Shopping in Sri Lanka: 18 Best Places To Shop in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, one of the sought-after island destinations, is known for its tropical outlook and various historical monuments. Apart from these, Sri Lankan tourism is also known for shopping. One of the hidden values of the country is its shopping range. Sri Lanka’s shopping scenes start from beautifully handcrafted jewellery and go up to precious gems. Shopping in Sri Lanka is every shopaholic’s dream. From luxurious shopping complexes to floating markets, Sri Lanka has everything in it. Are you planning to visit Sri Lanka for this holiday? Then, Book your trip today at Sri Lanka Vacation packages and make sure you check out all these amazing shopping areas for the best shopping in Sri Lanka. 

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Best Places for Shopping in Sri Lanka

• Ratnapura
• Majestic City
• Pettah Floating Market 
• Franciscan Sister’s Jam Room
• Galle Fort
• Dutch Gallery 
• Mlesna Tea Centre 
• Orchid House
• Exotic Roots
• Barefoot
• Paradise Road
• Rangala House Art Gallery
• Lakpahana
• Selyn 
• Jayamali Batiks Studio
• Laksala
• Crescat Boulevard
• Odel

1. Ratnapura – For Precious Jewels

Ratnapura, as the name suggests (‘Town of Gems’ – Ratna – gems; Pura – town), is known for the gem trade and is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for shopping. All the gem traders gather here to sell their precious stones. There are three places renowned for Gem shopping in Sri Lanka:-

1. Aba Gaha Mula gem market
2. Clock Tower gem market
3. Demuwawatha Gem market

If you are planning to buy gems, then visit the Clock Tower market before 7:00 am. This market is live and active only between 6:00 and 9:00 am. After 9:00 am, most of the traders will leave for the Aba Gaha Mula gem market. The Aba gaha mula market is open every day but less active on Sundays. 

The Demuwawatha Gem Market is one of the most popular places for shopping in Sri Lanka and is open throughout the day. They are known for the famous Sri Lankan sapphires, making gemstones one of the best things to bring back from Sri Lanka. If you are doubtful about whether the gem is real or not, do not worry; visit the nearby Gemology Lab operated by the Sri Lankan government and verify it. That’s a great way to take home an authentic souvenir from your trip.

Gem shopping in Sri Lanka

2. Majestic City

This seven-storey building is the most popular shopping complex and one of the best places for shopping in Sri Lanka for luxury products. It’s sure to surprise you with what it has.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: 10 Station Rd, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Majestic city in Sri lanka

3. Pettah Floating Market

Unlike the floating market of Thailand, this beautiful market is built on a wooden bridge over a water body and is a unique place to visit in Colombo for shopping. Stroll across the market, enjoying shopping and relishing the local cuisine.

Timings: 8 AM – 10:30 PM
Location: W E Bastian Mawatha, Colombo 01000, Sri Lanka

Floating Market in Srilanka

4. Franciscan Sister’s Jam Room

The Franciscan Sister’s Jam Room is the ideal place for shopping in Sri Lanka if you are looking for some delicious jams, pickles, and other chutneys. Their homemade products reflect the flavours and traditions of Sri Lanka culture, offering visitors a taste of local culinary heritage. They also sell varieties of marmalades, sauces, jellies, and a variety of home-brewed wines. Happy shopping! Happy eating!

Timings: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: 11 Long Street Church Road, Nuwara Eliya 22200 Sri Lanka

Jam bottles| Shoping in Sri Lanka

5. Galle Fort

Sri Lanka is famed and known for the production and export of various spices. If you love spices, then Galle Fort is the right place for spices shopping in Sri Lanka. 

Location: Church Street, Galle 80000

Indian Spices| Shopping in Srilanka, best shopping

6. Dutch Gallery 

The Dutch Gallery displays a unique style of antiques for shopping in Sri Lanka. You will be able to find a lot of objects of historical importance here, making it one of the historical sites to visit in Sri Lanka for travellers interested in the country’s rich past and heritage.

Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Location: 33 Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

7. Mlesna Tea Centre 

How can you forget purchasing the renowned tea of Sri Lanka? Are you a Chai lover? Then make sure your Mlesna Tea Centre is where you head to for tea shopping in Sri Lanka. You’ll simply love them.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Location: Shop No 1-08B, Majestic City, Galle Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

8. Orchid House

This is one of the places where you can purchase anything, right from handicrafts, furniture, and clothing to spices and tea. If you are short of time and want to purchase everything in a single stop, then this is the right place for shopping in Sri Lanka and a convenient addition to your 5-day Sri Lanka itinerary.

Timings: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM 
Location: 28A Hospital Street | Fort, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

9. Exotic Roots 

Similar to the Orchid House, the Exotic Roots has everything you need for shopping in Sri Lanka. If you aren’t satisfied with Orchid House, then make a visit to Exotic Roots.

Location: 23 Lighthouse Street, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

10. Barefoot

Barefoot is owned by the famous designer Barbara Sansoni. They are one of the luxury boutiques for shopping in Sri Lanka. They also have a cafe within their complex that offers door deliveries as well. 

