Kotte (Diyawanna Oya SPB)

Forget traditional runways and buzzing terminals — welcome to Kotte Airport (Diyawanna Oya SPB)! This is not just a transport hub, but a genuine water aerodrome located on the picturesque Diyawanna Lake in the heart of the administrative capital of Sri Lanka, the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. Landing here is a small adventure, where instead of asphalt, the aircraft meets the water surface with a view of the famous Parliament building. This unique experience sets the tone for your entire journey across this exotic island.

The main feature of Kotte Airport is its format. As a seaplane base, it offers a unique flying experience on seaplanes. This is not only a fast way to travel but also an exciting activity, allowing you to see the country from an unusual perspective. Flights are primarily operated by Cinnamon Air, which specialises in scenic tourist routes.

A key advantage of Diyawanna Oya SPB is the incredible views. Take-off and landing on the water of Diyawanna Lake reveal a stunning panorama of the futuristic Parliament of Sri Lanka building, immersed in greenery. Furthermore, its location right in the administrative capital makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the island. Seaplane flights offer an intimate and comfortable way to travel, connecting the capital with popular locations such as Kandy, Sigiriya, and picturesque coastal resorts.

The Kotte (Diyawanna Oya SPB) (DWO) airport is a base for seaplanes rather than a traditional international airport. Most services, including booking, flight information, and passenger support, are provided by the airline operating the flights, primarily Cinnamon Air. Therefore, for current information, it is recommended to contact the carrier directly.

• Official Website: The airport (seaplane base) itself does not have a separate website. All operations and flights are managed by Cinnamon Air. Their official website is: www.cinnamonair.com.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For information regarding flights, bookings, and other queries, please call Cinnamon Air at: +94 11 2475 475.
• Airport Address: Diyawanna Oya, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Sri Lanka. The landing area is located on Diyawanna Lake, near the Parliament building.
• Email: You can contact the airline via email: sales@cinnamonair.com (for booking and sales enquiries).
• Social Media: We recommend following the official social media pages of Cinnamon Air for updates and news. The seaplane base itself does not have separate accounts.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the Cinnamon Air support team directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support is provided through the Cinnamon Air contact centre and offices.

Diyawanna Oya Airport (Diyawanna Oya SPB) is not an ordinary airport but a seaplane base located on Diyawanna Lake in the administrative capital Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, in close proximity to Colombo. It primarily serves domestic charter and scenic flights. Most international travellers arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), which is approximately 30 km away. There are several ways to get to the Diyawanna Oya seaplane base from the centre of Colombo or its suburbs.

Taxi, Tuk-tuk, or Transfer

The simplest and most convenient method is to book a taxi or use transport hailing apps popular in Sri Lanka, such as PickMe or Uber. A trip from central areas of Colombo (e.g., Fort or Kollupitiya) will take between 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a taxi ride is moderate. A more common and budget-friendly option is a ride in a tuk-tuk (three-wheeled auto-rickshaw). This is a great way to experience local flair, though it is less comfortable for journeys with large luggage. It is recommended to agree on the price in advance or ensure the driver turns on the meter.

Public Transport

For budget-conscious travellers, a bus ride is suitable. Numerous bus routes run from Colombo towards Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte and the Parliament area. This is the cheapest way to travel, but it can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the local transport system. Buses are often overcrowded, and you will likely have to walk some distance from the bus stop to the seaplane base itself. There are no direct trains to this location, as the railway lines pass further away.

Car Rental

If you prefer independence in movement, you can rent a car. In Sri Lanka, renting a car with a driver is as popular as self-drive. Given the chaotic traffic in the capital region, many tourists choose the option with a local driver. This eliminates stress on the roads and navigation issues. Parking directly at the seaplane base may be limited as it is not a major transport hub, so it is better to clarify this in advance if you plan to leave a car there during your flight.

Kotte Airport, known as Diyawanna Oya Seaplane Base (Diyawanna Oya SPB), represents a unique transport hub that differs radically from customary international airports. Its main feature is that it exclusively serves seaplanes taking off and landing on the water surface of Diyawanna Lake. Consequently, its structure is simplified to the maximum and oriented towards fast and comfortable service for a small flow of passengers.

The airport operates a single passenger terminal. It is a small, modern building located on the lake shore. It serves simultaneously as both the departure and arrival zone. There is no complex multi-level scheme, long corridors, or need for transfers between terminals here. All infrastructure is located in one compact space, making navigation intuitive and easy even for first-time visitors.

Inside the terminal, you will find a check-in counter, a small but cosy waiting area with a view of the lake and the water runway, as well as an exit to the pontoon from where boarding the seaplane takes place. Departure and arrival zones are effectively combined. Upon arrival, passengers disembark from the aircraft onto the same pontoon and proceed to the terminal building to collect luggage and exit into the city. The entire process takes minimal time.

