1. Airport Overview & Key Facts
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), identified by IATA code HRI and ICAO code VCRI, is Sri Lanka's second international airport and the country's first purpose-built greenfield airport. Located in the town of Mattala, approximately 18 km northwest of Hambantota in the country's deep south, it opened on 18 March 2013 and represents the main aviation gateway to Sri Lanka's spectacular southern and southeastern provinces.
Built at a cost of USD 209 million – largely financed by Chinese development loans – the airport was conceived to relieve pressure on Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and to stimulate tourism and economic development in Sri Lanka's historically less-developed south. Its runway can accommodate the world's largest commercial aircraft, the Airbus A380, and its terminal has a stated capacity of one million passengers per year.
Today, Mattala operates primarily as a charter and cargo hub, handling seasonal leisure flights and freight, with a revitalised investment programme underway under Sri Lanka's new public-private partnership (PPP) model. For travelers, it remains the most convenient air gateway to Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park, the Hambantota Port, and a host of stunning south-coast beach resorts.
Fast Facts at a Glance
| Full Name | Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) |
| IATA / ICAO | HRI / VCRI |
| Location | Mattala, Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka |
| Coordinates | 06°17′20″N 81°07′25″E |
| Opened | 18 March 2013 |
| Operator | Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) – AASL |
| Terminal Area | 10,000 m² (1 million passenger capacity per year) |
| Check-in Counters | 12 counters |
| Gates / Jetways | 2 gates with aerobridges |
| Runway | Single runway (05/23), 3,500 m – A380 capable |
| Cargo Facility | 1,000 m² (50,000 tonnes/year capacity) |
| ATC Tower Height | 35 metres |
| Construction Cost | USD 209 million (financed largely by Chinese loans) |
| Phone | +94 47 203 1000 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | www.airport.lk/mria |
A Brief History of Mattala Airport
Mattala was inaugurated by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as part of an ambitious infrastructure drive for southern Sri Lanka, alongside the Hambantota Port and the Southern Expressway (E01). Despite its impressive physical infrastructure, the airport struggled with low passenger demand from day one: most major airlines that tried operations there – including SriLankan Airlines, Air Arabia, FlyDubai, and Mihin Lanka – ceased services by 2018.
The airport gained international notoriety when Forbes dubbed it "The World's Emptiest International Airport." However, the story is far from over. In 2020, Emirates began cargo operations, and 2025 saw the highest passenger volumes in the airport's history – approximately 150,000 passengers – driven by seasonal charter flights from Russia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. In 2026, the Sri Lankan government opened Expressions of Interest for a comprehensive PPP investment programme covering cargo, aircraft maintenance, and hospitality, signalling a new chapter for MRIA.
🚕 Flying into Mattala? Pre-Book Your Transfer
Taxis at Mattala are scarce and unregulated. Pre-booking with TaxiGo guarantees a fixed price, a named driver, and a vehicle waiting when you land – even if your flight is delayed.
Book Now at TaxiGo.lk2. What to Expect When You Arrive
Arriving at Mattala is a very different experience from landing at Colombo's BIA. The terminal is modern, clean, and well-built – but very quiet. Here is what to expect step by step:
- Disembark & Immigration – The terminal is small so the walk from the aircraft to immigration is short. Queues are minimal by international standards. Have your passport, arrival card, and ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) ready. Apply online before you travel at www.srilankaevisa.lk.
- Baggage Claim – The carousel area is compact. Trolleys are available. Baggage is usually on the belt quickly compared to larger airports.
- Customs – Green channel (nothing to declare) or Red channel (items to declare). Standard Sri Lankan allowances apply: 1.5 litres spirits, 2 bottles of wine, gifts up to USD 250.
- Arrival Hall – After customs you enter the arrival hall. This is where you will find the taxi office and your TaxiGo driver waiting with a name board.
Unlike Colombo Airport, Mattala's shops and restaurants frequently operate on limited hours or may be closed entirely. There is no guarantee of an open cafe, duty-free store, or snack vendor when you land. Always carry water, snacks, and any medications you need in your carry-on luggage, especially on early morning or late-night arrivals.
