Hi everyone, I’m planning a trip to Sri Lanka later this year (2025) and I’m a bit confused about the best way to handle money while traveling there. As an Indian traveler, should I carry USD cash and exchange it in Sri Lanka, or is it possible to directly exchange Indian Rupees (INR) at a good rate? I’ve heard mixed things about whether INR is accepted widely or not.
Also, how reliable are international debit/credit cards in Sri Lanka for paying at hotels, restaurants, or shops? Do smaller towns and local markets still prefer cash? I’d like to avoid high ATM withdrawal fees, but I also don’t want to carry too much cash for safety reasons.
For those who have traveled recently, what’s the most practical and cost-effective option — USD cash, INR, cards, or a mix of all three? Any tips on which exchange counters or banks give the best rates would be really helpful. Thanks in advance!”**
