17 Unique Souvenirs from Sri Lanka You Need to Bring Home!

Not sure what to buy in Sri Lanka? Here’s the ultimate shopping guide to the best souvenirs from Sri Lanka that capture the island’s culture and make great gifts!

Shopping in Sri Lanka can be a bit tricky—markets, shops, and unique finds are everywhere, and it’s hard to know where to start or what’s actually worth picking up.

Now, I’m not usually one to buy a lot of souvenirs. I like to avoid overpacking and stick to things I know I’ll actually use. But Sri Lanka has some items that are just too good to pass up.

From famous teas and spices to handcrafted textiles and unique local crafts, Sri Lanka souvenirs are practical, memorable, and make wonderful gifts for friends and family.

In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for souvenirs from Sri Lanka, with tips on where to find them and some helpful shopping advice. Whether you’re looking for gifts from Sri Lanka to share or just want ideas on what to buy for yourself, you’ll find plenty here to make shopping in Sri Lanka easy.

And if you’re wondering about best time to visit Sri Lanka, be sure to check out my full guide to planning your trip for the perfect weather!

17 Best Souvenirs from Sri Lanka: What to Buy & Bring Home

1. Ceylon Tea

If you’re a tea lover, Ceylon tea should be at the top of your list of things to buy in Sri Lanka. I’ll be honest—I wasn’t much of a tea person before my trip. But after sipping it fresh in the lush hills of Nuwara Eliya and Ella, I couldn’t resist bringing some back. The taste was so pure, unlike anything I’d tried back home.

Visiting tea plantations became one of my personal reasons to visit Sri Lanka. Watching the entire tea-making process up close was really interesting. Did you know the women who pick tea hand-pluck around 20 kg each day? I tried it myself… let’s just say, I didn’t get very far!

When shopping in Sri Lanka for authentic Ceylon tea, look for brands like Dilmah or Mlesna with the lion logo, which certifies genuine Ceylon tea. It’s the perfect Sri Lanka souvenir—whether you want to share it with friends or enjoy it as a cozy reminder of your travels.

Read Next: 21 Must-Do Experiences for Your 2024 Sri Lanka Bucket List

2. Spices from Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is famous for its incredible spices—Ceylon cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves are among the best. These spices make practical and affordable Sri Lanka souvenirs that are easy to pack, perfect for any who loves cooking. It’s a simple way to bring the rich flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine back home.

If you’re looking for quality spices, head to Pettah Market in Colombo or check out the spice gardens around Kandy. I didn’t pick up any myself (I’m no master chef), but for those who love experimenting in the kitchen, Sri Lankan spices are a fantastic choice.

Quick Tip: Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Sri Lanka, so a reusable water bottle is essential for any traveler, whether you’re backpacking or on a luxury honeymoon.

3. Gems and Jewelry

For something truly unique, Sri Lanka’s gemstones are worth checking out. Known as the “Island of Gems,” Sri Lanka is famous for its sapphires, moonstones, and other beautiful stones, with options to suit a range of budgets.

Even if your budget is tight, you’ll find smaller stones that make great Sri Lanka souvenirs or thoughtful gifts.

If you’re interested in seeing the source, Ratnapura is the place to go—this town is known for its gem mines. For a more relaxed shopping experience, Galle Fort has several reputable shops offering stunning jewelry and loose stones.

4. Batik Fabrics and Clothing

Batik is a big part of Sri Lankan culture, making it a fun, artistic souvenir to bring home. Artisans here use a wax-resist dyeing technique, creating intricate, colorful patterns inspired by the island’s culture and nature. You’ll see batik on sarongs (more on these in a second!), wall hangings, and all kinds of clothing.

Batik items are versatile Sri Lanka souvenirs that add personality to your wardrobe or home. For high-quality, unique batik, check out Laksala and Barefoot in Colombo—both are known for beautifully crafted pieces.

Packing for Sri Lanka? Don’t miss my guide on what to wear in Sri Lanka for tips and a complete packing list!

5. Sri Lankan Saris and Sarongs

Traditional Sri Lankan clothing wouldn’t be complete without saris and sarongs. Sarongs are lightweight, versatile, and easy to pack—perfect as a beach wrap, picnic blanket, or even home decor. They’re one of my go-to backpack essentials, and Sri Lanka is the perfect place to pick up a few.

If you’re looking for something dressier, consider a Sri Lankan sari. While many women now wear skirts and blouses, saris are still popular for special occasions. Sri Lankan saris have a unique style compared to Indian saris, perfect if you ever find yourself invited to a wedding (still on my bucket list!).

Pro Tip: When shopping in Sri Lanka, choose natural fabrics like cotton or silk. They’re breathable, comfortable, and perfect for the hot and humid weather in Sri Lanka.

6. Ayurveda Products

If you’re into natural wellness, Ayurveda products are some of the best Sri Lanka gifts. I was amazed by the variety available—from herbal oils to balms and skincare made with traditional techniques and local ingredients.

