There are two main parking lots at Colombo Bandaranaike Airport: the terminal lot charges LKR 150, while the remote lot, located 300 metres from the terminal, charges only LRK 50. There are additional charges for vans, double cabs and jeeps.

Cars can be hired with a driver through most tour operators, otherwise there are several car rental agencies such as Abans and Nambo available.

Most hotels and tour operators offer transport from the airport; if possible confirm in advance. Buses and taxis are available, and there is a train station close to the airport, but visitors are advised to arrange their own transportation.

Tel: +940 (0)11 225 2861.

None.

Facilities at the airport include a bank, post office, business lounge, restaurants, snack bars, a bar and a duty-free shop.

Most people speak Sinhala, which is the national and official language. Tamil is also spoken, and English is spoken at most tourist establishments.

The unit of currency is the Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR), which is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and travellers cheques in US Dollars are recommended. ATMs are becoming more common, but outside the main cities they are unlikely to accept international cards. Credit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change, banks and hotels, but exchanging cash is more expensive than exchanging travellers cheques. Banks are closed on Sundays.

Local time is GMT +5.30.