✈️ Where to sleep near Colombo airport (Bandaranaike) – The complete guide for 2025
If you’re traveling to Sri Lanka, you’ll probably land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located in the town of Katunayake, some 35 kilometers north of Colombo. For many travellers, the first or last night of their trip is spent near this airport. And with good reason: Colombo’s traffic jams are legendary, and staying close to the terminal will save you stress and fatigue.
Moreover, sleeping nearby is often the best option if you arrive late at night or if your return flight leaves very early in the morning. Fortunately, there’s a wide range of hotels and guesthouses around the airport, from small family-run hotels to 4★ resorts with swimming pools. This guide presents you with the best choices, practical advice and real-life experience, so that your stay in Colombo begins (or ends) in the best possible conditions.
🌿 Why stay near Colombo airport?
First of all, Colombo airport is not in the capital. It’s in Katunayake, a residential and airport area 45 to 60 minutes from the city center, depending on traffic. In other words, if your flight takes off at 6 a.m., you’ll have to leave the city center around 3:30 a.m. to be on time. Not ideal after a two-week trip or a long day of sightseeing!
Onthe other hand, sleeping in Katunayake or Negombo allows you to :
- 😴 rest for a few hours before the flight, without stress
- 🚗 Avoid Colombo’s traffic jams
- 💰 Save on long-distance cabs and shuttles
- 🍹 Enjoy one last moment of relaxation before setting off again
All in all, it’s an option that’s as practical as it is strategic, especially if your flight leaves or arrives outside normal hours.
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🏨 1. Airport Villa Katunayake – practical and economical
Airport Villa Katunayake is a popular address for budget travelers. Just a 5-minute drive from the airport, this family-run villa offers air-conditioned rooms, a leafy garden and even a small pool for cooling off before a long-haul flight.
Highlights:
- 🚗 Free airport transfer (on prior request).
- 🍽️ Local restaurant serving Sri Lankan and European dishes.
- 💻 Fast, reliable Wi-Fi – perfect for planning the rest of your trip
- 💰 Average price: €40-60 per night
On the other hand, the rooms are simple and unfussy. But for a night’s transit, the value for money remains excellent. Ideal for backpackers, families and travelers just wanting a peaceful night’s sleep before taking off.
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🌅 2. Amora Lagoon – relaxing by the water
Amora Lagoon is a haven of peace just a 10-minute drive from the terminal. Surrounded by tropical vegetation and a small lake, the place invites you to relax. It’s an excellent choice if you want to enjoy a soothing atmosphere before getting back on the plane.
Features:
- 🏊 Large outdoor pool overlooking the lagoon
- 🧘 Spa and massages available on site
- 🍽️ Buffet breakfast served from 4am
- 💰 Average price: €70-100 per night
In addition, the rooms are modern, bright and very clean. The hotel also boasts a refined restaurant and an efficient airport shuttle service. Ideal for starting or ending a trip on a zen note.
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💼 3. The Covanro Hotel – modern comfort and efficiency
The Covanro Hotel is located halfway between Katunayake and Negombo. This 4★ establishment impresses with its modern design and top-level comfort. Business travelers will find a quiet environment, with highly professional staff.
Key points :
- 🛏️ Spacious rooms with quality bedding
- 🏋️ Modern gym and spa
- 🚕 24-hour airport transfer service available
- 💰 Average price: €80-110 per night
What’s more, the hotel’s restaurant offers a varied buffet, ideal for a quick dinner before departure. The Covanro combines comfort and practicality very well, without breaking the bank.
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🏝️ 4. Vivanta Colombo Airport Garden – luxury and refinement
Finally, for those who want to end their stay on an elegant note, the Vivanta Colombo Airport Garden is the perfect choice. Formerly managed by the Taj Group, this superior 4★ hotel combines refinement with impeccable service.
Why choose it:
- 🌆 5 minutes from Bandaranaike Airport
- 🍸 Upmarket restaurant and lounge bar with views
- 🏊 Swimming pool and lush garden
- 💰 Average price: €120-150 per night
Finally, this is an excellent option for couples or travelers wishing to relax in a more luxurious setting. Customer service is impeccable, and the breakfast buffet is simply royal.
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🧳 My personal experience in Colombo
On my last trip to Sri Lanka, I landed at 1am after a 14-hour flight. Tired and slightly disoriented, I had booked into Amora Lagoon. The driver was waiting for me with a big smile despite the late hour. In less than ten minutes, I was in my room. The bedding was impeccable, the air-conditioning gentle, and the breakfast served from 5am gave me a stress-free start to my first day.
A few days later, before my return flight, I tried out the Vivanta Colombo Airport Garden. It was the perfect contrast: top-of-the-range service, cocktails by the pool and express check-out at 4am. In conclusion, sleeping near Colombo airport saved me two long night drives and made my stay much more relaxing.
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🧭 Practical information before your flight
- 🚕 Transfer: a tuk-tuk to nearby hotels costs €3-8, an air-conditioned cab around €10-15.
- 💳 Currency exchange: offices open 24 hours a day in the arrivals terminal.
- 📱 Local SIM card: Dialog and Mobitel operators in the arrivals hall.
- 🍽️ Catering: hotels near CMB often serve late meals and very early breakfasts.
- 🕐 Travel time: from Colombo center, allow 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
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❓ FAQ – Where to sleep near Colombo airport
🕐 How far is Colombo from the airport?
Bandaranaike airport is located in Katunayake, about 35 km north of Colombo. The journey takes between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
🚖 What is the average cost of an airport-hotel transfer?
Allow between 1,000 and 3,000 LKR (€3 to €8) depending on distance and type of vehicle. Some hotels offer a free shuttle service.
🛬 Is it possible to sleep directly at Colombo airport?
This is not advisable. The airport closes several areas at night and the seats are not suitable for resting. It’s best to book a nearby hotel.
🍳 Do hotels serve breakfast very early?
Yes. Most establishments around CMB offer breakfast as early as 4:30am to accommodate early morning flights.
🌟 To sum up
Choosing to sleep near Colombo airport is a wise decision. Whether you opt for a simple hotel like Airport Villa, a relaxing establishment like Amora Lagoon, or a luxurious stay at Vivanta Colombo Airport Garden, you’ll enjoy a serene night’s sleep before or after your flight.
Finally, it’s the best way to start your Sri Lankan adventure without fatigue or haste. Plan your stay, book in advance and enjoy a warm welcome just a stone’s throw from the tarmac!
