{"id":11462,"date":"2018-04-14T07:38:01","date_gmt":"2018-04-14T13:08:01","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/?p=11462"},"modified":"2023-04-04T06:35:53","modified_gmt":"2023-04-04T06:35:53","slug":"shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/","title":{"rendered":"SHOPPING GUIDE TO SRI LANKA- SOUVENIERS, GEMS, MEDICINES, TEA AND MORE."},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_55 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662bd0122d061\"><span class=\"\"><span style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662bd0122d061\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#SHOPPING_GUIDE_TO_SRI_LANKA-_SOUVENIERS_GEMS_MEDICINES_TEA_AND_MORE\" title=\"SHOPPING GUIDE TO SRI LANKA- SOUVENIERS, GEMS, MEDICINES, TEA AND MORE.\">SHOPPING GUIDE TO SRI LANKA- SOUVENIERS, GEMS, MEDICINES, TEA AND MORE.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#Shopping_Guide_to_Colombo\" title=\"Shopping Guide to Colombo\">Shopping Guide to Colombo<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#WHAT_TO_SHOP_FOR_WHEN_IN_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"WHAT TO SHOP FOR WHEN IN SRI LANKA? \">WHAT TO SHOP FOR WHEN IN SRI LANKA? <\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#CEYLON_TEA_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"CEYLON TEA: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA\">CEYLON TEA: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#WOODEN_MASKS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"WOODEN MASKS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA\">WOODEN MASKS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#FOOD_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"FOOD: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA\">FOOD: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#HERBAL_MEDICINES_AND_OILS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"HERBAL MEDICINES AND OILS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA\">HERBAL MEDICINES AND OILS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#GEMS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"GEMS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA\">GEMS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#How_to_identify_real_gems_%E2%80%93_Avoid_Travel_Scams\" title=\"How to identify real gems \u2013 Avoid Travel Scams!\">How to identify real gems \u2013 Avoid Travel Scams!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#From_where_to_buy_gems_in_Colombo\" title=\"From where to buy gems in Colombo \">From where to buy gems in Colombo <\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#TERRACOTA_POTS_AND_PANS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"TERRACOTA POTS AND PANS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA\">TERRACOTA POTS AND PANS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#OTHER_SOUVENIERS_TO_BUY_IN_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"OTHER SOUVENIERS TO BUY IN SRI LANKA: \">OTHER SOUVENIERS TO BUY IN SRI LANKA: <\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#Night_Bazaar_%E2%80%93_A_Weekend_Shopping_destination_in_Colombo\" title=\"Night Bazaar \u2013 A Weekend Shopping destination in Colombo!\">Night Bazaar \u2013 A Weekend Shopping destination in Colombo!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#SHOPPING_CASHLESS_IN_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"SHOPPING CASHLESS IN SRI LANKA\">SHOPPING CASHLESS IN SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#SHOPPING_WITH_CASH_IN_SRI_LANKA\" title=\"SHOPPING WITH CASH IN SRI LANKA\">SHOPPING WITH CASH IN SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#Shopping_Scams_in_Colombo_%E2%80%93_Gems_and_other_precious_stones\" title=\"Shopping Scams in Colombo \u2013 Gems and other precious stones\">Shopping Scams in Colombo \u2013 Gems and other precious stones<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/#ALSO_READ\" title=\"ALSO READ\">ALSO READ<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SHOPPING_GUIDE_TO_SRI_LANKA-_SOUVENIERS_GEMS_MEDICINES_TEA_AND_MORE\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>SHOPPING GUIDE TO SRI LANKA- SOUVENIERS, GEMS, MEDICINES, TEA AND MORE.<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><em>This blog is a shopping guide to Sri Lanka. From exotic Ceylon tea to attractive wooden masks and precious gems and spices, there is a lot you can buy in Sri Lanka. Carry an extra bag. Or better still, buy a local cool bag from one of the chic stores.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-luminous-vivid-orange-color has-text-color wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shopping_Guide_to_Colombo\"><\/span><strong>Shopping Guide to Colombo<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You have a passion for shopping? Colombo will make it even better! There is a lot you can shop for when in Colombo. I had personally shopped for some unique local stuff like magnets, key chains, handicrafts, clothes, jewellery (for gifts) and of course the Sri Lankan tea in bizarre elephant shaped boxes or souvenirs like masks, statues etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What I didn\u2019t shop for in Colombo were Gems. They cost a bomb and I have no plans to go on my knees anytime in future. But if you have deep pockets and names of 4 girlfriends saved on your phone as Rakesh (or worse Christopher), then why not! The finest blue sapphire and moon stones and other precious stones are produced in Sri Lanka. Even Marco Polo had agreed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Different types of teas also known as Ceylon Tea, spices and products made with carved wood, local packaged food and the batik products must also make their way to your Sri Lanka shopping cart. I had visited the <strong>government emporium<\/strong> to pick up these souvenirs. The products sold at the Government backed places are authentic and of good quality. You can also buy from independent shops some of which sell good quality products and in huge variety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Colombo gives you many options if you are a shopaholic. This shopping guide will help you narrow down some of the best things which you can buy in Colombo or in most places of Sri Lanka.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These products are available for shopping in not just big super markets of Colombo but also shopping malls, local shops and even carts. Good quality products and reasonable prices are what which makes shopping experience in Colombo stand apart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11456\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/tea-estate-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Tea Estate. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11456\"\/><figcaption>Tea Estate. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Sri Lanka is so much like <a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/2017\/09\/20\/the-mind-blowing-night-trail-in-the-rainforests-of-agumbe-with-i-travel-group-incredible-india\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>South India<\/strong><\/a> and yet so different. To a <a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/2017\/07\/02\/mygrationstory-of-a-filipino-living-in-dubai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>foreign visitor<\/strong><\/a> who has not been to India, many of the products available on the shelves will offer a novelty. That said, many products available in Sri Lanka are still <strong>unique to the country.<\/strong> Though <strong>big brands<\/strong> and international chains are pretty common in Sri Lanka, I realized that much of the Sri Lankan products are <strong>locally grown<\/strong> and made.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11450\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/masks-and-handicrafts-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Masks and handicrafts in Colombo. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11450\"\/><figcaption>Me a handicrafts shop in Colombo. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka. Pic by: Dhanushka Rajapaksha<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Local brands are popular and <strong>cheaper than its international counterparts.<\/strong> Also, though it was easy to find international faces (including many <strong>Indian film stars<\/strong>) on hoardings and billboards, I was happy to see many local celebs and everyday people endorsing products on the street side advertisements, which were often a quirky video display as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11455\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11455\"\/><figcaption>I liked the fact that local models ruled the billboard. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I am not much of a shopper but Sri Lanka <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/souvenirs-shopping-in-thanjavur-tanjore\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"16789\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tempted me to shop<\/a>.<\/strong> I hate to hoard things for myself but I did end up <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/famous-places-for-local-street-shopping-in-jaipur\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"12649\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">buying gifts for my family<\/a><\/strong> and friends. Below are some tips on what to buy in Sri Lanka:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11451\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/porcelein-elephant-contains-ceylon-tea-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Porcelein elephant contains ceylon tea. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11451\"\/><figcaption>This porcelain elephant contains Ceylon tea. Great for souvenirs. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"WHAT_TO_SHOP_FOR_WHEN_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><strong><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\">WHAT TO SHOP FOR WHEN IN SRI LANKA?<\/span> <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CEYLON_TEA_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>CEYLON TEA: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We visited <strong>a tea garden<\/strong> as well as a tea factory. We saw the tea making process and couldn\u2019t resist buying some for home. The tea in Sri Lanka comes in many varieties. They are also creatively packaged. I received a gift of a beautiful<strong> porcelain elephant<\/strong> containing choicest of Sri Lankan tea. The most popular tea brand in Sri Lanka is <strong>Dilmah.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11459\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"735\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/wooden-mask-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Wooden mask. Colombo. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11459\"\/><figcaption>Wooden masks in a shop in Colombo. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"WOODEN_MASKS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>WOODEN MASKS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The wooden masks painted in bright colors are unmissable. I saw many masks workshop on the coastal road as I was on my way to Galle. <strong>Ambalangoda<\/strong> is the main hub where the masks are made. The wooden masks are traditionally used to <strong>ward off evil spirits<\/strong> and also used in ritual <strong><em>kolam<\/em><\/strong> dances. Tourists do buy these masks to display on the walls of their homes. The <strong>frightening mask<\/strong>, it is said, saves you from evil forces. I did pick mask shaped <strong>fridge magnets<\/strong> and keyrings at 100 Sri Lankan Rupees each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11447\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/books-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Books. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11447\"\/><figcaption>Buy these mini guides outside Sigiriya. Or better still, read my blogs :P. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FOOD_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>FOOD: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I am a big time foodie and this time too <strong>I shopped for food.<\/strong> While it was not possible for me to take home perishable street food, the <strong>packaged food is convenient<\/strong> to buy. The <strong>spiced peanuts<\/strong> they sell in packets are quite addictive. It was hard to resist once I opened a pack. Tempered with spices and curry leaves, it had a taste which I had never experienced before. You can also buy <strong>hoppers flour, local red rice, local curry powders and spices<\/strong>, the work! Just keep your eyes opened and you will find something which is local and interesting. My tip is to go to both local markets and the super stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11449\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/herbal-oil-king-coconut-oil-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Herbal oil. King Coconut oil. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11449\"\/><figcaption>Buy coconut oils, aphrodisiacs, spices, medicines, ointments etc at herbal farm. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"HERBAL_MEDICINES_AND_OILS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>HERBAL MEDICINES AND OILS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A visit to the spice garden in Sri Lanka reminded me of my visit to a similar spice garden in <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/top-60-things-to-do-in-offbeat-palolem-patnem-beach-south-goa-solo-budget-backpacking\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"14379\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Goa<\/a><\/strong> called <strong>Sahkari farms<\/strong>. We took an interesting tour which educated us about everyday plants which we take for granted or know little about. Who would have thought that the humble <strong>turmeric<\/strong> or red pineapple or <strong>aloevera<\/strong> has so many <strong>health benefits<\/strong>? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The store I visited had <strong>locally made ointments, oils, balms, creams<\/strong>, cosmetics and even curry powders. From <strong>aphrodisiacs<\/strong> to <strong>pain relieving oils<\/strong> to local lifestyle products, you will find it all here. The best part is all of it is <strong>organic and natural.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11454\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/shops-outside-sigiriya-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Shops outside Sigiriya. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11454\"\/><figcaption>Souvenir shops outside Sigiriya. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GEMS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>GEMS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I do not have much of an expertise in gems. That said, it is <strong>impossible to miss out on gems<\/strong> when traversing the streets of Sri Lanka. A source told me that some of the gems easily available in Sri Lanka are <strong>Aquamarines, spinels, corundums,<\/strong> zircons, amethysts, star stones, tourmalines, topaz, garnets,&nbsp;cats\u2019 eyes. <strong>Sapphire and Rubies<\/strong> are what most people shop for. Sri Lanka has many ancient rocks and thus the abundance. However, <strong>beware of touts and fakes.<\/strong> The best way is to stick to Government approved shops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-luminous-vivid-orange-color has-text-color wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_identify_real_gems_%E2%80%93_Avoid_Travel_Scams\"><\/span><strong>How to identify real gems \u2013 Avoid Travel Scams!