Travel Guide for T20 World Cup - Prohibited items in the Stadium

The T20 World Cup 2026 is quickly approaching, and it promises to be one of the most exciting tournaments yet. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, 2026, this event will draw cricket fans from all over the globe. With 20 teams competing across eight venues, the logistics of attending matches can be daunting, especially with cross-border travel between India and Sri Lanka.

Travel Guide: Stadium Map, Entry Checklist & Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning to attend the tournament, it’s essential to be well-prepared. This travel guide will help you navigate everything from stadium entry checklists to transportation options and even weather forecasting. Whether you’re a local enthusiast or a “once-in-a-lifetime” tourist, we’ve got all the details you need to make the most of your T20 World Cup experience.

Travel Logistics: Navigating India and Sri Lanka During the T20 World Cup

With the tournament spread across two countries, fans attending the T20 World Cup 2026 will face a unique set of travel challenges. Let’s break down the logistics you’ll need to consider for seamless travel during the tournament.

Cross-Border Travel Between India and Sri Lanka

The most complex travel route for fans will be navigating the India-Sri Lanka corridor. Due to the scheduling of the high-profile India vs. Pakistan match on February 15, 2026, in Colombo, Indian fans will need to make the journey between India and Sri Lanka. If you’re planning to watch this historic match, here’s what you need to know:

• Flight Connections: The most efficient route is to fly from India to Sri Lanka, with Chennai (MAA) serving as the primary hub for international flights. Flights between Chennai and Colombo are frequent, with travel times around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines like IndiGo and SriLankan Airlines service this route, though prices may rise significantly around the India vs. Pakistan game due to high demand.

• The Ferry Option: For those looking for a more scenic journey, the Nagapattinam to Kankesanthurai ferry will be operational during the tournament. This ferry, resuming after over 40 years, takes about 4 hours to travel and offers an alternative to flying. It’s ideal for those with extra time but can be less convenient for tight schedules.

Visa and Border Formalities

Before embarking on your journey, make sure you understand the visa requirements for both India and Sri Lanka:

• India: Most international fans will require an e-Visa, which can be applied for online. Be cautious of fraudulent sites and only use the official indianvisaonline.gov.in site. Processing usually takes 24-72 hours, but it’s advisable to apply at least 4 days in advance.

• Sri Lanka: For 2026, Sri Lanka is offering visa-free entry for nationals from approximately 40 countries. This includes key cricketing nations like India, Australia, and the UK, allowing fans to travel to Sri Lanka without the hassle of a visa. However, travelers may still need to register for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which is free of charge.

By staying ahead of these requirements, you can avoid the stress of last-minute complications and focus on enjoying the tournament.

Stadium Entry: What You Need to Know

Each stadium hosting the T20 World Cup 2026 has its own set of entry regulations and prohibited items. Whether you’re attending a match in India or Sri Lanka, here’s what you need to do to ensure smooth entry.

The "Safe Six" Entry Checklist

To avoid surprises, follow this checklist when heading to the stadium:

1. Physical Ticket: Always carry a physical printout of your ticket, as mobile tickets might not always scan properly under bright sunlight.

2. Valid ID: Ensure that the name on your ID matches the ticket. International fans should carry their passport, while locals can use their Aadhar or NIC.

3. Phone Battery: While power banks are generally prohibited in most stadiums, ensure your phone is fully charged as it’s the easiest way to access your ticket and other important information.

4. Cash in Small Denominations: Be prepared for vendors inside the stadium to face network congestion. Carry cash for small purchases.

5. Transparent Pouch: Use a transparent pouch for your phone and cash to avoid carrying large bags or backpacks.

6. Sun Protection: For day matches, especially in Mumbai’s Sunil Gavaskar Stand, bring hats, sunscreen, and hydration.

Prohibited Items Master List (Venue Specifics)

Every stadium has its own set of prohibited items. Here’s a quick comparison:

As you can see, rules vary by venue, so it’s crucial to check for venue-specific regulations to avoid carrying prohibited items.

Weather Forecasting & Climatology for T20 World Cup 2026

The weather will play a critical role in both fan experience and match dynamics. Let’s break down what you can expect across different venues.

North India (Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kolkata)

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures in North India will be pleasant (25°C), but nights can drop to 12-15°C. Fans attending evening matches should bring light layers for comfort.

• Implication for Fans: Ensure you’re prepared for cooler nights, especially in Kolkata and Delhi. Carry a light jacket or hoodie, particularly for day-night matches.

West/South India (Mumbai, Chennai) & Sri Lanka (Colombo)

• Temperature: The tropical heat in Mumbai and Chennai will push daytime temperatures to 30-33°C, while nights remain warm (24°C).

• Humidity: Humidity will be high, particularly in Chennai and Colombo, which will significantly increase sweating and dehydration risk.

• Dew Factor: The evening matches will be affected by heavy dew, making the ball slippery for bowlers and heavily favoring teams batting second. Keep this in mind for your fantasy cricket teams!

Sri Lanka Rain Risk

February is typically one of the driest months in Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. However, places like Pallekele in the central highlands could see localized showers.

Parking & Metro: Transport Logistics for Fans

Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

As the world’s largest cricket stadium with a 132,000 capacity, Narendra Modi Stadium presents both excitement and logistical challenges.

• Metro Access: The Motera Stadium Station on the Red Line is conveniently located for access. Expect heavy footfall, especially during peak match hours.

• Parking: While the stadium offers parking for 3,000 cars, the massive crowd means you’ll want to use the Metro to avoid heavy congestion.

Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Wankhede Stadium is famous for its electric atmosphere, but it’s located in the heart of Mumbai, which means traffic can be a nightmare on match days.

• Rail Access: The Churchgate Station is a 5-minute walk from the stadium. This is the best and most efficient way to get to the match.

• Metro Access: The Aqua Line of Mumbai Metro serves the area, offering a modern and air-conditioned alternative to the crowded local trains.

Eden Gardens, Kolkata

• Metro Access: The Esplanade Metro Station (Blue/Green Line interchange) is the closest to Eden Gardens, a 10-15 minute walk from the stadium.

• Ferry Access: A scenic ferry ride across the Hooghly River to Babughat provides an interesting option to avoid city traffic.

Other Stadiums

Each venue has its own unique access points and transport challenges, which are covered in detailed guides for each stadium. Make sure to check the stadium entry logistics in advance.

Conclusion

The T20 World Cup 2026 promises to be a monumental tournament, not only for cricket but also for sports tourism in the subcontinent. Whether you're planning to travel between India and Sri Lanka, figuring out the best seating at the stadium, or just ensuring that you have all your documents in order, this guide has you covered. By planning ahead, knowing the transport routes, and understanding the climate and venue-specific logistics, you can enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable T20 World Cup experience.

Remember: Bookmark this page for the latest travel updates, and stay tuned for real-time match day insights. See you at the stadium!