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

CA $376 Cheap Flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Colombo (CMB)

Popular airlines from Melbourne Airport (MEL) 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 rewards

Cheap flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Colombo (CMB)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at CA $376 for one-way flights and CA $929 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

China Eastern Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Air India
Singapore Airlines
China Eastern Airlines
Philippine Airlines
China Eastern Airlines
Philippine Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Cathay Pacific

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from CA $376 and cheap return flights from CA $929 MEL to CMB with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between CA$671 and CA$1839, and return flights often range between CA$1234 and CA$1975. 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 MEL to CMB ticket fares go up or down.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
September is typically the cheapest month to fly from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.), with average return fares around CA$904. September often sees lower prices because it falls outside of peak holiday seasons, when demand tends to decrease, allowing airlines to offer more competitive fares. Other cheap months to fly from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) include August and October.
Which airlines fly direct from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.). Here are the carriers:
  • SriLankan Airlines operates 9 direct flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) every week.
  • Jetstar operates 7 direct flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) every week.
How do I find cheap flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB)?
To find a cheap flight from Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB), 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) 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, Jetstar typically offers the lowest fares. Qantas Airways offers the most daily flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.), 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
The cheapest months to fly from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) are typically September and August, with average prices around CA$904. However, the most popular months for travel on this route are December and February, meaning you'll find plenty of flight options during those times. If you're looking for the best balance between price and availability, you might consider booking during the shoulder seasons around these times to get a good deal with decent flight schedules.
How many flights per day from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
You'll find around 1 nonstop flight per day from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.). For even more choices, look at flights that include layovers, as there are approximately 103 connecting flights per day. Some common connection points include Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD), Changi (SIN), and Dubai Intl. (DXB).
What is the earliest flight from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) typically departs around 12:30 AM local time. This service is operated by AirAsiaX and AirAsia. This is a seasonal service, active in April and May. An early departure like this can help you make the most of your time at your destination. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What day of the week has the most flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
You'll typically find the most flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) on a Wednesday, with around 40 flights available. This gives you a good selection of options for your travel plans. Major airlines on this route include Qantas Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) are in the late evening, from 9pm to midnight. Many major carriers, including Emirates, Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines, offer flights during this window. Many travellers prefer this time as it allows you to maximise your day in Melbourne before your flight, and you'll arrive in Colombo ready to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from MEL to CMB typically takes around 10 hours 30 minutes, covering approximately 8,359 kilometers. Connecting flights on this route usually add 3 hours 30 minutes to your travel time. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.)?
Yes, you can fly business class or first class between MEL and CMB.Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:
  • Thai Airways International
  • SriLankan Airlines
  • China Eastern Airlines
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Air India
  • Emirates
  • Etihad Airways
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Virgin Australia
  • Qantas Airways
  • Qatar Airways
  • Philippine Airlines
First class cabins are available on Emirates.
How do I earn miles on a Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB) 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 (CMB) from Melbourne, VIC (MEL)?
If you're planning to travel to Colombo from Tullamarine (MEL), you can fly directly into Bandaranaike Intl. (CMB). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD), Dubai Intl. (DXB), or Brisbane, QLD (BNE) before reaching Colombo. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB) 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB) 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB)?
If you booked your Melbourne, VIC (MEL) to Colombo (CMB) 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
Tullamarine
Destination airport
Bandaranaike Intl.
Roundtrip price
CA $928
Distance
8308 km
Average flight time
11 hours 45 mins

Book with confidence

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

*Available to Expedia members.