- Must visit
National Museum of Colombo
Sri Lanka’s main museum, displaying royal regalia, archaeology, manuscripts, and natural history; essential for understanding the island’s past.
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Journey information
Overview: Chennai to Colombo flight
India
Sri Lanka
Flights from Chennai to Colombo depart on average 36 times per day, taking around 4h 12m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $88 if you book in advance.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest flight covers the 425 miles (685 km) distance in 1h 20m. June is the cheapest month to fly.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 425 miles (685 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 |
Flights per day 36 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 20m |
First flight 12:15 AM |
Last flight 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
The cheapest and fastest flights from Chennai to Colombo
Showing times and prices for Aug 17
Cheapest price
$111
Average price
$205
Fastest journey
1 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 11 m
Flights per day
24
Distance
685 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Chennai to Colombo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chennai to Colombo will cost around $205 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $111.
Fast flights
Of the 24 flights that leave Chennai for Colombo onMon, Aug 17, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 17 the direct flights cover the 685 km distance in an average of 3 h 11 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 20 m .
On Mon, Aug 17 the longest flights will take 6 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6E117510:00 AM1h30Madras11:30 AMColombo$1111One-way0 transfers- 6E11792:55 PM1h20Madras4:15 PMColombo$1111One-way0 transfers
- 6E11737:40 PM1h20Madras9:00 PMColombo$1171One-way0 transfers
- 6E6158 · 6E11814:10 PM21h50Madras2:00 PMColombo$1561One-way1 transfer
- 6E834 · 6E11819:05 AM4h55Madras2:00 PMColombo$1561One-way1 transfer
- 6E11737:40 PM1h20Madras9:00 PMColombo$1171One-way0 transfers
- 6E11792:55 PM1h20Madras4:15 PMColombo$1111One-way0 transfers
- 6E117510:00 AM1h30Madras11:30 AMColombo$1111One-way0 transfers
- 6E834 · 6E11819:05 AM4h55Madras2:00 PMColombo$1561One-way1 transfer
- 6E495 · 6E11817:10 AM6h50Madras2:00 PMColombo$1561One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare flight for Chennai to Colombo
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chennai to Colombo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $88. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $88, and a flight costs an average of $88.
Distance: 425 miles (685 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|
$124 Average price Cheapest | $1 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 12m Average total duration Fastest 4h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 19h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chennai to Colombo is a flight with an average price of $124.
The fastest way to travel from Chennai to Colombo is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 12m.
Yes, you can take a flight between Chennai and Colombo.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chennai to Colombo among Omio's users.
Live departures
Chennai to Colombo flight times
The table below shows live departures for Chennai to Colombo flights for today, Sunday, August 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 AI436 · AI2276 | 9:05 PM Madras | 18h00 | 3:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E6487 · 6E1181 | 9:25 PM Madras | 16h35 | 2:00 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E796 · 6E1167 | 10:00 PM Madras | 12h30 | 10:30 AM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, August 17 | |||||
| AI2832 · AI281 | 6:55 AM Madras | 9h10 | 4:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| AI2779 · AI2276 | 7:00 AM Madras | 8h05 | 3:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E495 · 6E1181 | 7:10 AM Madras | 6h50 | 2:00 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| AI2886 · AI281 | 8:05 AM Madras | 8h00 | 4:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E6815 · 6E1167 | 8:55 AM Madras | 25h35 | 10:30 AM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E834 · 6E1181 | 9:05 AM Madras | 4h55 | 2:00 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| AI2526 · AI281 | 9:50 AM Madras | 30h15 | 4:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E1175 | 10:00 AM Madras | 1h30 | 11:30 AM Colombo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6E6892 · 6E1167 | 10:55 AM Madras | 23h35 | 10:30 AM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| AI2836 · AI281 | 11:00 AM Madras | 29h05 | 4:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E6925 · 6E1181 | 12:00 PM Madras | 26h00 | 2:00 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| AI2468 · AI281 | 2:00 PM Madras | 26h05 | 4:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E6209 · 6E1167 | 2:35 PM Madras | 19h55 | 10:30 AM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E1179 | 2:55 PM Madras | 1h20 | 4:15 PM Colombo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6E6158 · 6E1181 | 4:10 PM Madras | 21h50 | 2:00 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E847 · 6E1167 | 4:15 PM Madras | 18h15 | 10:30 AM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E365 · 6E1167 | 5:45 PM Madras | 16h45 | 10:30 AM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E562 · 6E1181 | 6:20 PM Madras | 19h40 | 2:00 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E189 · 6E1167 | 7:05 PM Madras | 15h25 | 10:30 AM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| 6E1173 | 7:40 PM Madras | 1h20 | 9:00 PM Colombo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6E193 · 6E1181 | 8:00 PM Madras | 18h00 | 2:00 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
| AI538 · AI281 | 8:10 PM Madras | 19h55 | 4:05 PM Colombo | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chennai to Colombo by flight
Compare flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Mon
Aug 17
Aug 17
Tue
Aug 18
Aug 18
Wed
Aug 19
Aug 19
Thu
Aug 20
Aug 20
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Aug 21
Aug 21
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Aug 22
Aug 22
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Aug 23
Aug 23
Why should you book Chennai to Colombo flights with Omio?
