Bandaranaike International Airport is the largest airport in Sri Lanka and serves Colombo, the country’s capital. This modern, efficient airport is named after former Prime Minister SWRD Bandaranaike, and is one of the busiest air travel hubs in South Asia.

Passengers flying from Colombo with Qatar Airways will experience a fast, friendly and efficient service, with the emphasis placed firmly on the passenger experience. As is traditional in Sri Lankan culture, courtesy and respect are paramount, and the friendly staff go out of their way to make your departure a smooth and pleasant one.

If you are seeking adventure, dreaming of immersing yourself in culture and art or longing to visit your family and friends, Qatar has something for everyone. Now is the perfect time to plan your next holiday and discover an authentic Arabian treasure in the heart of the Gulf.

Qatar warmly welcomes visitors from around the world. Visitors from 102 countries can enter visa-free. Find more information here. 

Bandaranaike International Airport is the largest airport in Sri Lanka and serves Colombo, the country’s capital. This modern, efficient airport is named after former Prime Minister SWRD Bandaranaike, and is one of the busiest air travel hubs in South Asia. 

Passengers flying from Colombo with Qatar Airways will experience a fast, friendly and efficient service, with the emphasis placed firmly on the passenger experience. As is traditional in Sri Lankan culture, courtesy and respect are paramount, and the friendly staff go out of their way to make your departure a smooth and pleasant one.

Transportation and parking

Airport shuttles run from most hotels in the city centre to the main bus terminal 500m from the Terminal building itself, but it is advisable to check in advance on availability. If you have a large amount of luggage then it is probably wiser to take a taxi. Air conditioned cabs are often more expensive than non-air conditioned vehicles, which can be an issue in the summer heat. 

There are two parking areas available for short and long-term stays. The terminal car park has space for 400 vehicles on short-term stays, while the remote car park, about 300m from the terminal is for long-term parking.

Arriving in Colombo

Passengers flying from Colombo with Qatar Airways depart from Terminal 1. Currently, this terminal is used for all international flights until the opening of Terminal 2 in 2017.  The terminal can get very busy, especially at peak travel times, so it is advisable to arrive at least two hours in advance.

Facilities and amenities

Facilities are good if a little limited, although business users are surprisingly well catered for. A business centre is located in the transit hall on the ground floor, providing international direct dialling, fax and photocopying services.

There are also four business and first-class lounges, although Wi-Fi access is limited. Vendors serving local and international cuisine are located in the Departures area and the transit lounge, and a selection of snack bars offer light refreshments and drinks. Retail outlets provide a choice of good quality goods and accessories.

Book a flight to Doha with Qatar Airways and fly to our hub, Hamad International Airport.

Doha is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Arabian Gulf, where modern innovation meets traditional culture. It is home to an abundance of captivating attractions including mosques, museums, shopping malls and more.

Marked by its crescent-shaped bay, Doha was originally a collection of fishing and pearl diving villages. Today, it boasts a skyline of architectural marvels seen nowhere else in the world.

Tourist attractions

Discover the story of Qatar at Msheireb Enrichment Centre – a barge docked at the Doha Corniche nearby the Sheraton Hotel. It features unique displays that chart the country’s fascinating history and its ongoing plans to build a bright future.

Qatar is also brimming with creative masterpieces, some of which you will find at the Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art. Meander through its hallways to admire a collection of contemporary works from across the Arab world.

Continue exploring Middle Eastern treasures when stopping by Souq Waqif – a charming market at the heart of Doha. Here, you can capture memories at the ancient Al Koot Fort, constructed in 1880.

To bask in panoramic views of the Corniche and beyond, make your way to The Clock Tower, located next to the Grand Mosque. Don’t forget to visit Doha Heritage Village in Al Rumeilia Park, to experience Arabian life in the past.

Travel considerations

Qatar Airways flights to Doha land at Hamad International Airport. You may need a visa depending on your country of origin, length of stay and purpose of travel. Before you fly, check that you comply with all Qatar’s travel and entry requirements.