Nuwara Eliya Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Required Advance Bookings

Essential preparations for your journey to Nuwara Eliya.

Bookings for Your Trip

Securing these items early makes for a smoother travel experience.

Travel Authorization

ETA for Entry

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required for entry into Sri Lanka.

Official Website

Apply online through the official Sri Lankan ETA website.

Advance Application

Apply well in advance to allow for processing time.

Flights & Train Travel

International Flights

Secure international flights early for better pricing.

Popular Train Tickets

Reserved seats on scenic routes (e.g., Nanu Oya to Ella) sell out weeks in advance.

Book Early

Book train tickets several weeks, or even months, ahead.

Accommodation

Peak Season

Book your preferred hotels or bungalows early during high season (Dec-Apr).

Secure Your Stay

Advance booking secures your preferred accommodation and avoids disappointment.

Public Holidays

Booking ahead is also wise for public holidays.

Pre-Trip Research

Gaining current knowledge for your travel.

Areas to Investigate

Read recent travel blogs and forums for up-to-date information.
Familiarize yourself with basic Sri Lankan etiquette and cultural norms.
Check the weather forecast for Nuwara Eliya closer to departure.
Look for current prices and road conditions.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps to take for peace of mind while away.

Securing Your Home

Provide your detailed itinerary and emergency contacts to family or friends.
Arrange for mail collection or hold deliveries.
Secure care for any pets and arrange for plant watering.
Ensure your home is secure, windows and doors locked, and alarms set.

Arrival Checklist

These steps facilitate a smooth arrival in Sri Lanka.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear immigration and customs at CMB.
Purchase a local SIM card with a data package.
Exchange currency or use an ATM for local Rupees.
Have your accommodation address in the local language.

Orientation Strategies

Familiarize yourself with your immediate surroundings.
Note nearby landmarks, shops, or pharmacies.
Get enough local currency for immediate needs.
Consider purchasing an universal travel adapter.

Transportation from Entry Point

Locate your pre-arranged transfer from CMB.
Use the official airport taxi counter or PickMe app.
If traveling by train, taxi/bus from CMB to Colombo Fort.
Then take a tuk-tuk from Nanu Oya to your accommodation.

Booking Tip

Booking your international flights and popular train tickets early is wise.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth departure from Nuwara Eliya and Sri Lanka.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

1
Pack Carefully
Pack tea and other fragile souvenirs carefully in your checked luggage.
2
Customs Regulations
Check your home country's customs regulations for bringing in items like spices or agricultural products.
3
Larger Items Shipping
If you purchased larger items, arrange shipping well in advance through a reputable freight service.

Pre-Departure Timing & Return Trip

Confirm Flight Details
Reconfirm your flight details 24-48 hours before your international departure.
Travel Time to Airport
Plan your travel from Nuwara Eliya to CMB with ample buffer time (5-7 hours by car).
Luggage Weight Check
Check your luggage weight limits with your airline to avoid excess baggage fees.

Additional Departure Steps

Necessary Documents

Ensure you have all necessary documents for your onward journey or return home.

Passport, boarding passes, and any visa requirements for your next destination are .

Final Purchases

Make any last-minute souvenir purchases before heading to the airport.

Complete any final currency exchanges if needed.

Airport Arrival

Attempt to arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) at least 3 hours before your international flight.

This accounts for check-in, security, and potential delays.

Travel Timing Note

The car journey from Nuwara Eliya to CMB can take 5-7 hours, so plan with buffer time.

Arrival Checklist Overview

A concise summary of your first steps upon landing.

Immediate Actions

Clear immigration and customs at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
Purchase a local SIM card with a data package at the arrivals hall.
Exchange some currency or use an ATM for local Sri Lankan Rupees.
Have your accommodation address written down in Sinhala or Tamil.

Transportation & Orientation

Locate your pre-arranged transfer from CMB to Nuwara Eliya.
Alternatively, use the official airport taxi counter or the PickMe app.
Upon arrival at your accommodation, familiarize yourself with surroundings.
Note nearby landmarks, shops, or pharmacies for easy navigation.

Important Travel Documents

Ensure all your travel documents are in order.

Passport & Visa Details

Passport Validity:At least 6 months beyond departure.
ETA Application:Applied well in advance online.
Flight Confirmation:Double-checked 24-48 hours prior.
Copies:Digital and physical copies stored separately.

Additional Reminders

Inform your bank of travel dates to prevent card suspension.
Pack light layers for Nuwara Eliya's varied climate.
Bring an universal travel adapter if needed.
Carry a basic first-aid kit and personal medications.

Essential Tip

Download offline maps for Nuwara Eliya before your trip.

This permits navigation even without an internet connection.

Nuwara Eliya Travel Checklist