Indigo Airlines as well as Air India or Air Arabia offer flights services from Chennai to Colombo.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chennai to Colombo.
Why book with Omio vs Indigo Airlines?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Indigo Airlines, but also compare tickets for the likes of Air India or Air Arabia to find the best option for your trip from Chennai to Colombo.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Skyscanner, Edreams or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Air India or Air Arabia to find the best option for your trip from Chennai to Colombo.
Airlines: Indigo Airlines, Air India, Air Arabia from Chennai to ColomboFind the best flights between Chennai to Colombo with Omio's travel partners Indigo Airlines, Air India, Air Arabia from $88. We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Indigo Airlines
About
IndiGo, officially InterGlobe Aviation Limited, is an Indian low-cost airline headquartered in Gurugram. Founded in 2005, it commenced operations in August 2006 and has rapidly grown to become India's largest airline by passengers carried and fleet size. IndiGo operates on a philosophy of affordable fares, on-time flights, and a courteous, hassle-free travel experience across its extensive domestic and international network. The airline primarily utilizes a fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft, known for its fuel efficiency. IndiGo is recognized for its industry-leading on-time performance and has received numerous awards, including "Best Low-Cost Airline in India & South Asia" by Skytrax multiple times.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$88
Luggage included
One cabin bag (55x35x25 cm) and one personal item (35x30x20 cm)
Additional luggage
Up to 20kg checked baggage can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available based on fare type, cancellation charges apply as per time before departure
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 32 weeks with medical certificate dated within 7 days of travel
Unaccompagned minor
Children between 5-12 years can travel unaccompanied with additional service fee. Not available on international flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, wheelchair assistance provided with prior notice
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin, max 7kg including carrier
Entertaiment on board
Air India
About
Air India is the flag carrier of India, with its main hub at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and secondary hubs in Bengaluru and Mumbai. Founded in 1932 as Tata Airlines, it was nationalized in 1953 and later reacquired by the Tata Group in 2022. Air India operates passenger and cargo services to over 100 domestic and international destinations across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, North America, and Australia. The airline is a member of Star Alliance, the largest global airline consortium.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
Economy class: 1 piece up to 25kg for domestic, 2 pieces up to 23kg each for international
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be purchased online or at the airport. Excess baggage charges vary by route.
Cancellation Policy
Refund amount depends on fare type and timing of cancellation. Cancellation charges apply as per fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 32 weeks without medical certificate. Between 32-36 weeks, medical certificate required stating fitness to fly.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied Minor Service available for children aged 5-12 years. Service fee applies. Must be booked at least 48 hours before departure.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Air India provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Advance notice required for arranging assistance.
Entertaiment on board
Air Arabia
About
Air Arabia is the Middle East and North Africa's first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), established in 2003 and headquartered in Sharjah, UAE. It operates from multiple hubs, including Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan, flying to over 170 destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, and Europe. The airline utilizes a fleet of modern Airbus A320 and A321 Neo LR aircraft, known for their efficiency and comfort. Air Arabia focuses on providing affordable travel options and offers services like pre-booked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals. It also has a loyalty program, AirRewards, for frequent flyers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 small bag (40x30x20cm) free of charge
Additional luggage
Extra cabin bag (55x35x25cm) and checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available depending on fare type, some tickets non-refundable, changes possible with fee
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 32 weeks without medical certificate, between 32-36 weeks require medical certificate issued within 7 days of travel
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-12 can travel unaccompanied for additional fee. Service must be booked at least 48 hours before departure
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Air Arabia offers assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair services and priority boarding. Passengers are advised to request these services at least 48 hours before departure to ensure availability.
Complete guide to Colombo
Things to do in Colombo
Discover the best of Colombo — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colombo trip today.
- Recommended
Dutch Museum Colombo
Small museum preserving Dutch colonial furniture, ceramics, and maps inside an 18th-century governor’s residence in Pettah.
- Recommended
Gangaramaya Museum
Compact museum inside Gangaramaya featuring vintage cars, statues, manuscripts, and eclectic religious collections with local character.
- Must visit
Galle Face Green
Iconic oceanfront promenade popular for sunsets, breezes, and people-watching; one of Colombo’s classic everyday gathering places.
- Must visit
Colombo Fort
Historic commercial quarter with colonial buildings, old institutions, and modern offices; best explored on foot for urban history.
- Must visit
Pettah
Dense bazaar district full of markets, shrines, and street life; ideal for experiencing Colombo’s trading heritage and sensory energy.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
String Hoppers With Kiri Hodi
Rice flour noodles with mild coconut gravy and sambols. A classic Sri Lankan breakfast loved for its soft texture and comforting flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pittu
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with coconut sambol and curry. Traditional in homes and eateries, especially for breakfast or dinner.
- Gluten-free
Lamprais
Sri Lanka’s iconic spicy rice dish cooked with meat or seafood, rich spice mix, and fried rice. A festive favorite with bold local flavor.
