Flights to Sri Lanka from India, with its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, has become a popular travel destination for Indians. Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, an adventurous getaway, or a journey to explore the country’s vibrant history, reaching Sri Lanka from India is quite convenient. This guide will provide you with all the essential information about flights to Sri Lanka, including popular airlines, travel routes, helpful tips, and how to find affordable flight options.

1. Why Visit Sri Lanka from India?

Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for Indian travelers, offering a diverse range of experiences. The island’s tropical climate gives rise to lush rainforests, impressive historical sites, and stunning golden beaches, all easily accessible from India. Furthermore, Sri Lanka shares a strong cultural and historical connection with India, making it easy for Indian tourists to connect with the country’s traditions, cuisine, and way of life.

2. Popular Airports in Sri Lanka

Before booking your flight to Sri Lanka, it’s important to know your arrival airport options:

Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo):

Situated in the capital city, this is Sri Lanka’s main international airport. Most international flights, including those from India, arrive here.

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (Hambantota):

While smaller, this airport also handles international flights and is conveniently located for travelers exploring the southern regions of Sri Lanka.

3. Airlines Operating Flights from India to Sri Lanka

Several airlines offer flights between India and Sri Lanka. SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka, provides numerous direct flights. Air India, India’s national carrier, offers direct flights to Colombo from major cities. IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir are budget airlines with affordable flights between India and Colombo. International carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways offer connecting flights with layovers in cities like Doha and Dubai.

4. Popular Flight Routes from India to Sri Lanka

Several airlines offer direct and connecting flights from India to Sri Lanka. Here’s a look at the major airlines that operate these routes:

SriLankan Airlines: Flights to Sri Lanka from India

The national carrier of Sri Lanka offers numerous direct flights between India and Sri Lanka. This is often the most convenient option for travelers.

• Air India: India’s national carrier provides direct flights to Colombo from major cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.
• IndiGo: A popular budget airline, IndiGo offers affordable flights between major Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai to Colombo.
• SpiceJet: Known for offering budget-friendly flights, SpiceJet operates direct flights from cities like Delhi and Mumbai to Colombo.
• GoAir: Another budget airline, GoAir connects Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore with Colombo.

Emirates, Qatar Airways, and other international carriers:

If you’re looking for a connecting flight, these international carriers offer routes with one or more stopovers in cities like Doha, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi before reaching Colombo.

5. How to Find Affordable Flights to Sri Lanka from India

Here are some of the most popular flight routes from India to Sri Lanka:

• Delhi to Colombo: The capitals of India and Sri Lanka have many direct flights, taking about 4-5 hours. You can fly with Air India, SriLankan Airlines, and Emirates.
• Mumbai to Colombo: This is another popular route with direct flights from Air India, SriLankan Airlines, and budget airlines like IndiGo. The flight takes around 3.5-4 hours.
• Chennai to Colombo: Since Chennai is close to Sri Lanka, there are many flights between these cities. You can find direct flights with SriLankan Airlines, Air India, and IndiGo. The flight time is roughly 1.5-2 hours.
• Bangalore to Colombo: There are several airlines that fly directly from Bangalore to Colombo, including SriLankan Airlines and budget airlines like GoAir and IndiGo.
• Kochi to Colombo: This is another popular route with direct flights taking about 1.5-2 hours.

These are just a few of the many flight options available from India to Sri Lanka. You can easily find flights to suit your budget and schedule.

6. Travel Tips for Indians Flying to Sri Lanka

• Baggage: Most airlines allow around 20 kg of checked baggage for economy class passengers. However, this can vary, so check with your specific airline.
• Currency: The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Indian Rupees (INR) are not accepted, so exchange your currency before your flight or at the airport.
• Time Difference: Sri Lanka is 30 minutes ahead of India.
• Airport Transportation: At Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo), you can find taxis, private car hire services, and buses to take you to your hotel or other destinations.

7. Airline Options for Budget Travelers

Budget airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir are a great option for travelers looking to save money on flights to Sri Lanka. These airlines often offer competitive prices, especially if you book your tickets in advance. While they may not have all the same amenities as full-service airlines, they are a reliable and affordable way to reach Sri Lanka.

