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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Seasonal

Experience Avurudu: Traveling Sri Lanka in April

Published 31 May 2026·7 min read·0 views

Discover travel tips for Sri Lanka during Avurudu in April. Enjoy unique traditions with Colombo Airport Transfers for stress-free journeys.

What is the Sinhala and Tamil New Year?

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, known locally as Avurudu, is a major cultural festival celebrated in April across Sri Lanka. It marks the transition of the sun from the House of Pisces to the House of Aries, symbolizing new beginnings. This vibrant festival is steeped in tradition, featuring rituals, games, and delectable cuisines. It's a time when families come together, homes are adorned, and the air is filled with festive cheer.

How Does Avurudu Impact Travel in Sri Lanka?

Traveling in Sri Lanka during Avurudu can be both exciting and challenging due to heavy domestic travel as locals return to their hometowns. Public transport is often crowded, and many businesses close for the celebrations. Colombo Airport Transfers provides a reliable solution with fixed USD prices, ensuring you can travel comfortably and avoid the holiday rush. Our English-speaking drivers meet you at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for a seamless start to your journey.

What are the Best Destinations in Sri Lanka in April?

April is an excellent time to visit the cultural triangle including Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa, where the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes lush after the rains. The hill country, particularly Nuwara Eliya, offers a cool escape from the coastal heat. With Colombo Airport Transfers, you can explore these destinations in comfort. Our Toyota HiAce vans are ideal for family trips, offering spacious interiors and free child seats.

How Should Visitors Adapt to Avurudu Traditions?

During Avurudu, it's important for visitors to respect local customs such as dressing modestly, especially when visiting temples. Participating in traditional games and enjoying festive foods can enhance your experience. Engaging with locals and wishing them a 'Suba Aluth Avurudda' (Happy New Year) can foster friendly interactions. Our knowledgeable drivers can provide insights and tips to ensure your cultural engagement is respectful and enjoyable.

Why Choose Colombo Airport Transfers?

For a smooth travel experience during the busy New Year season, choose Colombo Airport Transfers. Our services are tailored to your needs with island-wide coverage, from the bustling capital to serene rural areas. We offer transparent pricing and comfortable travel options, such as the Toyota HiAce for larger groups. Whether you're planning an extended tour or a short city transfer, our fleet is designed for comfort and reliability.

How Can You Book Your April Travels?

Booking your travel during Avurudu is easy with Colombo Airport Transfers. Simply visit our booking page to get a quote tailored to your itinerary. With our friendly, local service, you can focus on enjoying the vibrant traditions of Sri Lanka without any travel hassles.

In conclusion, traveling in Sri Lanka during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich cultural tapestry. By opting for Colombo Airport Transfers, you ensure a hassle-free and memorable experience of this joyful celebration. Start planning your Avurudu adventure today!