<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>My guide in Colombo told me that the real gems will always be imperfect and will have some impurity. The fake gems will look all shiny and flawless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-luminous-vivid-orange-color has-text-color wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"From_where_to_buy_gems_in_Colombo\"><\/span><strong>From where to buy gems in Colombo <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The shops in Hatton Garden in Colombo are reliable for shopping of gems and other precious stones. Always buy gems from reputed stores which have a proper license. If you still have doubts, then the verification can be done by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Authority in Colombo or Ratnapura. It\u2019s Sri Lankan Government\u2019s facility to foreigner travelers and is made available free of cost. Just ask your shopkeeper when in doubt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11458\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/terracotta-toys-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Terracotta toys. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11458\"\/><figcaption>If you are into kitsch, you will love these gaudily painted terracotta toys. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TERRACOTA_POTS_AND_PANS_SHOPPING_GUIDE_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>TERRACOTA POTS AND PANS: SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You will find many street side vendors selling <strong>terracotta pots and pans.<\/strong> From an Indian style <em>karahi<\/em> (wok) to ladles made with coconut shells, you will find innovative products. If you are into <strong>kitsch<\/strong>, do buy the quirky animals painted in loud colors.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-11452 aligncenter\">\n<figure class=\"\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"441\" height=\"960\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/postcards-at-sigiriya-sri-lanka-shopping-guide-2.jpg\" alt=\"Postcards at Sigiriya. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide (2)\" class=\"wp-image-11452\"\/><figcaption>This is how Sigiriya looked like originally. You can buy these postcards outside the monument. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"OTHER_SOUVENIERS_TO_BUY_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><strong><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\">OTHER SOUVENIERS TO BUY IN SRI LANKA:<\/span> <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No one is allowed to click pictures of the <strong>centuries old paintings<\/strong> on one of the walls of <strong>Sigiriya.<\/strong> To make up, you can buy postcards of the same paintings while you exit. It is also easy to pick Sri Lanka themed <strong>magnets and key chains<\/strong> in most of the cities. The <strong>Barefoot caf\u00e9 in Colombo<\/strong> also stocks some great souvenirs to pick. Many shops in the very \u2018Dutch\u2019 <strong>Galle<\/strong> sell fashionable clothes and quirky artefacts. The beautiful <strong>Bodhi tree<\/strong> is also common, especially near the religious places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11446\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/bodhi-tree-kandy-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Bodhi Tree, Kandy. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11446\"\/><figcaption>Bodhi Tree outside temple in Kandy. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Buddha statues<\/strong> are also available in many forms. <strong>Pettah Bazar<\/strong> in Colombo is where you can find <strong>affordable products.<\/strong> As you leave Kandy, watch out for <strong>Dumbara mats and baskets<\/strong> made with hand woven fabric. <strong>Shopping malls<\/strong> such as Crescat, Majestic City and Liberty Plaza are quite popular among locals. You can also buy handicrafts, books, garments, etc. Most of the shopping malls are fully Wi-Fi enabled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11453\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/postcards-at-sigiriya-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Postcards at Sigiriya. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11453\"\/><figcaption>But these postcards outside Sigiriya. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-luminous-vivid-orange-color has-text-color wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Night_Bazaar_%E2%80%93_A_Weekend_Shopping_destination_in_Colombo\"><\/span><strong>Night Bazaar \u2013 A Weekend Shopping destination in Colombo!<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You must head to the night market which is located close to the Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha if you are in Colombo on a weekend. Apart from the local people of Colombo, the night market is also a great place to hang out for the foreign travelers. Apart from shopping of course, good entertainment and delectable food is also on the cards. It is a busy night bazaar and a good one at that!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SHOPPING_CASHLESS_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>SHOPPING CASHLESS IN SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you are traveling in a new country, shopping cashless is a blessing, as you do not have to worry for dwindling cash or finding the exact change. Most big shops in <strong>Sri Lanka accept credit cards.