Travelling from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport (GIU): What you need to know
Your flight from Colombo to GIU won't wait if you're running late, so be at the airport on time. Arrive up to one hour in advance for domestic flights and two hours ahead when you're travelling internationally.
In peak travel periods, expect longer queues and get there earlier. Aim for at least two hours ahead for domestic flights and up to four hours for international trips.
Airports in Colombo
Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML)
RML is around 16 kms (10 miles) from central Colombo. If you're driving, catching a cab or ride-sharing from the centre, it'll take 40 minutes or so to get there, depending on the traffic. If you're planning to take public transport, expect the trip time to be around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Want a hassle-free start to your trip? Stay near Colombo Ratmalana Airport. Whether you're boarding an early flight from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport or just don't like being rushed, these hotels are the ideal choice:
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
You can get to CMB from the centre of Colombo in approximately 40 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. The ride by public transport takes roughly 1 hour 30 minutes to cover the 32 kms (20 miles) or so.
Got a crack-of-dawn departure? You might like to check in to one of these hotels near Bandaranaike International Airport the day before your Colombo to GIU flight:
75.71% of flights taking off from Bandaranaike International Airport make it to their destination as expected.
About Sigiriya Airport (GIU)
If you're coming in on a late flight from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport, few things top the convenience of staying near the terminal. Collect your bags from the carousel and then be showered and resting soon after at one of these hotels near GIU:
Getting from Sigiriya Airport (GIU) to central Sigiriya
Central Sigiriya is around 2 miles from Sigiriya Airport. Journey times by cab or car hire will vary depending on time of day and traffic conditions, so do a little research before you go.
It takes roughly 55 minutes if you're travelling on public transport.
How to find the cheapest flights from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport (GIU)
The cheapest price we've found for a one-way ticket from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport is £92. For a return flight on this route, the best price is £489. Depending on when and how early you book, these fares could change.
Don't leave everything to the last minute. You're more likely to walk away with cheap flights from Colombo to GIU if you book in advance. Airlines often offer some great early bird rates.
Affordable Colombo to Sigiriya Airport tickets are easier to find if you're not locked into specific dates. Use the 'Whole month' search function to compare fares across each month and then choose the cheapest day.
Finding a cheap plane ticket from Colombo to GIU is a piece of cake with Price Alerts. Simply set up one of these automatic alerts and we'll get in touch as soon as the price has dropped.
Chase down a great fare on a flight from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport with the help of the filters. Pick your ideal arrival and departure times, airlines and number of stops. You can also sort your results by 'Cheapest,' 'Fastest' or 'Best.'
The best time to fly from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport (GIU)
Work out how you like to travel before deciding when to book your flight from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport (GIU). Sigiriya buzzes in peak season, but hotel and flight prices are usually higher and major attractions can get busy. Visit in the off-season if you want a more relaxed vibe.
Before locking in your Colombo to GIU plane ticket, consider the type of weather you enjoy. April is the warmest month in Sigiriya, with temperatures ranging from 22ºC (72ºF) to 37ºC (99ºF).
Look for cheap tickets from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport in January if you want to travel in cooler conditions. Temperatures are at their lowest then, ranging between 19ºC (66ºF) and 28ºC (82ºF).
More about Sigiriya
After booking your flight from Colombo to Sigiriya Airport, find a hotel that puts you in a great location. Make one of these accommodation options your base for exploring Sigiriya:
Sigiriya Lion Rock and Lion's Paw Terrace | Sigiriya are a couple of top-rated attractions to add to your Sigiriya travel itinerary. Keep the sightseeing going at Sigiriya Ancient City - UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore more of Sri Lanka
Sigiriya has its own special appeal, but there are so many other parts of Sri Lanka just waiting to be discovered. Around 153 kms (95 miles) south-west of Sigiriya, a trip to Colombo will keep you on the move. Start with attractions like Mt Lavinia Beach, Elephant House and Sri Gangaramaya.
If you're interested in discovering another major stop in Sri Lanka, head for Moratuwa, about 161 kms (100 miles) south-west of Sigiriya. Lunawa beach, Angulana Beach and St Mary's Church, are key reasons to visit.