Travel Tips
Money & Currency
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR, symbol Rs). It is a closed currency, so plan to exchange or withdraw after you arrive rather than before.
- Currency
- Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
- Symbol
- Rs
- Cards
- Cities yes, rural cash
- Tipping
- ~10% / round up
Exchanging & withdrawing
Cash is still king outside hotels and city restaurants.
- Exchange at banks or authorised counters — airport rates are okay for a first Rs 5,000.
- ATMs are widespread in towns; bank ATMs (Commercial, Sampath, HNB) are most reliable.
- Tell your bank you're travelling, and expect a per-withdrawal ATM fee.
- LKR is hard to exchange abroad — spend or convert leftover rupees before you leave.
Cards vs cash
Carry enough cash for the day, especially outside cities.
- Visa and Mastercard work at hotels, larger restaurants and supermarkets.
- Markets, tuk-tuks, small eateries and rural areas are cash-only.
- Keep small notes handy — change for large notes can be scarce.
Costs & tipping
Sri Lanka is affordable, and modest tips are appreciated.
- Restaurants often add a 10% service charge; otherwise round up or leave ~10%.
- Tip drivers/guides for good service; small tips for hotel and safari staff are customary.
- A local rice-and-curry lunch is cheap; upscale hotels are priced closer to Western levels.
Frequently asked questions
- What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
- The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR, symbol Rs). It is a closed currency, so exchange money or withdraw from ATMs after you arrive rather than beforehand.
- Can I use credit cards in Sri Lanka?
- Visa and Mastercard work at hotels, larger restaurants and supermarkets in cities, but markets, tuk-tuks and rural areas are cash-only, so carry enough rupees.
- How much should I tip in Sri Lanka?
- Restaurants often add a 10% service charge; otherwise round up or leave about 10%. Small tips for drivers, guides and hotel staff are customary.
Official sources