Currency exchange and SIM card services at Mattala are limited and may not be available on your arrival. We strongly recommend:
- Exchanging some cash to LKR before your flight, or before leaving Colombo if connecting.
- Buying a SIM card at Colombo BIA if transiting, or in Colombo city beforehand.
- If flying direct into HRI, use ATMs in Hambantota town (43 km away) once you reach your destination.
- TaxiGo accepts payment in USD cash and LKR cash, so you do not need local currency to pay for your transfer.
3. Terminal Facilities – What Works & What Doesn't
Mattala's terminal was built to the same standard as a major international airport. Its infrastructure is genuinely impressive. However, due to chronically low passenger throughput, many commercial services have been suspended or operate only during active flight periods.
Available Facilities
Limited or Unavailable Services
The following services are not reliably available at Mattala Airport:
- 🚫 Duty-Free Shopping – May be closed
- 🚫 Restaurants & Cafes – Only a basic canteen, often closed outside flight periods
- 🚫 Currency Exchange – Limited hours; not guaranteed
- 🚫 SIM Card Vendors – Not reliably available on arrival
- 🚫 ATMs – May not be operational; bring backup cash
- 🚫 Hotel Booking Desks – Not present
- 🚫 Luggage Storage – Not available
Bottom line: Prepare as if you are arriving at a remote regional airport. Bring everything you need from home or from your point of departure.
📋 Be Prepared – Book Your Transport in Advance
With very few services guaranteed at Mattala Airport, your pre-booked TaxiGo transfer is often the most reliable thing waiting for you. Don't leave it to chance.
Book Airport Transfer →4. Getting To & From Mattala Airport
This is the single most important section for anyone traveling through Mattala. The airport is located in a rural area with very limited public transport links. Planning your transfer in advance is not optional – it is essential.
Option 1: Pre-Booked Private Taxi (Recommended)
TaxiGo.lk is the safest, most reliable way to get to and from Mattala Airport. Your driver will be waiting in arrivals with a name board. Fixed pricing means no negotiations, no surprises. See the full rate tables further down this page.
Option 2: Airport Taxi Desk
An unregulated taxi desk operates in the arrival hall. Drivers quote fares verbally with no meter or fixed price list. This is a last resort only – fares can be 2–3x higher than pre-booked rates, and there is no recourse if you are overcharged. If you must use this option, negotiate the fare firmly before entering the vehicle.
Option 3: Tuk-Tuk
A handful of tuk-tuks wait outside the terminal. They cost approximately 2,000–2,500 LKR to Hambantota town. This option is only practical for very short distances and is uncomfortable with luggage. Tuk-tuks cannot safely travel to distant destinations like Galle, Colombo, or Yala.
Option 4: Public Bus
There is no direct bus service from Mattala Airport. To use public transport, you must first reach Hambantota by private vehicle or tuk-tuk (43 km), and then catch an intercity bus from Hambantota bus station. This is extremely inconvenient for most international travelers with luggage. Not recommended.
Option 5: Rental Car
Car rental is available at approximately USD 30–40 per day for a compact vehicle. Note: driving in Sri Lanka requires confidence – roads are narrow, signage is limited, and driving standards differ significantly from Western countries. An experienced local driver from TaxiGo is often a better choice.
Pre-book a TaxiGo transfer before you fly. At Mattala, there is no Uber, no PickMe, no fixed-rate airport taxi counter, and public transport is virtually non-existent for international arrivals. TaxiGo provides flight tracking, 24/7 WhatsApp support, and fixed fares – the only stress-free option available.
5. Avoiding Taxi Scams at Mattala Airport
While Mattala sees far fewer passengers than Colombo, the relative scarcity of taxis and the isolation of the airport make overcharging a real risk. Travelers who arrive without a pre-booked transfer are particularly vulnerable.
🚩 1. The "Only One Taxi" Trick
Drivers at Mattala may claim theirs is the only vehicle available and use this to justify extremely high fares. Because passenger volumes are low, this can sometimes be partially true – which is exactly why pre-booking is non-negotiable at this airport.