Ministry Of Crab
Elegant fine dining in Cinnamon Gardens known for refined Sri Lankan tasting menus and polished service in a heritage-style setting.
The Dutch Burgher Union
Historic Colombo institution serving classic Sri Lankan rice and curry, lamprais, and local favorites in a grand old-world dining room.
Upali's By Nawaloka
Well-known casual restaurant specializing in traditional Sri Lankan curries, hoppers, and seafood with a welcoming local atmosphere.
Sri Lankan rupee (රු)
Moderate for South Asia: hotels vary widely, local meals and buses are cheap, while tourist restaurants, taxis, and imported goods raise typical visitor spending.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- රු800-1,500 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- රු2,500-5,000 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- රු6,000+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- රු700-1,200 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
A 10% service charge may be added in restaurants; otherwise tip about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxi fares or add a small tip. In cafes, rounding up is enough.
RDMNS.LK
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- රු 30
- Day pass
- : null
To the city center
Bandaranaike International Airport -> Colombo Fort Station
- Distance
- 32 km
- Travel time
- 45 min
- Colombo buses usually require cash; contactless card payment is not widely available on regular buses or trains.
- Use the official railway timetable app or station inquiry for trains, and keep small change ready for bus fares.
FAQs: Chennai to Colombo Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chennai to Colombo by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Colombo, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Chennai to Colombo can start from as little as $88 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chennai to Colombo is $124 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Chennai to Colombo is 1h 20m to travel the 425 miles (685 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Chennai to Colombo leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Chennai to Colombo leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct flights a day from Chennai to Colombo with Indigo Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Chennai to Colombo, you can count on Indigo Airlines, Air India, Air Arabia for the best way to get you to Colombo. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Chennai and Colombo and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Chennai to Colombo generally leave from Madras and arrive in Colombo.Madras is 1 miles (2 km) away from Chennai city centre and Colombo is 1 miles (2 km) from Colombo city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Chennai to Colombo is June.
Yes, you can take a flight between Chennai and Colombo.
Since neither Chennai nor Colombo are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of India and Sri Lanka. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is no time difference between Chennai and Colombo.
The best events to attend in Colombo include:
- Esala Perahera, a grand procession featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully adorned elephants celebrating the sacred tooth relic of Buddha
- Colombo Fashion Week, an annual showcase of local and international fashion designers highlighting the latest trends
- Colombo International Book Fair, a vibrant event bringing together authors, publishers, and book lovers for literary discussions and book signings.
The best holidays to experience in Colombo include:
- Vesak, vibrant celebrations of Buddha's birth with colorful lanterns and processions
- Sinhala and Tamil New Year, a festive time filled with traditional games and cultural activities
- Poya Days, serene atmosphere with religious observances and local festivities.
The best season to visit Colombo is Winter or Spring. The best weather to explore Colombo is during December-March or July-August.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chennai to Colombo among Omio's users.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) as its currency. For travelers, cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas and small businesses, while cards are increasingly accepted in major cities, hotels, and larger establishments. It is advisable to carry some cash for convenience and ensure smooth transactions.
In Colombo, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, such as pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by tuk-tuk drivers and unsolicited offers for guided tours or goods at inflated prices. It's advisable to agree on fares beforehand and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Additionally, travelers should be vigilant when using ATMs to prevent card skimming.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular airports
Popular airports from Chennai to Colombo
Most Chennai to Colombo flights use the Madras to Colombo airport pair. Use this guide to compare Chennai and Colombo airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Chennai
Arrival airports in Colombo
Which Chennai airport do flights to Colombo leave from?
Flights from Chennai to Colombo depart from Madras. The airport is 1 miles (2 km) from Chennai city centre at Cheni Intertiol Airport, GST Road, Meembakkam, Cheni, Tamil du 600027, India.
Madras (MAA)Cheni Intertiol Airport, GST Road, Meembakkam, Cheni, Tamil du 600027, India
City-centre transport
Getting to Madras from Chennai city centre
Madras is 2 km from Chennai city centre. Public transport options include:
Suburban Train, Tirusulam Station, 21 km
Madras airport facilities and services
Madras has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Various restaurants in terminals, including Indian cuisine and fast food
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madras: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madras: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madras: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, such as Radisson Blu Hotel Cheni..
Which Colombo airport do flights from Chennai arrive at?
Flights from Chennai to Colombo arrive at Colombo. Colombo is 1 miles (2 km) from Colombo city centre.
Colombo (CMB)Cada Friendship Rd, Katuyake, Sri Lanka
City-centre transport
Getting to Colombo from Colombo city centre
Colombo is 2 km from Colombo city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus 187, Katuyake Bus Stop, 35 km
Colombo airport facilities and services
Colombo has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants available, mainly in the departure area, offering Sri Lankan and intertiol cuisine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in arrivals and departures areas.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colombo: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colombo: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colombo: Ramps, assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, such as The Tamarind Tree Hotel within walking distance..
Most popular flights from Chennai
More options for your journey from Chennai to Colombo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Colombo and Chennai
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