Colombo Airport to Trincomalee – Best Travel Options & Guide

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Planning to travel across Sri Lanka? Well, you can actually make it one of the most memorable trips. Colombo being the capital city of Sri Lanka, its Bandaranaike International Airport (commonly called Colombo Airport) is an important one. Most international flights land here, allowing a great starting point to explore the rest of the country.

If your plan is to reach Trincomalee from Colombo Airport, then this article is all you need for better guidance for your journey.

How Far is Trincomalee from Colombo Airport?

Trincomalee is a serene coastal city in northeastern Sri Lanka. The journey across the island offers a unique opportunity to witness the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s landscapes, from lush paddy fields and rolling hills to rural towns and coastal stretches.

If you are landing at Colombo Airport, understanding the distance and terrain can help in planning the most suitable travel method. The distance between Trincomalee and Colombo Airport is approximately 235 km from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. Depending on the route and traffic conditions, the estimated travel time can range from 3 to 10 hours. Travel time also depends on the mode of transport you choose.

The main routes used are via Kurunegala – Dambulla – Habarana and through Kandy – Mahiyanganaya – Kantale. The Kurunegala route is more commonly used due to better road conditions and availability of services. While road trips offer flexibility and the option to stop at popular tourist attractions such as the Dambulla Cave Temple or Minneriya National Park, the rail route gives a rustic view of rural Sri Lanka.

Best Ways to Travel from Colombo Airport to Trincomalee

There are several ways to travel from Colombo Airport to Trincomalee, each offering different preferences, time constraints, and budgets. The most common transport modes include:

1. Private Car or Taxi

A private car or taxi is often the most convenient choice for travellers looking for comfort and flexibility. It provides door-to-door service directly from the airport to your accommodation in Trincomalee. Vehicles can be booked in advance online through providers like Sri Lanka Driver Guide or hired upon arrival at the airport.

• Travel time: Approximately 4-5 hours
• Ideal for: Families, groups, solo travelers who prioritize comfort
• Features: Air-conditioned vehicles, optional multilingual drivers, sightseeing stops
• Tip: Ask for a vehicle with Wi-Fi and ensure fuel costs are included in the fare

2. Train

The train journey from Colombo Fort Station to Trincomalee is ideal for travellers who want to experience Sri Lanka’s railway heritage. Trains are operated by Sri Lanka Railways and feature different classes of travel, including 3rd class (basic), 2nd class (standard), and 1st class (air-conditioned).

• Travel time: 8-9 hours
• Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers and those who enjoy slow travel
• Tip: Book in advance during peak seasons. 1st-class sleeper berths are limited.

3. Bus

Buses are the most budget-friendly travel option. You can take a bus from Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah) to Trincomalee. While there are no direct buses from the airport itself, you can take a local taxi or shuttle to reach Pettah.

• Types: Luxury (AC) and Regular (Non-AC)
• Travel time: 9-10 hours
• Departure times: Throughout the day and night
• Tip: Keep an eye on your belongings; night buses are less crowded but safety is crucial

4. Domestic Flight

For those short on time or seeking a more luxurious travel experience, domestic flights are the fastest option. Though not frequent, charter flights by Cinnamon Air or Helitours offer aerial views of Sri Lanka’s scenic terrain.

• Travel time: Approximately 1 hour (excluding airport formalities)
• Departure point: Colombo Ratmalana Airport
• Arrival: China Bay Airport in Trincomalee
• Tip: Book well in advance as seats are limited and schedules irregular

Private Car or Taxi – Which is Better?

Both private cars and taxis serve the same purpose of direct transfer but differ slightly in terms of services and cost structures.

Private Car with Driver

If you want a comfortable, stress-free ride, book a private vehicle with a professional driver through a service like Sri Lanka Driver Guide. You can plan scenic stops en route, such as:

• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park (elephant safaris)

Pros:

• You can customize the itinerary by adding a few scenic places
• Private car is always more comfortable and offers maximum facility as compared to other travel options
• If you are completely new in Sri Lanka, you might need some local help. And local drivers are definitely very helpful.
• It has enough luggage space and you can book one depending on the number of people with you

Cons:

• Booking a private car can be a bit costlier than a bus or train but it is all for its maximum benefits.
• It is essential to always pre-book private cars so that the driver can reach your location on time

Taxi

Taxis can be hailed at the airport or booked via ride-hailing apps. While convenient, they might lack the touristic flexibility of a private car. The drivers have a time to follow and hence, they may not allow for much flexibility.

Pros:

• These are immediately available from outside the airport itself
• Lower upfront cost

Cons:

• Limited space for luggage
• Less flexibility for sightseeing stops

Verdict:

For a well-rounded, scenic journey with maximum comfort and flexibility, a private car with a local driver is highly recommended. Taxis are better for those who need a quick transfer with fewer frills.

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Is There a Train from Colombo to Trincomalee?