🚩 2. Verbal Agreements with Hidden Add-Ons
A driver may agree to a fare verbally, then add charges at the destination for "waiting time," "toll fees," or "luggage." Always get the total price confirmed before you get in. TaxiGo's price is locked in at booking – zero add-ons, ever.
🚩 3. The Long Way Around
Some drivers, knowing the passenger is unfamiliar with the area, take longer routes to run up the fare. Routes around Mattala and southern Sri Lanka pass through remote countryside with no landmarks familiar to visitors. A pre-booked TaxiGo driver uses GPS-optimised routes.
🚩 4. Night Arrivals
Charter flights sometimes arrive late at night when the airport is even quieter. Opportunistic drivers charge "midnight rates" that are completely unofficial. TaxiGo charges the same fixed rate at any hour – no night surcharges.
✅ Pre-book before you fly – Use TaxiGo.lk. Your confirmed booking and driver details arrive by email instantly.
✅ Look for the name board – Your TaxiGo driver will be waiting in arrivals with your name clearly displayed.
✅ Never pay first – TaxiGo payment is arranged upfront online or settled in cash on arrival at your destination. No driver should demand full payment before departure.
✅ Share vehicle details – Send your driver's name and vehicle plate number to someone you trust before the journey begins.
✅ Use WhatsApp – TaxiGo's WhatsApp support is available 24/7 at +94 77 083 3772.
🛡️ Don't Risk It at Mattala – Pre-Book a Trusted Taxi
TaxiGo.lk: fixed rates, flight tracking, meet & greet at arrivals, verified drivers. Over 890 five-star TripAdvisor reviews.
6. Why TaxiGo.lk Is the Safest Choice for Mattala Transfers
At an airport as isolated as Mattala, having a reliable, pre-arranged transfer isn't a luxury – it's a necessity. Here's why TaxiGo.lk is the right choice:
7. What Travelers Say About TaxiGo
Don't take our word for it – here's what recent travelers have said on TripAdvisor:
"We booked TaxiGo for our transfer from Mattala to our Yala safari camp. The driver was waiting right at arrivals with our names, the car was spotless and air-conditioned, and the price was exactly what was quoted. After a long flight, it was such a relief to have everything sorted. Cannot recommend enough."
"Our charter flight into Mattala was delayed by nearly two hours. We were exhausted and worried no one would be there. TaxiGo's driver tracked our flight and was still waiting patiently. He drove us the full 5 hours to Colombo safely and professionally. The fixed price meant no nasty surprise at the end. Brilliant service."
"Mattala is in the middle of nowhere – we had heard horror stories about overcharging at the airport. Booking TaxiGo in advance was the best decision we made. Friendly driver, clean van, perfect for our family of four with all our bags. Highly recommend pre-booking!"
8. Taxi Rates: Mattala Airport (HRI) → Key Destinations
Below are fixed, all-inclusive taxi fares from Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport to the most popular destinations in southern and western Sri Lanka. Prices from TaxiGo include all tolls and driver allowances. No hidden charges. No night surcharges.
