Banking & Money

Can international travelers use UnionPay cards and withdraw cash from ATMs in Sri Lanka?

Travelers report that UnionPay cards from Russian Agricultural Bank (RSHB) and ATB can work in Sri Lanka, though not everywhere: cash withdrawals are possible and some supermarkets accept them. ATM fees were not specified, so carrying backup cash for accommodation payments is sensible.

3 sources · 5 days ago

Are older US dollar bills accepted in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, and do they get a lower exchange rate?

Both older and newer US dollar bills are accepted in Sri Lanka, but older notes typically receive 3–5 LKR less per USD. Bring clean, undamaged bills without writing; jewellery shops can often offer competitive exchange rates.

2 sources · 13 days ago

Where to exchange USD for the best rate in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka?

Airport rate is about 331 LKR per $1, jewelry shops in Hikkaduwa offer around 332 — barely any difference. Hotels and taxi drivers give a much worse rate (around 309 LKR), so paying in USD there is a bad deal.

1 source · 69 days ago

What currency to bring to Sri Lanka and where to get the best exchange rate?

Bring USD or EUR in clean, unmarked bills. Jewelry shops offer the best exchange rates; the airport has a fixed, less favorable rate.

3 sources · 11 days ago