Central Bank Currency Museum
Discover Sri Lanka's economic journey through ancient coins and banknotes at this free, insightful museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid government holidays for access.
Central Bank Currency Museum
Best Time
Avoid government holidays for access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sri Lanka's economic journey through ancient coins and banknotes at this free, insightful museum.
"A little treasure for those who are enthusiastic on the history of economics in the world and specially in SL."
✅ Free Admission!
Entry is free, just sign the guest book. A great budget-friendly cultural stop. :moneywithwings:
⏰ Quick Visit
Allow about an hour to see everything. Perfect for a short cultural immersion. :stopwatch:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient & Foreign Coins
First Floor
Explore a collection of coins dating back to ancient Sri Lankan kings and beyond. A treasure for collectors and history buffs alike.
Sri Lankan Banknote History
First Floor
Trace the evolution of Sri Lankan currency, from early notes to modern designs. Understand the economic journey of the nation.
Economic History Exhibits
Gain insights into Sri Lanka's economic past through well-maintained displays. A surprisingly engaging experience for enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Guestbook
Combine Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Free Admission!
Entry is free, just sign the guest book. A great budget-friendly cultural stop. :moneywithwings:
⏰ Quick Visit
Allow about an hour to see everything. Perfect for a short cultural immersion. :stopwatch:
I followed in Atriokku-san's footsteps, I stood where he once stood
📚 Buy Publications
Interesting publications on currency are available for purchase on the ground floor. :books:
📍 Combine with Nearby Sights
Located near Colombo Fort Clock Tower and colonial buildings. Explore the area! :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Free Admission!
Entry is free, just sign the guest book. A great budget-friendly cultural stop. :moneywithwings:
⏰ Quick Visit
Allow about an hour to see everything. Perfect for a short cultural immersion. :stopwatch:
📚 Buy Publications
Interesting publications on currency are available for purchase on the ground floor. :books:
📍 Combine with Nearby Sights
Located near Colombo Fort Clock Tower and colonial buildings. Explore the area! :world_map:
🅿️ Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult in this busy area. Consider public transport or a tuk-tuk. :red_car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Central Bank Currency Museum for its free entry and insightful look into Sri Lanka's economic history, particularly its collection of ancient coins and banknotes. While some note the limited signage and potential parking difficulties, most find it a worthwhile and educational stop, especially when combined with nearby attractions.
"No tickets needed. Just sign a guest book when you enter. The museum is on the second floor. It was interesting to learn the history of money in Sri Lanka. Better than I thought it would be. Half hour visit is long enough. The Colombo lighthouse/ clock tower is just outside on the corner."
J K T
"This a little treasure for those who are enthusiastic on the history of economics in the world and specially in SL.
This museum is located just opposite to the Central bank and it has a collection of coins going back tho the ancient days of our kings.
For my surprise the entrance is free for this place. You have to just enter your details in the front desk and you can pay a visit and get an idea on how the cash notes and coins are printed, and the notes and coins of different periods.
Also if you are a cash notes or coin collector, some notes and coins are available for purchase as well. The Economic history museum is open on all weekdays except government holidays from 09:00 to 13:15 and again from 14:15 to 16:00 O'clock."
Nuwan Fernando
"One of the best place to get know about the history of Sri Lankan bank notes and coins.The museum maintained by Central Bank of Sri Lanka. Coin museum located at first floor and you can buy their publications from ground floor. Staff was really helpful."
Aruna Mapalagamage
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Colombo, near the Central Bank and Colombo Fort Clock Tower. It's accessible by public transport, tuk-tuks, or taxis. Parking can be challenging in the area.
It's situated on the first floor, opposite the Central Bank. While there isn't much external signage, its prominent location makes it discoverable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission is free! You just need to sign a guest book upon arrival. :ticket:
The museum is open on weekdays from 09:00 to 13:15 and again from 14:15 to 16:00. It's closed on government holidays.
Yes, some notes and coins might be available for purchase, and the ground floor office sells interesting publications. :moneywithwings: :books:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find exhibits on the history of money in Sri Lanka, including ancient and foreign coins, as well as Sri Lankan banknotes from different periods.
Most visitors find that about an hour is sufficient to explore the exhibits thoroughly. :stopwatch:
The exhibits on the history of money can be educational for older children interested in economics and history.
While specific signage might be limited, the exhibits generally cover the history of Sri Lankan currency, which can be understood with basic historical context.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are bars and cafes located nearby, and the museum is situated in a busy area with various dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but it's generally advisable to check with the staff upon entry. Some exhibits might have restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding free attractions like the Colombo Fort Clock Tower and the colonial buildings. It's a perfect way to soak in the local history and atmosphere without spending a lot of money.
📚 History & Numismatics Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to browse the publications available for purchase on the ground floor, which can offer deeper insights into numismatics and economic history. The exhibits, though perhaps not extensive, are well-maintained and informative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Sri Lankan Currency
While the museum is relatively small, its impact is significant for those interested in numismatics and economic history. The staff are often described as helpful, and the ground floor offers an opportunity to purchase publications related to Sri Lankan currency, making it a valuable stop for collectors.
It's important to note that the museum is located on the first floor and might lack extensive external signage, but its proximity to landmarks like the Colombo Fort Clock Tower makes it a discoverable point of interest. The free entry is a major draw, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
Practicalities for Your Visit
Given its location in a busy part of Colombo, parking can be a significant challenge. Many visitors opt for public transport or tuk-tuks to avoid the hassle. The museum itself is a relatively quick visit, with most people spending around an hour to appreciate the displays. This makes it an ideal activity to combine with other nearby attractions, such as the Colombo Lighthouse or exploring the historic colonial architecture in the vicinity.
For those keen on deepening their knowledge, the ground floor offers a selection of publications and potentially some currency items for sale. This adds another layer of value for collectors and history enthusiasts. The staff are generally noted for their helpfulness, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit