Tipping Guide and Currency in Sri Lanka

 
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The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the national currency of Sri Lanka.

Understanding Sri Lanka’s Economy and Why Tipping Matters

The tourism sector is the third largest export earner in Sri Lanka contributing to 5.3% of GDP and employing 11 per cent of the country’s workforce. Economies of island nations such as Sri Lanka enjoy the benefits of tourism due to their unique biodiversity and cultural richness brought on by mainland isolation, as well as a maritime environment. The Report from the International Labour Organisation also notes that the small size and remoteness also leads to significant pressure on resources making it difficult to establish industries because of the high costs involved in setting up infrastructure. In the absence of other industries citizens must rely on tourism to generate GDP in these regions.

Tourism in Sri Lanka employs many people in the informal sector and in nations such as ours, the minimum wage is not as high as in developed countries.

Owners of small corner shops, vegetable and fruit farmers who supply the hotels, drivers and even community based guides are unsure of a steady income as tourism has remained volatile over the past few years. Most of the time, tips are a big part of how they ensure their families are looked after, they can access better health and ensure their kids are educated. When your itinerary is enriched by meeting these people it is only fair to tip them enough for the hard work and wonderfully warm service they provide - to say, thank you - we respect your time and effort in making our trip so special.

 
 
 

Tipping Guide

  • Giving Gratuities and tips is an accepted practice in Sri Lanka. Many Sri Lankans will make this holiday special for you. They may speak faulty English but if you think they have done their best for you, please be as generous as you wish at the end of the day.

  • For local community based guides and hosts: An average to good range of tipping is between US$5 - 10 per day per person. However, for family tours or group tours of over 2 pax please use your discretion in arriving at a suitable tip per group or per family which can fall within or outside the above range in total.

    For Chauffeurs, Main Tour Guide and Naturalists: An average to good range of tipping is between US$10 - 20 per day per person. However, for family tours or group tours of over 2 pax please use your discretion in arriving at a suitable tip per group or per family which can fall within or outside the above range in total.

  • For Housekeeping: an average of US$2 per day.

  • At Restaurants: a 10% service fee is acceptable.

    Locals will gladly accept your generosity but tipping is entirely at your discretion.

Currency, ATMs, Credit Cards

Its best to exchange currency before you exit the general Arrivals Lounge. There are several banks offering competitive rates and ATMS which accept VISA & MasterCard inside the general Arrivals Lounge.  If you are exchanging cash, it is best done with USD, GBP, or EUR. When traveling to Sri Lanka ensure you carry at least one credit card, one ATM card, and cash. As a guide - bring around USD 2000 in cash – mixture of bills ($5s, 10s, 20s) for tipping and miscellaneous purchases. Extra money can be withdrawn from ATMs. 

Credit Cards are accepted at all major Hotels, supermarkets and smarter restaurants but not at roadside kiosks. ATMs are available at all major cities only. Banks in some rural cities may refuse to exchange your cash and direct you to the ATM/automatic money exchange machine.

For more FAQ’s, please visit our FAQ page

 
 
Harriet Hoult