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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

The Ancient Cities, Sri Lanka

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the main international airport, located 30km north of Colombo. Polonnaruwa has no international airport, but Sigiriya Airport (GIU) has limited domestic flights.

International Connections

  • SriLankan Airlines is the national carrier.
  • Other airlines include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, etc.
  • Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.

Direct Flights & Seasonality

Direct flights from major hubs in Europe, Middle East, and Asia are available. No direct flights from North America.

Booking Insights

  • Higher prices during peak season (Dec-Mar) and holidays.
  • Booking flights well in advance is a good idea.
  • Prices drop during monsoon seasons.

Airport Facilities CMB

Duty-free shops, currency exchange, SIM card vendors, restaurants, lounges, ATMs, and taxi counters.

Train Transfers

Taxi/bus from CMB to Colombo Fort, then direct train to Polonnaruwa (5-6 hours).

Private Transfers

Fastest and most comfortable: private taxi/car directly to Polonnaruwa (4-5 hours).

Bus Transfers

From CMB to Polonnaruwa

  • Taxi/bus from CMB to Colombo Private Bus Stand (Pettah).
  • Direct long-distance buses run to Polonnaruwa.
  • Journey approximately 6-7 hours.
  • Buses are frequent and very affordable.

Considerations

  • Can be crowded and may not always have air conditioning.
  • Private car costs typically LKR 15,000 to 25,000+.
  • Many hotels and guesthouses arrange transfers.
  • Book through reputable taxi services at the airport.

Land Transportation Overview

Train Connections

Polonnaruwa Railway Station (PLNW) is on the Batticaloa Line. Direct trains from Colombo Fort. Booking reserved seats in advance is highly advisable.

Long-Distance Buses

Public and private bus services connect Polonnaruwa to major cities. Buses are frequent and very affordable. Tickets are typically purchased from the conductor.

Self-Driving Considerations

An International Driving Permit (IDP) and local endorsement from AAC are mandatory. Driving in Sri Lanka presents challenge; many visitors select a car with a driver. DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

Road Conditions & Safety

Train Travel

Scenic journey, relatively comfortable (especially reserved seats), avoids road traffic.

Pros & Cons

  • Scenic, comfortable, avoids traffic.
  • Can be slow, limited departures, less flexible routing.
  • Travel Time: 5-6 hours from Colombo.

Bus Travel

Very affordable, frequent departures, offers local interaction.

Pros & Cons

  • Affordable, frequent, local interaction.
  • Crowded, less comfortable, longer travel time, not always A/C.
  • Travel Time: 6-7 hours from Colombo.

Private Car/Taxi

Fast, convenient, comfortable, door-to-door service, highly flexible.

Pros & Cons

  • Fast, convenient, comfortable, flexible.
  • Most expensive; self-driving complex.
  • Travel Time: 4-5 hours from Colombo.

Self-Driving Issues

Driving in Sri Lanka presents challenge due to aggressive driving habits, a mix of slow and fast-moving traffic, pedestrians, and animals.

Recommendations

  • Not for inexperienced drivers.
  • Road conditions vary (narrow, winding, busy).
  • Many visitors select hiring a car with a driver for comfort and safety.

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

  • Polonnaruwa is an inland city.
  • No major sea ports or navigable rivers for passenger transport.
  • All international arrivals are via air, domestic travel uses land transport.
  • This section does not apply to Polonnaruwa travel.
  • Focus on air and land transport options.
  • No sea or river routes to reach Polonnaruwa.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Departure taxes are generally included in the price of your international airfare. You will not usually pay a separate departure tax at the airport.

Check-in & Security

  • Confirm departure tax inclusion when booking flights.
  • Arrive at CMB at least 3 hours prior to scheduled departure.
  • Allow ample time for check-in, security, immigration, and baggage drop.

Airport Facilities

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) presents various facilities for departing travelers to make their wait comfortable.

Amenities for Travelers

  • Restaurants and cafes for dining options.
  • Duty-free shops for last-minute purchases.
  • Currency exchange services for remaining LKR.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi often available, though sometimes limited.

Lounges

Various airline and pay-per-use lounges are available for relaxation.

Document Check

Confirm all necessary documents (passport, boarding pass, onward visa) for your next destination.

Final Checklist

Be sure to have all documents, including passport, boarding pass, and any required visa for your next destination.

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Local Transportation

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