How to Get from Colombo Airport to Negombo
Are you looking for the best ways to get from Colombo Airport to Negombo? Negombo is one of the most popular destinations for tourists and locals in Sri Lanka. There’s not much to do, so it’s the perfect place to relax and for beach lovers.
Getting to Negombo may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are a few to get there. You can easily get to Negombo from Colombo by taxi, bus, and tuk tuk.
In this ultimate guide, you will find all the ways to get from Colombo Airport to Negombo, such as the cheapest and quickest way to travel, journey times, and how much a bus ticket or taxi will cost.
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How far is Negombo from Colombo?
Colombo Airport is located on the outskirts of Negombo. The distance between Colombo Airport and Negombo is about 8 km, which is 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and mode of transport.
Recommended post → Colombo to City Center
There are several ways to get to Negombo from Colombo: by bus (40 minutes), by taxi (15-20 minutes), and by transfer (30-45 minutes).
Scroll down for more information about which transport is the best for you, how long the journey takes, and how much a bus ticket or taxi will cost.
Getting to Negombo by Airport Transfer
Once you land at the airport, go to the arrivals hall to meet your driver and travel to your accommodation or beach area in Negombo.
The journey takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
For two people, it costs 13 USD per person, and for four people, it will cost 10 USD per person, making it ideal for couples and families. If you are not traveling alone, the price is affordable!
Bus from Colombo Airport to Negombo
The cheapest way to get from Colombo to Negombo is by local bus.
There is no direct bus connection from the airport to Negombo. You will have to walk about 1 km (10 minutes) to the Katunayake bus stop. From the Katunayake bus stop to Negombo, the No. 240 bus runs every 30 minutes and stops at the Negombo bus station.
If you want to get to the Negombo beach area, you will have to take another local bus or catch a tuk tuk, which will also add extra cost. We do not recommend taking the bus if you have a lot of luggage.
The bus will run between 5:30 AM and 7 PM. The bus ticket costs about 70 LKR (0.20 USD), and the journey takes 40 minutes, depending on traffic. If you want to travel by bus, bring local money, as you can buy your bus ticket after boarding.
Good to know
Local buses fill up quickly, and not all buses have air conditioning!
Read our → Sri Lanka Itinerary
How Much a Tuk Tuk from Colombo Airport to Negombo?
Tuk-tuks are not allowed to enter Colombo Airport, you will have to walk for about 10 minutes to the outside area.
The tuk tuk fare from Colombo Airport to Negombo ranges between 4 and 6 USD. The journey time by tuk tuk is about 20 minutes.
Are you looking for an adventurous way to get from Colombo to Negombo? Rent a tuk tuk and drive yourself there.
Read the full post → Tuk Tuk Rental in Sri Lanka
How to Get from Colombo Airport to Negombo by Taxi
One of the easiest and fastest ways to reach Negombo is by taxi.
A taxi cost from Colombo Airport to Negombo starts from 2000 LKR (6 USD). The journey takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
TIP
The taxi drivers do not accept card payments, so you should bring local money!
Is Uber available at Colombo Airport?
Yes, Uber and PickMe are available at Colombo Airport.
Where to Stay in Negombo
Negombo has some beachfront hotels and resorts, but accommodation options are available for all budgets. These are our recommendations.
Best hotels in Negombo, Sri Lanka
- Luxury: Jetwing Blue
- Mid-Range: Amagi Aria or Regenta Arie Lagoon
- Budget: Hotel J Negombo
More Travel Guides about Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka Itinerary for 14 Days
- 7 Best Things to Do in Sigiriya
- The Ultimate Guide: Kandy to Ella Train
- 9 Best Things to Do in Ella
- 7 Epic Things to Do in Kandy
- Tuk Tuk Rental in Sri Lanka
- 9 Best Things to Do in Mirissa
We hope our post on how to get from Colombo Airport to Negombo will help you plan your next trip to Sri Lanka. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
Travel Resources
Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
eSIM – Airalo
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Train/Transfer – Bookaway





