Airports Near Colombo
The closest airports to Colombo, Sri Lanka: IATA codes, names and distances, each with a full airport guide covering terminals, lounges and transit.
The nearest airport to Colombo, Sri Lanka is Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML), about 8 mi (13 km) away — roughly 27 min by road. For long-haul flights, the main international gateway is Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB).
| Code | Airport | Distance | Transfer | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RML | Colombo Ratmalana AirportColombo, Sri Lanka | 8 mi / 13 km | 27 min | Regional |
| CMB | Bandaranaike International Colombo AirportColombo, Sri Lanka | 17 mi / 28 km | 34 min | International |
| KCT | Koggala AirportGalle, Sri Lanka | 73 mi / 117 km | 1 hr 41 min | Regional |
| HRI | Mattala Rajapaksa International AirportMattala, Sri Lanka | 98 mi / 158 km | 2 hr 17 min | International |
| WRZ | Weerawila International AirportWeerawila, Sri Lanka | 106 mi / 171 km | 2 hr 28 min | International |
| HIM | Hingurakgoda AirportPolonnaruwa Town, Sri Lanka | 109 mi / 176 km | 2 hr 33 min | Regional |
| ADP | Ampara AirportAmpara, Sri Lanka | 126 mi / 202 km | 2 hr 55 min | Regional |
| BTC | Batticaloa AirportBatticaloa, Sri Lanka | 136 mi / 219 km | 3 hr 10 min | Regional |
Distances are straight-line; transfer times are road estimates. "Type" flags major/international gateways.
Which airport is best?
For the shortest transfer, Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML) is the most convenient at about 8 mi out. If you're flying internationally or want the widest choice of routes, Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB) (17 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 Colombo. Allow extra time in peak traffic. For exact routes, times and fares, open the airport guide — start with RML.
Hotels near the airport
For early departures or late arrivals, a hotel near RML 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 Colombo is Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML), about 8 mi (13 km) away — roughly 27 min by road.