Where to exchange money in Pannipitiya
Before you set out exploring in Pannipitiya, it's wise to be as prepared as possible for your trip. One important thing is knowing the local currency if it differs from your own and where you can exchange it.
In this article you will discover some of the best currency exchanges in Pannipitiya that you can visit.
We will also introduce Wise - A digital alternative which could save you time and money.
Spend abroad without hidden fees
Currency exchanges in Pannipitiya
If you’re still into the idea of carrying cash around and exchanging it, here are some popular foreign currency exchange locations in Pannipitiya.
One reminder, though: there’s no such thing as fee-free or 0% commission foreign exchange transactions. So, always check the mid-market exchange rate in advance, so you know how much your money’s worth.
| Money Changer | Address | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Western Union | SDB, Town, RWVJ+V7W, Maharagama 10280, Sri Lanka | |
| MoneyGram | 35, 1 High Level Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 846 081 |
| MoneyGram | 51 Main St, Athurugiriya 10150, Sri Lanka | +94 112 762 875 |
| MoneyGram | 120 Kaduwela - Athurugiriya Rd, 10150, Sri Lanka | +94 112 744 351 |
| Dedigama Group | 224 Horana Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 172 424 |
| Sampath Bank Kottawa | 948 High Level Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 782 684 |
| Maruthi Money Exchange (Pvt) Ltd | 285 Galle Rd, Colombo 00600, Sri Lanka | +94 112 362 086 |
| Commercial Bank | 950, 950A High Level Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 781 059 |
| MoneyGram | 71 Avissawella Rd, Homagama 10200, Sri Lanka | +94 112 857 172 |
| Makumbura Multimodal Center (MMC) - Kottawa | RXRG+6HR, 168 Avissawella Rd, Pannipitiya, Sri Lanka | +94 112 034 477 |
| Senkadagala Finance - Maharagama Branch | No. 161/1/A, High Level Road, Maharagama, Maharagama 10280, Sri Lanka | +94 112 896 888 |
| MoneyGram | 245/2 Battaramulla - Pannipitiya Rd, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Sri Lanka | +94 114 412 553 |
| හැටන් නැෂනල් බැංකුව කොට්ටාව ශාඛාව | Avissawella Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 846 082 |
| Prasanna Money Exchange (Pvt) Ltd | 57 Galle Rd, Colombo 00600, Sri Lanka | +94 112 591 420 |
| Seylan Bank PLC - Kottawa | No 360/2A High Level Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 842 682 |
| LB Finance PLC Kottawa | No 365 High Level Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 745 722 |
| Nations Trust Bank - Kottawa Branch | 269, 1 High Level Rd, Pannipitiya 10280, Sri Lanka | +94 114 388 428 |
| MoneyGram | Nations Trust Bank, 103 B47, Pannipitiya 10120, Sri Lanka | +94 114 407 789 |
| DFCC Bank - Kottawa | 29 High Level Rd, Pannipitiya 10230, Sri Lanka | +94 112 783 886 |
| MoneyGram | 705 Gangodawila, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka | +94 112 803 551 |
Sri Lankan rupee rate today
When you're in Pannipitiya, and also the rest of Sri Lanka, the official currency is the Sri Lankan rupee.
Yet, when you step into a currency exchange shop, you'll notice they use currency codes. The code associated with the Sri Lankan rupee is LKR, so be sure to take note of it when comparing exchange rates.
What you should know about exchanging money in Pannipitiya
Before exchanging money in Pannipitiya or any foreign city, it's important to be informed to avoid excessive charges and get the best deals. Consider opening a bank account in Sri Lanka for long-term stays or substantial investments like buying property or cars.
1. Beware of 'zero fee' services
Services claiming 'no commission' often offer poor exchange rates, not reflecting the mid-market rate, leading to hidden profits for them.
2. Check the exchange rate beforehand
Familiarize yourself with the base rate to identify a bad deal from exchange services.
3. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels
Convenience comes at a price, as airports and hotels usually offer poor rates and high transaction fees.
4. Use ATMs strategically
Check if your home bank has partnerships in Sri Lanka banks to avoid extra ATM fees, and inform your bank before traveling.
5. Opt for local currency
When using an ATM abroad, choose to be charged in Sri Lankan rupees for a fairer rate and avoid undisclosed exchange rates and additional fees.
Consider an alternative to physical currency exchanges
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Open a personal Wise account online or in the Wise app, and order a linked debit card for a one-time fee to spend and withdraw money in 150+ countries.
There’s no fee to spend any currency you hold, and no foreign transaction fee to worry about. Use your account when you travel or shop online in foreign currencies, send payments in 70+ currencies, and get your own local account details in 9 currencies.
Other currency exchanges
Bottom line
As you can see, there are plenty of options for exchanging money in Pannipitiya. Remember to do your research on the exchange rate and get the most out of your trip. For a fuss-free alternative to exchanging cash, check out Wise.
Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.