London to Colombo flights

On the direct service, Colombo is 10 hours and 30 minutes from London, with SriLankan Airlines usually leaving from Heathrow Terminal 3. Connecting through Doha or Dubai adds flexibility. Fares on flights from London to Colombo start at £318.

When departing from the UK capital, you can find flights to Colombo from three airports:

• London Heathrow (LHR): 16 miles from the centre, reached by the Heathrow Express, Elizabeth line and Piccadilly line
• London Gatwick (LGW): 29 miles south of London, served by the Gatwick Express from Victoria Station
• London Stansted (STN): served by the Stansted Express, Terravision and National Express coaches

Flights land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), the primary gateway to the city. Located 20 miles north of the centre, the airport links to the capital via the Colombo - Katunayake Expressway. Taxis and private hire vehicles from the terminal areas reach the city centre in 45 to 90 minutes. Alternatively, the Airport Express bus service runs directly to the central bus station.

Entry requirements for Colombo

British citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. The ETA can be applied for online and is usually processed quickly, though it is advisable to complete this step well before your departure from London.

Colombo is a coastal city defined by colonial architecture and busy markets. The Colombo Fort district is the historic core, where grand colonial buildings sit alongside modern skyscrapers. At the Galle Face Green promenade, locals gather at sunset to eat street food by the Indian Ocean.

Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a significant Buddhist site that showcases a mix of architectural styles. You can also explore the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the island's history or visit the Pettah Floating Market for its unique shopping atmosphere.