Yes, there is a direct train line connecting Colombo Fort Station to Trincomalee Railway Station. This journey is considered one of the most picturesque in Sri Lanka, especially through the North Central Province.

If you wish to travel by train, here is the route you need to follow:

Step 1 – From Colombo Airport, first reach the Fort Station (you can use a bus or a taxi). If a direct bus is not available, take a bus to Colombo’s Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal; from here you can easily reach the Fort Station.

Step 2 – From Fort Station, you can take a direct train to Trincomalee and some are available with transfers as well.

Train Types and Classes:

• 1st Class: Air-conditioned, reclining seats
• 2nd Class: Comfortable seating, no AC
• 3rd Class: Basic seating, often crowded

Schedule (subject to change):

• Morning Train: Departs around 6:00 AM
• Night Train: Departs around 9:00 PM

Booking Tips:

• Use the Sri Lanka Railways official website or third-party booking platforms
• Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes early

Getting to Colombo Fort Station:

• Taxi: 45 min to 1 hour
• Airport Shuttle Bus (187): Drops you at Pettah

Pros:

• Affordable
• Scenic rural landscapes
• Cultural experience

Cons:

• Longer duration
• Limited food availability onboard
• Basic restroom facilities

Bus Options from Colombo Airport to Trincomalee

While no direct buses run from Colombo Airport to Trincomalee, it’s easy to connect via Pettah Bus Stand in central Colombo. After arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport:

1. Take Bus No. 187 or a taxi to Colombo Fort/Pettah
2. Board a Trincomalee-bound intercity or CTB (Central Transport Board) bus

Bus Types:

• Luxury (AC): Comfortable seats, few stops
• Semi-luxury (non-AC): Moderate comfort
• Ordinary Buses: Cheapest but crowded

Departure Times:

• Buses run throughout the day; the most reliable ones leave in the early morning and evening. You will find a bus every 15-30 minutes.

Tips for Bus Travel:

• Avoid carrying large luggage
• Always confirm the destination before boarding
• Carry snacks and water
• Female travelers may prefer day buses for safety

Travel Time and Costs Comparison

Why Visit Trincomalee After Landing in Colombo?

Trincomalee or Trinco in local terms, is a hidden gem on Sri Lanka’s east coast. It offers a mix of stunning beaches, religious landmarks, marine biodiversity, and historical sites. If you are looking to unwind after a flight, Trincomalee provides the perfect setting.

1. Pristine Beaches

• Nilaveli Beach: White sands and calm waters, ideal for sunbathing. Nilaveli village is mostly popular for its fishing.
• Uppuveli Beach: Vibrant beachside restaurants and a laid-back vibe. It is popular for its sand that is honey-coloured. You can try water sports here, as you will find many options.
• Marble Beach: A protected cove with turquoise water. This is one of the most beautiful beaches you can ever go to.

2. Cultural and Religious Significance

• Koneswaram Temple: One of the holiest Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. It opensery day, and visiting hours are 6 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 6.45 pm. This temple gives some fantastic views of the Bay of Bengal. It is popularly called the temple of a thousand pillars.
• VelgamVehera: Ancient Buddhist monastery ruins. If you are intrigued by history, this place will excite you. The visiting hours are between 8 am and 5 pm. It is an archaeological site and it is believed that the South Indian rulers from the Chola Kingdom invaded it. Many Tamil inscriptions have been found here and hence, it is an important historical and cultural site.
• Dutch Fort Frederick: Colonial fortress with panoramic views. You can visit this fort any day between 6 am and 10 pm. Even this fort has an interesting story behind it. Why don’t you yourself find out after visiting here?

3. Adventure and Marine Life

• Scuba diving and snorkelling at Pigeon Island National Park. We suggest you make the bookings in advance, as this can be crowded.
• Whale and dolphin watching tours from March to August. Many hotels include these packages. You can ask your hotel or you can find amazing offers at any tour office.
• Kayaking and paddleboarding in calm bay waters

4. Less Crowded Than the South

• While the southern coast sees heavy tourist footfall, Trincomalee is more relaxed
• Ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and solitude

5. Unique Cuisine and Local Culture

• Try eastern Sri Lankan specialties like crab curry, coconut sambol, and tamarind fish
• Visit local markets and festivals.

Conclusion

What do you think about this Colombo Airport to Trincomalee – Best Travel Options & Guide? Visiting Trincomalee from Colombo Airport is actually a great idea. It allows you to explore the most of Trincomalee, as you are already energetic at the beginning of the trip.

Also, as Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, you can easily choose from widely available transport options like private car, bus, flight, or even train. If you wish to have a comfortable ride on this long journey, then book your taxi with the Sri Lanka driver guide. They provide well-trained and multilingual drivers.

FAQs

Read More:

• How To Get From Ella To Trincomalee
• How To Get From Kandy To Trincomalee
• Colombo Airport to Jaffna: Best Transport Options

Editorial Staff

Editorial Staff is at Sri Lanka Driver Guides are Sri Lanka travel experts.