The currency that is being used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). We usually deal with Rs 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 notes.

Travelers cheque arrive. However there are many authorized exchange counters at the arrival lounge and in Colombo.

The exchange rates depend on the international market rates. The rates are fairly flat in banks but hotels offer even lower rates. Money can be exchanged at the black market rates which will offer you better rates, namely jewelers, large stores etc. but discretion is essential. Always make sure to compare with the back rates before you exchange.

The banks are open Mon – Fri 8am – 3pm and closed at the weekends and Poya Days. The main banks are Bank of Ceylon, HSBC, Standard Chartered, Peoples, Hatton national, Sampath and Commercial.

Credit cards (MasterCard, Visa) are commonly accepted in hotels and restaurants and many shops, but do check first. Cash points are in most major towns but careful as they attract a lot of beggars.