One of the lesser-known yet fun experiences of visiting Sri Lanka is trying your luck with a local lottery ticket. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura or relaxing on the beaches of Mirissa, you’ll find lottery vendors almost everywhere.
🧾 Are foreigners allowed to buy tickets?
Yes! Tourists can legally purchase state-run lottery tickets such as DLB (Development Lotteries Board) or NLB (National Lotteries Board) without restrictions.
💰 What if you win?
Congratulations! You’re legally entitled to claim the prize. All you’ll need is your passport and the winning ticket. Do note that for high-value prizes (usually above Rs. 500,000), a 10% government tax applies.
💱 Cash out in LKR
Winnings are paid in Sri Lankan Rupees. Transferring large amounts abroad may require approval under Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange laws — so consult a bank if you strike it big!
🎟️ So why not try your luck?
Who knows — your Sri Lanka travel diary might just include a jackpot win!
🇱🇰 Biggest Lottery Wins in Sri Lanka (with USD Equivalent)
| Rank | Lottery | Date | Prize (LKR) | USD Equivalent |
| 1 | Mega Power | June 16, 2025 | 474,599,422 | ≈ 1,582,000 USD |
| 2 | Mega Power | Sep 2020 | 236,000,000 | ≈ 785,000 USD |
| 3 | Kotipathi Kapruka | Oct 27, 2019 | 145,029,213 | ≈ 483,000 USD |
| 4 | Mahajana Sampatha | 2006 | 60,000,000 | ≈ 200,000 USD |