| Destination | Distance | Est. Time | Mini (LKR) | Mini (USD) | Sedan (LKR) | Sedan (USD) | Van (LKR) | Van (USD) | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hambantota | 43 km | 43 min | Rs 9,200 | $30 | Rs 9,930 | $33 | Rs 10,530 | $35 | Book Now |
| Tissamaharama | 30 km | 40 min | Rs 7,200 | $24 | Rs 7,800 | $26 | Rs 9,500 | $32 | Book Now |
| Yala National Park | 45 km | 55 min | Rs 9,500 | $32 | Rs 10,200 | $34 | Rs 12,500 | $42 | Book Now |
| Tangalle | 75 km | 1 hr 30 min | Rs 13,000 | $43 | Rs 13,900 | $46 | Rs 18,500 | $62 | Book Now |
| Mirissa | 90 km | 1 hr 45 min | Rs 16,000 | $53 | Rs 17,200 | $57 | Rs 22,800 | $76 | Book Now |
| Weligama | 100 km | 2 hrs | Rs 17,500 | $58 | Rs 18,800 | $63 | Rs 24,800 | $83 | Book Now |
| Unawatuna | 115 km | 2 hrs 15 min | Rs 20,000 | $67 | Rs 21,500 | $72 | Rs 28,400 | $95 | Book Now |
| Galle | 130 km | 2 hrs 30 min | Rs 22,500 | $75 | Rs 24,000 | $80 | Rs 31,700 | $106 | Book Now |
| Hikkaduwa | 140 km | 2 hrs 45 min | Rs 24,000 | $80 | Rs 25,700 | $86 | Rs 34,000 | $113 | Book Now |
| Arugam Bay | 185 km | 4 hrs | Rs 29,500 | $98 | Rs 31,700 | $106 | Rs 42,000 | $140 | Book Now |
| Colombo City | 240 km | 4 hrs 30 min | Rs 36,500 | $122 | Rs 39,200 | $131 | Rs 51,800 | $173 | Book Now |
| Colombo Airport (BIA) | 253 km | 5 hrs 12 min | Rs 36,020 | $120 | Rs 42,645 | $143 | Rs 49,070 | $164 | Book Now |
| Kandy | 280 km | 5 hrs 30 min | Rs 44,500 | $148 | Rs 47,800 | $159 | Rs 63,000 | $210 | Book Now |
| Batticaloa | 231 km | 7 hrs 10 min | Rs 35,250 | $118 | Rs 36,705 | $123 | Rs 50,010 | $167 | Book Now |
| Sigiriya / Dambulla | 320 km | 6 hrs | Rs 49,500 | $165 | Rs 53,200 | $177 | Rs 70,000 | $233 | Book Now |
Fares marked with confirmed live prices (Hambantota, Colombo BIA, and Batticaloa) are sourced directly from the TaxiGo.lk booking system. All other fares are based on TaxiGo's standard distance-based pricing model and are indicative. For a confirmed real-time quote on any route, visit taxigo.lk or contact us on WhatsApp.
🚕 Mattala Transfer? Sorted.
Pick your destination, choose your vehicle, and book in under 2 minutes. Your driver will be tracking your flight from Mattala.
Book Your Transfer Now9. Taxi Rates: Key Destinations → Mattala Airport (HRI)
Heading to Mattala Airport for your departure? Here are fixed transfer rates from popular Sri Lanka destinations. All prices include door-to-airport service with flight-time-aware driver dispatch.
| Pickup Location | Distance | Est. Time | Mini (LKR) | Mini (USD) | Sedan (LKR) | Sedan (USD) | Van (LKR) | Van (USD) | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hambantota | 43 km | 43 min | Rs 9,200 | $30 | Rs 9,930 | $33 | Rs 10,530 | $35 | Book Now |
| Tissamaharama | 30 km | 40 min | Rs 7,200 | $24 | Rs 7,800 | $26 | Rs 9,500 | $32 | Book Now |
| Yala National Park | 45 km | 55 min | Rs 9,500 | $32 | Rs 10,200 | $34 | Rs 12,500 | $42 | Book Now |
| Tangalle | 75 km | 1 hr 30 min | Rs 13,000 | $43 | Rs 13,900 | $46 | Rs 18,500 | $62 | Book Now |
| Mirissa | 90 km | 1 hr 45 min | Rs 16,000 | $53 | Rs 17,200 | $57 | Rs 22,800 | $76 | Book Now |
| Weligama | 100 km | 2 hrs | Rs 17,500 | $58 | Rs 18,800 | $63 | Rs 24,800 | $83 | Book Now |
| Galle | 130 km | 2 hrs 30 min | Rs 22,500 | $75 | Rs 24,000 | $80 | Rs 31,700 | $106 | Book Now |
| Hikkaduwa | 140 km | 2 hrs 45 min | Rs 24,000 | $80 | Rs 25,700 | $86 | Rs 34,000 | $113 | Book Now |
| Arugam Bay | 185 km | 4 hrs | Rs 29,500 | $98 | Rs 31,700 | $106 | Rs 42,000 | $140 | Book Now |
| Batticaloa | 231 km | 7 hrs 10 min | Rs 35,250 | $118 | Rs 36,705 | $123 | Rs 50,010 | $167 | Book Now |
| Colombo City | 240 km | 4 hrs 30 min | Rs 36,500 | $122 | Rs 39,200 | $131 | Rs 51,800 | $173 | Book Now |
| Colombo Airport (BIA) | 253 km | 5 hrs 12 min | Rs 36,020 | $120 | Rs 42,645 | $143 | Rs 49,070 | $164 | Book Now |
| Kandy | 280 km | 5 hrs 30 min | Rs 44,500 | $148 | Rs 47,800 | $159 | Rs 63,000 | $210 | Book Now |
✈️ Departing from Mattala? Book Early.
