Power plugs in Sri Lanka: which adapter to bring
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Power plugs in Sri Lanka: which adapter to bring

Sri Lanka uses 230V with type D and type G sockets. What that means for your chargers, and why one universal adapter solves everything. Sri Lanka runs on 230 volts, 50Hz, with two socket types in circulation: the old round three-pin type D and the British-style rectangular type G, which is now standard in newer hotels. A universal.

travelguides.lk · updated 5 Feb 2026 Sourced editorial

The practical picture

Sri Lanka runs on 230 volts, 50Hz, with two socket types in circulation: the old round three-pin type D and the British-style rectangular type G, which is now standard in newer hotels. A universal adapter covers both without drama.

Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage and work fine. Hotels increasingly add USB ports at the bedside, but a small power strip is a smart companion in older guesthouses where sockets are scarce.

Frequently asked

What plug type does Sri Lanka use?

Type G (British three rectangular pins) in most newer buildings, plus older type D round-pin sockets. A universal adapter handles both.

Is the voltage the same as Europe?

Yes, 230V at 50Hz, so European appliances work with just a plug adapter. North American devices need to be dual-voltage.

Are power cuts common?

Brief local outages happen occasionally. Hotels in tourist areas usually have backup power.

Places in this guide

Colombo Colombo Gangaramaya Temple Gangaramaya Temple Upali’s by Nawaloka 0.5 km Upali’s by Nawaloka Pilawoos 2.2 km Pilawoos Ministry of Crab 2.2 km Ministry of Crab Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara 7.4 km Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Negombo 31.4 km Negombo Bentota Beach 56.7 km Bentota Beach

Sources

  1. Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority ↗

We compile and link to public sources; details change, so verify time-sensitive specifics before you travel.