Colombo Airport to Sigiriya Transfer
CMB to Sigiriya and Dambulla - approx. 3.5 to 4 hours
Sigiriya is around 155 km from Bandaranaike International Airport, a drive of three and a half to four hours north-east into the Cultural Triangle. Starting your trip here rather than in Colombo is a good choice if the ancient cities are your priority - you wake up under the rock and can be at the gate for the 7am opening.
Prices
| Vehicle | Suitable for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan (Toyota Axio or similar) | 3 passengers, 2 large cases | USD 70 |
| Mini van (Toyota KDH or similar) | 6 passengers, 6 large cases | USD 90 |
| High-roof van | 9 passengers, 9 large cases | USD 115 |
Prices are per vehicle, not per person, and are confirmed in writing before you travel. Fuel, expressway tolls and government taxes are included.
The route
The drive runs through Kurunegala and Dambulla on generally good roads. Dambulla Cave Temple sits directly on the route, 20 minutes short of Sigiriya, and makes an easy first stop if you land in the morning and are not too tired.
Why start in the Cultural Triangle
Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura are all within 90 minutes of each other. Basing here for two or three nights covers four UNESCO World Heritage sites without moving hotels, and the onward drive to Kandy is a comfortable 2.5 hours.
It also means you climb Sigiriya at 7am on a day you control, rather than arriving at midday with a coach party.
Colombo Airport to Sigiriya Transfer - frequently asked questions
Approximately 155 km, or 3.5 to 4 hours by road via Kurunegala and Dambulla.
Yes - Dambulla Cave Temple is directly on the route, about 20 minutes before Sigiriya. There is no additional transfer charge for stopping, only the temple entrance fee.
Start in Sigiriya if ancient sites are your priority - four UNESCO sites sit within 90 minutes and you can climb the rock at 7am opening. Start in Kandy if you want the temple, hill country and the train first.
