Souvenirs & What to Buy in Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
1. Blue Sapphires from Ratnapura
Natural blue sapphires mined in the Ratnapura region are world-renowned for their exceptional quality. Purchase a stunning piece of jewelry as a keepsake.
- Quality: Blue sapphires from Ratnapura are known for their superior quality and deep blue color.
- Authenticity: Ensure your purchase is authentic by buying from a reputable jeweler or gem showroom.
- Customization: Designs can be custom-made to suit personal taste, making each piece unique.
2. Ceylon Tea
Experience the rich aroma and flavor of Ceylon tea, Sri Lanka's most famous export. Tea sets, loose leaf teas, and flavored blends are available.
- Variety: Choose from a range of flavors including classic Ceylon, Earl Grey, and Masala Chai.
- Quality: Ceylon tea is known for its superior quality, aroma, and full-bodied flavor.
- Packaging: Gift boxes and elegant packaging make Ceylon tea a perfect souvenir.
3. Kandyan Dancers Masks
Traditional Kandyan dancers masks are intricately crafted and vibrantly colored. These masks make for striking decorative pieces.
- Craftsmanship: Masks are handcrafted by skilled artisans, showcasing traditional Kandyan artwork.
- Iconic Design: The masks represent various characters from Sri Lankan mythology and folklore.
- Collector's Item: Each mask is unique, making them valuable collectors' items.
4. Lacquerware from Kegalle
Kegalle lacquerware showcases intricate designs and a rich, glossy finish. Purchase a decorative bowl or box as a keepsake.
- Design: Lacquerware features traditional Sri Lankan motifs and patterns.
- Quality: Lacquerware is known for its durability and high-quality finish.
- Customization: Items can be custom-made to suit personal taste, making each piece unique.
5. Wooden Batik Fabrics
Beautifully designed batik fabrics are created using the traditional wax-resist dyeing method. Purchase a piece of fabric or a garment as a keepsake.
- Design: Fabrics feature intricate designs and vibrant colors.
- Craftsmanship: Each fabric is handcrafted by skilled artisans, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan techniques.
- Versatility: Fabrics can be used to create a variety of items including clothing, home decor, and accessories.
6. Wooden Masks from Ambalangoda
Wooden masks from Ambalangoda are intricately carved and vibrantly painted. These masks make for striking decorative pieces.
- Craftsmanship: Masks are handcrafted by skilled artisans, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan artwork.
- Iconic Design: The masks represent various characters from Sri Lankan mythology and folklore.
- Collector's Item: Each mask is unique, making them valuable collectors' items.
7. Coconut Shell Handicrafts
Intricately designed handicrafts made from coconut shells are a unique and eco-friendly souvenir. Choose from a variety of items including bowls, jewelry boxes, and decorative items.
- Material: Handicrafts are made from sustainable, locally sourced coconut shells.
- Design: Items feature intricate designs and vibrant colors.
- Versatility: Handicrafts can be used for various purposes, making them practical souvenirs.
8. Coconut Oil Soaps
Natural coconut oil soaps are made using traditional methods and infused with essential oils. Purchase a bar of soap as a practical and fragrant keepsake.
- Material: Soaps are made from natural coconut oil, making them gentle on the skin.
- Aroma: Soaps come in a variety of scents including lemongrass, sandalwood, and jasmine.
- Packaging: Soaps are packaged in attractive, eco-friendly wrappers.
9. Spices and Herbal Remedies
Purchase a variety of spices and herbal remedies from traditional apothecaries. Sri Lanka's tropical climate makes it an ideal place for growing these ingredients.
- Variety: Spices and herbs include cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and a variety of medicinal herbs.
- Quality: Spices and herbs are of exceptional quality due to Sri Lanka's ideal climate for cultivation.
- Healing Properties: Many spices and herbs have healing properties, making them valuable additions to a natural remedy kit.
10. Traditional Sri Lankan Music CDs
Experience the rhythm and melodies of traditional Sri Lankan music through CDs. Purchase a selection to enjoy at home.
- Variety: CDs feature a range of traditional music styles including Sri Lankan pop, folk, and classical.
- Authenticity: Music is performed by talented local artists, ensuring an authentic experience.
- Culture Preservation: Purchasing CDs helps preserve traditional Sri Lankan music and supports local artists.
11. Traditional Sri Lankan Dolls
Handcrafted dolls showcase traditional Sri Lankan clothing and accessories. These dolls make for charming keepsakes.
- Design: Dolls are dressed in traditional Sri Lankan attire, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage.
- Craftsmanship: Each doll is handcrafted by skilled artisans, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan techniques.
- Collector's Item: Dolls make valuable collectors' items and reminders of your trip to Colombo.
12. Sri Lankan Spice Pastes
Spice pastes are a flavorful and versatile addition to any kitchen. Purchase a variety of pastes to experiment with Sri Lankan cuisine at home.
- Variety: Pastes include coconut sambal, polos sambol, and fish curry paste.
- Taste: Spice pastes offer bold flavors and complex aromas.
- Convenience: Pastes are pre-made, making it easy to enjoy authentic Sri Lankan flavors at home.
13. Ceramic Elephants
Elephant figurines are a popular symbol of Sri Lanka. Choose from a variety of sizes and designs to take home as a keepsake.
- Design: Figurines feature intricate designs and vibrant colors.
- Cultural Significance: The elephant is a symbol of Sri Lanka, representing strength, wisdom, and good fortune.
- Versatility: Figurines can be used as decorative items or as paperweights.
14. Traditional Sri Lankan Jewelry
Jewelry showcasing traditional Sri Lankan designs and materials is a stunning addition to any collection. Choose from a variety of pieces including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
- Design: Jewelry features intricate designs inspired by Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
- Material: Jewelry is made from materials such as silver, gold, and gemstones.
- Craftsmanship: Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan techniques.
15. Traditional Sri Lankan Puppets
Handcrafted puppets showcase traditional Sri Lankan stories and folklore. These puppets make for charming keepsakes.
- Design: Puppets are designed to represent various characters from Sri Lankan mythology and folklore.
- Craftsmanship: Each puppet is handcrafted by skilled artisans, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan techniques.
- Collector's Item: Puppets make valuable collectors' items and reminders of your trip to Colombo.