How to Call Sri Lanka
Complete guide to dialing Sri Lanka (country code +94)
Learning how to call Sri Lanka from abroad doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're connecting with family, coordinating business matters, or reaching out to hotels and services, understanding the proper dialing process ensures your calls go through smoothly every time. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Sri Lanka, including step-by-step dialing instructions for landlines and mobile phones, common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting, and cultural phone etiquette to help you make a great impression. We'll also share essential numbers you might need during your journey, from emergency services to customer support hotlines. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently making international calls to Sri Lanka without any hassle.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Sri Lanka from abroad, you'll need to follow this format: Exit Code + 94 + Area Code (without 0) + Local Number. Sri Lanka's country code is +94, and understanding the proper sequence ensures your call connects successfully.
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA:
Dial 011 (US exit code) + 94 + area code + local number
From UK:
Dial 00 (UK exit code) + 94 + area code + local number
From Other Countries:
Use your country's international exit code (commonly 00 or 011) + 94 + area code + local number. Alternatively, dial + (plus symbol) + 94 + area code + local number from mobile phones worldwide.
Important: Dropping the Leading Zero
Sri Lankan phone numbers start with 0 when dialing domestically. Always remove this leading zero when calling from abroad. For example, if the local number is 011-2345678, dial only 11-2345678 after the country code.
Specific Examples
Example 1 - Colombo Landline:
Local format: 011-2345678
From USA: 011-94-11-2345678
From UK: 00-94-11-2345678
From mobile: +94-11-2345678
Example 2 - Sri Lankan Mobile Number (Dialog):
Local format: 077-1234567
From USA: 011-94-77-1234567
From UK: 00-94-77-1234567
From mobile: +94-77-1234567
Example 3 - Kandy Landline:
Local format: 081-2234567
From USA: 011-94-81-2234567
From UK: 00-94-81-2234567
From mobile: +94-81-2234567
Example 4 - Another Mobile Number (Mobitel):
Local format: 071-9876543
From USA: 011-94-71-9876543
From UK: 00-94-71-9876543
From mobile: +94-71-9876543
Quick Tips
Mobile numbers in Sri Lanka typically start with 07X (like 070, 071, 072, 075, 076, 077, 078). Landline area codes vary by region: Colombo (11), Kandy (81), Galle (91), and others. Always verify the complete number before dialing to avoid connection issues.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Sri Lanka, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Sri Lankan phone numbers start with 0 domestically, but you must remove it when dialing internationally. For example, a Colombo number 011 234 5678 becomes +94 11 234 5678, not +94 011 234 5678.
2. Using incorrect exit codes
Different countries have different exit codes (011 from the US, 00 from Europe). Instead of memorizing these, simply use the "+" symbol, which works universally from mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
The country code +94 comes first, followed by the area code (without the zero). Don't accidentally dial the area code twice or place it before the country code.
4. Adding unnecessary spaces or dashes
While formatting varies, adding spaces in wrong places can cause dialing errors. The standard format is: +94 XX XXX XXXX, where XX is the area code.
5. Not accounting for time differences
Sri Lanka is GMT+5:30. Calling during your business hours might mean waking someone at 3 AM. Always check the local time before dialing.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Sri Lanka, understanding local customs helps build better relationships. Sri Lankans typically begin calls with a warm "Ayubowan" (traditional greeting) or "Hello," followed by asking about the person's well-being before discussing business matters. This shows respect and is considered polite.
For business calls, maintain a formal tone initially, using titles like "Mr.," "Mrs.," or professional designations. Personal calls can be more relaxed, though respect for elders remains important. Always address older individuals formally, even in casual conversations.
The best times to call are between 9 AM and 8 PM on weekdays. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:30-2 PM) or very early mornings. Weekend calls are acceptable for personal matters, but business calls should wait until Monday unless urgent.
Sri Lankans generally appreciate directness mixed with politeness. Get to your point after initial pleasantries, but avoid being abrupt. Speaking clearly is valued, as phone connections can sometimes be unreliable in certain areas.
Voice messages are widely accepted and often preferred when someone is unavailable. Keep them concise and include your name, purpose, and callback number. Follow up with a text message if the matter is time-sensitive.
One unique consideration: Sri Lanka is multilingual, with Sinhala, Tamil, and English commonly spoken. Starting in English for business is usually safe, but being open to language preferences shows cultural sensitivity and respect.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 119 or 118
- Ambulance (Suwa Seriya): 1990
- Fire and Rescue: 110
- Accident Service: 1938
- Tourist Police: 1912 or +94 11 242 1052
All emergency numbers can be dialed free of charge from any phone, including mobile phones, throughout Sri Lanka. The services operate 24/7 year-round. English-speaking operators are generally available at these emergency hotlines, particularly at the Tourist Police line, which specifically assists foreign visitors.
Suwa Seriya (1990) is Sri Lanka's advanced pre-hospital emergency ambulance service, providing free emergency medical response nationwide. When calling from abroad, add the country code +94. It's advisable to save these numbers in your phone upon arrival and keep them readily accessible throughout your stay.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 1919 – Directory Assistance for local and business numbers
- 161 – Telecommunications complaints and inquiries
International Services
- 100 – International Operator for assisted calls and collect calls
Tourist Support
- 1912 – Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority 24-hour helpline for tourist information, complaints, and assistance
Transportation
- 1919 – Railway inquiries and reservations
- +94-19-733-3333 – PickMe taxi service
Utilities & Services
- 1987 – Ceylon Electricity Board customer service
- 1939 – National Water Supply and Drainage Board
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy directly for citizen services. Most embassies are located in Colombo and maintain 24-hour emergency lines for nationals.
Other Useful Numbers
- 1988 – Consumer Affairs Authority for complaints
- 1969 – Department of Motor Traffic inquiries
Tips for Calling Sri Lanka
When calling Sri Lanka (UTC+5:30), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country is 5.5 hours ahead of GMT, so plan accordingly based on your location to avoid calling during late-night hours.
For business calls, target weekdays between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Sri Lankan time, when offices are typically open. Always schedule important business calls in advance, as this demonstrates professionalism and ensures availability. Avoid calling on Poya Days (monthly full moon holidays), Christmas, Sinhala and Tamil New Year (mid-April), and other national holidays when businesses close.
Consider off-peak calling hours (typically evenings and weekends) for personal calls, as rates may be lower depending on your provider. However, verify this with your carrier.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and articulate clearly, as English proficiency varies. Background noise can affect call quality, so find a quiet location. If discussing important matters, follow up with written confirmation via email. Be patient with potential language barriers and consider using simple, direct language. Mobile coverage is generally good in urban areas but may be spotty in rural regions, so don't be discouraged if connections occasionally drop.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Sri Lanka is +94. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Sri Lanka from anywhere in the world.
To dial Sri Lanka from your cell phone, dial + (or 011), then 94 (country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and then the local number. For example: +94 11 XXX XXXX for Colombo.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the area code when calling Sri Lanka internationally. For example, if the local number is 011 234 5678, dial +94 11 234 5678, removing the initial zero.
The cheapest way to call Sri Lanka is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Sri Lanka.
In Sri Lanka, the main emergency numbers are: 119 for Police, 110 for Fire and Ambulance, and 118 for Accident Service. These numbers can be dialed free of charge from any phone within Sri Lanka.
Yes, you can call Sri Lanka directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credits to your account, enter the Sri Lankan phone number, and start calling without any downloads or installations required.
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