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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Travel Tips

Sri Lanka Food Guide: Must-Try Dishes on Your Trip

May 25, 2026·7 min read·0 views

Discover Sri Lanka's culinary delights. From rice & curry to kottu, here's what to feast on during your visit.

Sri Lanka, famed for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is equally renowned for its vibrant culinary scene. As you traverse the island, you'll encounter a delightful array of flavors that reflect the country's diverse cultural tapestry. This guide highlights the must-try dishes during your Sri Lankan journey, ensuring you savor the authentic taste of the island.

What is Sri Lanka's National Dish?

Rice & Curry is the heart and soul of Sri Lankan cuisine. This staple dish comprises a generous serving of rice accompanied by a variety of curries, typically including lentils, vegetables, meat, or fish. Each curry is a symphony of spices, creating a rich tapestry of flavors. For an authentic experience, try this dish at local eateries in Colombo or Galle. If you're flying into Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo Airport Transfers offers reliable transport services to these culinary hotspots.

Where to Try Hoppers in Sri Lanka?

Hoppers, or 'appa', are a beloved Sri Lankan snack. These bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour batter are crisp at the edges and soft in the center. Egg hoppers, with a soft-cooked egg embedded in the middle, are particularly popular. Indulge in hoppers at roadside stalls or specialty restaurants in Kandy or Colombo. Need a ride? Colombo Airport Transfers provides comfortable Toyota HiAce vehicles for a seamless gastronomic adventure.

What is Kottu and Where Can You Find It?

Kottu Roti is Sri Lanka's version of stir-fry, combining chopped roti, vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat. The rhythmic clattering as chefs prepare kottu is music to the ears of any food lover. Experience this street food sensation in bustling markets across Sri Lanka, particularly in Colombo and Negombo. For a hassle-free journey, book a ride through Colombo Airport Transfers.

What Makes Sri Lankan Seafood Unique?

With its extensive coastline, Sri Lanka offers a bounty of fresh seafood. Crab Curry is a standout, with succulent crabs cooked in a spicy coconut sauce. Visit the fishing towns of Negombo and Trincomalee for the freshest catch. Pair your seafood feast with King Coconut water, a refreshing thirst-quencher found ubiquitously along the coast.

What Local Drinks Should You Try?

No culinary journey in Sri Lanka is complete without sampling Arrack, a potent local spirit distilled from coconut sap. It's often enjoyed neat or mixed in cocktails. For an authentic experience, visit local bars in Colombo or beachside resorts in Bentota. Remember, safety first—consider hiring a driver from Colombo Airport Transfers to navigate your night out safely.

Conclusion: Ready to Embark on Your Culinary Journey?

Sri Lanka's cuisine is as diverse and vibrant as its culture. Whether you're feasting on a traditional rice & curry or sipping on king coconut, each dish tells a story. To explore these culinary treasures across the island, rely on Colombo Airport Transfers for friendly, reliable service. With fixed USD prices and English-speaking drivers, your journey will be as enjoyable as the destinations themselves. Embark on your gastronomic adventure today!