Trip.com
>
Flights
>
Flights to India
>
Flights to Tamil Nadu
>
Flights to Chennai
Hotels in Chennai
>
Flights from Colombo to Chennai

Colombo to Chennai Flight Information

The approximate distance between Colombo and Chennai is 674.94 km. Average flight time from Colombo to Chennai is around 1 hour 23 minutes. According to Trip.com data, travel demand hits its peak in January. The cheapest month to book flights is August.

Cheapest one-way
US$120
Srilankan Airlines Srilankan Airlines CMB-MAA 1h 25m · Nonstop Fri, Sep 18
Book Now
Cheapest round-trip
US$201
Srilankan Airlines Srilankan Airlines CMB-MAA 1h 25m · Nonstop Fri, Sep 11 - Fri, Sep 18
Book Now
Recommended airlines
Srilankan Airlines Srilankan Airlines Cheapest · From US$120 Srilankan Airlines Srilankan Airlines Most booked
When to fly
September
Cheapest
January
Peak season
Route details
674.94 km
Flight distance
1h 23m
Average flight time

Search for direct flights from Colombo to Chennai in the next 3 months. Based on Trip.com's latest 7-day flight data, one-way direct flights start at US$120, and round-trip direct flights start at US$201.

      • Cheapest nonstop
        CMB 07:25
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 08:50
        Colombo - Chennai | Fri, Sep 11 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 09:55
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 11:20
        Chennai - Colombo | Fri, Sep 18 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$201 US$382
        47% off
        47% off
        US$382 US$201
      • CMB 13:30
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 14:55
        Colombo - Chennai | Mon, Sep 7 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 09:55
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 11:20
        Chennai - Colombo | Mon, Sep 14 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$201 US$382
        47% off
        47% off
        US$382 US$201
      • CMB 13:30
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 14:55
        Colombo - Chennai | Thu, Sep 3 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 09:55
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 11:20
        Chennai - Colombo | Tue, Sep 8 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$202 US$382
        47% off
        47% off
        US$382 US$202
      • CMB 13:30
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 14:55
        Colombo - Chennai | Fri, Sep 4 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 15:55
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 17:20
        Chennai - Colombo | Wed, Sep 9 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$202
        47% off
        US$382 US$202
      • CMB 07:25
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 08:50
        Colombo - Chennai | Sun, Sep 6 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 21:15
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 22:40
        Chennai - Colombo | Thu, Sep 10 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$202
        47% off
        US$382 US$202
      • CMB 07:25
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 08:50
        Colombo - Chennai | Sun, Aug 23 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 21:15
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 22:40
        Chennai - Colombo | Wed, Aug 26 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$202
        47% off
        US$382 US$202
      • CMB 18:45
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 20:10
        Colombo - Chennai | Wed, Sep 16 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 21:15
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 22:40
        Chennai - Colombo | Wed, Sep 23 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$210
        45% off
        US$382 US$210
      • CMB 13:35
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 15:00
        Colombo - Chennai | Sat, Sep 5 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 21:15
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 22:40
        Chennai - Colombo | Thu, Sep 10 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$211
        45% off
        US$382 US$211
      • CMB 18:45
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 20:10
        Colombo - Chennai | Thu, Sep 10 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 09:55
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 11:20
        Chennai - Colombo | Sat, Sep 12 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$227
        41% off
        US$382 US$227
      • CMB 07:25
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 08:50
        Colombo - Chennai | Fri, Aug 21 | Srilankan Airlines
        MAA 09:55
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        CMB 11:20
        Chennai - Colombo | Thu, Aug 27 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$343
        10% off
        US$382 US$343
      • CMB 13:00
        17h 25m
        1 stop
        MAA 14:00
        Colombo - Chennai | Mon, Aug 17 | Normal Airline
        MAA 15:00
        6h
        Nonstop
        CMB 16:00
        Chennai - Colombo | Wed, Aug 19 | Normal Airline
        More cheap flights
        More cheap flights
      • Cheapest nonstop
        CMB 18:45
        1h 25m
        Nonstop
        MAA 20:10
        Colombo - Chennai | Fri, Sep 18 | Srilankan Airlines
        US$120 US$147
        18% off
        18% off
        US$147 US$120
      • CMB 17:15
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 18:35
        Colombo - Chennai | Thu, Sep 17 | IndiGo
        US$128 US$147
        13% off
        13% off
        US$147 US$128
      • CMB 17:15
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 18:35
        Colombo - Chennai | Mon, Sep 7 | IndiGo
        US$128 US$147
        13% off
        13% off
        US$147 US$128
      • CMB 17:15
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 18:35
        Colombo - Chennai | Sun, Sep 6 | IndiGo
        US$128
        13% off
        US$147 US$128
      • CMB 09:45
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 11:05
        Colombo - Chennai | Wed, Sep 2 | IndiGo
        US$129
        12% off
        US$147 US$129
      • CMB 17:15
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 18:35
        Colombo - Chennai | Mon, Sep 14 | IndiGo
        US$129
        12% off
        US$147 US$129
      • CMB 17:15
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 18:35
        Colombo - Chennai | Tue, Sep 15 | IndiGo
        US$129
        12% off
        US$147 US$129
      • CMB 17:15
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 18:35
        Colombo - Chennai | Sun, Sep 13 | IndiGo
        US$129
        12% off
        US$147 US$129
      • CMB 12:30
        1h 15m
        Nonstop
        MAA 13:45
        Colombo - Chennai | Fri, Aug 28 | IndiGo
        US$132
        10% off
        US$147 US$132
      • CMB 17:15
        1h 20m
        Nonstop
        MAA 18:35
        Colombo - Chennai | Thu, Aug 27 | IndiGo
        US$132
        10% off
        US$147 US$132
      • CMB 13:00
        17h 25m
        1 stop
        MAA 14:00
        Colombo - Chennai | Mon, Aug 17 | Normal Airline
        More cheap flights
        More cheap flights

