Live US dollar to LKR (Sri Lankan rupee) exchange rate, updated in real-time. Convert US dollars to LKR or SLR instantly for your Sri Lanka trip budget.
Approximate values based on the current exchange rate (~305 LKR per USD). Use the live converter above for exact figures.
| US Dollars (USD) | Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) |
|---|---|
| $1 | LKR 305 |
| $5 | LKR 1,525 |
| $10 | LKR 3,050 |
| $20 | LKR 6,100 |
| $50 | LKR 15,250 |
| $100 | LKR 30,500 |
| $200 | LKR 61,000 |
| $500 | LKR 152,500 |
| $1,000 | LKR 305,000 |
Understanding how far your US dollars go in Sri Lanka helps you plan a realistic trip budget. Here is what each travel style typically costs in both USD and LKR:
A two-week trip to Sri Lanka typically costs $700–$2,500 USD depending on travel style, excluding international flights. Domestic transport by train is excellent value — Colombo to Kandy costs just LKR 200–480 (under $2 USD) in second class.
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR, also written as SLR or Rs.) is the official currency. There are 100 cents to the rupee, though cents are rarely used. Notes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 LKR.
ATMs: Widely available in Colombo and major tourist towns including Kandy, Galle, Ella, and Negombo. Use ATMs attached to major banks (Sampath, Commercial Bank, People's Bank) to avoid high fees. Most international debit and credit cards work. Expect a withdrawal fee of $3–5 per transaction.
Where to exchange USD to LKR: Licensed money changers and banks in Colombo, at Bandaranaike International Airport arrivals, and in Kandy and Galle Fort offer competitive rates. Avoid exchanging at hotels — rates are typically 5–10% worse than banks. The People's Bank and Commercial Bank of Ceylon are reliable options island-wide.
Cards vs. cash: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and tour operators in Colombo and Galle accept Visa and Mastercard. For tuk-tuks, local markets, street food stalls, and small guesthouses, cash in LKR is essential. Always carry small bills — vendors rarely have change for 2,000 or 5,000 LKR notes.
Tipping: 10% is standard at restaurants with table service. Round up tuk-tuk fares. LKR 200–500 for hotel porters. Tour guides typically receive LKR 1,000–2,000 per day. Service charges are often included in upscale restaurant bills.
The US dollar to LKR exchange rate fluctuates daily based on economic conditions. Check the live rate at the top of this page for the most accurate conversion. As of 2026, 1 USD is approximately 295–315 LKR. Use our live converter above for the exact current rate.
USD is not widely accepted for day-to-day purchases in Sri Lanka. You'll need Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) for tuk-tuks, local shops, and street food. Some hotels, tour operators, and high-end restaurants accept USD, but you will typically receive change in LKR at a less favorable rate. Always exchange to LKR for the best value on everyday spending.
Licensed money changers and banks in Colombo, Kandy, Galle, and major tourist areas consistently offer the best USD to LKR rates. The Bandaranaike International Airport arrivals hall has licensed exchange counters that offer reasonable rates for your first exchange. The People's Bank, Commercial Bank of Ceylon, and Sampath Bank are reliable options across the island. Avoid hotels and unofficial exchangers — rates are typically 5–10% worse.
Budget travelers typically spend $25–40 per day, mid-range travelers $50–100 per day. For a 2-week trip, bring $700–$2,000 USD depending on your travel style. ATMs are widely available in cities and most tourist towns, so you do not need to bring all your trip money in cash. Keep $100–200 USD as emergency backup in case ATMs are unavailable in remote areas.
The LKR to USD rate is the inverse of the USD to LKR rate. If 1 USD equals 305 LKR, then 1 LKR equals approximately $0.0033 USD. To convert LKR to USD, divide the LKR amount by the current exchange rate. Use the converter above to calculate LKR to USD instantly.