Sri Lanka Route Guide · Airport transfers
Nuwara Eliya to Colombo Airport (CMB) by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
The descent from the hills is slower than the distance suggests. A driver helps you leave early and reach the airport in time.
Route at a glance
- From
- Nuwara Eliya
- To
- Colombo Airport (CMB)
- Distance
- About 190 km
- Drive time
- 5.5 to 6.5 hours
- Best for
- Departure transfers from the hill country.
The drive
You drive down the A5 and A1 via Kandy or the A7. The mountain bends slow lorries and buses.
Best stops on the way
Ramboda Falls
Waterfall stop.
Kandy
Lunch 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
- Leave at least 9 hours before your flight.
- Check the weather, as mist slows the drive.
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
- Private driver hiring checklist
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Travel times between places 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 is the drive to the airport?
About 5.5 to 6.5 hours.
Is there a faster route?
The expressway link helps near Colombo.