Taxis to Mattala Airport are scarce in the surrounding area. Book your departure transfer with TaxiGo well in advance – your driver will arrive at your hotel on time, guaranteed.
Book Departure Transfer →10. Nearby Attractions & Why You're Flying Into Mattala
Mattala Airport's greatest asset is its proximity to some of Sri Lanka's most spectacular natural and cultural destinations. Here is why travelers choose to fly into HRI:
🐆 Yala National Park (40–50 km, ~55 min)
Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife reserve and the world's highest density of wild leopards. Yala also hosts elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. Mattala Airport is the closest international airport to Yala – far more convenient than flying into Colombo (BIA) and then enduring a 5-hour drive. Book a direct TaxiGo transfer from arrivals to your safari camp.
🐘 Udawalawe National Park (65 km, ~1 hr 20 min)
Home to one of Sri Lanka's largest elephant populations, Udawalawe offers near-certain elephant sightings year-round. The park also has water buffalo, mugger crocodiles, and the Sri Lanka Elephant Transit Home. An easy day trip or overnight stay from Mattala.
⚓ Hambantota Port (43 km, ~43 min)
The Hambantota Port, now operated on a 99-year lease by China Merchants Port Holdings, is one of the Indian Ocean's strategically significant deep-water ports. The surrounding Hambantota District is growing rapidly as a logistics and tourism hub, with new hotels, resorts, and road infrastructure opening regularly.
🏖️ South Coast Beaches (75–140 km, 1.5–3 hrs)
Sri Lanka's legendary south coast – Tangalle, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, and Galle – is far more accessible from Mattala than from Colombo. Whale watching at Mirissa (blue whales from December to April), surfing at Weligama, and the historic UNESCO-listed Galle Fort are all within comfortable driving distance.
🏰 Bundala National Park (20 km, ~30 min)
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Ramsar wetland site, Bundala is a haven for migratory birds and flamingos. Just 20 km from Mattala, it is one of the easiest national parks to reach from the airport and is perfect for birding enthusiasts.
🌊 Rekawa Beach & Turtle Watch (35 km, ~45 min)
Rekawa is one of Sri Lanka's most important nesting sites for sea turtles, including leatherback, loggerhead, green, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles. Evening turtle-watching sessions can be booked through local conservation groups.
Many travelers fly into Mattala → Yala for a safari → south coast beaches → fly out from Colombo BIA. TaxiGo handles the entire journey: airport pickup, inter-destination transfers, and final airport drop-off to BIA. Contact us on WhatsApp to plan a multi-stop itinerary with a single trusted driver.
11. Frequently Asked Questions About Mattala Airport
What is Mattala Airport's IATA code?
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport uses the IATA code HRI and the ICAO code VCRI. When booking flights or searching for the airport, use "HRI" or "Mattala" as the airport identifier.
How far is Mattala Airport from Colombo?
Mattala is approximately 240–253 km from Colombo (city centre to BIA respectively), taking roughly 4.5–5.5 hours by car via the Southern Expressway (E01). A TaxiGo sedan transfer between the two airports costs Rs 42,645 (USD 143).
