For our 2.5-week honeymoon adventure around Sri Lanka, we wanted to make the most of every moment and include as many incredible experiences as we possibly could.
Our journey included spending time driving the island in a tuk-tuk, scenic train rides and even some breathtaking flights! To get from Colombo to Sigiriya, we chose the quickest, reliable and most scenic option.
Enter Cinnamon Air, offering a daily domestic flight that slashes the usual 4 to 5-hour drive down to just about 30 minutes. Flying with them in mid-August was truly unforgettable and here’s why you should think about booking the same experience for yourself.
Getting There & Check-In Experience
Booking a flight is pretty straightforward via Cinnamon Air’s website, with clear schedules and easy payment options. My advice is to watch their site as they often have sales pop up unexpectedly, which can make the experience even better value.
On the day of our flight, we reached Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, just a short drive from the city centre, with time to spare, even though check-in is only required about 30–45 minutes beforehand.
We met up with our shuttle bus driver who then couriered us over to the private side of the airport which is far removed from the hustle and chaos of the main arrival and departure terminals. Cinnamon Air has its own small terminal building, which adds to the experience.
The check-in process was smooth and welcoming and to our surprise, the generous baggage allowance (23kg plus 5kg of hand luggage) is impressive for such a small aircraft (a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan).
The Aircraft & Flight Details
The plane itself is a small, twin-engine propeller aircraft, think cozy and intimate. Taking the walk out to the plane waiting on the tarmac is a surreal feeling. With only 8 passengers that fit onboard, it felt more like a private flight than a regular flight. The cabin was clean and surprisingly comfortable for the short trip ahead.
My husband and I found ourselves sitting at the very back, which felt almost like our own private lounge. It was surprisingly spacious for just the two of us and honestly felt like a little unexpected honeymoon perk. Being able to stretch out made the short 30-minute flight feel even more comfortable, and before we knew it, it was over.
Scenic Views & Highlights
Once airborne, the real magic begins. As we ascended, the sweeping views of Sri Lanka’s lush coastline, patchwork countryside, thick jungle and small villages unfolded beneath us.
Even though the skies were slightly cloudy with glimpses of sunshine, looking around the cabin, everyone had a giant smile on their face while looking from one side of the plane to the other.
Flying over the country, it’s impossible not to notice the countless temples, Buddhist, Hindu and more are dotting the landscape. Even the tiniest villages often have a temple perched atop a hill, likely not something you’ll read or see in any guidebook or Instagram feed. The striking white and multi-coloured structures stand out beautifully against the lush green jungle below.
The highlight? Spotting the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress rising dramatically from the jungle canopy before descending. Seeing this UNESCO World Heritage site from above gives a completely new appreciation for its scale and majesty, something you just can’t get from the road. This vision will stay with me forever.
Service & Amenities
The onboard service was friendly and personal, as you can imagine with such an intimate experience, with staff providing clear safety instructions and a very warm welcome.
There were no snacks or drinks which is understandable given the short flight, the views were more than enough entertainment, but the overall vibe was relaxed and extremely pleasant.
Arrival Experience
Touching down at Sigiriya’s small airport, nestled within dense jungle and dotted with warnings like “Wild elephants roam these areas”, instantly gives you a sense of adventure and the untamed beauty surrounding you.
Disembarking was quick and hassle-free and within minutes we were greeted by our local transfer tuk tuk to whisk us away to our eco-lodge nearby. Compared to the long, bumpy drive from Colombo to Sigiriya, this flight was an incredible experience and a real time-saver, leaving us relaxed and ready to start our adventure across Sri Lanka.
Other Destinations You Can Fly To
Beyond Sigiriya, Cinnamon Air connects several stunning destinations across Sri Lanka, making it easy to add some extra adventure and convenience to your itinerary.
You can also fly from Colombo to:
- Jaffna: Explore Sri Lanka’s northern cultural heart
- Batticaloa: Discover beaches and lagoons on the east coast
- Trincomalee: Famous for its turquoise bays and historic sites
- Hambantota: Gateway to the southern coast and wildlife parks
These flights not only save time but offer unique aerial perspectives of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, making Cinnamon Air a fantastic choice for travellers wanting to see more without spending so much time on the road.
Final Thoughts & Recommendations
Flying with Cinnamon Air was not just about saving time (the private transfer by car would’ve taken at least 4-5 hours from Colombo, and even longer if we would have chosen to drive out tuk-tuk), it was an unforgettable part of our honeymoon journey. There’s just something about stating your day with an adventure in the sky and then landing and ready to explore, relaxed and excited.
If you’re short on time or simply want to add a unique experience to your trip, this flight is a must. Perfect for couples, adventure seekers or anyone wanting to skip the road traffic chaos while still soaking in stunning aerial views of Sri Lanka’s immense beauty.
Would we do it again? Absolutely.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!