Hambantota Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport Guide (HRI)
Hambantota Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport is located in Mattala, about a 26km (16 miles) drive north from Hambantota.
The second largest airport in Sri Lanka, Hambantota Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport – which is also simply known as Hambantota International Airport – serves the south of the country. Our Hambantota Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport guide includes details of terminal facilities, public transport access and nearby accommodation options.
An information desk is situated in the public area; English is spoken by information assistants.
From Hambantota, follow the B631 Highway north, turning right at Airport Junction follow the road for about 2 km (1.2 miles). From here, follow signs for the airport.
Public Transport
Bus: There are no public bus services at present – travellers should arrange in advance with their tour operator or accommodation for shuttle transfers between their hotel and the airport. There are also travel counters in the lobby where transport can be arranged upon arrival.
Taxi: Taxis are available from outside the terminal (tel: +94 472 03 1000 ext. 1116). The journey time into Hambantota is up to 30 minutes, and fares vary, but expect to pay around LKR3,000 – it is advisable to agree the rate with the driver upfront before getting into a taxi.
Terminal facilities
There are two banks located in the common lobby area of the airport; both providing currency exchange facilities. ATMs are available in the ‘outer porch’ area.
There is a 24 hour post office in the ‘outer porch’, and public telephones are available throughout the terminal. Communications counters in the departures area provide international call services.
Limited shopping facilities, including retailers selling duty-free goods and local souvenirs, can be found in Departures.
A left-luggage office is situated in the terminal's ‘outer porch’ area. A bond baggage facility is also available at the airport.
Airport facilities
Currently, business facilities are restricted to basic communications services and business/VIP lounges on the second level of the terminal. Conference rooms can be found at hotels near the airport. Shower rooms, refreshments, Wifi and Internet and email services are available in the Executive Lounge.
There are 400 parking spaces for long- and short-term use immediately adjacent to the terminal building.
Self-drive car hire is not recommended in Sri Lanka due to poor road conditions and tourists having a lack of experience with the hazardous driving style. Therefore tourists tend to rent a vehicle with a driver; this can be arranged at the transport counters in the airport lobby but can be quite costly.
Hotels
There are currently no hotels near Hambantota Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. However, plans are in place for the construction of a new hotel on the airport site, which will reportedly open in 2017. A choice of accommodation is available in the nearby Wirawila nature reserve, Hambantota itself, and along the southern Sri Lankan coast.
Peacock Beach Resort
Just 30 minutes away from Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, the Peacock Beach Resort is a luxury seafront hotel in the newly developed Hambantota city. The closest landmarks to Peacock Beach Resort include Kirinda Temple and Bundala Bird Sanctuary. Free Wifi and airport shuttle services (additional charge) are available to guests.
Located in the Wirawila Tissa Reserve roughly 12km (7 miles) east of the airport off the A2 highway, this resort features accommodation in tree houses and mud-built chalets. The restaurant serves seasonal local fare as well as massage and yoga sessions.
Located halfway between the airport and Hambantota town, Bandagiri Village Eco-Resort is a plush, environmentally friendly resort set in luscious gardens. The complex boasts a broad range of amenities, including a fresh-water swimming pool, buffet restaurant and Wi-Fi access in public areas. An airport shuttle service is offered to guests.
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