How to get from Colombo Airport to Sigiriya

Nature & Outdoors · Rural & Countryside · Sri Lanka · Colombo (Colombo Airport) · Dambulla · Habarana · Sigiriya

Landing at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and heading straight to Sigiriya? Here’s how to get from the runway to the Lion Rock, step by step.

At A Glance (Colombo Airport to Sigiriya)

Mode Duration Best For
🚕 Private Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer (Airport → Sigiriya) ~3.5–4.5 hours door-to-door Jet-lagged arrivals, families, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: roughly US$75–100 per car (about LKR 25,000–40,000) depending on vehicle and season
» airport→Sigiriya shuttles
|
fare examples
🚌 Bus (Airport/Colombo → Dambulla/Habarana) + Local Bus/Tuk-tuk ~6–8 hours total, connection-dependent Lowest cost, backpackers, light luggage
🏷️ Cost: from ~LKR 1,000–1,500 total (<US$5) if paying local fares, or ~US$9–20 on reserved intercity services
» check Colombo→Dambulla buses
🚆 Train (Colombo Fort → Habarana) + Taxi/Tuk-tuk ~6–7.5 hours including airport bus Scenic ride, train fans, daytime travel
🏷️ Cost: train from ~US$7 in 2nd/3rd class + LKR 4,000–6,000 for Habarana→Sigiriya taxi (~US$15–20).
» compare train options
🚙 Self-drive Rental Car (Airport Pick-up) ~3.5–4.5 hours driving time Maximum freedom, road trips, onward exploring
🏷️ Cost: from ~US$55–80/day plus fuel and tolls
» car rental at CMB

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Book key legs in advance for peak months: December–March and July–August are busier. It’s wise to pre-book long-distance taxis or trains, especially if you want air-conditioned carriages or larger vehicles for groups. Platforms like 12Go Asia, GetYourGuide, and Klook help you compare options.
  • Use trusted taxi/transfer services: At the airport you’ll find official taxi desks, but you can also arrange rides in advance with services like Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer to lock in a price and vehicle type.
  • Ride-hailing apps for short hops: In Colombo and other major cities, apps such as PickMe and Uber are widely used for rides to bus or train stations. They are less reliable for very long intercity trips but are handy for short connections.
  • Buy train tickets early where possible: For popular routes, it’s best to reserve seats in advance through Sri Lanka Railways booking channels, then double-check departure times the day before your trip.
  • Pack light and keep essentials handy: Public buses and trains can get crowded; keep valuables, water, and a light jacket in a daypack. If you’ll be city-hopping before heading to Sigiriya, consider luggage storage platforms like Radical Storage in major hubs so you’re not dragging heavy bags between stops.
  • Consider where to stay: Many travelers base themselves in Sigiriya village or nearby Dambulla. Use hotel platforms such as Booking.com for Sigiriya stays or Sigiriya hotels on Trip.com to find places with late check-in or airport transfers.
  • Cash & SIM cards: Have some Sri Lankan rupees ready for bus fares and snacks. ATMs and mobile SIM counters are available at the airport; buying a local SIM makes it easier to use ride-hailing apps and map navigation.

🚕 Option #1 — Private Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer (Fastest, Most Convenient)

Fastest Door-to-door Most comfortable

This is the simplest way to reach Sigiriya straight after landing. A driver meets you at arrivals (or your hotel in Colombo/Negombo) and takes you directly to your accommodation near the rock.

  • Overview: Drive directly from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to Sigiriya via the Katunayake Expressway and central highways. Typical journey time is around 3.5–4 hours depending on traffic and rest stops.
  • How to book (with price): Pre-book a private transfer online from about US$75–100 per car (standard sedan for 2–3 people, more for vans). You can compare offers on
    GetYourGuide airport→Sigiriya transfers or arrange a CMB→Sigiriya shuttle such as
    CMB Airport to Sigiriya Shuttle Service. For fixed-price rides with vehicle photos and reviews, check
    GetTransfer’s Sri Lanka transfers or dedicated providers like
    Welcome Pickups.
  • Paying & extras: Most online platforms charge per vehicle, not per person. Expect extra fees for late-night pickups, additional stops or large luggage; tips are optional but appreciated.
  • Pros: Zero changes, air-conditioned comfort, flexible departure time, perfect if you’re tired or traveling with kids. Many drivers are happy to add photo or snack stops en route.
  • Cons: Higher cost compared with bus/train. In peak traffic around Colombo, journey times can stretch beyond 4 hours.

