How to Reach Kolonnawa, Sri Lanka: Travel Guide, Transportation Options & Routes

Kolonnawa is a suburban town located just 7–8 km east of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Its strategic location makes it highly accessible for both local and international travelers. Whether you are flying into Sri Lanka or traveling from within the island, there are several convenient ways to reach Kolonnawa.

✈️ By Air – From Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

• Distance: ~35 km from Katunayake (airport) to Kolonnawa.

• Travel Time: 45–60 minutes by car/taxi (depending on traffic).

• Routes: Take the Colombo–Katunayake Expressway (E03) → connect to Baseline Road or Kolonnawa Road.

• Transport Options:

  • Taxi/Private Car: Easiest and most comfortable option.

  • Ride-Hailing Apps: PickMe and Uber are widely available.

  • Airport Shuttle + Bus/Tuk-Tuk: Budget travelers can take an airport bus to Colombo Fort, then connect via local buses or tuk-tuks to Kolonnawa.

🚉 By Train – Nearest Stations

Kolonnawa does not have a dedicated train station, but you can use nearby major stations:

• Dematagoda Station (closest option, ~3 km away).

• Maradana Station (~5 km away).
  From either station, tuk-tuks or buses provide quick transfers to Kolonnawa.

🚌 By Bus – Local & Long-Distance Options

• From Colombo Fort: Multiple bus routes head toward Kolonnawa via Borella, Rajagiriya, and Dematagoda.

• From Other Cities: Long-distance buses from Kandy, Galle, Anuradhapura, or Jaffna terminate at Colombo Fort → transfer to a Kolonnawa bus or taxi.

• Budget Friendly: Cheapest way to travel, though not as fast or comfortable.

🚗 By Road – Driving & Ride-Hailing

• From Colombo City Center: Just 20 minutes by car during non-peak hours.

• Key Roads:

  • Baseline Road – main entry from Colombo.

  • Kolonnawa Road – direct access from Rajagiriya.

• Traffic Tip: Travel outside rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) to avoid congestion.

🏨 Best Vacation Packages for Kolonnawa Visitors

While Kolonnawa itself is more residential, it offers easy access to Colombo’s attractions. Many vacation packages combine city tours with nearby cultural and coastal experiences:

• Colombo City Break Package (2–3 days)

  • Stay in Colombo hotels.

  • Explore Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, Pettah Market.

  • Evening dining & nightlife.

• Colombo + Kelaniya Temple Tour (1 day add-on)

  • Visit Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya (just 6 km from Kolonnawa).

  • Combine with a short city tour.

• Colombo + Beach Holiday (4–5 days)

  • Base in Colombo/Kolonnawa.

  • Day trips to Negombo, Mount Lavinia, or Bentota.

• Colombo + Cultural Triangle Extension (5–7 days)

  • Start in Colombo/Kolonnawa.

  • Travel to Kandy, Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Anuradhapura.

  • Ideal for culture and history lovers.

• Colombo + Wildlife Adventure (5–6 days)

  • Stay in Colombo/Kolonnawa.

  • Safari tours to Wilpattu or Yala National Park.