Airports Near Anuradhapura
The closest airports to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka: IATA codes, names and distances, each with a full airport guide covering terminals, lounges and transit.
The nearest airport to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka is Hingurakgoda Airport (HIM), about 43 mi (69 km) away — roughly 1 hr 17 min by road. For long-haul flights, the main international gateway is Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB).
| Code | Airport | Distance | Transfer | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIM | Hingurakgoda AirportPolonnaruwa Town, Sri Lanka | 43 mi / 69 km | 1 hr 17 min | Regional |
| TRR | China Bay AirportTrincomalee, Sri Lanka | 55 mi / 88 km | 1 hr 38 min | Regional |
| CMB | Bandaranaike International Colombo AirportColombo, Sri Lanka | 86 mi / 139 km | 2 hr | International |
| BTC | Batticaloa AirportBatticaloa, Sri Lanka | 96 mi / 155 km | 2 hr 14 min | Regional |
| JAF | Kankesanturai AirportJaffna, Sri Lanka | 105 mi / 169 km | 2 hr 26 min | Regional |
| ADP | Ampara AirportAmpara, Sri Lanka | 107 mi / 172 km | 2 hr 29 min | Regional |
| RML | Colombo Ratmalana AirportColombo, Sri Lanka | 109 mi / 176 km | 2 hr 33 min | Regional |
| HRI | Mattala Rajapaksa International AirportMattala, Sri Lanka | 148 mi / 238 km | 3 hr 26 min | International |
Distances are straight-line; transfer times are road estimates. "Type" flags major/international gateways.
Which airport is best?
For the shortest transfer, Hingurakgoda Airport (HIM) is the most convenient at about 43 mi out. If you're flying internationally or want the widest choice of routes, Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB) (86 mi) is the bigger gateway — worth the extra distance for long-haul or cheaper fares.
Getting to and from the airport
Taxis and ride-hailing serve every airport here, and the larger ones usually add a rail, metro or bus link into Anuradhapura. Allow extra time in peak traffic. For exact routes, times and fares, open the airport guide — start with HIM.
Hotels near the airport
For early departures or late arrivals, a hotel near HIM saves a stressful morning transfer.
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Other cities these airports serve
Travel tips
Compare the total door-to-door time, not just the airfare — a cheaper flight into a distant airport can cost more once you add the transfer. Check whether your airport has a direct train or metro before defaulting to a taxi, and for international arrivals, confirm any visa or transit rules in advance.
Frequently asked questions
The nearest airport to Anuradhapura is Hingurakgoda Airport (HIM), about 43 mi (69 km) away — roughly 1 hr 17 min by road.