Sri Lanka (LK)
Sri Lanka is South Asia's most beloved island destination — a tropical tear-drop off India's southern tip offering ancient Buddhist temples, colonial hill stations, spice gardens, surf beaches, and world-renowned tea.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Sri Lanka.
Denominations
Coins: Rs 1, 2, 5, 10. Notes: Rs 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000. As of 2026, approximately LKR 300–320 per USD after stabilising from the 2022 currency crisis (peak was LKR 370/USD).
Payment Culture
Cash is dominant outside Colombo. Credit/debit cards accepted at most hotels, supermarkets, and restaurants in Colombo and tourist areas. LankaQR and mobile banking apps (Sampath Vishwa, ComBank Digital) used in urban areas. Always carry LKR cash for tuk-tuks, local markets, and rural areas. USD widely accepted at tourist sites and guesthouses but legal tender is LKR.
ATM Tips
ATMs widely available in Colombo, Kandy, Galle, and tourist hubs. Commercial Bank, Sampath, and HNB ATMs reliably accept foreign cards. Maximum withdrawal typically LKR 50,000–100,000 per transaction. Fee: LKR 300–500 per foreign card transaction. Stock up on cash before travelling to rural areas. Some ATMs run out on weekends.
Exchange Tips
Licensed money changers offer better rates than airport counters. Reliable options in Fort (Colombo), Pettah market, and hotel exchange desks. The LKR is a floating currency (since 2022). Avoid informal/black market exchange — illegal and risky. Wise works well for international LKR transfers.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents