If you’ve got a layover in Mattala, don’t let it go to waste sitting at HRI. The city, in Sri Lanka, is within easy reach — roughly 120 minutes by Taxi/Tuk-tuk. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Mattala, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Sri Lanka vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Mattala is roughly 120 minutes from HRI via Taxi/Tuk-tuk. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in LKR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport into town:
- Taxi/Tuk-tuk: About 120 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 140 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Mattala:
Start with Ridiyagama Safari Park. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Then, if time allows, make your way to Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HRI, you can spend time at HRI Duty-Free Shop or try Tarmac Viewing Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Mattala: Thilaka Hotel & Restaurant (Tissamaharama) and Hotel River Front (Tissamaharama). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Mattala Airport Restaurant or Terminal Coffee & Snack Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Mattala, budget roughly $20 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $5 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Mattala, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport
Specific locker facilities at HRI aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Mattala itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HRI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Mattala itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Sri Lanka that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at HRI
Long overnight layover? Your options at HRI include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Sri Lanka also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Mattala exploring the streets or relaxing at HRI, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.