Sri Lanka Route Guide · Airport transfers
Colombo Airport (CMB) to Pinnawala by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
Pinnawala is known for the elephant orphanage. It is a handy first stop between the airport and Kandy.
Route at a glance
- From
- Colombo Airport (CMB)
- To
- Pinnawala
- Distance
- About 80 km
- Drive time
- 2 to 2.5 hours
- Best for
- Animal-friendly day trips.
The drive
You take the A1 inland via Kadawatha and Warakapola. The road is busy with buses and lorries.
Best stops on the way
Elephant bath
Elephants walk to the river twice a day.
Rubber and spice gardens
Small stops along the A1.
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
- Arrive before the river bath at around 10am and 2pm.
- Visit midweek to avoid weekend crowds.
Book a driver
Compare verified drivers on the drivers page, or ask us on WhatsApp if you would like to talk to a real person first.
Keep reading
- 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Best places to travel 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 far is Pinnawala from the airport?
About 80 km, or 2 to 2.5 hours.
Is the orphanage worth a stop?
Yes if you enjoy animals; it fits well on the way to Kandy.