-Seater is perfect for families and small groups, providing ample space and comfort.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit?

Start early to avoid the midday heat and wear comfortable walking shoes. Carry sunscreen and water, and don't forget your camera to capture these timeless scenes. Engage with local guides who bring the stories to life, adding depth to your exploration.

For comprehensive tour packages, visit our Tours page and discover the best options for island-wide coverage.

Conclusion: Ready to Explore?

Dive into the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa with ease. With Colombo Airport Transfers, your journey promises to be comfortable and enriching. Book your adventure today and witness Sri Lanka's history like never before!