Metal Detecting in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s Antiquities Ordinance requires a licence from the Director General of Archaeology for excavation intended to discover antiquities, including on land belonging to the person carrying out the work. A property owner’s consent therefore does not replace that licence. Customs also confirms that exporting antiquities requires the appropriate approval. I could not verify a clear national permission for tourist detecting aimed exclusively at modern beach losses, or a general exemption for bringing a detector on holiday. Before packing your equipment, obtain written guidance from the Department of Archaeology and Sri Lanka Customs about entry, use and digging at your intended location.