Golden Buddha statues along a riverside walkway with a city skyline in the background.

$104 Cheap Flights from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB)

View $104 flight on Wed, Oct 28, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Bandaranaike Intl. Airport (CMB)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash
    Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Chennai to Colombo (MAA-CMB)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $104 for one-way flights and $225 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

SriLankan Airlines
Sun, Jan 3 - Thu, Jan 7
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$225 Roundtrip, found 9 hours ago
$225
Roundtrip
found 9 hours ago
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Sun, Jan 3 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Thu, Jan 7, priced at $225 found 9 hours ago
SriLankan Airlines
Sat, Aug 29 - Fri, Sep 4
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$226 Roundtrip, just found
$226
Roundtrip
just found
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Sat, Aug 29 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Fri, Sep 4, priced at $226 just found
SriLankan Airlines
Sat, Aug 29 - Fri, Sep 4
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$228 Roundtrip, just found
$228
Roundtrip
just found
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Sat, Aug 29 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Fri, Sep 4, priced at $228 just found
SriLankan Airlines
Thu, Sep 3 - Mon, Sep 7
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$231 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$231
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 3 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Mon, Sep 7, priced at $231 found 3 hours ago
SriLankan Airlines
Sat, Aug 15 - Wed, Aug 19
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$235 Roundtrip, found 9 hours ago
$235
Roundtrip
found 9 hours ago
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Sat, Aug 15 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Wed, Aug 19, priced at $235 found 9 hours ago
SriLankan Airlines
Sat, Aug 15 - Wed, Aug 19
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$237 Roundtrip, found 9 hours ago
$237
Roundtrip
found 9 hours ago
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Sat, Aug 15 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Wed, Aug 19, priced at $237 found 9 hours ago
SriLankan Airlines
Thu, Sep 3 - Wed, Sep 9
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$241 Roundtrip, just found
$241
Roundtrip
just found
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 3 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $241 just found
SriLankan Airlines
Wed, Aug 5 - Wed, Nov 4
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$243 Roundtrip, found 21 hours ago
$243
Roundtrip
found 21 hours ago
Select SriLankan Airlines flight, departing Wed, Aug 5 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Wed, Nov 4, priced at $243 found 21 hours ago
IndiGo
Thu, Sep 3 - Wed, Sep 9
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$269 Roundtrip, just found
$269
Roundtrip
just found
Select IndiGo flight, departing Thu, Sep 3 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $269 just found
Air India
Tue, Sep 8 - Sun, Sep 20
MAA
Chennai
CMB
Colombo
$400 Roundtrip, found 13 hours ago
$400
Roundtrip
found 13 hours ago
Select Air India flight, departing Tue, Sep 8 from Chennai to Colombo, returning Sun, Sep 20, priced at $400 found 13 hours ago

Alternative airports near Colombo

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Bandaranaike Intl. CMB. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 28 minutes. Flights from $233
CMB
Bandaranaike Intl.
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center28 min
Flights from $233

Find the cheapest month to fly from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $161 - $198 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Chennai Intl. to Bandaranaike Intl.

Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB) at a glance

Travelers can choose from a range of airlines offering flights from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) on this international short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service airlines or budget options, you can easily compare various itineraries to suit your budget, schedule, and travel plans. Explore the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of Colombo while finding the best deals on Chennai to Colombo flights.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 400 miles (645 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $70–$150, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for non-stop service from Chennai to Colombo. This allows you to explore various options for price, travel time, and cabin class, helping you craft the ideal itinerary for your journey.

  • SriLankan Airlines: This full-service carrier provides non-stop flights, typically charging one-way fares between $80 and $265. It represents around 65% of departures for this route, with a travel duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  • IndiGo: Known as a budget airline, IndiGo also offers non-stop flights, with one-way tickets generally priced from $70 to $155. It holds roughly 22% of departures on this route, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the journey.
  • Air India: As another full-service option, Air India provides non-stop services with one-way fares usually ranging from $70 to $140. It accounts for about 10% of flights on this route, with a total travel time of 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Travelers have the option to upgrade their flight from Chennai to Colombo, with both SriLankan Airlines and Air India providing business class service for this journey.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chennai to Colombo is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Afternoon flights from 12 PM to 6 PM often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Fridays typically provides cheaper options, although Sundays are the most common travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.* Find Colombo hotel and flight deals.
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport from Chennai International Airport

Colombo welcomes travelers from Chennai with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Colombo city center is approximately a 30-minute drive (covering about 24 miles) from Bandaranaike International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Colombo efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Colombo, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Bandaranaike International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Bandaranaike International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Bandaranaike International Airport, Seeduwa, a train station, is located about 5.4 miles away by car, while Negombo Seaport, a seaport, is around 7.4 miles from the airport and also most conveniently accessed by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $104 and cheap return flights from $225 Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $84 and $1693, and return flights often range between $206 and $568. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
July is the cheapest month to fly from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB), with average return fares around $179. This price is about 27% lower than the average fare throughout the year, as demand typically decreases during the monsoon season. Other budget-friendly months include March and June.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
Choose from 3 airlines operating direct flights from MAA to CMB:

  • IndiGo operates around 27 direct flights from MAA to CMB every week
  • SriLankan Airlines operates around 21 direct flights from MAA to CMB every week
  • Air India operates around 7 direct flights from MAA to CMB every week

How do I find cheap flights from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, SriLankan Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, IndiGo typically offers the lowest fares. IndiGo also offers the most daily flights from MAA to CMB, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
For flights from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB), July and June are the best months to consider. You can find average return flight prices around $179, making it a budget-friendly option. July offers a vibrant atmosphere, while June is great for enjoying the early summer weather.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
You can find approximately 7 nonstop flights per day from Chennai Intl. (MAA) to Bandaranaike Intl. (CMB). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chennai Intl. (MAA) to Bandaranaike Intl. (CMB) departs at around 12:15 AM, operated by Air India. This seasonal service is available in August and September, allowing you to start your journey to Colombo early in the day. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 20% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Air India and IndiGo, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows travelers to arrive in Colombo with ample time to enjoy the day.
How long does it take to fly from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
Direct flights from MAA to CMB usually take about 1 hour 20 minutes, traveling roughly 402 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 22 hours to your journey. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
Business class seats are offered on the MAA to CMB route. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • Air India
  • SriLankan Airlines
  • Singapore Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Chennai (MAA) to Colombo (CMB) typically costs between $497 - $539. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $328 - $336. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Colombo from Chennai Intl. (MAA)?
If you're planning to travel to Colombo from Chennai Intl. (MAA), you can fly into Bandaranaike Intl. (CMB) Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
If you booked your Chennai (MAA-Chennai Intl.) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Chennai Intl.
Destination airport
Bandaranaike Intl.
Airlines serving
Air India, IndiGo, SriLankan Airlines
Roundtrip price
$225
Distance
401 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 24 mins

Book with confidence

Chennai to Colombo Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Chennai to Colombo

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Chennai to Colombo are during the month of January. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Chennai to Colombo with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Chennai to Colombo

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Chennai to Colombo: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Chennai to Colombo

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Chennai to Colombo in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $104 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Chennai to Colombo flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Chennai to Colombo airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Chennai to Colombo Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia