Get a Quote
Get a Quote

Comprehensive Guide to Sri Lanka's International and Domestic Airports

Sri Lanka boasts a diverse network of airports, catering to both international and domestic travel. The island is home to five international airports, including Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Katunayake and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) in Hambantota. Additionally, the country offers a range of domestic airports such as Trincomalee Airport (TRR) and Sigiriya Airport (GIU), ensuring seamless connectivity for locals and tourists exploring its rich cultural and natural heritage.

Sri Lanka, known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for travelers worldwide. To support its growing tourism and transportation needs, the island is equipped with a comprehensive network of international and domestic airports. From the bustling Bandaranaike International Airport, which serves as the primary gateway to the country, to the tranquil domestic airstrips in scenic regions, these airports play a vital role in connecting travelers to every corner of Sri Lanka. This guide provides a detailed overview of the international and domestic airports in Sri Lanka, helping you plan your journey with ease.

International Airports

 

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) – Katunayake

Location: Click Here

Located approximately 30 kilometers north of Colombo, in Katunayake near Negombo, along Sri Lanka’s western coast.

Extent:

This airport is the largest in Sri Lanka, spanning over 1,000 hectares, and handles around 150,000 aircraft movements annually.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Negombo Lagoon, Dutch Canal, St. Mary’s Church, and the vibrant Negombo Fish Market.

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) – Hambantota

Location: Click Here

Situated 18 kilometers northeast of Hambantota town in the southern province.

Extent:

Covering 2,000 hectares, this airport is equipped to handle up to 10 aircraft simultaneously, though it currently operates fewer flights.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Yala National Park, Bundala National Park, and the Hambantota salt pans.

Ratmalana Airport (RML) – Colombo City Airport

Location: Click Here

Positioned in Ratmalana, about 15 kilometers south of Colombo city center.

Extent:

It spans approximately 200 hectares and handles smaller domestic and private flights, with limited commercial operations.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Mount Lavinia Beach, Dehiwala Zoo, and the National Museum of Colombo.

Jaffna International Airport (JAF) – Palaly

Location: Click Here

Located in Palaly, 16 kilometers north of Jaffna city, in Sri Lanka’s northernmost province.

Extent:

This airport operates on a modest scale, managing around 5-10 aircraft per day, including international flights to India.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, Jaffna Fort, and Casuarina Beach.

Batticaloa International Airport (BTC) – Batticaloa

Location: Click Here

Situated 2 kilometers southeast of Batticaloa town, in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province.

Extent:

It operates primarily domestic flights and has a capacity to handle small to medium-sized aircraft, with 3-5 daily movements.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Batticaloa Lagoon, Kallady Bridge, and Pasikudah Beach.

Domestic Airports

Trincomalee Airport (TRR) – China Bay

Location: Click Here

Situated in China Bay, about 7 kilometers from Trincomalee city on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast.

Extent:

This airport spans around 300 hectares and manages limited domestic flights, typically serving smaller aircraft.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Koneswaram Temple, Marble Beach, and Pigeon Island National Park.

Anuradhapura Airport (ACJ)

Location: Click Here

Located 4 kilometers southwest of Anuradhapura town in the North Central Province.

Extent:

Primarily a domestic hub, it handles occasional flights with capacity for light aircraft.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Mihintale, and the Sacred Bodhi Tree (Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi).

Koggala Airport (KCT)

Location: Click Here

Found in Koggala, about 12 kilometers south of Galle, near the southern coastline.

Extent:

Covering approximately 100 hectares, it manages a handful of domestic flights, often supporting tourism in the south.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Galle Fort, Koggala Lake, and Unawatuna Beach.

Sigiriya Airport (GIU)

Location: Click Here

Situated about 4 kilometers from the Sigiriya town center, near the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Extent:

A smaller airport, it caters to light aircraft and handles a limited number of daily flights, often for tourist access.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Minneriya National Park, and Pidurangala Rock.

Ampara Airport (ADP)

Location: Click Here

Positioned 4 kilometers from Ampara town in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province.

Extent:

A regional hub, this airport mainly supports smaller aircraft with limited daily movements.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Arugam Bay, Lahugala National Park, and Kudumbigala Monastery.

Hingurakgoda Airport (GIU) – Polonnaruwa

Location: Click Here

Located 8 kilometers from Polonnaruwa, near the Hingurakgoda town area.

Extent:

Primarily a domestic airport, it supports light to medium aircraft operations.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Polonnaruwa Ancient City, Parakrama Samudraya, and Gal Vihara.

Vavuniya Airport (VCCV)

Location: Click Here

Found 3 kilometers from Vavuniya town in the Northern Province.

Extent:

A small-scale facility, handling occasional domestic flights, often for regional connectivity.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Madhu Church, Wilpattu National Park, and Giant’s Tank.

Katukurunda Airport – Kalutara

Location: Click Here

Situated in Kalutara, approximately 40 kilometers south of Colombo.

Extent:

Used mainly for training and occasional domestic flights, it has a small operational area.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Kalutara Bodhiya, Richmond Castle, and Kalutara Beach.

Weerawila Airport (WRZ)

Location: Click Here

Located near Tissamaharama, about 20 kilometers from Yala National Park.

Extent:

This airport supports light domestic aircraft, catering to tourism in the southern region.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Yala National Park, Kataragama Temple, and Kirinda Beach.

Puttalam Airport

Location: 

Positioned about 5 kilometers from Puttalam town in the Northwestern Province.

Extent:

A small airport mainly serving local aviation needs with light aircraft capacity.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Wilpattu National Park, Puttalam Lagoon, and Kalpitiya.

Panagoda Airstrip

Location: Click Here

Situated near Homagama in the Colombo district.

Extent:

Primarily a military airstrip, supporting light aircraft for training purposes.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Henarathgoda Botanical Garden, Avissawella, and the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka.

Palavi Airport – Puttalam

Location: Click Here

Located near Palavi village, about 6 kilometers northwest of Puttalam town.

Extent:

A small facility catering to light aircraft for regional and military purposes.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Puttalam Lagoon, Kalpitiya Beach, and Wilpattu National Park.

Sigiriya Air Force Base

Location: 

Found near the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, about 4 kilometers from the town center.

Extent:

Operates both military and domestic flights, primarily for light aircraft.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock, and Minneriya National Park.

Batticaloa Air Force Base

Location: Click Here 

Adjacent to Batticaloa International Airport, in the Eastern Province.

Extent:

Functions as a military airbase, with limited use for civilian purposes.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Batticaloa Lagoon, Kallady Bridge, and Pasikudah Beach.

Ratmalana Air Force Base

Location: Click Here

Situated in Ratmalana, sharing facilities with Colombo City Airport.

Extent:

Supports military operations and limited civilian air traffic.

Major Attractions Nearby:

Mount Lavinia Beach, Dehiwala Zoo, and the National Museum of Colombo.

Subscription Form
25 October 2024

Assuring Safety: Sri Lanka Welcomes Travelers Amid Security Enhancements

Sri Lanka Tourism is extending a warm invitation to travelers worldwide while assuring them of safety amid recent security concerns. Despite travel advisories regarding potential threats, the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau emphasizes that the highest levels of safety and security will be maintained throughout visitors’ stays. The Ministry of Defense has implemented necessary measures to safeguard tourists, ensuring peace of mind for both current visitors and those planning their trips.

Learn more
26 August 2024

Sri Lanka Launches Visa-Free Entry for 35 Countries: A Game-Changer for Tourism

Discover Sri Lanka’s new visa-free entry for 35 countries, making travel easier and more affordable. Explore top destinations like Sigiriya, Yala National Park, and pristine beaches with a free 30-day tourist visa in 2024.

Learn more
25 July 2024

Explore the Wondrous World of Birds in Sri Lanka: A Paradise for Ornithologists

This article describes the abundance of bird species in Sri Lanka and the various national parks and sanctuaries that offer opportunities for bird watching.

Learn more
6 July 2024

See the Beauty of Sri Lanka: What are the Top Must-Visit Destinations?

Discover paradise in Sri Lanka: golden beaches, lush jungles, and top places to visit. Perfect for adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Learn more
4 March 2024

Embark on a Journey: Discover Sri Lanka from India with Ease and Excitement

Discover the magic of Sri Lanka with a friend in CeyloTravels, making every moment an adventure.

Learn more
18 February 2024

Unlock the Magic of Sri Lanka with CeyloTravels: A Personal Guide to the Island’s Wonders

Discover Sri Lanka’s hidden gems and create unforgettable memories with CeyloTravels, your personal guide to the island’s wonders.

Learn more
25 October 2024

Assuring Safety: Sri Lanka Welcomes Travelers Amid Security Enhancements

Sri Lanka Tourism is extending a warm invitation to travelers worldwide while assuring them of safety amid recent security concerns. Despite travel advisories regarding potential threats, the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau emphasizes that the highest levels of safety and security will be maintained throughout visitors’ stays. The Ministry of Defense has implemented necessary measures to safeguard tourists, ensuring peace of mind for both current visitors and those planning their trips.

Learn more
26 August 2024

Sri Lanka Launches Visa-Free Entry for 35 Countries: A Game-Changer for Tourism

Discover Sri Lanka’s new visa-free entry for 35 countries, making travel easier and more affordable. Explore top destinations like Sigiriya, Yala National Park, and pristine beaches with a free 30-day tourist visa in 2024.

Learn more

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

©2019 - CeyloTravels - All Rights Reserved.

×