Sri Lanka Route Guide · Safari, east coast and north
Colombo Airport (CMB) to Jaffna by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
Jaffna in the far north has its own food, Tamil culture and temples. The long drive up the A9 is easiest with a driver, and many travellers stop at Anuradhapura on the way.
Route at a glance
- From
- Colombo Airport (CMB)
- To
- Jaffna
- Distance
- About 400 km
- Drive time
- 8 to 9 hours
- Best for
- Cultural trips to the north.
The drive
You drive on the A9 via Kurunegala and Anuradhapura. The northern part of the road is flat and mostly good, but it is a long day, so many people break at Anuradhapura.
Best stops on the way
Anuradhapura
Ancient city, a natural overnight stop.
Elephant Pass
Historic causeway entrance to the peninsula.
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
- Allow at least two days for the journey with an overnight halfway.
- Dress modestly in Hindu temples such as Nallur Kandaswamy.
Book a driver
Keep reading
- Travel times between places in Sri Lanka
- Best places to travel in Sri Lanka
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Anuradhapura
- Sigiriya to Anuradhapura
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Trincomalee
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How long is the drive from Colombo to Jaffna?
About 8 to 9 hours, so many people split it with a night in Anuradhapura.
Is Jaffna safe for tourists?
Yes, it is a welcoming destination, and local drivers can advise on any conditions.