What airlines currently fly to Mattala?
As of 2026, Mattala operates primarily charter and cargo flights. Seasonal charter services have included Russia's Red Wings Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, and SCAT Airlines for winter tourism packages. Emirates Cargo operates freight services. The Sri Lankan government's new PPP programme is actively seeking investors to restart scheduled commercial operations.
Is there public transport from Mattala Airport?
No direct public transport connects Mattala Airport to major towns. The nearest city with bus connections is Hambantota (43 km by road). Pre-booking a private taxi transfer is the only practical option for international travelers with luggage.
Are there food and shops at Mattala Airport?
Mattala Airport has very limited commercial services. A basic cafe may operate during flight periods, but most shops and restaurants are closed. Bring your own food, water, and medications from your point of origin. Do not rely on airport retail being open.
Can I buy a SIM card at Mattala Airport?
SIM card vendors are not reliably available at Mattala. If you need a Sri Lankan SIM, purchase one at Colombo Bandaranaike Airport (if you transit there), in Colombo city, or in Hambantota town after your arrival.
Can I exchange currency at Mattala Airport?
Currency exchange at Mattala is very limited and unreliable. Bring sufficient LKR cash or USD for immediate needs. ATMs are available in Hambantota (43 km away). TaxiGo accepts USD cash and LKR cash, so you do not need to exchange money before your transfer.
How close is Mattala Airport to Yala National Park?
Mattala is the closest international airport to Yala, approximately 40–50 km (about 55 minutes by car) from the main Yala park entrance at Tissamaharama. This makes it by far the most convenient arrival point for Yala safaris.
Why is Mattala called "The World's Emptiest Airport"?
Forbes gave Mattala this nickname around 2018 when the airport was processing only a handful of flights per month despite having capacity for one million passengers per year. The airport was built to boost development in southern Sri Lanka but struggled to attract airlines due to limited regional demand. However, 2025 was the busiest year in the airport's history, with approximately 150,000 passengers, driven by charter tourism growth.
12. Booking Tips & Final Checklist
Mattala Airport is unlike any other international airport you may have traveled through. Here is your essential pre-flight checklist:
- Pre-book your taxi transfer at TaxiGo.lk before you fly. Save the booking confirmation and driver's WhatsApp number to your phone.
- Get a SIM card at Colombo BIA if you transit, or in Colombo city. Do not expect to buy one at Mattala.
- Exchange some currency to LKR before arrival, or bring USD. Do not depend on airport exchange counters at Mattala.
- Pack food and water in your carry-on. Airport catering is unreliable.
- Download offline maps (Google Maps Sri Lanka) to your phone. Mobile data may be patchy in the Mattala area.
- Carry your ETA / e-Visa on your phone and printed. Apply online at www.srilankaevisa.lk before you travel.
- Save TaxiGo WhatsApp: +94 77 083 3772 – available 24/7 if your driver is delayed or you have any issue.
- Arrive early for departures – aim for 2.5–3 hours before scheduled departure. Mattala is remote and delays in reaching the airport cannot be easily recovered.
How to Book with TaxiGo in 3 Steps
- Visit taxigo.lk – enter your pickup (Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport) and your destination.
- Choose your vehicle – Mini (economy), Sedan (standard), or Van (groups up to 8). View the fixed price instantly, with no hidden add-ons.
- Confirm your booking – enter your flight details, contact info, and pay online or choose cash on arrival. Your booking confirmation and driver details arrive by email immediately.
TaxiGo monitors your flight in real time. Whether you land early or late, your driver adjusts accordingly. You will never be left waiting – and you will never pay extra for a delayed flight.
🐆 Ready for Yala? Your Transfer Awaits.
Whether you're arriving for a wildlife safari, a south-coast beach holiday, or a connecting journey across Sri Lanka – TaxiGo.lk is the only pre-booked transfer service you need at Mattala Airport. Fixed prices. Named driver. 24/7 support. 890+ five-star reviews.
Book Your Mattala Transfer NowRelated Guides
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