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 Sigiriya Rock: Your Complete Visitor Guide

April 25, 2026·7 min read·15 views

Discover Sigiriya Rock Fortress with our complete guide. From history to travel tips, plan your visit with Colombo Airport Transfers.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Complete Visitor Guide

Embark on a journey to one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Known as the 'Lion's Rock', this ancient marvel offers breathtaking views, fascinating history, and a day full of adventure. Whether you're a history buff or an avid hiker, Sigiriya is a must-visit on your Sri Lankan itinerary.

What is the History of Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa. This fortress complex, perched atop a 200-meter-high rock, served as the king's palace and stronghold. The site features elaborate frescoes, landscaped gardens, and a complex water management system. Its historical significance and architectural brilliance make it a marvel of ancient engineering.

How to Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

Climbing Sigiriya involves ascending approximately 1,200 steps, which can take about 1.5 to 2 hours. It's best to start early in the morning (around 7 AM) to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and take breaks as needed. The climb offers stunning views, with platforms to explore and learn about the site's history.

What are the Ticket Prices and Opening Hours?

The entrance fee to Sigiriya Rock Fortress is around USD 30 for foreign visitors. The site opens at 7 AM and closes by 5 PM. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. For the latest information, check with Sri Lanka Tourism.

Is Pidurangala a Good Alternative to Sigiriya?

For a less crowded experience, consider climbing nearby Pidurangala Rock. Offering a panoramic view of Sigiriya, this climb is shorter and costs only about USD 3. Pidurangala is ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly option with stunning sunrise views.

How to Get to Sigiriya?

Located about 170 km from Colombo, reaching Sigiriya is easiest with a private transfer. Consider Colombo Airport Transfers for a reliable and comfortable journey. Our Toyota HiAce fleet accommodates solo travelers, families, and larger groups, ensuring a hassle-free trip with fixed USD pricing and English-speaking drivers.

Can You Combine Sigiriya with Other Attractions?

Yes, combine your visit with a trip to the Dambulla Cave Temple, located just 20 km away. This site is known for its impressive Buddha statues and ancient murals. Our drivers can help plan an itinerary that covers both attractions efficiently.

Ready to explore Sigiriya? Book your transfer with Colombo Airport Transfers for a seamless and memorable visit. Enjoy the luxury of an air-conditioned vehicle, island-wide coverage, and our signature meet & greet service at Colombo Airport.