The shopping experience in Sri Lanka is truly unique. Beautiful handicrafts, colourful silk saris, exquisite jewels, aromatic spices, revitalising tea - you can take home value-for-money articles, many of which are exquisitely handcrafted, while visiting this island nation. And if you are travelling from the Western world, then it will all come to you at throwaway prices. However, do remember to check out the reasonable prices of items, to avoid being overcharged.
Shopping in Sri Lanka is a true experience and an explosion of the senses. Visit markets and experience real handicrafts made by the locals! Get the best deals, learn about the best places to shop in Sri Lanka, stop for some finger food, or relax in one of the Sri Lanka Restaurants along the city's shopping streets. For more local shopping information and places you can gop to shop, take a look at our Colombo and Southern Coast shopping guides.
Sri Lanka Shopping Guide
Western Shopping
Liberty Plaza at Kollupitiya and Majestic City at Bambalapitiya in Colombo offer the complete Western shopping experience. The shops here are organized and sell somewhat similar wares. Sri Lanka is famous for its garment exports and Colombo is replete with shops selling branded goods at unimaginably cheap prices.
Traditional Saris
Mardana Road in Colombo is a great place to buy saris. The shops here have saris in all colours and styles with a range to suit every budget. You will also find tailors at shops nearby who are willing to stitch a sari blouse for you. Be sure to stop by at one of these shops, else you will have to team the garment with a knitted blouse of your own!
Souvenirs
The government operated Laksala store or the privately owned Lakmadura store in Colombo are the best shops to pick up souvenirs for friends and family. All items sold here have a fixed price. If you are not happy with the collection at these stores, then you can browse through the street shops along Chatham
Street in Colombo. Kandy, the country's cultural capital is the ideal place to pick up handicrafts, while the world famous Ceylon tea is available at the various tourist centres around the country.
Don't forget to pick an exquisite gem from the Ratnapura gem market or an exquisitely carved elephant to adorn your mantle piece. Arm yourself with information on rates and do ensure that you are buying from a government certified shop.
Meeting your daily needs
If you are looking for books on Sri Lanka or just need a good read while on your trip, then the Lake House book shop in Colombo has an excellent collection to choose from.
You can shop for food and day to day items at Keels in Liberty Plaza or Cargills at Majestic City. Fresh produce can be picked up daily from street-side markets at every corner.
