Buy Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR)

The Low Down on Sri Lankan Currency

Currency:	Sri Lankan rupee
Currency code:	LKR
Central Bank:	Central bank of Sri Lanka
Currency symbol:	රු, ரூ, Rs
Currency sub unit:	cents
Bank notes:	රු.20, රු.50, රු.100, රු.500, රු.1000, රු.5000
Coins:	25, 50 cents, රු.1, රු.2, රු.5, රු.10

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the rupee - abbreviated to LKR, with 1 rupee being divided into 100 cents.

The rupee is issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and has been the official currency in Sri Lanka since 1872.

Prior to the use of the rupee, Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) used the British pound as its currency.

The most commonly used bills for the rupee are the 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 notes.

What to spend your rupee on**:

Street food meal
258 LKR
A cup of coffee
366 LKR
1 kg of tomatoes
210 LKR
½ day at Elephant Freedom Project
6,500 LKR
A 1 km taxi ride
50 LKR

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Must-sees in Sri Lanka

Colombo
The capital city of Sri Lanka is well worth a visit; this sprawling metropolis is a mixed city where you’ll just as likely catch a tuk-tuk as find yourself admiring the stunning colonial architecture. A vibrant mix of modern and traditional cultures.

Yala National Park
Yala National Park is a must-see place for wildlife and nature lovers. This park has the densest population of leopards in the world. You’ll spy elephants, crocodiles, monkeys and more in this jungle paradise.

Sigiriya
Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock, is a natural wonder atop an eroded volcano. A mystic site, you’ll be able to explore ancient murals and poetry on the foundation walls atop the former fortress of King Kassapa.

FAQ Relating to Sri Lankan Currency LKR

Can you use Indian rupees in Sri Lanka?
No, the official currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee and you cannot use Indian rupees as these are two completely different currencies.
What is the symbol used for Sri Lankan currency?
The main symbols for the rupee are රු, ரூ, Rs- the currency code is LKR.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Sri Lanka?
Yes, most major credit cards are widely accepted in Sri Lanka.

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Prefer to Buy in Store?

If buying online is not your thing, visit your nearest Travelex store around and one of our friendly sales consultants will help you organise your rupees for your trip to Sri Lanka.

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Travelling to Sri Lanka in the Future?

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How to Keep your Money Safe while Travelling

Dealing with lost or stolen funds while taking a trip is not only a hassle, but also extremely stressful. Learn how to keep your money safe while travelling.

^{*Rates are subject to change throughout the day. In-store rates vary compared to online.}

^{**The figures provided are indicative only and are there to provide an idea of the amount of travel money you may need during your trip.}

^{^^Based on mid-market and Travelex Online AUD to FX exchange rates as of the date of the relevant social media post and/or email communication. Rates are subject to change throughout the day. Any rates and savings are quoted as a guide only.}

^{Travelex Limited (ABN 36 004 179 953, AFSL Number 222444) arranges for and sells Online Foreign Currency via its Online Ordering Facility. You should consider the Online Foreign Currency Product Disclosure Statement and Terms and Conditions before deciding whether to acquire the product.}

Buy Sri Lankan rupee