Colombo
Colombo Overview
Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:
Where is Colombo?
Colombo is the commercial capital and the largest city of Sri Lanka. It is located on the west coast of the island, along the Indian Ocean. Colombo serves as the main gateway to Sri Lanka, offering a vibrant blend of modern city life and colonial history.
Key Facts About Colombo:
- Country: Sri Lanka
- Region: South Asia
- Time Zone: Sri Lanka Standard Time (SLST) – UTC +5:30
- Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
- Official Languages: Sinhala, Tamil
The Neighbouring Cities and Countries of Colombo
Colombo is strategically positioned near key cities and countries in South Asia. Here’s an overview of the neighboring cities and countries:
- North: India – Major cities like Chennai and New Delhi are within close proximity.
- East: The Indian Ocean, with access to countries like Maldives and Seychelles.
- South: Southern Sri Lanka, including coastal cities like Galle and Matara.
- West: The Indian Ocean, providing access to maritime routes.
Which International Airport in Colombo Can Take Flights to China?
The main international airport serving Colombo is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located approximately 35 kilometers north of the city center. This airport is Sri Lanka’s primary international gateway and handles flights to and from major destinations around the world, including China.
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
- IATA Code: CMB
- Facilities: The airport offers essential services such as duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, and currency exchange.
- International Connections: While there are no direct flights from Colombo to all Chinese cities, passengers can travel via connecting flights through hubs like Doha, Dubai, and Singapore.
Plan Your China Trip from Colombo
Overview of China Travel from Colombo
Traveling from Colombo to China provides an exciting opportunity to visit China’s most iconic cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Chengdu. Each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. This guide provides essential details about the best cities to visit, travel routes, visa requirements, and practical tips for Sri Lankan travelers.
How to Travel from Colombo to The Main Cities of China
Flight Routes from Colombo to China
Flights from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to China are available with one or two stopovers. Major international hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur often serve as layover points before continuing the journey to various Chinese cities.
Colombo to Beijing
- Distance: ~6,700 km
- Flight Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours (with layovers)
- Key Attractions: Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square
Colombo to Xian
- Distance: ~7,000 km
- Flight Duration: Approximately 9-12 hours (with layovers)
- Key Attractions: Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Colombo to Shanghai
- Distance: ~6,800 km
- Flight Duration: Approximately 9-11 hours (with layovers)
- Key Attractions: The Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden
Colombo to Hong Kong
- Distance: ~5,800 km
- Flight Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours (with layovers)
- Key Attractions: Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Disneyland
Colombo to Guangzhou
- Distance: ~5,900 km
- Flight Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours (with layovers)
- Key Attractions: Canton Tower, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
Colombo to Chengdu
- Distance: ~6,800 km
- Flight Duration: Approximately 9-12 hours (with layovers)
- Key Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Sichuan Opera
Colombo to Kunming
- Distance: ~6,800 km
- Flight Duration: Approximately 9-12 hours (with layovers)
- Key Attractions: Stone Forest, Dianchi Lake, Yunnan Nationalities Village
Visa Policy from Colombo to China
Chinese Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Citizens
Sri Lankan citizens must obtain a Chinese visa prior to their arrival in China. Below are the steps to apply for a visa:
Documents Required:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of arrival in China.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the online application form and print it out.
- Passport-sized Photos: Typically two recent passport-size photographs.
- Flight Ticket: Proof of round-trip flight bookings or onward travel.
- Hotel Reservation: A confirmed hotel booking or invitation letter from a Chinese host.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements or proof of sufficient funds.
Application Process:
- Online Application: Complete the visa application form on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website.
- Embassy Submission: Submit the application and required documents to the Chinese Embassy in Colombo or through an authorized visa center.
- Processing Time: Visa processing usually takes about 5-7 business days.
Colombo – China Transportation Guide
Transportation Options from Colombo to China
The most convenient way to travel from Colombo to China is by air. There are no direct flights, but passengers can choose connecting flights that pass through major international hubs. The most common layover airports are in Doha, Dubai, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.
Other Transportation Options:
- By Ship or Cruise: While there are no regular cruise lines between Colombo and China, some private or cargo cruises might be available.
- By Train/Bus: This is not a practical option for traveling from Colombo to China due to the distance and different travel infrastructures.
Colombo – China Travel Tour Packages
Various China travel packages are available for Sri Lankan tourists, offering a range of services such as flight bookings, visa assistance, accommodation, and guided tours. These packages are often customized to cater to popular Chinese cities and attractions.
Popular China Tour Packages:
- Beijing and Xian: Explore China’s ancient capitals and the Terracotta Army in Xian.
- Shanghai and Hangzhou: Enjoy Shanghai’s modern skyline and Hangzhou’s scenic West Lake.
- Chengdu and Kunming: Visit pandas in Chengdu and the stunning Stone Forest in Kunming.
This travel guide provides essential information for Sri Lankan travelers planning to visit China. Whether you’re flying from Colombo to explore the bustling cities or the scenic landscapes of China, this guide will help you plan your trip smoothly and efficiently. Should you need further details or assistance, feel free to reach out!