Popular airlines flying from Colombo to Chennai

You can pick from 3 carriers that fly from Colombo to Chennai including Srilankan Airlines, IndiGo, Air India, with Srilankan Airlines serving cheapest direct ticket on this route.
Srilankan Airlines logo Srilankan Airlines
IndiGo logo IndiGo
Air India logo Air India
Airlines are determined based on actual purchased flight tickets from Colombo to Chennai according to previous 12 months data from Trip.com.

Trip.com Price Trends on Flights from Colombo to Chennai

Which month has the cheapest one-way flights from Colombo to Chennai?

Average monthly one-way flight prices from Colombo to Chennai, based on bookings made by Trip.com users over the past 12 months.

Based on Trip.com’s data, the cheapest month for flights from Colombo to Chennai is September, with an average price of US$114; while the month with the highest flight price is usually May, with an average price of up to US$153.

US$153
US$134
US$114
US$95
    Cheapest
  • US$127
    Aug
  • US$114
    Sep
  • US$128
    Oct
  • US$126
    Nov
  • US$130
    Dec
  • US$140
    Jan
  • US$144
    Feb
  • US$144
    Mar
  • US$143
    Apr
  • US$153
    May
  • US$134
    Jun
  • US$148
    Jul

Which month has the cheapest round-trip flights from Colombo to Chennai?

The average price of round-trip flights from Colombo to Chennai purchased by Trip.com users by month over the past 12 months.

Based on data from Trip.com, the lowest prices for round-trip flights from Colombo to Chennai are found during September, with an average price of US$143. Conversely, the highest prices are found during February, with an average price of up to US$255.

US$255
US$199
US$143
US$87
    Cheapest
  • US$161
    Aug
  • US$143
    Sep
  • US$181
    Oct
  • US$194
    Nov
  • US$214
    Dec
  • US$242
    Jan
  • US$255
    Feb
  • US$193
    Mar
  • US$222
    Apr
  • US$226
    May
  • US$215
    Jun
  • US$212
    Jul

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the cheapest flights from Colombo to Chennai (CMB-MAA)?

