The first stop in your Sri Lanka itinerary

Choosing the right base for your arrival in Sri Lanka can set the tone for a remarkable trip. For some travellers, the first stop after a long-haul flight is just a place to rest, recuperate and muddle through jetlag. For others, it’s the first taste of a new adventure, and it’s all far too exciting to just lounge by a pool. Luckily, Sri Lanka has options to suit all tastes – and in this blog, we’ll help you figure your best place to stay on arrival in Sri Lanka.

Most international tourists enter Sri Lanka at Colombo airport, so we’ll weigh up five options near and far from the arrivals gate for your first stop in Sri Lanka. After almost two decades planning holidays to this exceptional island, we understand that what works for one traveller may not work for another, with no itinerary being the same.  To further assist you, you might like to read our blog on how to plan a holiday to Sri Lanka.

1. A rural stay inland from the airport (Gampaha)

Suggested length of stay: 1-2 nights

If you’re someone who wants total relaxation on arrival in Sri Lanka, staying at a beautiful countryside hotel near the airport might be a brilliant option. There are several gorgeous rural properties that exude Sri Lankan character, all at just an hour or so from the airport. Our favourites include Notary’s House, a six-bedroom luxury hotel; the charming Horathapola on a working organic estate; and Comilla Bungalow, an understated colonial villa. All are surrounded by lush gardens and have lovely pools for tropical downtime.

Pros

• These properties are only an hour or so from the airport so you don’t have to travel far on arrival
• You’ll have a very relaxed, rural start to your holiday away from the crowds
• They provide the solitude for the perfect place to get over jetlag so you’ll be refreshed and ready for your adventure
• The properties offer a great introduction to Sri Lanka with gentle paced local experiences such as bullock cart rides, country walks and visits to temples.  For those who like the quiet life, extending to three nights could be a good option as there are things to do in the local areas.

Cons

• A common question we get is ‘how many days are enough for Sri Lanka’?  With a start in rural Gampaha you could be using up your precious holiday time at the start of your trip.

2. Arrive in Sri Lanka and go straight to Colombo

Suggested length of stay: 2 nights

If you like to hit the ground running, without a long journey from the airport, venture straight into the vibrant city of Colombo. This would be the perfect choice for travellers who want to get stuck straight into the culture of a fast-paced city, with restaurants, markets and shopping galore. While you can find city hotels that feel very much in the heart of the action, we think it’s a great idea to start your holiday in one of Colombo’s more tranquil hideaways. We love Lake Lodge for stylish calm, Maniumpathy for luxury and legacy and Galle Face Hotel for grandeur and epic sea views.

Pros

• Like Gampaha, you’re only looking at an hours drive or so from the airport
• Colombo is a buzzing city with lots of experiences – a historic centre, hectic Pettah Market and lovely restaurants
• It has an atmospheric seaside promenade which is nice to walk down of an evening
• You have grand historic hotels and several beautifully converted houses, which are now boutique hotels: peaceful oases in the busy city

Cons

• It could be too hectic for some to start their time in Sri Lanka.  For example, Pettah market is best experienced early in the morning…it could be too early for the start of a trip.  Perhaps a vibrant end to the holiday is in order, that is also close to the airport?