Top 5 Ways To Go From Bandaranaike International Airport To Kandy

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Bandaranaike International Airport, located in Katunayake, is Sri Lanka's primary international gateway. Kandy, a picturesque city nestled in the central highlands, is renowned for its cultural heritage and scenic beauty.

Travelers often journey between these two destinations to explore Kandy's historic sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and to experience its lush landscapes.

Understanding the transportation options available can enhance your travel experience between these iconic locations.

5 Ways to go from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy

1. Shuttle Service

Shuttle Service offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy. This shared transportation option ensures a comfortable journey with scheduled departures, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for a hassle-free experience.

  • Travel time: The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and the frequency of shuttle departures can affect the duration. Some services may offer express options that reduce travel time.
  • Cost: Prices generally range from $10 to $20 per person. Costs can vary based on peak travel times, advance booking, and service tiers. Discounts may be available for early reservations or group bookings.
  • Booking process: You can easily find and book Shuttle Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We recommend using Mozio for a seamless booking process.
  • Pros: Shuttle Service is cost-effective, reliable, and offers a comfortable ride. It eliminates the stress of navigating public transportation or the expense of private taxis, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.

Shuttle Service is best for budget travelers, solo adventurers, and small groups. For a smooth journey, consider booking in advance and checking the shuttle schedule to plan your trip effectively.

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2. Luxury Car Service

Luxury Car Service offers a premium, private transportation option for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. This service provides high-end vehicles with professional drivers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy.

  • Travel time: The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for express routes can slightly reduce travel time.
  • Cost: Prices generally range from $100 to $150. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and the type of vehicle chosen. Booking in advance often secures better rates.
  • Booking process: You can easily book your Luxury Car Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible.
  • Pros: Luxury Car Service offers unparalleled comfort, privacy, and convenience. You can enjoy a stress-free journey with amenities such as Wi-Fi, refreshments, and personalized service, making it a superior choice over other transportation options.

This service is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience. For the best experience, consider booking in advance and choosing a vehicle that suits your needs.

3. Private Driver

Traveling from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy using a Private Driver offers a personalized and comfortable experience. This service provides a private, luxury option where a professional driver takes you directly to your destination, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

  • Travel time: The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for early morning or late evening travel can sometimes result in a faster trip.
  • Cost: Prices generally range from $60 to $100. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and the type of vehicle chosen. Booking in advance or during off-peak times can help secure better rates.
  • Booking process: You can use Mozio to find and book Private Driver services. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make it easy to compare options and secure your ride.
  • Pros: The main benefits include door-to-door service, comfort, and flexibility. Unlike public transport, you won't need to worry about schedules or multiple transfers. Additionally, you can enjoy a more relaxed and private journey.

Private Driver is ideal for travelers seeking convenience, comfort, and a personalized experience. For the best trip, consider booking in advance and choosing off-peak travel times.

4. Public Bus

Traveling from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy by public bus is a budget-friendly option that offers a shared travel experience. Public buses in Sri Lanka are operated by both government and private companies, providing a reliable and economical way to reach your destination.

  • Travel time: The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Factors such as traffic congestion, road conditions, and the frequency of bus schedules can affect the duration. Express buses may offer a slightly faster option.
  • Cost: The cost ranges from LKR 200 to LKR 500, depending on the type of bus service. Prices can vary based on peak hours, the level of comfort, and whether the bus is air-conditioned. Discounts may be available for advance bookings or frequent travelers.
  • Booking process: Tickets can be purchased online, through mobile apps, or directly at the bus station. While advance reservations are not mandatory, booking ahead is recommended during peak travel seasons to ensure a seat.
  • Pros and cons: The main benefits include affordability and the opportunity to experience local culture. However, drawbacks include potential delays due to traffic and less comfort compared to private transport options.

Public buses are ideal for budget-conscious travelers who are not in a rush and enjoy mingling with locals. For a smoother journey, consider traveling during off-peak hours and booking tickets in advance.

5. Train

Traveling from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy by train offers a scenic and budget-friendly option. The train service in Sri Lanka is a public transportation system that provides both shared and private compartments, catering to various comfort levels and budgets.

  • Travel time: The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Factors such as train schedules, potential delays, and the type of train service (express vs. regular) can affect the duration.
  • Cost: Ticket prices range from $1 to $10, depending on the class of service. First-class tickets are more expensive, while second and third-class tickets are more budget-friendly. Booking in advance can sometimes offer discounts.
  • Booking process: Tickets can be purchased online, through mobile apps, by phone, or in person at the station. It is advisable to book tickets at least a few days in advance, especially for first-class seats.
  • Pros and cons: The main benefits include affordability, scenic views, and a comfortable ride. However, potential drawbacks are the limited frequency of trains and possible delays. Compared to other options, trains offer a more relaxed and picturesque journey.

This travel method is ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those who enjoy scenic routes. For a smoother experience, consider booking tickets in advance and opting for express trains when available.

Distance between Bandaranaike International Airport and Kandy

The distance between Bandaranaike International Airport and Kandy is approximately 103 kilometers (64 miles). Notable landmarks along the way include the scenic Mawanella town and the picturesque Kadugannawa Pass, offering travelers a glimpse of Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.

Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy, Sri Lanka

Travel time between Bandaranaike International Airport and Kandy

  • Shuttle Service: Typically takes around 3-4 hours. Travel time can vary based on the number of stops and traffic conditions.
  • Luxury Car Service: Offers a comfortable ride with an estimated travel time of 2.5-3 hours. Traffic congestion can impact the duration.
  • Private Driver: Generally takes about 2.5-3 hours. The time can fluctuate depending on traffic and the driver's familiarity with the route.
  • Public Bus: Usually takes 4-5 hours. Delays can occur due to frequent stops and traffic jams.
  • Train: Takes approximately 2.5-3.5 hours. Travel time may be affected by train schedules and potential delays.

