Airports Near Matara
The closest airports to Matara, Sri Lanka: IATA codes, names and distances, each with a full airport guide covering terminals, lounges and transit.
The nearest airport to Matara, Sri Lanka is Koggala Airport (KCT), about 15 mi (24 km) away — roughly 29 min by road. For long-haul flights, the main international gateway is Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI).
| Code | Airport | Distance | Transfer | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KCT | Koggala AirportGalle, Sri Lanka | 15 mi / 24 km | 29 min | Regional |
| HRI | Mattala Rajapaksa International AirportMattala, Sri Lanka | 47 mi / 75 km | 1 hr 24 min | International |
| WRZ | Weerawila International AirportWeerawila, Sri Lanka | 53 mi / 85 km | 1 hr 35 min | International |
| RML | Colombo Ratmalana AirportColombo, Sri Lanka | 75 mi / 121 km | 1 hr 45 min | Regional |
| CMB | Bandaranaike International Colombo AirportColombo, Sri Lanka | 96 mi / 155 km | 2 hr 14 min | International |
| ADP | Ampara AirportAmpara, Sri Lanka | 122 mi / 196 km | 2 hr 50 min | Regional |
| BTC | Batticaloa AirportBatticaloa, Sri Lanka | 145 mi / 233 km | 3 hr 22 min | Regional |
| HIM | Hingurakgoda AirportPolonnaruwa Town, Sri Lanka | 149 mi / 239 km | 3 hr 27 min | Regional |
Distances are straight-line; transfer times are road estimates. "Type" flags major/international gateways.
Which airport is best?
For the shortest transfer, Koggala Airport (KCT) is the most convenient at about 15 mi out. If you're flying internationally or want the widest choice of routes, Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) (47 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 Matara. Allow extra time in peak traffic. For exact routes, times and fares, open the airport guide — start with KCT.
Hotels near the airport
For early departures or late arrivals, a hotel near KCT saves a stressful morning transfer.
Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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 Matara is Koggala Airport (KCT), about 15 mi (24 km) away — roughly 29 min by road.