    Based on Trip.com data, Srilankan Airlines offers one-way fares as low as US$120 on Cheapest nonstop routes (e.g. CMB to MAA on Fri, Sep 18), while Srilankan Airlines offers Cheapest nonstop round-trips from US$201 departing on Fri, Sep 11 and returning on Fri, Sep 18.
  • At the moment, you can catch a nonstop flight from Colombo to Chennai with the following airlines, including: Srilankan Airlines IndiGo Selected airlines are based on historical data collected from flight bookings users made on Trip.com within the last 90 days.
  • It takes about 1 hour 23 minutes to fly from Colombo to Chennai.
  • By analyzing data from all airlines on the Trip.com flight calendar, it looks like the best time to book a flight from Colombo to Chennai is around 40 days (6 weeks) in advance, and the best time to fly is usually on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Tuesday typically offers the cheapest flights for departure, while Saturday offers the best return deals.
  • Based on Trip.com data in the past 4 weeks, there is 62 flight per week flying from Colombo to Chennai. You can check the weekly schedule for popular airlines on this route below: Air India: S/M/T/W/T/F/S -- AI6213 (08:09) Air India: S/M/T/W/T/F/S -- AI6215 (19:03) Air India: S/M/T/W/T/F/S -- AI6219 (13:51)
  • To find best deals on flights from Colombo to Chennai, you can use various tools on Trip.com:
    · Be flexible with your travel dates to get the cheapest flight deal. Now the cheapest flight deal is on Fri, Sep 18, with one-way flights priced at just US$120.
    · Compare airlines strategically. Budget carriers often provide the lowest base fares, while we found the most affordable airline currently operating on this route is Srilankan Airlines.
    · Set up price alerts to easily monitor ticket prices without having to check every day.
    · Check Trip.com flight deals and promo codes frequently.
    · Avoid peak season unless you book very early. It seems the peak season for Chennai travel is around January.
    · Get exclusive promo codes for Trip.com app users.
  • The cheapest months to fly from Colombo to Chennai is August, when demand for travel is lower.
  • After crunching the numbers on our August flight calendar, it's currently cheapest to fly from Colombo to Chennai on August 14, 2026 with Srilankan Airlines, with prices starting at US$202.
  • You can land at any one of the following hubs in Chennai, with Bandaranaike International Airport to Chennai International Airport (CMB-MAA) is by far the most common option on this route: Chennai International Airport (MAA).
  • The time difference between Chennai and Colombo is 0m.
  • Tickets can only be changed or canceled if permitted by airline policy. To submit a change or cancellation request, go to the flight bookings page, select the option to change or cancel your booking, choose the relevant passengers and segment, and submit a request. Please note that additional charges may apply according to the airline ticket policy. However, if the flight has been rescheduled and you would like to change or cancel your ticket, you can submit an involuntary cancellation request. For more details about change and cancellation policies, please check the customer support pages.
  • Based on Trip.com data for flights departing in the next 30 days, the average one-way fare from Colombo to Chennai is US$253. Fares vary by travel date, airline and availability.
  • Based on Trip.com data for travel in the next 30 days, the average round-trip fare from Colombo to Chennai is US$562. The final price depends on the outbound and return dates, airline and fare conditions.
  • Enter Colombo and Chennai, choose your travel dates and passengers, then compare flights by price, duration and baggage. Select a fare, review the change and cancellation rules, enter traveler details and complete payment to receive your confirmation.
  • IndiGoare the most popular budget airlines flying from Colombo to Chennai. Check baggage, seat and payment fees before comparing the final price.

Flights from Colombo to Chennai: Flight Info, Ticket Prices, Airports, and Tourist Attractions

Are you planning a trip from Colombo to Chennai? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to know about flights from Colombo to Chennai. Whether you are a frequent traveler or planning your first trip, this article will guide you through the popular route, the best time to buy flights, tips to find cheap flights, and tips to travel to Chennai. So, let's get started!

Flight Information: Flights from Colombo to Chennai

Skyline of Colombo. Source: Photo by Christoph Theisinger on Unsplash

Skyline of Colombo. Source: Photo by Christoph Theisinger on Unsplash

Flights from Colombo to Chennai are highly popular due to the close proximity and strong cultural ties between the two cities. The average flight distance from Colombo to Chennai is approximately 667 km.