Timing: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM  (Monday to Saturday)
  11:00 AM – 6:00 PM  (Sunday)

Locations: They are located at three different locations

1. 704 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
2. Dutch Hospital Fort, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
3. 41 Pedlar Street, Galle Fort, Galle, Sri Lanka.

11. Paradise Road

This place will just put you in awe. It has a great collection of handcrafted items and other souvenirs to buy in Sri Lanka at a nominal cost, making it a perfect stop to pick up unique gifts and local treasures.

Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM 
Location: 213 Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka.

12. Rangala House Art Gallery

Rangala House Art Gallery welcomes all the painting maniacs. If you go crazy for paintings, you definitely shouldn’t miss this place.

Location: 7/1/1, Temple Street, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka.

oil Painting| Shopping in Sri Lanka

13. Lakpahana

Lakpahana is the classic souvenir store at a cheaper price. Though the souvenirs are at a cheaper cost, the quality still remains good, making it one of the best places for shopping in Sri Lanka.

Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: 14, Reid Avenue, Philip Gunewardena Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka.

Srilankan mask, shopping in Srilabka

14. Selyn 

An ideal place for shopping for traditional sarees, kurtas, sarongs, etc in Sri Lanka.

Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Monday to Saturday) 
  10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Sunday)
Location: 102 Fife Rd, Colombo 00500, Sri Lanka.

15. Jayamali Batiks Studio

Batik is actually an Indonesian technique of wax-resist dyeing. Though it originated from Indonesia, the Sri Lankan traders have aced the art, and their works have gained global attention. Jayamali Batiks Studio is one of the best places for Batik Fabric shopping in Sri Lanka. We are here to customise your Sri lanka honeymoon packages and make your journey a memorable one.

Timings: Throughout the day.
Location: 196 Market Street, Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Batik art work on a cloth

16. Laksala

This is the only state-owned Handicraft store for shopping in Sri Lanka. Beautifully handcrafted materials are available at a cheaper price. Even if you do not plan to purchase, do visit this place. You will definitely love the artwork.

Timings:  9:00 AM – 9:00 PM 
Location: No. 215, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Thummulla, Colombo 7.

17. Crescat Boulevard

Crescat Boulevard is a modern, present-day shopping complex which is located in the centre of Colombo city. Tourists on a Sri lanka tour seeking a worthy shopping destination should visit this shopping hub. Crescat Boulevard smoothly blends rich retail along with a variety of dining options to indulge in. With diverse international as well as local brands, Crescat Boulevard caters to enthusiastic shoppers seeking a luxurious and comfortable shopping experience in Sri Lanka.

Location: Galle Main Road, Colombo

Timings: 10am to 8pm

18. Odel

Odel is a well-known Sri Lankan brand which has established itself as a lifestyle and fashion landmark over the years. The main store in Colombo is a busy hub that offers a wide array of clothing and accessories as well as décor products. Odel is spoken for its perfect mix of both traditional and modern design which showcases the rich culture of Sri Lanka. 

Location: 135 Dutugemunu Street, Colombo

Timings: 10am to 8pm

Conclusion:

Shopping in Sri Lanka is more than just buying souvenirs; it is a journey through the island’s rich culture, craftsmanship, flavours, and traditions. From precious gems and Ceylon tea to handmade crafts and local delicacies, this vibrant shopping experience offers travellers something unique to take home. Exploring these markets allows visitors to discover the true essence of the island and collect memorable treasures that reflect its beauty, heritage, and creativity.

FAQs

1. What is Sri Lanka famous for shopping?
Sri Lanka is famous for shopping for precious gemstones, Ceylon tea, spices, handicrafts, traditional textiles, and unique souvenirs. These local products showcase the country’s rich culture and craftsmanship.

2. What is worth buying in Sri Lanka?
What is worth buying in Sri Lanka includes sapphires, tea, spices, batik fabrics, handmade crafts, wooden items, and traditional masks. These products make meaningful gifts and travel memories.

3. What to buy as a tourist in Sri Lanka?
What to buy as a tourist in Sri Lanka includes authentic gems, herbal products, local snacks, tea, and handcrafted souvenirs. These items represent the island’s traditions and heritage.

4. Is it cheap to buy clothes in Sri Lanka?
Yes, it is generally affordable to buy clothes in Sri Lanka, especially traditional wear, batik fabrics, and locally made garments. Shopping markets offer a variety of options at different prices.

5. What are the best places for shopping in Sri Lanka Colombo?
The best places for shopping in Sri Lanka Colombo include Majestic City, Pettah Floating Market, Odel, Barefoot, and Crescat Boulevard. These places offer everything from local products to luxury items.

6. What are the famous gifts from Sri Lanka?
The famous gifts from Sri Lanka include Ceylon tea, gemstones, spices, handmade crafts, wooden carvings, and traditional masks. These souvenirs are perfect reminders of your Sri Lankan holiday.

7. Where can you find cheap shopping in Sri Lanka?
Cheap shopping in Sri Lanka can be found at local markets, street shopping areas, and handicraft stores like Pettah Market and Lakpahana. These places offer affordable souvenirs and traditional products.