No vacation is complete without mementos and souvenirs to remember your journey by. They are evidence of your wonderful travel experiences, that would take you down the memory lane every time you see them. However, purchasing the perfect artisanal creations could be quite tricky, if you don’t know what to look for. Keep reading to discover the quintessential Sri Lankan arts and crafts and find your dream souvenir.
Jewellery and Gems:
Sri Lanka is famous for its sapphires and moonstones. The mines in Ratnapura have a constant supply of precious gems. The gemologists here have an in-depth knowledge on the best gems, so consult the experts before you go shopping. One of the best places to purchase gems and jewellery is at Galle Fort, during a walk on the cobblestones paths. There are also plenty of contemporary jewellery in Colombo, as well. Hone your bartering and bargaining skills to get the best value for your money.
Handloom Products:
Handloom is an artisanal tool that has been used in Sri Lanka, traditionally by women and is an intricate form of art. The usual looms used are natural cotton and silk fibres. The products are typically made on the handloom and are exquisitely beautiful and unique. You could get anything from handwoven home items like tableclothes, napkins, serviettes, to bedspread, curtains and clothing. Sarees and sarong made from handloom are especially vibrant and would make wonderful souvenirs. Do try to buy the products from the women directly, as it is most likely to be their only source of income.
Ceylon Tea:
Sri Lanka is synonymous with Ceylon Tea! If you’re an avid tea lover, and enjoy your daily cuppa, chances are you’re already familiar with the refreshing taste of Ceylon Tea. It carries many protective and healing properties, and come in various varieties such as black, green, white, oolong, herbal and flavoured. It is one of Sri Lanka’s major export products, and comes from all over the country. Take a visit to a tea plantation in the central highlands of Nuwara Eliya to enjoy a cup of freshly made tea. Tea is a staple in Sri Lanka, so you can find reputable brands anywhere in the country. Buy enough for your friends back at home, they’ll love it!
Ayurvedic Products:
The natural medicine of Ayurveda is alive and thriving in Sri Lanka. Apart from being able to get exceptional Ayurvedic treatments on the island, visitors can also shop for Ayurvedic beauty products like massage oils, body washes, shampoos and hair scalp treatments. Look for products which have ingredients that are locally sourced, organic, and contain no animal oil.
Spices:
Sri Lanka’s spice game is so strong that there is no way you wouldn’t want to take some back with you! The aromatic, fragrant and flavorful cuisine in the country will definitely win you over. It’s in every food item you would enjoy during your journey, including the basic rice & curry, sambal, tea and desserts. The best place to buy spices is at the local markets, like Pettah or Kandy. The most popular spices include, cinnamon, black pepper, turmeric, saffron, cardamom, ginger, red chilli and nutmeg.
Batik:
Although Indonesia is the birthplace of the beautiful art of batik, over the past century Sri Lanka’s batik industry has expanded largely. In fact, it is one of the leading export industries in the country. The Batik industry in Sri Lanka mainly consists of small scale shops and artisanal producers, and are an excellent exhibit of creativity, talent and individuality. Batiks incorporate many motifs and colours, some traditional, others highly contemporary and individual. Like with the aforementioned handloom products, you have a variety of options with batik, as well.
Wooden Figurines and Masks:
We’ve saved the best for last: wooden souvenirs! What better way to reminisce your travels and share your experiences with your loved ones back home, than to get a symbol of authentic Sri Lankan culture, tradition and artistry? You are bound to see elephant figurines, statues and expressive masks wherever you go. You could visit a souvenir shop like Laksala or hop into the many shops you would pass by, in your travels. (We suggest visiting Ambalangoda to get hold of the best masks.)
Happy shopping!
Photos sourced from Amila Tennakoon, Dronepicr and Roderick Eime