Step-by-step: Private Taxi / Transfer

  1. Clear immigration & customs at CMB: After baggage claim, follow signs into the public arrivals hall.
  2. Meet your driver: If you pre-booked with a service like GetYourGuide, Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, your driver will usually wait at the arrivals meeting point holding a sign with your name.
  3. SIM & cash stop (optional): Pick up a local SIM and withdraw cash before you exit so you can stay online and pay for snacks or park fees later.
  4. Drive to Sigiriya: The route typically follows the expressway toward Colombo, then cuts inland via Kurunegala and Dambulla. Expect at least one comfort stop.
  5. Drop-off at your hotel: You’ll be dropped directly at your guesthouse or hotel in Sigiriya or Dambulla. If you haven’t booked yet, you can quickly search nearby options on
    Booking.com or
    Trip.com en route.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Arrivals & City Hotels)

  • From the terminal: For on-the-spot taxis, head to the official airport taxi counter in the arrivals hall and request a quote to Sigiriya. Make sure the fare is agreed in advance.
  • From Colombo or Negombo hotels: If you’ve spent a night in the city, your hotel can usually arrange a car and driver, or you can be picked up right at the lobby by a pre-booked GetYourGuide, Klook, Welcome Pickups, or GetTransfer ride.
  • Ride-hailing for short connections: Use PickMe or Uber within urban areas to reach your hotel or to connect from a budget guesthouse to your pre-booked transfer meeting point.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Bus via Colombo/Dambulla + Local Bus or Tuk-tuk (Cheapest)

Lowest cost Frequent departures Multiple changes

Going by bus is the most budget-friendly way to reach Sigiriya but involves several legs: airport to Colombo, Colombo to Dambulla or Habarana, then a local bus or tuk-tuk to Sigiriya.

  • Overview: Take the airport bus to Colombo (usually to the Fort/Pettah area), change to an intercity bus bound for Dambulla or Habarana, then continue by local bus or tuk-tuk for the last 20–30 km to Sigiriya.
  • Airport→Colombo bus: Route 187 express buses normally run between the airport and Colombo Fort bus terminal, taking about 45–60 minutes and costing roughly LKR 130 per person in A/C coaches. Pay the conductor in cash when you board.
  • Colombo→Dambulla/Habarana bus: At Colombo’s main bus terminals (Pettah/Fort), look for northbound buses signed for Dambulla, Habarana, or Trincomalee that pass via Dambulla. Journey time is typically 3.5–5 hours depending on traffic and stops. For pre-booked intercity options and schedules, you can check reserved services on
    Colombo→Dambulla buses on 12Go Asia.
  • Dambulla/Habarana→Sigiriya: From Dambulla bus stand there are frequent local buses toward Sigiriya, Inamaluwa or Habarana, plus tuk-tuks happy to take you directly to your guesthouse. From Habarana junction it’s around 25 km to Sigiriya.
  • Pros: Extremely cheap, departures throughout the day, great for travelers who like local experiences.
  • Cons: Several changes, buses can be crowded and basic, less comfortable with big luggage, and slower overall than a private car.

Step-by-step: Bus via Colombo & Dambulla

  1. Walk to the airport bus stop: Exit the terminal and follow signs (or ask staff) for the airport bus stand. Look for buses marked 187 or airport express to Colombo Fort.
  2. Ride to Colombo Fort/Pettah: Board the bus, keep your luggage close, and pay the conductor. Get off at Colombo Fort bus terminal or nearby stops as advised.
  3. Change to an intercity bus: At Fort/Pettah, follow signs or ask for the platform for Dambulla or Habarana. Look for semi-luxury or A/C buses if you want more comfort.
  4. Travel to Dambulla or Habarana: Stay on until the main bus stand in your chosen town. Keep your daypack with you; stow big bags in designated spots.
  5. Final leg to Sigiriya: From the bus stand, take a local bus or tuk-tuk to Sigiriya (often 30–45 minutes). Agree the fare with tuk-tuk drivers before starting.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Bus Stop & Colombo Fort)

