Updated on 6 Jan 2026
If you’re travelling to Sri Lanka for a holiday, business or studies, understanding its airports can make your journey easier. Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka attracts millions with its beaches, heritage and natural beauty. With tourism on the rise, the country has developed several international and domestic airports that connect major cities.
This guide helps you explore them better and offers simple travel safety tips for a smooth, worry-free experience.
Types of airports in Sri Lanka: International vs. domestic
Sri Lanka has two main types of airports: international and domestic. International airports handle flights to and from other countries. They have customs and immigration facilities, advanced security checks and longer runways for larger aircraft.
These airports often serve as hubs for the national carrier and are well-connected to nearby cities through buses, taxis and other transport options.
Domestic airports manage flights within Sri Lanka. They do not have customs facilities and usually have shorter runways. Many also serve military or private air travel. Their terminals and amenities are simpler compared to international airports.
Key international airports and their features
Here is a detailed list of international airports in Sri Lanka:
- Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake
Bandaranaike International Airport is in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. It was launched in 1944. This airport is of historical importance as it was a significant site in World War II. Located approximately 35 km from the city centre, the airport offers many international and domestic flights through airlines like Qatar Airways, Air Arabia, AirAsia, IndiGo, Jazeera Airways, Aeroflot, etc. This airport has one cargo terminal in addition to its three passenger terminals.
- Ratmalana International Airport, Ratmalana
Also called Colombo Airport, the Ratmalana International Airport is 15 km south of Colombo. It was launched in 1934 and also played a significant part in World War II. This airport offers a range of flights through airlines such as Air Senok, Millennium Airlines, FitsAir and Helitours.
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, Mattala
The Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport is Sri Lanka’s first greenfield airport. It was inaugurated in 2013 by then-president Maharaj Rajapaksha and serves Northwestern Sri Lanka. Located roughly 18 km from Hambantota in the town of Mattala, this airport offers flights via airlines like SCAT Airlines, Cinnamon Air, Uzbekistan Airways and Red Wings Airlines.
- Jaffna International Airport (JAF), Palaly
This airport was built during British rule, and the Royal Air Force occupied and ran it as a military base. It is strategically situated approximately 13 km from the city centre, which makes it easily accessible. The airport offers many international and seasonal flights through airlines like Alliance Air, FitsAir and Cinnamon Air.
Major domestic airports and regional connectivity
Domestic airports are specially made for intra-country travel and help citizens as well as permanent residents. Here are the main domestic airports in Sri Lanka:
- Anuradhapura Airport, Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura Airport is one of Sri Lanka’s domestic airports and also serves as a military airbase. Located about 99 metres above sea level and approximately 4.6 km from the city centre, the airport handles domestic and chartered flights operated by airlines such as Helitours, Millennium Airlines, Air Senok and FitsAir.
- Sigiriya Airport, Dambulla
Launched in 1942 as an airbase by the Royal Air Force during World War II, the Sigiriya Airport is strategically situated about 3.2 km from the city centre. This domestic airport doubles as a military airbase. The airport serves as a domestic hub for popular airlines such as Millennium Airlines, Cinnamon Air, Air Senok, FitsAir and Helitours.
- Koggala Airport (KCT), Galle
Koggala Airport is located about 10 km from Galle. The airport holds historical significance from the time of colonial rule. It currently operates domestic flights through airlines such as Air Senok, Cinnamon Air and FitsAir.
Role of travel insurance at airports: Delays, baggage, emergencies
International travel insurance acts as a safety net to protect you against unexpected situations during your journey. While travelling abroad, unforeseen issues such as medical emergencies, flight delays or baggage loss can occur at any time.
A travel insurance plan generally helps cover expenses related to hospitalisation, medical tests or doctor visits that could otherwise be expensive overseas. It may also offer reimbursement if your airline delays your flight, misplaces your baggage or if your trip gets cancelled or cut short due to an emergency.
Coverage, limits and claim eligibility can vary between insurers and policies. It’s always best to review your policy wordings or contact your insurer directly to understand the specific inclusions and exclusions.
Note: Coverage terms may vary across insurers. Please read the policy wordings carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered.
Conclusion
Travelling to Sri Lanka is an exciting experience filled with culture, nature and adventure. To make your journey smooth, prepare well by knowing which airport to fly to, keeping your documents handy and following travel guidelines. Equally important is having travel insurance that protects you against flight delays, baggage loss or medical emergencies. Today, it’s easier than ever to buy travel insurance online, compare plans and choose one that fits your needs; all from the comfort of your home.
While you take the effort to improve and maintain your security and well-being, let us take the effort to care for you in case of unforeseen circumstances. Get tailored travel insurance advice and solutions by filling out the form provided on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Should a student also get travel insurance for travelling to Sri Lanka?
Yes, having travel insurance is helpful for students as it provides support during unexpected situations. It can cover medical emergencies or the loss of personal belongings, which can happen when adjusting to a new environment. Coverage and limits may vary by insurer, so it’s best to check your policy details before purchase.
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Does travel insurance cover delays or cancellations caused by monsoon weather in Sri Lanka?
Some travel insurance plans may include coverage for flight delays or cancellations due to natural events like heavy rain or monsoons. However, this depends on the insurer and plan type. Review the trip interruption and weather-related clauses in your policy to confirm your coverage.
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Can I buy travel insurance upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo?
You may find limited insurance options at kiosks or travel counters at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), but it’s generally advisable to buy a plan before departure. Policies bought on arrival may not offer full medical or baggage coverage and could exclude pre-existing conditions or ongoing trip segments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.