Sri Lanka Route Guide · Airport transfers
Colombo Airport (CMB) to Haputale by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
Haputale sits on a ridge with views over the southern plains and is much quieter than Ella. It is known for its tea estates and for Lipton's Seat.
Route at a glance
- From
- Colombo Airport (CMB)
- To
- Haputale
- Distance
- About 220 km
- Drive time
- 6 to 7 hours
- Best for
- Quiet tea country stays.
The drive
You can take the A1 and A5 via Nuwara Eliya or the inland road via Ratnapura and Belihuloya. Both involve bends and slow lorries.
Best stops on the way
Lipton's Seat
Viewpoint above Dambatenne tea estate.
Adisham Bungalow
Colonial house in Haputale.
Choose your vehicle
Pick a vehicle by group size and luggage. These are average day rates across GoTourRide drivers; a one-way transfer is quoted by the driver, so request a quote for an exact price. You can also use our trip cost calculator.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Average day rate |
|---|---|---|
| Mini car | Up to 2 | About $61/day |
| Normal car | Up to 3 | About $66/day |
| SUV | Up to 3 | About $91/day |
| Large car | Up to 4 | About $75/day |
| Minivan | Up to 6 | About $103/day |
| Large van | Up to 10 | About $118/day |
| Minibus | Up to 15 | About $169/day |
Tips for this route
- Go to Lipton's Seat at sunrise before the cloud forms.
- The ridge can be cold and windy, so pack a layer.
Book a driver
Keep reading
- 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary
- Best places to travel in Sri Lanka
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Sigiriya
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Kandy
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Ella
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How long does it take from the airport to Haputale?
About 6 to 7 hours depending on the route.
Is Haputale better than Ella?
It is quieter and has bigger views, but fewer cafes and nightlife.