  • Airport bus stop: The airport→Colombo buses depart from just outside the arrivals area; look for signs to the bus terminal or ask airport staff where the Route 187 buses stop.
  • Colombo Fort bus terminals: Most long-distance northbound buses depart from the Pettah/Fort area, a short walk or quick PickMe/Uber ride from Colombo Fort Railway Station.
  • Buying tickets: On standard government and private buses, you pay on board in cash. For certain reserved-seat A/C services, you can sometimes pre-book through Sri Lankan operators or check seat-reservation portals linked from the National Transport Commission.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚆 Option #3 — Train via Colombo Fort to Habarana + Taxi (Most Scenic)

Scenic Comfortable seats Limited departures

This route combines the airport bus, a scenic train ride from Colombo Fort to Habarana, and a final taxi or tuk-tuk connection to Sigiriya.

  • Overview: Airport bus to Colombo Fort railway station (~1 hour), then a long-distance train toward Trincomalee or Batticaloa that stops at Habarana (~4.5–5.5 hours), followed by a 45–60 minute taxi/tuk-tuk to Sigiriya.
  • How to book (with price): Standard 2nd/3rd class train tickets are inexpensive (from roughly US$7 equivalent), and some trains offer reserved seats. Check timetables and reservation options via Sri Lanka Railways or compare approximate timings and prices on
    Colombo→Habarana trains on 12Go Asia. Expect to pay around LKR 4,000–6,000 (US$15–20) for a taxi from Habarana to Sigiriya.
  • Classes & comfort: 2nd class offers openable windows and fans; 3rd class is very budget but can get crowded. When available, reserved seats are strongly recommended with luggage.
  • Pros: Atmospheric journey, nice views, often smoother than long bus rides. Good daytime option if you like trains.
  • Cons: Fixed departure times, potential crowding, an extra change at Habarana, and less suitable for very late-night arrivals.

Step-by-step: Train via Habarana

  1. Airport→Colombo Fort railway station: Take the airport bus (Route 187 or similar) to Colombo Fort area. From the bus drop-off, it’s usually a short walk or quick PickMe/Uber ride to the main railway station.
  2. Buy or collect your train ticket: At Colombo Fort station, queue for long-distance tickets or go to the reserved-seat counter if you booked ahead. Check platform numbers on the departure boards.
  3. Board the train to Habarana: Take a train heading toward Trincomalee, Batticaloa or other north/east destinations that list Habarana as a stop. Aim to board early to secure space for luggage.
  4. Ride to Habarana: Enjoy the scenery and have snacks ready; vendors also walk through the carriages. Keep your bags close and valuables on you.
  5. Taxi/tuk-tuk from Habarana to Sigiriya: On arrival, negotiate with tuk-tuk or taxi drivers outside the station for the 30–45 minute ride to Sigiriya or pre-arrange a pickup via your hotel.

Getting to the main embarking points (Colombo Fort Railway Station & Habarana)

  • Colombo Fort Railway Station: This is the main hub for long-distance trains. From the airport bus drop-off, follow signs or use a short ride-hail trip to the station entrance.
  • Buying train tickets: You can often buy on the day, but for popular departures or reserved seats, it’s safer to purchase in advance via official Sri Lanka Railways channels or authorized agents.
  • Habarana Railway Station: A small station with tuk-tuks and taxis waiting outside. Have your accommodation address ready (and ideally pinned in your maps app) to show drivers.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚙 Option #4 — Self-drive Rental Car from Colombo Airport (Flexible Road Trip)

Flexible Great for road trips For confident drivers

If you’re comfortable driving on the left and dealing with local traffic, renting a car at the airport lets you set your own schedule and explore the Cultural Triangle, Kandy, and beyond without relying on timetables.

