Layover in Colombo (CMB)
Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About Colombo
Colombo is the largest city and commercial capital of Sri Lanka, and still perceived by many as the capital though the suburb of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is now the official capital. Just like any other big South Asian city, Colombo is congested, noisy, busy, and vibrant with a mixture of modern life and colonial architecture. It is the financial centre of the island and a popular tourist destination.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | About 1h 55m in the city | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 55m in the city | About 2h 20m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 5h 55m in the city | About 4h 20m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 55m in the city | About 8h 20m in the city |
Getting into Colombo
About 15m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center. This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Colombo?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 4 hours or more to get into Colombo and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from CMB to central Colombo?
Allow about 15m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center.
How early should I head back to CMB?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.