Pre-Trip Checklist: Kandy

Chronological Planning Timeline

Months Before

Passport Validity:
Verify passport validity for six months beyond your stay.
Apply for ETA:
Submit your Electronic Travel Authorization online via official site. (www.eta.gov.lk/etasl/)
Book Major Flights:
Secure international flights early, especially for peak season.
Main Accommodations:
Reserve main lodging ahead of time.
Health Clinic Visit:
Consult for required vaccinations; allow time for effectiveness.

Month Before

Confirm Bookings:
Double-check all flight, hotel, and tour reservations.
Detailed Itinerary:
Outline daily plans for Kandy and surrounding areas.
Local Permits:
Arrange permits for treks or temporary driving license endorsement.
Purchase Gear:
Acquire universal power adapter, insect repellent, sun protection.
Travel Insurance:
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance for emergencies. (World Nomads)

Traveler-Specific Advice

Solo Traveler Safety

Kandy maintains a good safety record for solo travelers. Exercise caution at night and inform someone of your itinerary. Trust your judgment.

Social Opportunities

Stay in hostels or guesthouses with common areas to meet other travelers. Consider joining guided tours or cooking classes for interaction.

Family-Friendly Tips

Private transport affords comfort with children. Choose accommodations with pools. Royal Botanical Gardens can delight kids.

Packing & Arrival Essentials

Week Before Departure

Begin packing for Kandy's climate and cultural norms.
Obtain some Sri Lankan Rupees or plan airport exchange.
Download offline maps for Kandy and translation apps.
Notify bank/credit card companies of your travel dates.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear immigration at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
Exchange currency or use ATM for initial purchases.
Utilize pre-booked transfers or airport taxis to Kandy.
Buy sealed bottled water immediately.

Home & Departure Preparations

Home Preparation

Secure your home: lock doors and windows.
Inform a trusted neighbor of your absence.
Arrange pet or plant care during your trip.
Hold mail or arrange collection.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Pack souvenirs carefully, especially fragile items.
Use a reputable service if shipping larger purchases.
Keep tracking information for shipped items.
Check customs regulations for tea or spices.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow 3-4 hours for Kandy to CMB airport travel.
Arrive at CMB at least 3 hours before international flight.
Confirm onward or return flights.
Ensure all travel documents are ready.

Departure Checklist

Final Checks Before Leaving

Travel Document Verification

Confirm your onward or return flights.
Verify your passport and boarding passes are in order.
Ensure your airport transfer from Kandy is confirmed.
Check flight status for any last-minute changes.

Baggage & Customs

Weigh your luggage to avoid excess fees.
Ensure all liquids are in correct sizes for carry-on.
No general VAT refund scheme for tourists exists.
Declare any relevant items upon re-entry to your home country.

Accommodation Farewell

Settle any remaining bills at your accommodation.
Check your room for forgotten items.
Return any borrowed items or keys.
Leave a review of your stay, if time permits.

Home Readiness

Securing Your Property

Confirm all doors and windows are locked.
Secure valuable items.
Inform a trusted neighbor of your travel plans.

Pet & Plant Arrangements

Ensure pet care is fully arranged.
Organize plant watering or care.
Set up mail hold or collection.

Airport Transfer & Flight Readiness

Getting to CMB Airport

Allow 3-4 hours for the drive from Kandy to CMB.
Factor in potential traffic and road conditions.
Arrive at CMB at least 3 hours before your flight.

Final Flight Confirmations

Confirm your onward or return flights.
Verify airport transfer from Kandy is set for the correct time.
Set up email auto-replies if traveling for work.

Important Document Management

Digital Copies

Create digital copies of all essential documents.
Save them to a cloud service.
Email copies to yourself for easy access.
Include passport, ETA, and insurance details.
Access from multiple devices.

Physical Copies & Storage

Make physical copies of important documents.
Store them separately from originals.
Carry a small, secure document organizer.
Include flight tickets and accommodation details.
Aids greatly in case of original loss.

Last-Minute Reminders

Final Packing

Ensure all items for temple visits, like a sarong, are in your day bag.

Currency Readiness

Confirm you have small denominations of LKR for immediate needs.

Digital Readiness

Confirm offline maps and translation apps are fully downloaded.

Important Tuk-Tuk Tip

Agree on a price beforehand for tuk-tuks or, better yet, use meter apps like PickMe or Uber. This limits overpaying.

Pre-Trip Checklist