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The Sri Lankan Rupee
Sri Lanka's currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Notes come in various denominations, and it is worth keeping a mix of larger and smaller notes for tuk-tuks, markets and small vendors who may not have change for large bills.
Where to exchange money
Banks, licensed money changers and ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns. Rates at the airport are often less favourable than in town, so exchange only what you need for the first day or two on arrival.
Using cards and ATMs
Cards are increasingly accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and shops, but cash remains essential in smaller towns, markets and for tuk-tuk fares. Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid blocked transactions.
Budgeting day to day
Costs vary widely between budget guesthouses and luxury resorts. Building a rough daily budget in advance, and tracking it loosely as you go, makes it easier to spend confidently without overspending on any one leg of the trip.
Tipping and small purchases
Keep small notes handy for tips, tuk-tuk rounding, and roadside snacks, since many small vendors cannot break large denominations.
