Flying from Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) to Colombo: what you need to know
The timezone in Colombo is UTC+5:30. The city is three hours 30 minutes ahead of Tel Aviv, where Ben Gurion International Airport is located.
For hassle-free travel, arrive at the airport two hours ahead of international flights and one hour before domestic departures. That way, you won't have to rush to board your TLV to Colombo flight.
Longer lines at security and check-in are more likely if you're jetting off during high season, so give yourself some extra wiggle room. A good rule for peak times? Get there up to four hours early for international flights and two hours for domestic departures.
The journey from central Tel Aviv to TLV takes about 45 minutes on public transport. If you drive, ride-share or grab a cab, you'll cover the 14 kilometres in 25 minutes or so, depending on traffic.
Looking for a hotel close to TLV? If you're boarding an early flight from Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo, these accommodation options will put you moments from check-in:
When it comes to the on-time performance of Ben Gurion International Airport, data shows 72.9% of flights stick to their scheduled arrival time.
How to find the cheapest flights from Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) to Colombo
ج.م. 17,676 is currently the best price for a one-way Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo flight. Return flight tickets start from ج.م. 33,250. These prices can change depending on availability and demand.
Don't wait until the last moment. You're more likely to pick up cheap flights from TLV to Colombo if you book ahead. Airlines often have some amazing early bird deals.
Scoring cheap tickets from Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo is easier if you're flexible with your trip dates. Use the 'Whole month' search function to get the lowest prices throughout the month and pick up a sweet deal.
Spend less time searching for cheap flights from TLV to Colombo by creating a Price Alert. We'll send you an email or notification through the app when a new discounted fare appears.
Tailor your trip with filters. Pick your preferred arrival and departure times, total journey duration and airlines. You can also sort results by 'Best,' 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest' flights from Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo.
Airports in Colombo
Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML)
Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML) is around 16 kilometres from central Colombo. If you're getting a cab or a ride-share, the drive takes roughly 40 minutes.
Travelling to the centre on public transport will take you around 1 hour 15 minutes.
If you're arriving on a late flight from Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo, nothing beats the convenience of staying near the terminal. Collect your bags from the carousel and then be showered and resting not long after at one of these accommodation options near RML:
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Once your flight from Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo has landed, you can get to the city centre in about 40 minutes by car. Central Colombo is roughly 32 kilometres from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
If you travel by public transport, the journey will take you 1 hour 30 minutes or so.
Following your TLV to Colombo flight, rest your head at a hotel close to CMB. These are some great options that'll help you get into relaxation mode:
The quickest way to reach your destination is with a Bandaranaike International Airport rental car. Pick up a set of wheels from Sr Rent A Car, Green Motion or Sixt and get going in the blink of an eye.
Avoid paying extra. Securing your ride two weeks ahead of your arrival at CMB will help you save.
Best time to go to Colombo
Before locking in your flights from Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo, consider which time of year works best for you. Peak season in Colombo offers a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities, while low season brings cheaper hotel deals and smaller crowds.
The warmest month in Colombo is March, with temperatures ranging between 24ºC and 33ºC. Lock in your Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo flight ticket then if that's your ideal forecast.
January sees average temperatures of between 22ºC and 32ºC. Search for a cheap ticket from TLV to Colombo around that time if you want to travel when it's cooler.
More about Colombo
When it comes to looking for somewhere to lay your head, you'll find the best places to stay in Colombo right here. Explore these hotels after locking in your flight from Ben Gurion International Airport to Colombo:
Independence Square & Independence Memorial Hall and Gangaramaya Temple are just the start of the top attractions to add to your Colombo itinerary. Continue your sightseeing adventures at Viharamahadevi Park.
Explore more of Sri Lanka
You've visited Colombo, now it's time to explore more of Sri Lanka. Journey about 306 kilometres north to Jaffna to check off its leading attractions. From Jaffna Fort to Dambakola Patuna Sangamitta Temple and Jaffna Public Library, you'll have a full itinerary ahead.
If you want to check out another great destination in Sri Lanka, consider Trincomalee, about 241 kilometres north-east of Colombo. Koneswaram Temple, Fort Frederick and Marble Beach are among the biggest draws.