Picture this, you landed in Sri Lanka or have a long transit at the airport and want to explore the places nearby, where do you go? Being the main gateway to this beautiful tropical island, the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is situated in Katunayake which is 35 km away from Colombo.
Even if you are passing through en route to other destinations during your Sri Lanka vacation, there are numerous things to do near Colombo airport such as the Negombo beach and Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya. Also the airport located closer to Colombo city there is something for every traveler from nature reserves to stunning beaches, so keep reading this guide to see some of the best things to do near the BIA airport. We will take you on an informative journey covering cultural landmarks to insta-worthy spots.
As a major airport, BIA is well connected to many parts of the island, so you don't have to worry about your transportation options. Some of the closest cities to the airport is Colombo that is 35 km away and Negombo being the closest is a 20 minute drive from the arrival terminal.
Regardless of where you want to travel to, there are plenty of buses running to and from Colombo and Negombo. This is an affordable option for those on a budget. Although you can catch a train from the Katunayake railway station, it might not be feasible if the attractions you would like to see are short distances away.
The most comfortable and fastest choice is by vehicle. You can rent a car if you prefer flexibility or choose Arabiers to transfer you to any getaway in Sri Lanka. Our experienced drivers will transport you to any place of your choosing.
Another budget-friendly (depending on distance from airport to your destination) alternative is the tuk-tuk. If you would like to explore the attractions around Negombo or the surrounding regions, download any ride-hailing service and let your adventures begin!
Whether you have a short layover or a few days to explore, these nearby attractions will give you a taste of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
17 March 2025 | 13 Min Read
After a long flight the ideal place to relax and soak up the sun is the Negombo beach! The golden sandy shores and lively beachside cafes will have you shaking off the jetlag in no time.
Only a 15 minute drive from the airport, if your flight leaves late at night make sure to enjoy the stunning sunset before you leave. If you have spare clothing with you, take the time to engage in watersports from jet skiing to windsurfing.
It is only 12 km away which is a 15 to 20 minute drive.
Free for all visitors.
Open all day.
Negombo has a rich colonial history, and one iconic landmark you cannot miss is the Dutch fort. Built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later taken over by the Dutch, take a trip down memory lane as you get to know the island’s colonial past. Closeby is the Hamilton Canal, built by the Dutch for transporting goods. You can take a boat ride along the waterway.
9 km or a 12 minute drive
Free
Open all day but ask a guide for the timing of the boat rides at the canal.
Although Negombo is a coastal town with a catholic majority it houses a famous Buddhist temple with a massive Buddha statue and ancient murals that depict scenes of Sri Lankan history. Inside the Angurukaramulla Temple you will find intricate paintings and sculptures that will give you insight into Buddhist teachings. Overall, it is a peaceful place to relax and gain a spiritual experience.
8 km away or a 10 minute ride
Free for all visitors.
6:00 am to 8:00 pm
If you are a bird lover, you are in for a treat! This lagoon is a thriving biodiverse area with mangroves, local fishing villages, and small islands. Home to a variety of species, take a boat ride along the Negombo lagoon to spot wildlife like monitor lizards and kingfishers.
12 km or a 20-minute drive
The price depends on the tour operator
Varies
If your layover is long and you have time to spare, why not take the time to see attractions near Colombo. One of these must-visit spots is the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya. It is a 45 minute drive from the airport or even less via the Colombo-Airport Expressway.
According to legend, the Buddha visited this site over 2,500 years ago. As an important part of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and history, experience its spiritual ambiance as you admire its paintings and intricate stone carvings.
28 km away
Free
Open 24 hours
For those with a long stopover looking for a tranquil nature escape, the Beddagana Wetland Park is a fantastic choice. Head to Sri Lanka's capital Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, along the Diyawanna Oya is an ecological park housing a variety of bird species, butterflies, and small mammals.
There are wooden walkways that allow visitors to explore its marshy landscapes without disturbing the natural environment. It's a great spot to take pictures while you go on a peaceful nature walk.
40 km or a 1 hour drove
40 km or a 1 hour drove
6:00 am to 6:00 pm
A trip to Colombo isn’t complete without a visit to this popular oceanfront promenade. The Galle Face Green is a great place to observe the city's glistening skylines as you munch on some street food and watch the locals fly kites or play sports. Walk north towards the Port City which is a rapidly developing urban area to try various cuisines and play golf.
35 km away
Free, you will need to pay a fee to partake in any activities at the Port City
Open 24/7
Although a lesser-known historical landmark, this is an ancient rock temple complex near Gampaha. The Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Viharaya consists of caves used by monks for meditation for centuries. You can explore these, admire ancient murals, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
25 km or a 40 minute drive
Free
Open 24 hours
If you have plenty of time to spare, a Colombo City tour should be on your sightseeing list. Experience the country's commercial capital and get a glimpse into the island’s modern and historic sides.Some of the key attractions to see are, the Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square and the Lotus Tower.
35 km or a 50 minute drive
Varies depending on the attractions but most are free
Generally 8:00 am to 7:00 pm for most attractions
Not a fan of crowded beaches? One of the quieter alternatives to Negombo Beach or even Galle Face Green is Uswetakeiyawa beach. Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with soft sand and calm waters.
22 km or 30 minutes away
Free
Open 24 hours
Are you travelling with kids and want a fun day of adventure? The Guruge Park in Ja-Ela is the perfect attraction as it combines history, nature, and amusement rides. This theme park features exhibits on Sri Lankan history, has a small zoo, and a variety of rides.
15 km or a 25 minute drive
An entrance fee needs to be paid at the counter.
8:30 am to 6:00 pm
If retail therapy is on your mind there are many places to go till your next flight. You can head north towards Negombo to buy handicrafts, batik clothing, and gemstones or south to Colombo for a high-end shopping experience. Some of the most popular malls in Colombo are One Galle Face and the Colombo City Centre
Negombo – 10 km
Colombo Malls – 35 km
Free
Depends on location.
Do you have a stiff back from a long flight, why not try a relaxing massage or some Ayurvedic treatments? There are many wellness centres near BIA offering massages, herbal therapies, etc. Some of the best wellness centres from Negombo to Colombo are, the Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions in Negombo, Spa Ceylon Wattala and Siddhalepa Ayurveda Spa in Colombo 7.
Varies
Prices depends on the wellness centre
General time is 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
As a significant religious site, it is an important place of worship for Catholics on this island. The Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka is in Ragama which is a suburb in between Colombo and the airport. Built in 1911 and later expanded, the church’s architecture and peaceful surroundings make it worth a visit.
30 km
Free
5:00 am to 6:00 pm
A wonderful way to experience Sri Lankan culture and their produce is by exploring the local markets. They offer insight into daily life of locals and is a great spot to find fresh fruits, spices and souvenirs. One must visit spot is the Pettah Market in Colombo for a vibrant shopping experience.
Pettah Market is 35 km away which can be a 1 hour drive depending on traffic.
Free
6:00 am to 7:00 am