food

Tipping culture in Sri Lanka - how much is appropriate?

Asked 3 months agoSeen by 4,180 travellers

Fiona Patel•102715 rep•2

I'm confused about tipping. Some places add service charge, others don't. How much should I tip drivers, guides, hotel staff and restaurant waiters?

food culture budget-travel accommodation

asked 3 months ago

Fiona Patel•102715 rep•2

4 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

10% is standard in restaurants if no service charge is added. For private drivers, 500-1000 LKR per day is appreciated (more if they were excellent). Hotel staff who carry bags or clean - 100-200 LKR per service. Safari jeep drivers and guides expect 1000-2000 LKR per day split among the team. Tour guides who do full-day cultural sites - 1500-2500 LKR. Always tip in cash directly to the person.

answered 3 months ago

Dilki Gunaratne•504960 rep•1

We tipped our driver 1500 LKR per day and he went above and beyond finding us great local restaurants. Worth every rupee.

answered 3 months ago

Omar Bakir•90820 rep•2

The most important tip is for your driver if you have one for multiple days. A good driver makes or breaks the trip. 1000 LKR/day is the minimum for decent service.