Sri Lanka Route Guide · Airport transfers
Kandy to Colombo Airport (CMB) by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
For departure day, a driver means a reliable pick-up time and no stress about missing your flight. Most travellers leave Kandy at least 6 hours before a long-haul flight.
Route at a glance
- From
- Kandy
- To
- Colombo Airport (CMB)
- Distance
- About 115 km
- Drive time
- 3 to 3.5 hours
- Best for
- Departure transfers.
The drive
You take the A1 down the Kadugannawa pass, then the expressway or the old road to the airport. Traffic can slow the first hour, especially in the morning.
Best stops on the way
Pinnawala
Elephant orphanage if you have spare time.
Kegalle
Short coffee stop.
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
- Plan to arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure.
- Confirm the pick-up time and hotel address with your driver the evening before.
Book a driver
Keep reading
- Private driver hiring checklist
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Travel times between places in Sri Lanka
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Kandy
- Galle to Colombo Airport (CMB)
- Sigiriya to Colombo Airport (CMB)
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How early should I leave Kandy for my flight?
Allow 3.5 hours of driving plus 3 hours at the airport, so leave at least 6 to 7 hours before departure.
Is there a toll on the way?
Part of the route uses the expressway. Tolls are normally included in the quote.