Shopping & Markets
Find authentic souvenirs, gems, spices, and handloom textiles
- Ceylon tea - buy from reputable brands
- Spices - from markets or reputable shops
- Gems - only from certified dealers with documentation
- Handloom textiles - from established stores or local cooperatives
- Masks - Ambalangoda area for authentic pieces
- Batik - Kandy area for traditional styles
- Moonstone jewelry - Meetiyagoda area near Beruwala
Authenticity Guide
How to spot genuine products and avoid overpriced fakes
Ceylon Tea
- Look for the Lion Logo — official Sri Lanka Tea Board certification
- Buy from trusted brands: Dilmah, Mlesna, Basilur, Zesta
- Check the packaging date — tea loses flavour over 2 years
- High-altitude teas (Nuwara Eliya, Uva) cost more but are premium
Gemstones
- Only purchase from NMGA (National Gem & Jewellery Authority) certified dealers
- Insist on a lab certificate for stones above $100
- Never buy "investment grade" gems from strangers who approach you
- Ratnapura and Beruwala are legitimate gem hubs — still get documentation
Spices
- Buy from reputable spice gardens with transparent pricing
- Check expiry dates and packaging seals
- Whole spices stay fresh longer than powdered — better souvenirs
- Beware of "factory" tours that end with high-pressure sales
Masks & Wood Carvings
- Ambalangoda is the authentic centre — buy from workshop artisans
- Hand-carved masks are heavier and have tool marks on the back
- Machine-made fakes are lighter, smoother, and cheaper
- Kadawala wood is traditional — ask the artisan about the wood used
Batik
- Genuine batik has wax crackle patterns visible when held to light
- Screen-printed fakes have perfectly uniform patterns
- Kandy factories offer demos — watch the process before buying
- Hand-batik is pricier but far more valuable as art
Moonstone Jewellery
- Meetiyagoda (near Beruwala) is the world's only moonstone mine area
- Real moonstone has a soft blue sheen (adularescence) — fakes are milky
- Buy from mine-adjacent workshops for best prices
- Ask for a certificate of origin if spending significantly
Groceries & Daily Necessities
Where to buy groceries, toiletries, and everyday items
For groceries, toiletries, and daily necessities, you can shop at local neighborhood shops or visit major supermarket chains found throughout Sri Lanka, especially in cities and larger towns.
Major Supermarket Chains:
- Food City - Widely available across the island, especially in Colombo and major cities
- Keells - Popular supermarket chain with locations in most cities
- Arpico - Well-established chain with stores in urban areas
What You'll Find:
- Fresh produce, packaged foods, beverages, snacks
- Toiletries, personal care items, household cleaning products
- International brands and local products
- Most accept credit cards and have air-conditioned shopping
Tip: For smaller items or in rural areas, local neighborhood shops (kade) are convenient and often have extended hours. Prices may be slightly higher than supermarkets but offer convenience.
Traditional Markets
Experience authentic Sri Lankan shopping at these bustling markets
Pettah Market
Colombo's sprawling, chaotic market district with streets specializing in different goods. The ultimate Sri Lankan market experience with wholesale prices.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Each street specializes in different goods
- Bargain everywhere
Galle Fish Market
Authentic fish market near Galle Fort where local fishermen sell their morning catch. Early risers are rewarded with a fascinating glimpse of maritime life.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Arrive before sunrise for best experience
- Wear closed shoes (wet floors)
Negombo Fish Market
Sri Lanka's largest fish market where colorful traditional boats bring in the night's catch. A must-see for photography enthusiasts and foodies.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Perfect first morning activity near airport
- Sunday auction most active
Kandy Central Market
Historic two-story market near the lake selling fresh produce, spices, and local snacks. Great place to experience everyday Kandyan life.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Upper floor has more tourist items
- Try local short eats downstairs
Jaffna Market
The main market of Jaffna offering unique northern Tamil products not found elsewhere in Sri Lanka. Famous for palmyra products and distinctive curry powders.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Try Jaffna-style vadai
- Buy authentic curry powder
Colombo Floating Market
Modern floating market on the Beira Lake canal in Pettah, with vendors selling from boats. Popular evening destination for locals and tourists.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Best visited in evening
- Try fresh fruit juices
Galle Fort Craft Stalls
Various craft stalls and boutiques scattered throughout the historic Galle Fort, selling quality artisan goods in a beautiful heritage setting.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Quality over quantity here
- Lace making unique to Galle
Galle Face Green Food Stalls
Sri Lanka's most famous street food destination - stalls line the ocean-front promenade serving local favorites at sunset.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Isso vadai is a must-try
- Busy on weekends and holidays
Colombo Kottu Roti Street
Several kottu stalls along Galle Road where the rhythmic sound of chopping fills the night. The ultimate kottu experience.
What to Buy:
Tips:
- Listen for the kottu beat
- Try different vendors
Shopping Areas & Districts
Explore these shopping districts and craft villages for quality souvenirs
Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
Beautifully restored Dutch colonial hospital complex now housing upscale boutiques, restaurants, and department stores. A popular shopping and dining destination.
Specialties:
Tips:
- Evening best for atmosphere
- Good restaurants for dinner
Barefoot Gallery & Store
Iconic handloom store and gallery showcasing colorful Sri Lankan textiles. Features gallery space for local art and a peaceful garden cafe setting.
Specialties:
Tips:
- Garden cafe offers peaceful setting
- Handloom products are signature items
Ambalangoda Mask Carving Village
Traditional center for Sri Lanka's famous devil dance masks. Multiple workshops where you can watch artisans at work and purchase authentic masks.
Specialties:
Tips:
- Visit mask carving workshops
- Mask museum worth seeing
Ratnapura Gem District
Sri Lanka's gem capital with numerous dealers and opportunities to see gems being mined, cut, and traded. Best for serious gem buyers.
Specialties:
Tips:
- Only buy certified stones
- Get documentation
Paradise Road
Upscale boutique in a beautiful colonial mansion showcasing the best of Sri Lankan design, homeware, and lifestyle products.
Specialties:
Tips:
- Great for unique gifts
- Cafe in beautiful setting
Kandy Arts & Crafts Association
Government-sponsored craft center with fixed prices and quality guarantees. Good for those who don't want to bargain.
Specialties:
Tips:
- Fixed prices - no bargaining
- Quality guaranteed