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Anuradhapura Travel Checklist

Anuradhapura Travel Checklist

The Ancient Cities Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Planning ahead. This makes for a proper-organized trip to Anuradhapura.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Breaking down your preparation by time periods.

3

Months Before

Passport & Flights

Check your passport validity. It needs to remain valid for a minimum of six months from your expected departure. Book international flights to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).

Visa & Health

Check Sri Lanka's your country's visa requirements and put in for your An Eta (ETA) online. Do this well in advance. Consult your doctor for vaccinations and get necessary shots. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Initial Research

Start researching Anuradhapura's history, culture, and attractions. Consider basic Sinhala phrases. Familiarize yourself with local customs.

1

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

Book your accommodations in Anuradhapura, especially for peak season. Plan your itinerary, including day trips to Mihintale or other adjacent sites.

Train & Permits

Book long-distance train tickets if you plan to travel by rail, especially for reserved seats. Arrange any special permits or endorsements required.

Local Transport

Weigh your options for transportation the ancient city, like bicycle rental or pre-arranging a tuk-tuk driver.

1

Week Before

Confirmations & Packing

Confirm all bookings: flights, accommodations, tours. Pack essential medications and assemble your first aid kit.

Digital & Financial

Download offline maps and translation apps. Notify your bank and your credit card providers about your travel plans. Purchase a Travel backpack suitable for your trip style.

Home Security

Find someone to look after your pets if needed. Hold mail or ask a trusted person to collect it. Inform contacts of your itinerary and emergency details. Secure your home.

Required Advance Bookings

Flights, ETA, and main accommodations rank as the most important. Consider booking popular train routes.

Pre-Trip Research

  • Read up on Anuradhapura'the area'its past and culture.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Sinhala phrases.
  • Learn about particular locations you wish to visit.
  • Research area transportation choices.

Home Preparations

Making arrangements before your departure.

Departure Day Checklist

  • Arrange pet care if needed.
  • Hold your mail or ask a trusted person to collect it.
  • Inform a few trusted contacts of your itinerary and emergency contact details.
  • Secure your home before leaving.

Arrival Checklist

The initial hours in Sri Lanka and Anuradhapura define the start of your journey.

First Steps at CMB

  • Clear immigration with your passport and ETA approval notice.
  • Exchange currency at the airport for initial expenses or withdraw local currency from an ATM.
  • Purchase a local SIM card from one of the providers at the airport.
  • Plan your onward transport to Anuradhapura (pre-booked taxi, or transfer to the train/bus).

Anuradhapura Orientation

  • Once in Anuradhapura, use a map app on your phone to get your bearings.
  • Obtain local advice from your guesthouse staff on getting around and nearby services.
  • Exchange enough LKR for your immediate transit from the airport or station to your accommodation, and for your first meal.
  • If arriving by train or bus in Anuradhapura, take a tuk-tuk directly to your specific accommodation. Verify the price before starting.

Final Arrangements

  • Ensure your phone is connected to local network.
  • Verify any immediate tour bookings.
  • Organize your local currency and forms of payment.
  • Check messages from your host or tour operator.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure. This creates for a seamless departure from Anuradhapura and Sri Lanka.

Departure Checklist

Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth exit from Anuradhapura and Sri Lanka.

Souvenirs & Luggage

  • 1
    Plan for luggage space for any souvenirs you purchase.

  • 2
    If buying large items, inquire about shipping costs and procedures.

  • 3
    Be aware of customs regulations in your home a a country for items like wood carvings or religious artifacts.

Return Journey Logistics

  • Reconfirm your return flights 24-48 hours prior to leaving.

  • Ensure your passport and boarding pass are readily accessible.

  • Pack any liquids according to airline regulations for carry-on luggage.

Transportation to Airport

Timing

Allow ample time to reach Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).

A 4-5 hour journey to Colombo is a good estimate from Anuradhapura.

Transfer Options

Pre-book a taxi ride or private transfer for comfort and certainty.

Consider train or bus to Colombo, then a single taxi to the airport.

Route Awareness

Look for any road blocks or heavy traffic alerts, especially during peak hours.

Have directions or a reliable map handy for the driver.

Route Note

The journey from Anuradhapura to Colombo's airport can be lengthy, so take travel time into account to avoid any rush.

Essential Documents & Funds

Verify that all your documents and finances are ready for your departure.

Travel Documents

  • Passport with valid visa/ETA.
  • Boarding passes (printed or mobile).
  • Accommodation booking confirmations.
  • Copies of important documents (digital and physical).

Financial Readiness

  • Sufficient local currency for airport transfers and last-minute purchases.
  • Credit/debit cards accessible and notified for international use.
  • Emergency funds in a locked, separate location.
  • Keep receipts for any VAT refunds (though rare in Sri Lanka).

Duty-Free & Customs

Be aware of airport customs and duty-free regulations.

Check Allowances

  • Declare items above personal limits.
  • Understand restrictions on alcohol and tobacco.
  • Things you can't bring like certain religious artifacts.
  • Check your home country's import regulations.

Final Personal Preparations

  • Charge all electronics for the journey.
  • Remove local SIM card if not keeping.
  • Secure your luggage appropriately.
  • Exchange any remaining local currency if desired.

Final Tip

Double-check your carry-on for any restricted items, especially liquids or sharp objects.

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