Sri Lanka transport
Colombo Airport to Kandy
Kandy is the classic first inland stop: Temple of the Tooth, a cooler climate, and a launch point for Sigiriya or the tea country. From CMB it is a half-day drive, not an overnight.
Time
3–4 hours
Distance
About 110–130 km
Best for
First night in the cultural triangle / hill country
The route is mostly highway then winding A-roads into the hills. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. A private car beats the intercity bus if you have suitcases or land tired.
Trains run Colombo–Kandy, but you still need a taxi from CMB to Colombo Fort, and seats sell out. For same-day arrival, a driver-host from the airport is simpler.
Add Pinnawala or a spice garden only if you land before noon. Otherwise go hotel first.
Before you go
- Kandy one-way streets and temple traffic: ask the host to drop at your hotel door, not a bus stand.
- Continue the same trip to Sigiriya or Nuwara Eliya the next morning on one offer.
Ready? Open the planner with Colombo Airport (CMB) → Kandy already pinned, then add extra towns if you need them.
Common questions
Is Kandy close to Colombo Airport?+
It is inland, typically 3–4 hours. Negombo and Colombo city are much closer if you land late at night.