How to get to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the official administrative capital of Sri Lanka, located in the immediate vicinity of the business hub, Colombo. The city, whose name translates as "The Resplendent City of Victory," is the heart of the island's political life: it is here, surrounded by calm waters, that the national parliament building majestically rises.

Unlike the bustling coastal resorts, Kotte offers travellers a calmer and more measured atmosphere. The city is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, where urban architecture is harmoniously blended with tropical nature. Spacious parks, well-maintained promenades, and the famous Diyawanna Lake create a unique look for the capital, making it an interesting point of interest for those wishing to see the modern face of the country.

There is no international airport within the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte itself, so travellers utilize the country's main air gateway. The primary flow of tourists arrives at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), which welcomes scheduled and charter flights from around the world.

The airport is located in the Katunayake area, approximately 30–35 kilometres from the administrative capital. This is the most convenient and common arrival option. A taxi or transfer journey from the terminal to the city usually takes about an hour, especially if you use the expressway connecting the airport with the suburbs of Colombo.

Rail travel is a popular and vibrant way to move around Sri Lanka, although the administrative capital does not have its own train station. The nearest major transport hub is in neighbouring Colombo, located just 8 kilometres from the centre of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte.

Most travellers arrive at the main Colombo Fort station, from where the destination can be quickly reached by taxi or tuk-tuk. Railway lines from all over the island lead here, including the famous scenic routes from the hill country, passing through Kandy and high-altitude Hatton.

Since the administrative capital effectively merges with the metropolis, the main flow of transport goes through neighbouring Colombo. The distance between the centres is only about 10 kilometres, so a trip on a city bus will take no more than 40 minutes, providing a fast and budget-friendly link to Sri Lanka's main transport hub.

A journey from the cultural capital, the city of Kandy, will require more time: covering 115 kilometres on busy roads will take between 3 to 4 hours. For lovers of mountain landscapes, the route from the town of Hatton is suitable, where the road stretching 130 kilometres winds amongst tea plantations, extending the travel time to 5 hours.

Travelling by car from the business centre of Colombo is the fastest way to reach the administrative capital. The distance is only about 10 kilometres, which usually takes 20–40 minutes depending on traffic density. For comfortable movement, it is convenient to use mobile taxi apps popular on the island, such as PickMe or Uber.

If you are heading from the southern coast, for example, from Galle or Matara, the journey will be fast and convenient thanks to the paid Southern Expressway. This modern highway allows you to reach the vicinity of the capital in just 1.5–2 hours, bypassing congestion and traffic lights on the old coastal road.

Self-driving on the island can be a challenge due to the unfamiliar left-hand traffic and chaotic road conditions. Therefore, many tourists prefer to rent a car with a driver. This is not only safer but also allows you to relax during the journey, trusting the navigation to an experienced local who knows all the driving nuances of the region.

Preparing for a trip to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte requires knowledge of some local nuances to ensure your holiday proceeds without unnecessary worries. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations that will make your trip to Sri Lanka comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is tropical, hot, and humid, so prefer loose clothing made from natural breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring a raincoat or a compact umbrella in case of sudden tropical showers. For visiting temples, prepare items that cover your shoulders and knees, as the dress code is strictly observed.
2. Transport. For trips around the city, it is most convenient and safe to use mobile taxi apps like Uber or the local service PickMe. This guarantees a fixed price and eliminates the need to bargain. If you decide to use a regular street tuk-tuk, always agree on the fare before boarding or ask the driver to turn on the meter.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee. It is best to exchange money at the airport or official banks, keeping the exchange receipt. Major shopping centres and hotels accept cards, but always carry small denomination cash for transport fares, purchases in small shops, and tips.
4. Health and Safety. Drink only bottled water and use it even for brushing your teeth to avoid stomach upsets. The humid climate promotes insect activity, so be sure to use mosquito repellents, especially in the evening and when walking near water.
5. Communication. In the administrative capital and its surroundings, the level of English proficiency is quite high, especially in the service sector. However, locals will be genuinely delighted if you learn a few words in Sinhalese, for example, the universal greeting "Ayubowan" (wishing you a long life).
6. Local Etiquette. Sri Lanka is a country with deep traditions. It is customary to accept and pass items, as well as eat food (if you are doing so with your hands), using only the right hand. Upon entering any Buddhist temple, you must remove your shoes and headgear.
7. What to Avoid. Never take photos while standing with your back to Buddha statues — this is considered a serious disrespect to the religion and can lead to problems with the police. Also, try not to attract the attention of monkeys with food or shiny objects, as they can behave aggressively.
8. Additional Tip. Since the city abounds with water bodies and parks, the best time for walks is early morning or the pre-sunset hours. During the day, the heat can be exhausting, so plan visits to open-air attractions, such as the Diyawanna Lake promenades, for times when the sun is less active.

Observing these simple but important rules will help you quickly adapt to the local rhythm of life. Be polite and open, and the city will respond in kind, gifting you many vivid impressions.