Check-in and security procedures at Diyawanna Oya are very fast and hassle-free, unlike at large airports. Typically, all formalities take no more than 15-20 minutes. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 30-45 minutes before the scheduled departure. This time will be more than sufficient to check in for the flight without rushing, drop off luggage, and enjoy the unusual atmosphere of the water aerodrome.

The history of Kotte Airport (DWO), better known as Diyawanna Oya Seaplane Base (Diyawanna Oya SPB), is closely linked to the development of modern tourism in Sri Lanka. Unlike classic airports with centuries of history, this facility is relatively new. Its opening took place in the early 2010s as part of a government programme to create a network of internal air transport via seaplanes, which significantly reduced travel time to remote resorts and attractions on the island.

The main stage of the airport's development occurred during its creation and launch. It was designed not as a traditional aviation hub, but as a modern water terminal on Diyawanna Lake, in close proximity to the Parliament building in the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. The main "historical event" for this airport was its inclusion in the route network of national carriers specialising in hydro-aviation. This decision turned the administrative capital into an important transport hub for premium-class tourists.

Since the airport was built quite recently, it has not undergone large-scale renovations. Its infrastructure was originally created to modern standards and includes a comfortable floating terminal and a pier for passenger boarding. One of the most interesting facts is its unique location. Take-off and landing on the lake's surface with a view of the futuristic Sri Lankan Parliament building have become a sort of calling card and an unforgettable impression for travellers beginning or ending their acquaintance with the country.

Kotte Airport (Diyawanna Oya SPB) (DWO) is essentially a Seaplane Base serving domestic flights. Given its specific nature and compact size, the range of services here is basic and designed for quick and comfortable transit rather than long waiting periods.

A small but cosy waiting area is equipped for passengers to wait for boarding. Regarding amenities, the following should be noted:

• Restaurants and Shops: There are no restaurants, cafes, or shops on the seaplane base premises. It is recommended to have a meal and do any shopping in the city before arriving at the airport.
• Lounges and Wi-Fi: Passengers have access to the main waiting area. There are no VIP lounges. Wi-Fi connectivity and charging stations for gadgets are not guaranteed, so it is better to carry a portable power bank.
• Financial Services: There are no banks, ATMs, or currency exchange points at the airport. All financial matters must be settled in advance in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte or other parts of Colombo.
• Special Services: Dedicated medical points or mother-and-child rooms are not provided here. Passengers with children and travellers with reduced mobility are strongly advised to contact their airline in advance to clarify details and request assistance for boarding.
• Hotels and Business Services: There are no hotels, conference halls, or business centres directly on the airport territory. However, thanks to its convenient location in the capital agglomeration, you will easily find numerous accommodation options within a few minutes' drive.

When planning a departure from Kotte Airport (Diyawanna Oya SPB) (DWO), it is important to consider its specific nature. This is a small water aerodrome serving primarily domestic seaplane flights, not a large international hub. Consequently, the infrastructure here is quite modest, and dining options are extremely limited.

Inside the aerodrome building, there are generally no full-service restaurants or cafes with extensive menus. Passengers might find a small kiosk or vending machine in the waiting area. The assortment usually includes bottled water, carbonated drinks, packaged juices, and light snacks like crisps, biscuits, or chocolate bars. Finding hot meals, local cuisine specialities, or options for specific dietary needs (such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal) is practically impossible here.

If you have time before your flight and wish to have a proper meal, the best solution is to do so in advance at one of the establishments in the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. For a quick snack before boarding, it is recommended to bring something with you. Service at DWO is oriented towards quick check-in and comfortable waiting for the flight, rather than gastronomic delights.

When planning a trip through Kotte Airport (Diyawanna Oya), located in the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, it is worth remembering that this is a seaplane base serving mainly domestic flights within Sri Lanka. This makes the journey unique but requires certain preparation. To ensure your flight goes smoothly, make use of our tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Since Diyawanna Oya is a small and less busy seaplane base, you will not have to stand in long queues. It is recommended to arrive 45-60 minutes before departure. This time will be sufficient to check in for the flight and pass pre-flight security without rushing, which usually happens very quickly here.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: The main advantage of flying on a seaplane is the breathtaking views. Be sure to try and get a window seat! Routes often pass over picturesque landscapes, and you will be able to take stunning photos. Please note that stricter limits on the weight and size of hand luggage apply on small aircraft. Standard security rules (ban on liquids over 100 ml, sharp objects) also apply.

Customs Control and Transfers: As the airport primarily serves domestic flights, passing customs control for such transfers is not required. If you have a transfer planned, it will likely be to another domestic flight or ground transport. Airline staff will help you orient yourself, as the process is usually very simple and fast.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations: To save money, book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Travelling light will help avoid surcharges for excess baggage. Seaplane flights are highly dependent on weather conditions, so delays or rescheduling of flights are possible. In case of a delay, contact your airline representative for current information. Keep the carrier's contact details to hand and be prepared for possible changes in the schedule.