The most popular airline for this route is Srilankan Airlines, offering convenient and comfortable flights for travelers.

However, traveling by air is the only option from Colombo to Chennai, and it's important to note that direct flights offer the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Colombo to Chennai.

Major Airport in Colombo and Transportation

Street in Colombo. Source: Photo by Eddy Billard on Unsplash

Street in Colombo. Source: Photo by Eddy Billard on Unsplash

Colombo is served by one major airport, offering different services and facilities:

  • Bandaranaike International Airport

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the main airport in Colombo and is located in Katunayake, approximately 35 km north of the city center. It offers a range of services including free Wi-Fi, baggage service, and charging stations. If you need to transfer between terminals at CMB, there are shuttle services available.

For travelers needing to transfer between terminals at the airport, shuttle services are available. These shuttle services provide a hassle-free transfer experience for passengers.

When it comes to transportation options from the downtown area to the airport in Colombo, travelers can choose from various methods such as taxis, buses, or private car services. The estimated price range for each transportation method is as follows:

  • Bus: LKR70-LKR140
  • Taxi: LKR5,200-LKR6,500
  • Private Car Services: LKR8,000-LKR15,000

These transportation options ensure that travelers can easily reach the airport in Colombo from the downtown area.

Major Airport in Chennai and Transportation

Street in Colombo. Source: Photo by Eddy Billard on Unsplash

Chennai International Airport. Source: Photo by Eddy Billard on Unsplash

Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is served by one primary commercial airport:

  • Chennai International Airport

Located 20 km southwest of the city center, the airport offers a range of services and facilities including free Wi-Fi, baggage service, charging stations, and more. It consists of three terminals: the old terminal at Meenambakkam (Terminal 1) used for cargo, and the two terminals of the passenger terminal complex at Tirusulam (Terminals 2 and 3) used for domestic and international passenger operations, respectively.

For travelers needing to transfer between terminals at the airport in Chennai, shuttle services are available. These shuttle services such as shuttle buses and walkways ensure a seamless transfer experience for passengers.

When it comes to transportation options from the airport to the downtown area, travelers can choose from various methods such as taxis, buses, or metro. The estimated price range for each transportation method is as follows:

  • Taxi: INR1,200-INR1,500
  • Bus: INR100-INR200
  • Private Car Service: INR:1,500-INR2,000

These transportation options provide convenient access to the downtown area of Chennai for travelers.

When is the Best Time to Buy Flights from Colombo to Chennai?

Chennai International Airport. Source: Photo by Suman Shaw on Unsplash

Chennai International Airport. Source: Photo by Suman Shaw on Unsplash

If you are looking for the best deals on flights from Colombo to Chennai, it is important to consider the timing of your purchase. The most expensive month to buy flights is April, while the cheapest month is September.

By planning your trip during the off-peak season, you can save significantly on your flight expenses.

How to Find Cheap Flights from Colombo to Chennai

Chennai Railway Station. Source: Photo by Gautam Ramuvel on Unsplash

Chennai Railway Station. Source: Photo by Gautam Ramuvel on Unsplash

Finding cheap flights from Colombo to Chennai can be a daunting task, but with the right tips and tricks, you can score the best deals. Here are some tips to help you find cheap flights:

  • Be flexible with your travel dates
  • Book in advance
  • Compare prices from different airlines
  • Sign up for fare alerts
  • Consider alternative airports
  • Use a reliable online travel agency like Trip.com

By following these tips, you can find the best deals on flights from Colombo to Chennai. Trip.com offers a user-friendly platform that allows you to compare prices and book your flights with ease.

Tips to Travel to Chennai

Cityscape of Chennai. Source: Photo by Danachezhian on Unsplash

Cityscape of Chennai. Source: Photo by Danachezhian on Unsplash

If you are a first-time visitor traveling to Chennai, here are some tips to make your trip more enjoyable:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine, especially the famous South Indian dishes
  • Visit the iconic temples and historical landmarks
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the heat
  • Explore the vibrant markets for unique shopping experiences

Following these tips will help you make the most of your trip to Chennai and create unforgettable memories.

