Traveling to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with the local transportation options. If you're planning to visit Colombo, Sri Lanka, and you're arriving at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you're probably wondering how to get to your destination in Wellawatte. Wellawatte is a popular suburb in Colombo, known for its vibrant atmosphere, shopping centers, and delicious food. In this article, we'll explore five ways to reach Wellawatte from Colombo Airport, so you can choose the best option for your needs and budget.
Understanding Your Options
Before we dive into the different transportation options, it's essential to understand the distance between Colombo Airport and Wellawatte. The airport is located approximately 30 kilometers north of Colombo city, while Wellawatte is situated about 5 kilometers south of the city center. The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Option 1: Taxi
Taking a taxi is one of the most convenient ways to reach Wellawatte from Colombo Airport. You'll find taxi counters outside the airport arrival hall, where you can book a taxi and pay in advance. The journey costs around LKR 1,500-2,000 (approximately USD 8-12), depending on traffic conditions.
Option 2: Uber
Uber is widely available in Colombo, and you can book a ride from the airport to Wellawatte using the Uber app. The journey costs around LKR 1,200-1,800 (approximately USD 6-10), depending on traffic conditions and the type of vehicle you choose.
Option 3: Bus
Taking the bus is a more affordable option to reach Wellawatte from Colombo Airport. You can take bus number 187 from the airport to the Pettah bus station, and then transfer to bus number 100 or 101 to reach Wellawatte. The journey costs around LKR 50-100 (approximately USD 0.25-0.50), but it can take around 1-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Option 4: Train
The train is another option to reach Wellawatte from Colombo Airport, but it's not the most convenient one. You'll need to take a taxi or bus from the airport to the Ragama train station, and then take the train to the Wellawatte station. The journey costs around LKR 200-500 (approximately USD 1-2.50), but it can take around 1-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Option 5: Private Transfer
If you're traveling in a group or prefer a more personalized service, you can book a private transfer from Colombo Airport to Wellawatte. This option is more expensive than the others, but it offers more flexibility and convenience. The journey costs around LKR 3,000-5,000 (approximately USD 15-25), depending on the type of vehicle and traffic conditions.
Gallery of Colombo Transportation
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Wellawatte from Colombo Airport?
+Wellawatte is approximately 30 kilometers north of Colombo Airport.
What is the best way to reach Wellawatte from Colombo Airport?
+The best way to reach Wellawatte from Colombo Airport is by taxi or Uber, as it is the most convenient and fastest option.
How much does it cost to take a taxi from Colombo Airport to Wellawatte?
+The journey costs around LKR 1,500-2,000 (approximately USD 8-12), depending on traffic conditions.
We hope this article has helped you understand the different transportation options available to reach Wellawatte from Colombo Airport. Whether you prefer a convenient taxi ride or a more affordable bus journey, there's an option to suit your needs and budget. Safe travels!