Kandy The Hill Country, Sri Lanka Travel Guide
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), near Colombo, is Sri Lanka's main international gateway. Most international travelers arrive here. From CMB, you then connect to Kandy overland. No direct flights head to Kandy, as it doesn't have an international airport.
Seasonal flight availability and price changes touch your travel budget. Prices are generally higher during the peak dry season (December to April) and during major holidays. You can frequently find lower prices during monsoon seasons (May to November). Booking flights well ahead of time, especially for peak travel, is great for better rates.
Find affordable flights using services like Dollar Flight Club for price alerts.
Compare flight options from various airlines on Skyscanner to get the best deal.
For hiring a car with or without a driver, check options on DiscoverCars.com.
No specific exit fees or taxes are usually charged upon departure for tourists at CMB; these costs are generally part of your airline ticket price. Always confirm with your airline.
For flights abroad from CMB, arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled flight. This allows plenty of time for check-in, security, and immigration. For peak seasons, allow yet more time.
Travel from Kandy to CMB takes about 3-4 hours by car, so include this travel time in your departure plans.
Kandy Train Station is a major hub on Sri Lanka's main railway line, giving popular and scenic train connections. No land borders for international entry to Kandy exist, as it is an island nation. Therefore, border crossing information does not apply.
Long-long-haul bus choices offer an affordable and extensive network for reaching Kandy from various parts of Sri Lanka. Air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses depart often from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. Buses are very affordable.
Self-driving in Sri Lanka is possible, but it is often challenging for foreign visitors. Traffic can be chaotic, rules of the road are sometimes loosely followed, and other road users (tuk-tuks, buses, pedestrians, animals) can be unpredictable.
Road quality and safety concerns change island-wide. Main roads joining main cities are generally paved however narrow and winding, especially in the hilly area. Secondary roads may be unpaved or poorly kept. Hazardous driving conditions include heavy rain, fog (especially in higher elevations), stray animals on roads, and pedestrians. Road accidents are common, so be careful no matter how you travel.
When getting ready to leave Sri Lanka, understand the methods and timing. There are no exit fees are usually charged upon departure for tourists at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB); these costs are typically part of your airline ticket price. Always confirm this with your airline or travel agent.
Travel from Kandy to CMB is roughly 3-4 hours by car, so include this travel time in your departure planning. Getting an early start is a good idea to avoid any last-last-minute rush.
Plan your travels from Kandy to CMB carefully, giving enough time to reach the airport and complete all checks.
Utilize the duty-free shops, dining options, and lounges at CMB for a more tranquil wait before takeoff.
Convert any remaining Ceylonese Rupees at the airport before you depart, if needed.
Make sure all your affairs are in order before heading to the airport. Settle all hotel bills and any outstanding local payments. Double-check your luggage for all your belongings.
Previously at the airport, follow the signs for check-in and security. Be ready for security checks and keep your documents handy.
Duty-free areas provide a variety of local and international products, including Ceylon tea and handicrafts.
Restaurants and cafes give options for refreshments and provisions.
Lounges are available for a calmer waiting environment before your flight.
CMB offers different facilities for departing travelers. Plan any major purchases or dining for the international airport rather than Kandy Train Terminal, which features additional basic facilities.