  • Overview: Pick up a rental car on arrival at CMB and drive directly to Sigiriya. You’ll use the expressway and main A-class highways; travel time is typically 3.5–4.5 hours depending on traffic and stops.
  • How to book (with price): Expect rates from around US$55–80 per day for a compact car, plus fuel and any tolls. You can compare multiple providers and pick up directly at the airport using
    Booking.com car rental at CMB. If you want to book hotels and flights together, platforms like
    Trip.com flights to Colombo and
    Sigiriya hotels on Trip.com can be handy.
  • Licence & paperwork: You’ll usually need a valid driving licence from your home country and often an International Driving Permit (IDP). Check requirements on your rental provider’s page before booking.
  • Pros: Full control over departure time and itinerary, easy to visit Polonnaruwa, Minneriya/Kaudulla national parks, and small villages around Sigiriya.
  • Cons: Driving can feel hectic near Colombo, with buses, tuk-tuks and motorbikes weaving through traffic. Parking at popular sites can be busy; nervous drivers may prefer a car with driver instead.

Step-by-step: Self-drive from CMB to Sigiriya

  1. Pick up your rental car: After clearing arrivals, follow signs for “Car Rental” or meeting points indicated in your booking confirmation from Booking.com or your chosen provider.
  2. Inspect the vehicle: Take photos of existing scratches, confirm fuel level, and check that navigation, lights and air-conditioning are working.
  3. Set your route: Enter Sigiriya (or your hotel name) into your navigation app or the in-car GPS before you leave the airport, so you can focus on the road.
  4. Drive via main highways: Follow signs toward Colombo and then inland toward Kurunegala and Dambulla, or use your navigation to follow the recommended route.
  5. Arrive & park in Sigiriya: Many guesthouses have free parking; at the Sigiriya rock site itself, use the official parking areas and keep your ticket handy.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Car Rental Desks)

  • Airport rental desks: Car rental counters are usually located in or near the arrivals hall. Follow the signage or the pick-up instructions provided in your online booking.
  • Fuel & rest stops: There are fuel stations along the route; it’s still wise to start with a reasonably full tank and top up in larger towns like Kurunegala or Dambulla.
  • Scooters & bikes in cities: If you only plan to drive in Colombo, Negombo or beach towns, consider renting a scooter or motorbike instead of a car. You can compare options on sites like
    BikesBooking scooter rental in Colombo, then switch to a bus or train for the long leg toward Sigiriya.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Colombo Airport to Sigiriya)

What is the easiest way to get from Colombo Airport to Sigiriya?
The easiest option for most visitors is a private taxi or pre-booked transfer directly from Bandaranaike International Airport to Sigiriya. Your driver meets you at arrivals and takes you straight to your hotel with no changes.

How long does the journey take by taxi, bus or train?
A private transfer usually takes around 3.5–4.5 hours depending on traffic. Going mainly by bus can take 6–8 hours including changes. Combining the airport bus, train to Habarana, and a final taxi typically takes 6–7.5 hours.

Can I travel to Sigiriya straight after a late-night arrival?
If you land late, a pre-booked private transfer is the most practical choice, as long-distance buses and trains run less frequently at night. Alternatively, spend the night in Negombo or Colombo and continue by bus or train in the morning.

Is it safe to travel from Colombo to Sigiriya?
Yes, the route is popular with both locals and tourists. As with any trip, keep valuables secure, choose reputable transport providers, and avoid very late-night bus journeys if you can. Private transfers are generally the most comfortable and predictable option.

Should I stay in Sigiriya or Dambulla?
Sigiriya puts you closest to the rock fortress and sunrise hikes, while Dambulla offers a larger town with more services and the famous cave temples. With a private car or tuk-tuk, it’s easy to move between them, so many travelers choose accommodation based on hotel style and budget rather than location alone.

Can I rent a scooter in Colombo and ride it all the way to Sigiriya?
Technically it’s possible, but it’s a long ride on busy highways. Most visitors who rent scooters via services like BikesBooking or local rental shops use them for city and coastal exploring only, and rely on buses, trains, or private cars for long intercity legs.

Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
In peak season it’s smart to reserve ahead. You can compare guesthouses and hotels close to Lion Rock on
Booking.com or browse a curated list of Sigiriya stays on
Trip.com. Look for places offering early breakfasts if you plan a sunrise climb.

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