Sri Lanka Post
Send mail and parcels to every corner of Sri Lanka, or internationally, through the Department of Posts - the island's national postal service with over two centuries of history.
What it helps with
- Letters and cardsIsland-wide.
- A cheap parcel abroadSlower than courier.
- Tracking registered mailOnline.
About Sri Lanka Post
Sri Lanka Post (the Department of Posts) is the government-run national postal service of Sri Lanka, with roots going back to 1798, making it one of the oldest postal systems in Asia. It operates through a network of more than 4,700 post offices across the island, reaching areas that private couriers often find harder to serve, and offers domestic and international mail, parcel and money-order services alongside newer business and e-commerce shipping solutions.
Key Features
- Extensive Island-Wide Network: Over 4,700 post offices reach both cities and remote rural areas across Sri Lanka.
- Multiple Service Tiers: Choose from ordinary mail, registered mail, domestic Speed Post, or international Express Mail Service (EMS) depending on urgency and tracking needs.
- Affordable Rates: Generally more cost-effective than private international couriers, especially for standard domestic mail and parcels.
- E-Commerce and Business Mail Support: Tools and APIs for online sellers to integrate automated shipping and tracking notifications.
How to Get Started
- Visit your nearest post office to send a letter or parcel, or check the Sri Lanka Post website for online service information.
- Choose a service tier - ordinary, registered, Speed Post or EMS - based on how quickly you need it delivered and whether you want tracking.
- Pay for postage based on the weight, size and destination of your item.
- Track a registered, Speed Post or EMS shipment online using the tracking number on your receipt.
Before you use it
- Limits: International parcels by post are cheap but can take weeks.
- Payment: Pay in cash in rupees at the post office counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Sri Lanka Post work with a foreign bank card in Sri Lanka?
- Not reliably - a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
- Is Sri Lanka Post available in English?
- Yes, Sri Lanka Post has an English-language interface.
- Do I need a local phone number to use Sri Lanka Post?
- No, an international phone number generally works for Sri Lanka Post.
- Do I need local ID or residency for Sri Lanka Post?
- No, Sri Lanka Post doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.
- Where can I use Sri Lanka Post?
- iOS · Android · Web
- How much does Sri Lanka Post cost?
- Low postal tariffs by weight