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The Ultimate Guide To Shopping In Colombo: Markets, Boutiques, and Malls – Sri Lankan Style Retail Indulgence

Sri Lanka is upgrading its status to a top shopping destination in South Asia. Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, is home to several malls, boutiques, and markets. These are the best picks.

What to Buy

With all sorts of unique items to discover, shopping in Colombo is a wonderful experience. From handloom clothes to clay pots to exotic spices, you can find a variety of things that relate to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

These are some of the items that typically catch a tourist’s eye:

  • Gemstones and jewellery: Those who are familiar with gems will know that Sri Lanka is also called the Gem Island because of its rich supply of natural gemstones. Colombo is the perfect spot to explore and buy these precious stones. The selection of gemstones in Colombo ranges from sapphires to rubies to rare stones like star sapphires and cat’s eye. There’s a range of well-known jewellers in Colombo. They sell gems as well as necklaces, earrings, and rings, all featuring stunning gemstones.
  • Handloom textiles: Sri Lanka is famous for its handloom textiles, such as saris and colourful batik fabrics. There are several stores selling these gorgeous fabrics, but Selyn and Barefoot are the most popular. They offer some of the loveliest handmade textiles you’ll find anywhere. These textiles come in the form of wall hangings, tablecloths, and clothing.
  • Traditional masks: If you’ve seen traditional dance performances in Sri Lanka, you might have noticed that the dancers wear colourful, elaborate masks – these can be bought in Colombo. They’re sure to add an exotic touch to your home.
  • Spices: Sri Lankan cuisine revolves around spices, and you can find them in almost any supermarket in Colombo. However, for a local experience, head to Pettah Market.
  • Tea: Did you know that Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea producers in the world? The moniker ‘Ceylon Tea’ is recognised by tea lovers all around the world. You can find a wide variety of delectable teas during your time in Colombo.
  • Handicrafts: From detailed wood carvings to brass items, you can find a variety of handicrafts in stores such as the Paradise Road Concept Store and Laksala.
  • Ayurvedic products: Places like Spa Ceylon sell a range of skincare products rooted in Ayurveda.
  • Art: Colombo has a thriving art scene. You can explore local markets as well as prestigious art galleries, such as the Paradise Road Gallery and Saskia Fernando Gallery.

Where to Stay While Shopping in Colombo

Colombo is the country’s capital. As befitting that status, the city offers a wide array of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. Since you’re planning to explore the city’s shopping outlets, it would be easier to stay in a central location, cutting down on travel time and using that saved time for more exploration – because there’s always more to do in Colombo.

Looking to splurge a little? Then stay in a luxury hotel in Colombo that not only offers premium accommodation but also experiences. Your options include NH Collection Colombo .

Pettah Market

If there’s one place you should visit to get a glimpse of the local life in Sri Lanka, Pettah Market is it. It’s a place where life happens in the liveliest and most colourful way. It’s a large market with different sections selling all kinds of things.

From clothes to bags to shoes, spices, kitchen items, and homeware, there’s absolutely nothing you won’t find here.

If it’s your first time, you might find it difficult to navigate, so it’s best to be accompanied by a local friend.

Laksala

This is one of the most popular stores in Colombo to buy unique items that reflect Sri Lankan heritage. Laksala, a government-run store, offers a range of items, including handloom clothes, mats, pots, gems, and brass items.

Odel

A well-known retail store in Colombo, Odel is an upscale department store. You can find both local and international fashion brands here, along with accessories and homeware. As diverse as its collection is its number of outlets – there are several. It’s the perfect spot to find the latest fashion items in Sri Lanka’s capital.

Barefoot

To find authentic Sri Lankan handloom items and handicrafts, visit Barefoot. The store was founded by Barbara Sansoni, a famous artist in Sri Lanka. The selection of items found at Barefoot includes textiles, clothes, and accessories.

Most of these items are created by local artisans. By shopping here, you not only find something unique to take home but also support local craftsmanship.

Arcade Independence Square

Housed in a beautiful, restored colonial-style house in Colombo, the Arcade Independence Square is a place to shop as well as to relax. It has been transformed into a spot where both locals and tourists come to shop and have a chat over a cup of coffee.

In addition to buying unique products, you can also dine at the many establishments here, serving both local and international dishes.

More Places to Shop

Colombo is a paradise for shopping lovers because there’s always one more place to explore. If you haven’t had your fill yet, even after shopping at all those places above, you can also drop by Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, Rithihi, Crescat Boulevard, and Luv SL.

Happy shopping!