We’re always ready to assist you in your transportation inquiries and needs! So just let us know if you would like us to help.
Visa Requirements: First, please be advised that all non-residents/citizens of Sri Lanka will first need to apply for a visa before coming into the country. This can be done relatively easy online by visiting: www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa
Getting Here: In terms of transportation methods and routes, visitors have a number of choices. With some being more direct, some more adventurous and some more casual. For the convenience of our guests, we have listed the various methods and details regarding each below.
By Sea Plane: You can fly down south to Koggala Airport on Cinnamon Air or Sri Lankan Airlines or by private chartered plane. Sea planes depart from the domestic terminal which is an easy transfer from the international terminal arranged by the airlines. Koggala Airport is a 15 minute drive from La Cannelle. We can help arrange your pick up transportation.
By Car: You can book a car or van with a driver. The entrance to the new Airport Expressway is close to the airport. From the Airport Expressway you can connect with the Southern Expressway or take the longer coastal route (see below).
The beautiful Southern Expressway runs through vast swathes of rubber, tea and coconut plantations. Most people do not think of highways as bucolic but the lack of traffic and the scenery make for a very pleasant 1 hour 20 minute drive down to Weligama. The Weligama exit is just 4 km from La Cannelle. Of course, one could take the alternative route along the coast, 3-4 hours driving in the company of careening buses and darting tuk-tuks – a colourful and adventurous experience.
By Car: You can rent a car or van with or without driver in Colombo. If you want to drive a car yourself, you need an international driver’s license that must be certified at the Ceylon Automobile Association conveniently located near the Galle Face Green in Colombo.
By Train: Slower than the highway, the train is a throwback in time and is an experience in itself. See Sri Lankan life as you trundle along on the narrow gauge track down the coast with a sea view for most of the journey. We recommend the express train from Colombo. It leaves early and takes about 4 hours to Weligama train station.
For a general idea of train schedules, see this website.
By Helicopter: Yfor info, please visit: simplifly.com or helitours.lk
Local Transportation: Locally you can rent tuk-tuks with drivers, motorbikes, scooters and cars. To reach Galle or Matara, you can take a leisurely drive along the scenic back roads or coastal road or zip along the Expressway, or go by train from Weligama train station.
