About Hambantota Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI)

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.

Airport news:

Hambantota Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport officially opened in March 2013 following completion of the first phase of development. However, the airport has thus far attracted few flight connections, with just two airlines operating daily from the facility (as of mid-2016). With reports circulating online that the airport’s main access road is being used for drying pepper harvests and animal grazing, the airport’s operational future is likely to be in question.

Information:

An information desk is situated in the public area; English is spoken by information assistants.

Website:

Driving directions:

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

Public transport road:

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

Money:

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.

Food:

A restaurant serving international and local fare is located airside in the transit area.

Shopping:

Limited shopping facilities, including retailers selling duty-free goods and local souvenirs, can be found in Departures.

Luggage:

A left-luggage office is situated in the terminal's ‘outer porch’ area. A bond baggage facility is also available at the airport.

Other:

Baby care facilities are available at various toilets within the terminal. The on-site 24-hour medical centre can assist with emergencies and transport patients to hospitals if necessary.

Airport facilities

Conference and business:

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.

Communication Facilities:

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.

Disabled facilities:

All areas of the terminal are accessible to wheelchair users and disabled toilets are provided. Any passengers who may require additional assistance are advised to contact their airline before travelling.

Car parking:

There are 400 parking spaces for long- and short-term use immediately adjacent to the terminal building.

Car rental:

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.