Last updated 9 October 2026
Money
- The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can't easily buy it before you travel, so change money or use an ATM on arrival.
- ATMs are widely available in towns. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels and larger restaurants, but carry cash for small shops, entrance tickets, tuk-tuks and tips.
- Keep some small notes; change for large notes can be hard to find in rural areas.
Mobile data and SIM cards
Local SIM cards and eSIMs are inexpensive and give good 4G coverage in most areas. Dialog and SLT-Mobitel have desks in the airport arrivals hall; bring your passport to register.
Temple and cultural etiquette
- Cover your shoulders and knees at temples and sacred sites; a light scarf or sarong is useful.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple grounds. Socks help on hot stone in the midday sun.
- Never pose for a photo with your back to a Buddha statue, and don't touch statues or point your feet at them.
- Visible tattoos of the Buddha can cause serious offence and problems on arrival, so keep them covered.
- Ask before photographing people, especially monks.
- On Poya (full moon) days, alcohol isn't sold in shops and many places are quieter.
Tipping
Tipping isn't compulsory, but it is customary and appreciated in a country where wages are modest. A small service charge is often included on hotel and restaurant bills. Many travellers tip their driver at the end of the trip according to how happy they were with the service.
Health and safety
- Drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water.
- Use insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk, as mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue occur.
- The sun is strong; bring a hat and high-factor sunscreen.
- Swim only at recommended beaches and in season. Currents can be strong, especially during the monsoon on each coast.
- Sri Lanka is generally a safe and welcoming country. Use normal precautions with valuables.
Plugs and power
The power supply is 230 V. Sockets are mostly type D and type G, so a universal adapter is the easiest choice.
What to pack
- Light, breathable clothing, plus something to cover shoulders and knees
- A warm layer and a light rain jacket for the hill country, where evenings can be cool
- Comfortable shoes for climbing Sigiriya and hill walks, and sandals that slip off easily at temples
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent
- Any regular medication, with a copy of the prescription
