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Tipping in Sri Lanka

LKRLast reviewed · Feb 2026

Many restaurants and hotels add a 10% service charge in Sri Lanka. Tipping on top is not expected; if no service charge tip 10% in cash (LKR preferred), and round up for tuk-tuks and taxis.

Tipping not expected

Most common situations

Restaurant
Standard:Service included
Exceptional:10%
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+No service charge: 10% in cash to server. Local eateries round up or LKR 100-200.
Bar
Standard:Round up
Taxi
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:10%
Show details
+10% of fare or round up to nearest 100 LKR. Tuk-tuk: agree fare first then round up.
How to tip in Sri Lanka
•Check the bill for service charge
•Tip in cash (LKR) when possible
•Round up tuk-tuk and taxi to nearest 100 LKR
Quick tips
10% service charge common at restaurants and hotels (check the bill)
LKR preferred for tips
wages are low so tips appreciated
Other situations
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / BarberRound up
Spa & Massage10%
Hotel Staff200-500 LKR
Tour guides500-1000 LKR
Valet ParkingRound up
Airport ServicesRound up
Car Services / UberRound up

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Tipping Terms Glossary

Service charge
A mandatory fee added to the bill by the establishment, separate from optional tips.
Round up
To increase the total bill amount to the nearest convenient whole number or denomination.
Exceptional service
Service that exceeds standard expectations, often warranting a higher tip percentage or amount.
Cash preferred
A preference for cash tips over card tips, often because card tips may not reach staff directly.