Explore Chennai

Street in Chennai. Source: Photo by Siby on Unsplash

Street in Chennai. Source: Photo by Siby on Unsplash

Chennai is a city that offers a blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. Here are 10 popular attractions in Chennai that you should not miss:

  1. Marina Beach - Experience the beauty of the longest urban beach in India.
  2. Kapaleeshwarar Temple - Explore the stunning Dravidian architecture of this ancient temple.
  3. Fort St. George - Discover the colonial history of Chennai at this historic fort.
  4. Santhome Cathedral Basilica - Visit this beautiful church built over the tomb of St. Thomas.
  5. Government Museum - Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Chennai.
  6. Guindy National Park - Escape the city and explore the wildlife in this urban national park.
  7. DakshinaChitra - Experience the diverse arts, crafts, and culture of South India.
  8. Arignar Anna Zoological Park - Get up close with a wide variety of animals at this zoo.
  9. Elliot's Beach - Enjoy a peaceful and serene atmosphere at this lesser-known beach.
  10. Cholamandal Artists' Village - Witness the works of renowned artists in this unique village.

Getting around Chennai is easy with various transportation options available. Travelers can choose from taxis, buses, or the metro to explore the city and its attractions.

With all this information at your fingertips, you are ready to plan your trip from Colombo to Chennai. Whether you choose to fly or explore alternative transportation methods, Chennai awaits you with its rich culture, history, and vibrant attractions. Start your journey today and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful city!

Trip.com Airline Insights on Flights from Colombo to Chennai

Which airline offers the cheapest direct flights from Colombo to Chennai?

Data is based on the average price of all nonstop flights from Colombo to Chennai on Trip.com over the past 12 months.

Based on Trip.com’s data from the past 12 months, FitsAir provides the lowest-priced direct flights from Colombo to Chennai, with fares starting at US$131.

US$119
US$131
US$144
US$156
US$168
FitsAir
US$131
FitsAir
IndiGo
US$136
IndiGo
Air India
US$145
Air India
Srilankan Airlines
US$168
Srilankan Airlines

Which airline operates the most flights from Colombo to Chennai?

Total flights from Colombo to Chennai across all airlines. (Based on Trip.com data from the past month)

Based on Trip.com’s data from the past month, Srilankan Airlines/IndiGo/Air India operates the most frequent flights from Colombo to Chennai, with 22 flights per week.

0
2
12
22
Srilankan Airlines
22
Srilankan Airlines
IndiGo
22
IndiGo
Air India
22
Air India
Korean Air
2
Korean Air

How many flights fly from Colombo to Chennai daily?

The data is based on the flight numbers for each day of the week from Colombo to Chennai within the Trip.com database over the past month.

Based on the past month's historical data from Trip.com, the number of flights from Colombo to Chennai is the highest on Friday and the lowest on Tuesday.

45
40
34
29
Highest
40
Mon
34
Tue
36
Wed
36
Thu
45
Fri
42
Sat
39
Sun

Explore More Popular Flights

Note: Prices shown on this page are the estimated lowest prices found in the last 24 hours and include all taxes and fees.

Book with no extra fees

Prices displayed on this page are all-inclusive (incl. taxes, fuel surcharges, Civil Aviation Development Fund, etc.), and all fees are clearly shown before you pay. Charges for checked baggage, onboard meals, Wi‑Fi, and other optional services are also included where applicable in the flight cards.

Real-time pricing updates

Prices, availability, and travel details on this page have been updated within the last 24 hours, and for many routes are refreshed in real time. The more popular the route, the more accurate and up-to-date the data.

Change & Cancellation Policy

Trip.com shows the change and cancellation rules for each ticket during the booking process, including all related fees and conditions. Please refer to the following scenarios:
Voluntary cancellation/change:
To request a change or cancellation, go to the flight bookings page, select the option to change or cancel your booking, choose the relevant passengers and flight segment, and submit your request. Please note that additional charges may apply based on the airline’s fare rules.
Cancellation/change due to a flight schedule change:
If your flight has been rescheduled and you would like to change or cancel your ticket, you can submit an involuntary cancellation request. For full details of change and cancellation policies, please refer to the customer support pages.