Pre-Trip Checklist: Anuradhapura

Essential Preparations

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

Chronological Planning Timeline

Breaking down your preparation by time periods.

Months Before

Passport & Flights

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

Visa & Health

Check Sri Lanka's visa requirements for your nationality and apply for your Electronic Travel Authorization (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.

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

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

Consider options for getting around the ancient city, like bicycle rental or pre-arranging a tuk-tuk driver.

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 credit card companies of travel plans. Purchase a Travel backpack suitable for your trip style.

Home Security

Arrange pet care 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's history and culture.
Familiarize yourself with basic Sinhala phrases.
Learn about specific sites you wish to visit.
Research local transport options.

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.
Arrange 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 transport 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. Confirm the fare before starting.

Final Arrangements

Ensure your phone is connected to local network.
Confirm any immediate tour bookings.
Organize your local currency and payment methods.
Check messages from your host or tour operator.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure. This makes for a smooth exit 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 country for items like wood carvings or religious artifacts.

Return Journey Logistics

Reconfirm your return flights 24-48 hours before departure.
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 or private transfer for comfort and certainty.

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

Route Awareness

Check for any road closures or heavy traffic alerts, especially during peak hours.

Have directions or a reliable map handy for your driver.

Route Note

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

Essential Documents & Funds

Ensure 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 secure, 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.
Prohibited items 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.

Pre-Trip Checklist