I know from my own travel experiences how important the first leg of the journey is, it really sets the mood and tone of your vacation. I've put together this guide on how to get from Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to Kitekuda Kite Resort with its Duotone Pro Centre Kappalady, covering all the main transportation options.
The main consideration will be the amount of gear you are travelling with and the size of your travel party. If you are looking for the fastest and most seamless way to travel to Kappalady, a private transfer pre-booked through Kitekuda Kite Resort is your best option. If you are looking to take the scenic and adventurous route, the train and bus combo is a less relaxing but cost effective and diverse option.
1. Private Transfer: The Seamless Arrival in Kitesurfing Paradise
How it works: Kitekuda will assist you with pre-booking a private car to meet you at the airport and whisk you directly to the Duotone Pro Centre Kappalady.
Estimated Price: $80 - $150 (USD) depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, and time of year. We will do the negotiations, no surcharge to the charge of the travel company is being added from our side.
Duration: 3-4 hours, traffic dependent.
Safety: Very safe. You'll have a designated driver and we only work with reputable drivers.
Ease: Extremely easy. Door-to-door service.
Details: Your driver will typically meet you inside the airport at arrivals with a sign. We will confirm your flight details and pickup location in advance.
2. Taxi (Uber/PickMe): On-Demand Convenience
How it works: Use the Uber or PickMe app to hail a taxi from the airport directly to Kappalady or Kalpitiya if you are not planning on staying at Kitekuda Kite Resort.
Estimated Price: $50 - $80 (USD). Prices can fluctuate based on demand and time of day.
Duration: 3-4 hours.
Safety: Generally safe, but always check driver ratings and share your trip details with someone.
Ease: Very easy to book via the app.
Details: Specify your destination as "Duotone Pro Centre Kappaldy" in the app. Confirm the price with the driver before you set off, or via the app.
3. Public Bus: The Budget-Friendly Adventure
How it works: The most economical choice, but requires patience and a sense of adventure. Two buses are needed:
Bus 1: From the airport bus stand (ask for directions to the "Airport Bus Stand" or "Katunayake Bus Stand"), look for buses heading towards Puttalam. While direct buses to Kalpitiya sometimes exist, buses to Puttalam are much more frequent. Ask locals for assistance if unsure.
Bus 2: From the Puttalam bus stand, board a bus heading to Kalpitiya. Again, ask for help finding the correct bus.
Palakuda Junction: This is your stop for Kitekuda Kite Resport and its Duotone Pro Centre. It's about 26km past Puttalam. Tell the conductor your destination and WhatsApp me before so I can make sure we collect you from the junction (it’s just under 3km walk to Kitekuda).
Estimated Price: $3 - $5 total.
Duration: 5-7 hours or even longer if there are multiple stops or arrival delays.
Safety: Generally safe during daylight hours, but be mindful of your belongings.
Ease: Challenging, especially for first-timers. Requires multiple transfers and navigating local bus networks. When in doubt, ask the conductor, they are generally very willing and helpful, with a manageable level of English.
Details: Bus numbers can vary. Focus on the destination (Puttalam or Kalpitiya) rather than specific numbers. Be prepared for crowded buses and limited luggage space.
4. Train & Bus: A Scenic Journey
How it works: A more scenic and much safer route, however this can be time-consuming as you are limited to the set train schedule. Best to check Google maps beforehand, or spend the night in Negombo to get on the first early morning train the following day.
Train: Take a free shuttle bus or an Uber from the airport terminal to the Katunayake South Railway Station. From there, take a train to Palavi Railway Station. Check train schedules on Google maps or at the station before purchasing your tickets.
Bus: From the bus stand near the Palavi railway crossing (100m south of the station), take a bus to Kappalady/Kalpitiya.
Palakuda Junction: If you are coming straight to Kitekuda Kite Resort, Palakuda Junction is your stop for the Duotone Pro Centre Kappalady (26km post).
Estimated Price: $2 - $4 total.
Duration: 4-8 hours depending on train delays or wait times at bus stop.
Safety: Incredibly safe and friendly, but always remain mindful of your belongings.
Ease: Very easy if the schedule permits.
Details: Train times are crucial. If the train schedule doesn't align with your arrival, this option becomes very impractical. Google maps is surprisingly accurate, so I’d suggest you open up the app on arrival, set your arrival time at Palakuda Junction and let it do the hard work.
Tip: The train and bus combo, while likely the most scenic, is the least predictable option in terms of travel time. I recently had two guests who made this journey on a Sunday, they advised the entire journey was seamless, the train was not too full and everyone they encountered was incredibly respectful and friendly. The total journey from Negombo took only 4.5 hours. However, they had very little luggage and so this made it a more seamless experience, they advised they would not suggest this mode of transport if you were travelling with all your kitesurfing, wing foiling or windsurfing gear.
My Recommendation:
For most of our guests at Kitekuda Kite Resort, especially those travelling in a large party, with all their kitesurfing gear, is a private transfer or taxi. It's worth the extra cost for the convenience and peace of mind, especially after a long flight. It means you can start relaxing and getting excited about your kitesurfing adventure immediately!
If you have any questions or want to book a direct transfer, don't hesitate to contact me. We look forward to welcoming you to Sri Lanka!
Visit our website at https://www.srilankakiteschool.com/