Is cash payment accepted by Sri Lankan taxi drivers?

Yes, cash is still the most widely accepted and preferred payment method for taxi and tuk-tuk drivers across Sri Lanka. It is strongly suggested to keep some Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) on hand, especially in small denominations.

Even though digital ride-hailing apps can enable linked card payments, real money remains the backbone of the local transport economy, mainly outside the big metropolitan areas. Independent taxi drivers, street-flagged tuk-tuks, and regional cabs operate almost entirely on cash. Try to split up large notes like the 5,000 LKR note at hotels or supermarkets, because many drivers do not usually have the exact change for small fares.