<\/strong> In fact, my co-travelers bought <strong>products worth INR 12,000<\/strong> at the spice garden with a simple swipe of credit card. It sure <strong>makes life much easier.<\/strong> For the uninitiated, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.axisbank.com\/retail\/cards\/credit-card\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">apply for credit cards<\/a> here. It is especially more convenient to do transactions with credit cards when you <strong>deal with big money<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, bills for gems run in lakhs so it makes sense to <strong>pay cashless.<\/strong> The best part is that using credit cards come handy not only when you travel internationally but also when transacting within India. You must avail <a href=\"https:\/\/www.axisbank.com\/grab-deals\/online-offers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">credit card offers<\/a> for the best deals. The <strong>future of shopping<\/strong> is cashless. Post <strong>demonetization in India<\/strong> in November 2016, more and more <strong>Indians are making a transition towards cashless.<\/strong> So, it makes sense in buying the one suited to your needs and spending habit.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-11461 aligncenter\">\n<figure class=\"\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"614\" height=\"922\" src=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/fridge-magnets-dambulla-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Fridge magnets. Dambulla. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11461\"\/><figcaption>Fridge Magnets galore. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SHOPPING_WITH_CASH_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\"><strong>SHOPPING WITH CASH IN SRI LANKA<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Indian Rupee is just the double of Sri Lankan Rupee. Some shops in big cities do accept Indian notes of high value. However, it is not advised. It is better to carry certain amount of petty cash for products of lower value such as snacks, cab and tuk-tuk rides, souvenirs etc.&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I also like to collect currency for my numismatics collection, so I did bring along some notes of value 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000. <strong>Coins are not much in use<\/strong> in Sri Lanka and appears to be phasing out. However, I did manage to take back a 1 Rupee and 2 Rupee coin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11448\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/handicrafts-at-sigiriya-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Handicrafts at Sigiriya. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11448\"\/><figcaption>Wall hangings for sale outside handicrafts shop near Sigiriya. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-luminous-vivid-orange-color has-text-color wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shopping_Scams_in_Colombo_%E2%80%93_Gems_and_other_precious_stones\"><\/span><strong>Shopping Scams in Colombo \u2013 Gems and other precious stones<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;Sri Lanka is a great destination to buy gold, silver, gems, moon stones and precious stones. When in Colombo, beware of the gem scams though!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beware of the scams when in Colombo or elsewhere in Sri Lanka. A <em>tuk tuk<\/em> driver offered me a cheap rickshaw ride to what he said was \u2018Once in a year\u2019 gems fair and it is organized just for 1 day and today is that day. (I always attract the wrong kind of luck!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I knew something was wrong, I still agreed to go with him as I saw a potential (quirky) story there. Like I agreed to go with a <strong>Pakistani<\/strong> in<strong> Dubai, U.A.E.<\/strong> who wanted to sell me an <strong>Indian<\/strong> hair oil in Dubai to get me some hair on my head. More on that in a separate blog!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyways, coming back to Colombo, the rickshaw or <em>tuk tuk<\/em> guide had charged me just 20 LKR (8 INR). As I had expected, he dropped me at a permanent gem shop which was no-where close to a fair. I have never bought any gems in life nor do I intend to ever. The shopkeeper started showing me different gems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He demonstrated me some methods to prove that the gems were real. I was laughing in my head. He said that I can get it home delivered in my home city as the processing and finishing touches take time. I later learned that they send fake gems later. I quickly moved out and joined my friends again. It was a breezy and cheap ride!