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.

← Back to Blog

Destination Guides

Discover Nuwara Eliya: Little England in Sri Lanka's Tea Country

April 29, 2026·7 min read·15 views

Unveil the charm of Nuwara Eliya, a colonial gem in Sri Lanka's lush tea country. Explore tea estates, scenic lakes, and historic hotels.

Nuwara Eliya: Little England in Sri Lanka's Tea Country

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England', is a captivating destination nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's verdant tea country. Known for its cool climate, picturesque tea estates, and colonial architecture, this charming town offers a stark contrast to the tropical heat of the coast. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an adventure into the rolling hills, Nuwara Eliya is the perfect destination.

What Makes Nuwara Eliya Special?

Nuwara Eliya's unique blend of British colonial heritage and Sri Lankan culture creates an enchanting atmosphere. The town, established by the British in the 19th century, still retains its old-world charm with colonial-style buildings and well-manicured gardens. Visitors can enjoy the cool mountain air, a welcome respite from the coastal heat, with temperatures averaging around 16°C (60°F) year-round.

The lush tea estates surrounding Nuwara Eliya are a testament to Sri Lanka's rich tea heritage. A visit to a tea plantation and factory is a must, where you can learn about the intricate process of tea production and sample some of the finest Ceylon tea.

How to Get to Nuwara Eliya?

Travelling to Nuwara Eliya is a scenic adventure in itself. From Colombo, the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours by car, covering a distance of about 170 km. Opting for a comfortable and reliable service like Colombo Airport Transfers ensures a hassle-free experience. Our professional, English-speaking drivers will meet you at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) with a warm welcome and guide you through the picturesque landscapes of Sri Lanka.

What to See and Do in Nuwara Eliya?

Explore the Tea Estates

The lush greenery of the tea estates is a signature sight in Nuwara Eliya. Visit renowned plantations like Pedro Tea Estate to witness the tea-picking process and enjoy a refreshing cup of freshly brewed tea. The panoramic views from these estates are truly breathtaking.

Visit Gregory Lake

Gregory Lake is a serene spot perfect for a leisurely day out. Located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, the lake offers activities such as boating and horse riding. Pack a picnic and enjoy the cool breeze by the water.

Hike Horton Plains and World's End

A trip to Nuwara Eliya is incomplete without exploring Horton Plains National Park. The park is home to 'World's End', a sheer cliff with a drop of about 870 meters. This early morning hike offers stunning views and a chance to spot unique wildlife.

Indulge in Colonial Heritage

For a taste of colonial luxury, visit iconic hotels like the Grand Hotel or the Hill Club. These establishments offer an insight into the colonial past with their elegant architecture and historic charm.

Sample Fresh Strawberries

Nuwara Eliya's cool climate is perfect for strawberry cultivation. Visit one of the local strawberry farms to sample fresh berries and desserts that are a delightful treat for any visitor.

Why Choose Colombo Airport Transfers?

For stress-free travel between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya, Colombo Airport Transfers offers fixed USD prices, ensuring transparency and peace of mind. Our fleet includes comfortable Toyota HiAce vans ideal for families or groups, with free child seats available upon request. Our English-speaking drivers provide a friendly and informative service, enhancing your journey through Sri Lanka's stunning landscapes.

Plan Your Trip Today!

Nuwara Eliya is a destination that promises a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural experiences. Whether you're planning a solo escape, a romantic getaway, or a family adventure, Nuwara Eliya has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today with Colombo Airport Transfers for a seamless and memorable journey through Sri Lanka's enchanting tea country.