Do I need cash in Sri Lanka?
Yes. Cash still rules outside hotels and city restaurants, and the currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Carry rupees in small notes for tuk-tuks, buses, entry fees and street food, because change for large notes can be hard to find.
Cards work in most hotels, larger restaurants and supermarkets. Even so, keep enough cash for a day or two in case a card machine is down.
Which ATMs work with foreign cards in Sri Lanka?
ATMs from Commercial Bank, Sampath and HNB accept most foreign cards, and you will find them in towns across the island. Fees are charged by your own bank, so take out larger amounts less often.
Change a small amount of money at the airport for your first day, then use ATMs in town. Tell your bank you are travelling, and carry a second card in case one is blocked.
How do I get a SIM card or eSIM in Sri Lanka?
Buy a tourist SIM at the airport arrivals hall from Dialog or Mobitel, or buy an eSIM before you fly so you are online as soon as you land. Have your passport ready, as you need it to register a local SIM.
Data is cheap and coverage is good, except deep in the hill country. Before a hike or a long train ride, save an offline map; with the Island Pass, the Srilor app also keeps places on your phone with their stories.
How much should I tip in Sri Lanka?
Round up tuk-tuk fares. In restaurants that do not add a service charge, about 10% is normal, so check the bill first; if service is already on it, there is no need to add more.
For a driver or guide, about LKR 500 to 1,000 a day is usual, given at the end. Small tips for hotel staff and porters are appreciated.
- Tuk-tuks: round up the fare.
- Restaurants with no service charge: about 10%.
- Drivers and guides: about LKR 500 to 1,000 a day.
How should I carry money in Sri Lanka?
Keep a day’s cash in an easy pocket and the rest in your bag or the room safe, so you never pull out a thick roll of notes. Small notes are also what tuk-tuk drivers and stall holders need.
Save your bank’s card-blocking number with the photo of your passport, so you can act fast if a card is lost. A little cash hidden separately is a useful back-up.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
The Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Cash is still the norm outside hotels and city restaurants, so carry small notes.
Can I use my card at ATMs in Sri Lanka?
Yes. ATMs from Commercial Bank, Sampath and HNB accept most foreign cards. Your own bank charges the fees, so take out larger amounts less often.
Should I buy a SIM card at the airport in Sri Lanka?
It is the easiest place: Dialog and Mobitel sell tourist SIMs in the arrivals hall. An eSIM bought before you fly is a good alternative.
Is mobile data expensive in Sri Lanka?
No, data is cheap. Coverage is good across most of the island except deep in the hill country, so save maps and places offline before a hike.
Do you tip in Sri Lanka?
Yes. Round up tuk-tuk fares, leave about 10% where no service charge is added, and give drivers or guides about LKR 500 to 1,000 a day.