Here are the best casino-resort options in Sri Lanka for international visitors, with quick notes to help you pick and plan.

Top picks

• City of Dreams Sri Lanka (Colombo) — South Asia’s first large integrated resort (opened August 2025). World-class casino and entertainment operated by Melco, plus two hotels (Cinnamon Life and NÜWA), many restaurants, luxury shopping and big MICE facilities — a one-stop luxury/resort casino destination in Colombo’s beach-front district. Good choice if you want the newest, highest-end integrated resort experience. (Melco-resorts.com)

• Bally’s Casino (Colombo) — the longest-established and largest standalone casino in Colombo, located in the city centre near Galle Face Green. Offers a big mix of table games, slots and VIP/high-stakes areas; many international visitors pair a night at Bally’s with stays at nearby five‑star hotels (Cinnamon Grand, Shangri‑La, The Kingsbury, Taj, etc.). Good for travellers who want central‑Colombo nightlife and easy hotel options. (ballyscolombo.com)

• Casino at high‑end Colombo hotels / nearby options — Several major Colombo hotels link closely with casino operators or sit near the casino district, making them convenient for international visitors (for example Cinnamon Grand / Cinnamon Life properties and other five‑star hotels around Galle Face). If you want a full hotel+casino stay but not the mega‑resort, choose a luxury city hotel and plan casino visits in the same neighbourhood. (cinnamonhotels.com)

Other notes and practical tips for international visitors

• Who the casinos serve: Historically Sri Lanka’s land casinos have focused on foreign tourists and non‑resident players; policies vary by venue. Many casinos publish special international guest packages and promotions. (ballyscolombo.com)

• ID, entry and age rules: Casinos will ask for photo ID (passport is typically required for foreign visitors). Minimum age rules reported online vary (some sources state 18, others 21). Because enforcement and venue policies can differ, bring your passport and confirm the age/entry rule with the casino or your hotel before you go. (srilankaimmigration.org)

• Dress code & currency: Expect smart‑casual to formal dress rules at upscale casinos. Many accept major foreign currencies and cards, but casinos often operate in USD/LKR for bets — check accepted payment methods beforehand. (ballyscolombo.com)

• Hours & services: Some casinos operate 24/7; others have limited hours or special VIP rooms. If you need transfers, hotel packages, buy‑in offers or VIP access, contact the casino marketing/concierge in advance to arrange packages (many casinos list USD buy‑in packages and hotel/airfare bundles). (ballyscolombo.com)

• Safety & regulation: Sri Lanka expanded casino and integrated‑resort development recently (including the City of Dreams project). If gambling regulation, licensing or local rules are important to you, look for venues that advertise international operator partnerships (example: Melco at City of Dreams) and request details on their governance/standards. (ir.Melco-resorts.com)

Quick planning checklist for an international visitor

• Book a hotel near the casino you want (City of Dreams if you want the integrated‑resort experience; central Colombo hotels for Bally’s and the casino strip). (Keells.com)
• Carry your passport and a second photo ID; verify the casino’s minimum age and dress code in advance. (Vegas11.io)
• Ask about currency and chips (some casinos accept USD; card acceptance for buy‑in/cash‑out varies). (Vegas11.io)
• If you want VIP/buy‑in packages or airport transfers, contact the casino concierge/marketing team before travel. (ballyscolombo.com)

If you’d like, I can:

• Compare City of Dreams vs Bally’s side‑by‑side (games, VIP options, hotels, typical budgets).
• Check opening hours, current promotions or VIP package contact details for any specific property and the most up‑to‑date age/entry rules.

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