Cost of transportation between Bandaranaike International Airport and Kandy

  • Shuttle Service: Costs range from $10 to $20 per person. Prices can vary based on the time of day and the number of passengers. Booking in advance can help secure lower rates.
  • Luxury Car Service: Expect to pay between $100 and $150. Factors affecting the cost include the type of vehicle and additional amenities. Booking during off-peak times may offer discounts.
  • Private Driver: Typically costs around $60 to $80. Prices are generally fixed, but booking in advance can sometimes yield better rates. Mozio ensures high-quality drivers for a comfortable journey.
  • Public Bus: The most economical option, costing about $2 to $5. Prices are fixed, but traveling during off-peak hours can make the journey more comfortable.
  • Train: Costs range from $1 to $10 depending on the class of service. Booking tickets in advance and opting for second-class can save money. Traveling during non-peak hours is advisable.

Why traveling with Mozio is best!

  • Enjoy the flexibility of free cancellations on most bookings, allowing you to secure a ride and still change your plans.
  • Benefit from 24/7 customer support, a feature not commonly available with other services like Uber.
  • Travel with confidence knowing that Mozio partners exclusively with licensed providers, ensuring top-notch security and service quality.
  • Receive instant confirmation upon booking, dispelling any concerns about efficiency.
  • Rest easy with Mozio's policy of waiting for delayed flights, providing an extra layer of security for travelers.

Tips for traveling between Bandaranaike International Airport and Kandy

  • Choose the right service: Consider your budget and comfort level. Shuttle services and public buses are cost-effective, while luxury car services and private drivers offer more comfort and flexibility.
  • Book in advance: Use services like Mozio to book your ground transportation ahead of time, ensuring availability and potentially securing better rates.
  • Travel off-peak: Avoid traveling during rush hours to save time. Early mornings and late evenings are generally less crowded, making for a smoother journey.
  • Pack light: If using public transportation or shuttle services, pack only essentials to make your travel easier and more comfortable.
  • Check schedules: For trains and buses, verify the schedules in advance to avoid long waits. Some services may have limited runs, especially on weekends.
  • Local insights: Ask locals or check online forums for the latest travel tips and potential road conditions. This can help you avoid delays and find the best routes.

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For Travelers

Mozio simplifies the process for travelers by offering a straightforward, three-step booking system. Users can search for rides by entering their pickup and drop-off locations, compare prices and vehicle types, and complete their booking with just a few clicks. The platform supports a wide range of transportation options, including sedans, SUVs, vans, private and shared buses, limousines, trains, and water taxis, ensuring that travelers can find the perfect ride for their needs.

One of the unique benefits of using Mozio is its global coverage, which spans 180 countries, 3500+ airports, and thousands of destinations, including Bandaranaike International Airport and Kandy in Sri Lanka. Travelers can enjoy world-class customer service with 24/7 support, free online cancellations on 99% of bookings, and transparent pricing. The platform's extensive network of licensed providers guarantees quality and safety, making it a reliable choice for both business and leisure travelers.

For Travel Agents

Travel agents can enhance their services by using Mozio's platform to book a wide range of ground transportation options and ancillary services for their clients. The process is simple: agents register for a free account, book rides and services such as eSIMs and airport parking, and manage all bookings through a user-friendly dashboard. Mozio offers a 5% discount on all transportation rates, allowing agents to save money while earning commissions on transfers. The platform's global coverage includes 180 countries and thousands of destinations, ensuring that agents can cater to clients traveling to places like Bandaranaike International Airport and Kandy in Sri Lanka, as well as countless other locations worldwide.

Unique benefits for travel agents using Mozio include 24/7 customer service, free online cancellations, and transparent pricing with licensed providers. The platform supports 17 languages and 90+ currencies, making it accessible for clients from various regions. With 12 years of industry expertise, Mozio ensures reliable and high-quality service, allowing agents to focus on delivering exceptional travel experiences. Testimonials from major brands like Hertz, Air France, and Booking.com further reinforce the platform's reliability and value.

Some frequently asked questions

Can I make stops along the way from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy?

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If you're using a private ride, you can often negotiate with the driver to make additional stops along the way. However, this option isn't available through the app. For shared rides, making extra stops is typically not permitted.

Do I need to book my transportation in advance?

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Booking your transportation at least 12 hours in advance is advisable to guarantee availability and snag better rates. Waiting until the last minute could lead to higher costs and fewer choices, so plan ahead for a smoother journey.

If I'm delayed, do I need to change my reservation?

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Sorry your flight's delayed! On the bright side, as long as your flight number has not changed from what you originally informed us, all of our private transport providers and many of our shared ride providers will monitor flight status. Whenever your flight lands, they'll be there to pick you up. We'll make sure you're not delayed any more than you already are—rest assured, we've got you covered.

Are there any notable landmarks to see along the route?

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Yes, there are several notable landmarks to see along the route from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy. You can visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can watch elephants bathe and feed, and the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, which boasts a stunning collection of orchids and other flora. Once in Kandy, don't miss the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a stroll around the serene Kandy Lake.

How do I cancel my reservation?

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Plans can change, and we understand that. To cancel your reservation, simply click the cancellation link in your confirmation email. Just make sure to do it before the provider's cut-off time, which is typically 24 hours or less.

What is the best way to go from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy?

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The best way to travel from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy depends on your priorities. For comfort and convenience, a luxury car service or private driver is ideal. If you're on a budget, the public bus or train offers a cost-effective option. Shuttle services balance cost and comfort well.