8. Flight Duration from India to Sri Lanka

Here are approximate flight durations from some major Indian cities:

• Delhi to Colombo: 4.5 to 5 hours
• Mumbai to Colombo: 3.5 to 4 hours
• Chennai to Colombo: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Bangalore to Colombo: 2.5 to 3 hours
• Kochi to Colombo: 1.5 to 2 hours

9. What to Expect When You Land in Sri Lanka

You’ll arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo after a short flight. The airport is modern and well-equipped with amenities such as currency exchange, duty-free shops, and cafes. After clearing immigration (where you’ll present your ETA and passport), you can collect your baggage.

Important Tip: Always have a printed copy of your ETA and passport ready for inspection at immigration.

Conclusion

Traveling from India to Sri Lanka is easy and convenient, with frequent flights catering to various budgets and travel styles. Whether you’re on a leisure trip to soak up the sunshine, a business visit, or an exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, Xplro.com can help you plan your dream itinerary. With short flight times, ranging from just 1.5 hours from Chennai to around 5 hours from Delhi, Sri Lanka is a perfect getaway destination for Indian travelers. Numerous airlines, including budget carriers like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir, offer competitive fares, especially if you book in advance.

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, you’ll find a modern airport with all the necessary facilities, from currency exchange to duty-free shopping. Remember to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before your trip and keep a printed copy of your ETA and passport handy for immigration clearance.

FAQs

1. What airlines operate flights from India to Sri Lanka?

• Several airlines connect India to Sri Lanka, including SriLankan Airlines, Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir. International carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways also offer connecting flights if you’re seeking additional options.

2. How long is the flight from India to Sri Lanka?

• The flight duration depends on your departure city. A direct flight from Chennai to Colombo typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Flights from Mumbai or Delhi may take 3.5 to 5 hours. Connecting flights can take longer depending on the stopover duration.

3. Which Indian cities have direct flights to Sri Lanka?

• Major cities such as Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Kochi offer direct flights to Sri Lanka. These routes are frequently operated by airlines like SriLankan Airlines and IndiGo.

4. Are there affordable flights from India to Sri Lanka?

• Yes, budget-friendly flights are available on airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir. To secure the best fares, book your tickets well in advance, and consider traveling during the off-peak season.

5. When should I book my flights to get the best deals?

• It’s advisable to book your flights at least two to three months in advance. Traveling during the off-peak months, such as May to August, can also help you find cheaper fares. Peak seasons like December often see higher prices.

6. Is a visa required to travel from India to Sri Lanka?

• Yes, Indian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. You can apply for it online, and it is usually processed within a few days. The ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days, which can be extended if needed.

7. How much does it cost to fly to Sri Lanka from India?

• Flight prices vary based on factors like the departure city, airline, and booking time. On average, one-way tickets range between ₹7,000 and ₹15,000 on budget airlines. Round-trip fares usually cost between ₹15,000 and ₹30,000.

8. Are there non-stop flights between India and Sri Lanka?

• Yes, non-stop flights are available from several Indian cities, including Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, to Colombo. Airlines such as SriLankan Airlines, Air India, and IndiGo offer direct connections.

9. What is the baggage allowance on flights to Sri Lanka?

• The baggage allowance depends on the airline and ticket type. Economy class passengers typically get 20-25 kg for checked luggage and 7-8 kg for carry-on baggage. Always confirm the exact baggage policy when booking your flight.

10. Which airports in Sri Lanka handle flights from India?

• The main airport for international arrivals is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. Some flights also land at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), which is located in southern Sri Lanka.

11. How can I find cheap flight tickets to Sri Lanka?

• Use comparison platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to find the best deals. Booking during off-peak travel periods and being flexible with your travel dates can help you save money. Sign up for airline newsletters to stay informed about discounts.

12. What travel tips should Indians keep in mind before flying to Sri Lanka?

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your travel date. Print a copy of your ETA approval for immigration. Exchange some Indian Rupees for Sri Lankan Rupees before your trip. Remember, Sri Lanka is 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time, so adjust your watch accordingly.