Boat Show Srilanka

There are a number of unique things, which tourists can buy in Sri Lanka. Gems, Readymade Garments, Batiks, Tea and Handicrafts are popular shopping items in Sri Lanka among the tourists.

Furniture, hand made Silver, Lacquer ware, and Brass objects are other articles that tourists can purchase.There is no doubt you will enjoy shopping in Sri Lanka because of cheaper price and the variety.

For gems, Ratnapura has been the main source for many centuries and most of the Country’s gem dealers are located in this town. Most gem cutting centers also offers gems to be set into jewelry by the visitors.

Gems are also available at jewelry shops around the country, mainly in Capital, Colombo. You need to be careful while buying gems on the street or from dealers. They offer irresistible bargains, however, on returning home, the stone bought may turn out to be worthless.

Goods made from ivory, turtle shell, coral reefs or reptile skin of any kind should totally be avoided, for they are illegal and the new purchases will be confiscated by customs at time of the homeward journey.

Along Colombo – Kandy road there are number of places you can buy handicrafts made in Sri Lanka. Kandy also is one of the best places to buy most of the handicrafts produced in Sri Lanka.

There are number of shops catering to the tourists. At Kundasale, about 4km from Kandy, a village has been established recently to settle local craftsmen and their families. Visitors could watch artisans at work and purchase their products on site.

Sri Lanka is a major garment manufacturer and exporter of all kinds of clothing. Colombo is a major attraction for garment hunters. One can buy excellent selection of children’s wear, beach wear, casual clothing for men and women and warm padded jackets at attractive prices from Colombo.

As the producer of the world’s finest teas there are many tea sales centers at most tourist destinations around the country and at main shopping centers in Colombo.

Imitation of Dutch and British era furniture is also very popular among tourists.

For the souvenir shopper Sri Lanka offers a whole treasure house. Small craft and souvenir shops surround virtually every resort hotel, with mementos to suit every budget. Bargaining is the order of the day.

The best bargains are carved wooden masks, leather goods such as bags and belts. Silver and gold jewellery and precious gemstones like rubies and sapphires are widely sold.

Hand-woven textiles, sarongs, fabrics and brassware are other good picks. Ceramic drinking gourds, batiks, bronze and tea are other items which deserve to be bought. Beware!

Also, never go to a shop with a tout or a guide. You will only end up paying more.