Flying from Christchurch International Airport (CHC) to Colombo: what you need to know
The timezone in Colombo is UTC+5:30. The city is seven hours 30 minutes behind Christchurch, where Christchurch International Airport is located.
Give yourself plenty of time to catch your CHC to Colombo flight. As a rule of thumb, arrive at least two hours before international departures and an hour ahead for domestic flights.
Heading away during a peak time like school or public holidays? Expect longer queues at check-in and security. For peace of mind, arrive up to four hours before international flights and two hours before domestic departures.
Consider adding a stopover to potentially save on your flight ticket from CHC to Colombo. Simply deselect 'Direct flights only' during your search. Take a break (and maybe save some cash) by stopping at one of these popular options:
Changi International Airport (SIN)
Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport (SYD)
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL)
To reach CHC from central Christchurch, it'll take around 1 hour by car. It's roughly 32 kilometres from the airport to the city centre.
Want a relaxed start to your trip? Stay near CHC. Whether you have an early flight from Christchurch International Airport to Colombo or just don't want to be rushed, these hotels put convenience first:
Of all flights leaving Christchurch International Airport, 74.2% arrive as scheduled at their destination.
How to find the cheapest flights from Christchurch International Airport (CHC) to Colombo
C$509 is currently the best price for a one-way Christchurch International Airport to Colombo flight. Return flight tickets start from C$1,353. These fares may change based on demand and availability.
Don't leave things to the last minute. You're more likely to land cheap flights from CHC to Colombo if you book early. Airlines often offer some fantastic early bird deals.
Finding cheap tickets from Christchurch International Airport to Colombo is more likely if you can be flexible with your travel plans. Try using the 'Whole month' function to get the best prices across the month and score a fantastic deal.
Save time looking for cheap flights from CHC to Colombo by creating a Price Alert. You'll receive an email or push notification on the app when a special offer becomes available.
Tailor your trip with filters. Pick your departure and arrival times, airlines and total journey duration. You can also sort your results by 'Best,' 'Fastest' or 'Cheapest' flights from Christchurch International Airport to Colombo.
Airports in Colombo
Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML)
Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML) to central Colombo takes around 40 minutes by car. The centre is roughly 16 kilometres away.
Travelling to the centre on public transport typically takes 1 hour 15 minutes.
Look into staying at a hotel near RML if you're coming in on a late flight from Christchurch International Airport to Colombo. Settle into one of these options and make your first night all about catching up on rest:
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Once your flight from Christchurch International Airport to Colombo has landed, you can make your way to the city centre in about 40 minutes by car. Central Colombo is roughly 32 kilometres from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
If you're catching public transport, it'll take about 1 hour 30 minutes.
You'll find some great places to call home for the night near CMB. Kick back and get cozy after your CHC to Colombo flight at any of these perfectly located options:
Sr Rent A Car, Green Motion and Sixt make picking up a Bandaranaike International Airport rental car simple. These providers are located in or around the terminal and will have you ready to go in a flash.
Avoid potential price surges. Securing your ride two weeks before your arrival at CMB can get you a lower rate.
Best time to go to Colombo
Before booking your flights from Christchurch International Airport to Colombo, consider which time of year is best for you. Peak season in Colombo offers a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities, while the off-season brings cheaper hotel rates and smaller crowds.
Lock in a Christchurch International Airport to Colombo flight ticket with a departure in March if you want to experience the city during its warmest month. Expect temperatures to range from 24ºC (75ºF) to 33ºC (91ºF).
If you want to travel in cooler conditions, search for a cheap ticket from CHC to Colombo in January when temperatures average between 22ºC (72ºF) and 32ºC (90ºF).
More about Colombo
Start your Colombo trip off on the right foot by choosing the perfect place to stay. Once you've booked your flight from Christchurch International Airport to Colombo, browse our range of accommodation options including:
Every great adventure has to include a little sightseeing. Independence Square & Independence Memorial Hall, Gangaramaya Temple and Viharamahadevi Park are must-do's during your Colombo adventure.
Explore more of Sri Lanka
Jaffna is just one of the many cities in Sri Lanka waiting to be discovered once you've seen Colombo. Around 306 kilometres away to the north, its best attractions include Jaffna Fort, Dambakola Patuna Sangamitta Temple and Jaffna Public Library.
If there's time to check out another major destination in Sri Lanka, head for Trincomalee, roughly 241 kilometres north-east of Colombo. Koneswaram Temple, Fort Frederick and Marble Beach are the start of reasons to visit.