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ALSO_READ\"><\/span><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\">ALSO READ<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/2018\/04\/10\/the-ultimate-vegan-vegetarian-food-and-drinks-guide-to-sri-lanka\/\">THE ULTIMATE VEGAN &amp; VEGETARIAN FOOD AND DRINKS GUIDE TO SRI LANKA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/2018\/04\/11\/pol-sambol-katta-sambol-seeni-sambol-lunu-miris-recipe-of-vegan-sri-lankan-food\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">VEGAN RECIPE OF POL SAMBOL AND KATTA SAMBOL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/2017\/06\/29\/why-indians-should-experience-a-cruise-holiday-with-professional-cruises\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">LUXURY CRUISE FROM DUBAI TO FORT KOCHI<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/2018\/02\/02\/offbeat-al-noor-mosque-in-sharjah-is-also-close-to-dubai-non-muslims-can-enjoy-free-day-tour\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">OFFBEAT AL NOOR MOSQUE IN SHARJAH<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/2018\/01\/25\/offbeat-adventurous-thrilling-sand-dune-bashing-at-mleiha-sharjah-u-a-e-plus-65000-billion-years-old-fossils\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">OFFBEAT MLEIHA NEAR SHARJAH<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11460\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"936\" height=\"614\" src=\"http:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Wooden masks in Colombo. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11460\"\/><figcaption>Wooden masks in a shop in Colombo. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-11457\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/abhinavsoulwindow.files.wordpress.com\/2018\/04\/terracota-pots-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Terracota pots. Sri Lanka Shopping Guide\" class=\"wp-image-11457\"\/><figcaption>Terracotta pots and pans. Shopping guide to Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><em><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\">Spread the love, share this blog<\/span><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>Got any question\/comments, ask in the comment section below so that it can benefit other readers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><span style=\"color:#ff6600;\">Email me for collaboration: 21abhinav21@gmail.com<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><em>Be a part of my journey on social media. The travel content I create there is different from this blog.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background\">Pls subscribe\/follow\/like<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UC8K8pGNVByDAfy7kNKl7mAA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">You Tube<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/asoulwindow\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Instagram<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/A-Soul-Window-Travel-Blog-by-Abhinav-Singh-322014484524692\/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>WARNING:<\/em><em> COPYRIGHT TO ALL THE TEXT SHARED HERE REMAINS WITH ME. YOU CAN NOT JUST LIFT THE CONTENT AND USE IT WITHOUT MY PERMISSION. STRICT LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF CONTENT IS STOLEN. YES, I AM SERIOUS.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>SHOPPING GUIDE TO SRI LANKA- SOUVENIERS, GEMS, MEDICINES, TEA AND MORE. This blog is a shopping guide to Sri Lanka. From exotic Ceylon tea to attractive wooden masks and precious gems and spices, there is a lot you can buy in Sri Lanka. Carry an extra bag. Or better still, buy a local cool bag &hellip;<\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more\"> <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/shopping-guide-to-sri-lanka-souveniers-gems-medicines-tea-and-more\/\"> <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">SHOPPING GUIDE TO SRI LANKA- SOUVENIERS, GEMS, MEDICINES, TEA AND MORE.<\/span> Read More &raquo;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":11460,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"no","footnotes":""},"categories":[47,57],"tags":[110,126,394,583,2482,2498,2570,2583,2761],"modified_by":"asoulwindow","uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg",936,614,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg",150,98,false],"medium":["https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg",300,197,false],"medium_large":["https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg",768,504,false],"large":["https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg",936,614,false],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg",936,614,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/wooden-masks-in-colombo-sri-lanka-shopping-guide.jpg",936,614,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"asoulwindow","author_link":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/author\/abhinav2111\/"},"uagb_comment_info":44,"uagb_excerpt":"SHOPPING GUIDE TO SRI LANKA- SOUVENIERS, GEMS, MEDICINES, TEA AND MORE. This blog is a shopping guide to Sri Lanka. From exotic Ceylon tea to attractive wooden masks and precious gems and spices, there is a lot you can buy in Sri Lanka. Carry an extra bag. Or better still, buy a local cool bag&hellip;","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11462"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11462"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11462\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17958,"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11462\/revisions\/17958"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11460"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11462"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11462"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asoulwindow.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11462"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}