Cheap Flights to Sri Lanka

Discover Sri Lanka

Cheap Flights to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a beautiful island nation that's known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. It's lush and tropical, and its thriving economy makes it a great destination for business and leisure travelers alike.

The country is especially popular among adventurists and eco-tourists who fly to Sri Lanka to enjoy the many national parks and outdoor recreation areas. After arriving on flights to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), travelers can visit Gangaramaya Temple and other attractions in the nearby city of Colombo.

Flights to Sri Lanka

Most international travelers who fly to Sri Lanka will arrive via Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). Major airlines like Delta and United offer service to Sri Lanka via connections on major regional carriers that include Turkish Airlines, British Airways, and SriLankan Airlines.

The airport, which is located 22 miles north of the capital city of Colombo, is large and modern and has three terminals. The second floor of the main building houses lounges, duty-free shops, and cafeterias. It also contains day-rooms and shower facilities if you need to freshen up or relax.

Once you land, public transportation is available via coach service. Buses run every 15 minutes from the main terminal to the capital city of Colombo. You can also utilize the airport taxi service, which has a desk in the arrival lobby. Both options use the high-speed highway system and will have you arriving in Colombo in 20 to 30 minutes.

Attractions in Sri Lanka

If you really want to see Sri Lanka, take a trip across the countryside on the extensive railway system. The hillside village of Ella is a favorite train destination dotted with quaint guesthouses and awash with amazing food and scenery. This country is a beach lover's paradise, but it's also rich with cultural features and ancient architecture. One must-see attraction is the cave temples of Royal Rock Temple complex in Dambulla. Here you'll find more than 150 stunning Buddhist statues, paintings, and frescoes dating back more than 2,000 years.

If you're more of a naturalist, catch the local wildlife like elephants and water buffalo enjoying their habitat at the Uda Walawe National Park. The 60-hectare expanse of the Peradeniya Botanic Gardens has a breathtaking array of local flora and fauna. There's a cafeteria on-site, but most people enjoy picnicking in the serene setting. You can easily incorporate this experience with a day trip to the Kandy temple loop.

Travel Tips for Sri Lanka

In addition to offering beautiful scenery and attractions, Sri Lanka hosts a number of annual events throughout the year. The Sri Lankan New Year’s celebrations occur in April, and the weeklong Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place in March. Another fun annual event is the Hikkaduwa Beach Festival, which is held over five days between July and August.

The average temperature in Sri Lanka ranges from the low 70s to the high 80s Fahrenheit. The monsoon season occurs from May to August, so pack accordingly if you’re visiting the country during that time. Regardless of when you visit, be sure to try the local cuisine that features various curries served with rice. You can expect to pay around $13 for a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in the capital city of Colombo.