These products offer a small taste of Sri Lanka’s Ayurvedic heritage. You’ll find Ayurveda items in specialized stores and larger pharmacies across the island, but for something extra special, check out traditional shops in Kandy or other cultural spots.

Ayurveda products make thoughtful gifts from Sri Lanka fo that friend or family member who just loves natural wellness products.

7. Handcrafted Wooden Masks

Handcrafted masks are among the most unique souvenirs you can bring home from Sri Lanka, each filled with cultural significance. Every mask has its own story, often tied to traditional dances and rituals.

One of my favorites was the Cobra mask, believed to offer protection, or the Raksha mask is meant to ward off evil spirits. Learning about the meanings and traditions behind each one made them feel even more special as keepsakes.

If you’re after high-quality, authentic masks, head to Ambalangoda—a coastal town known for its talented artisans and wide selection of traditional masks. It’s one of the best places for shopping in Sri Lanka if you want something truly meaningful and unique.

Heading to the beach? Check out these beach hacks for solo female travelers for tips on staying safe, packing smart, and making the most of your beach days!

8. Moonstone Carvings

For those of you who love history and culture, moonstone carvings are a fantastic Sri Lanka souvenir. These pieces are inspired by sandakada pahana, or “moonstones,” found at temple entrances across Sri Lanka and represent protection and spirituality.

I loved exploring markets and finding these carvings, especially around UNESCO sites in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where you can see the original moonstones as part of temple entrances.

But even if you’re short on time, you’ll still find moonstone carvings in souvenir shops around Colombo and Kandy—an easy way to bring a piece of Sri Lankan history and culture home with you.

9. Elephant Figurines

One of the best parts of exploring Sri Lanka by tuk-tuk is spotting wild elephants along the way. And if you’re not self-driving, you can still experience these amazing animals on a safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Parks.

Bringing home an elephant figurine is a lovely way to remember those encounters and Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife. These figurines come in all sizes and materials—some carved from wood, others in polished stone or metal.

Whether it’s a tiny one for your desk or a larger piece for your living room, this Sri Lanka souvenir will bring back memories of the island’s natural beauty.

Not sure how to get around Sri Lanka? Check out this guide on transportation options in Sri Lanka for tips on tuk-tuks, trains, buses, and private drivers!

10. Sri Lankan Sweets and Snacks

For a true taste of Sri Lanka to bring back home, Sri Lankan snacks and sweets are essential. Treats like kokis (a crispy, deep-fried snack), aluwa (a chewy coconut-based sweet), and thalaguli (sweet sesame balls) make for delicious, authentic gifts from Sri Lanka.

Not only are these treats packed with local flavors, but they’re also among the best cheap things to buy in Sri Lanka. You can easily stock up on them without worrying about your budget!

Just a heads-up: these Sri Lankan snacks are so tasty that you might find yourself sampling a few (or more!) before they even make it back home.

Read Next: Must-Know Tips for Eating Like a Local in Sri Lanka (2024 Food Guide)

11. Lacquerware

If you’re wondering what to buy in Sri Lanka that’s colorful and culturally rich, lacquerware is perfect. These vibrant, glossy bowls, boxes, and decor pieces are crafted from layered tree resin and are hard to miss with their striking colors.

For the best selection, make your way to Matale—the heart of Sri Lanka’s lacquer art. Watching artisans here is incredible as they skillfully transform raw materials into beautiful, polished pieces. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Sri Lanka if you’re into traditional crafts and want a truly memorable souvenir.

12. Handwoven Textiles

Made on traditional looms in villages around Kandy, handwoven textiles are some of the most authentic Sri Lanka gifts you can bring back. These pieces come in vibrant colors and patterns that reflect the spirit of Sri Lankan culture and are perfect for adding a personal, local touch to your collection.

I loved the range of options you can find—from sarongs and scarves to table runners and even bedspreads. They’re practical and easy to pack, which is a big plus when traveling.

Whether you’re gifting these textiles to friends or keeping a few for yourself, they’re a beautiful way to bring a piece of Sri Lanka’s artistry and culture home with you.

Curious about solo travel in Sri Lanka? Check out my 2024 Sri Lanka Safety Guide!

13. Sri Lankan Pottery

If you’re after a souvenir that’s both practical and beautiful, Sri Lankan pottery is what you´re looking for. Each piece is hand-painted with intricate designs that capture the island’s vibrant culture, making it feel truly unique.

You can choose from small bowls and cups for everyday use or go for a larger decorative piece to bring Sri Lankan craftsmanship into your home.

I found a small, colorful bowl in a bustling market (wish I remembered which one!) that’s now my go-to for dips and sauces. It’s simple, but it takes me back to the days of rice-and-curry meals and the thrill of exploring Sri Lanka by tuk-tuk!

14. Palmyra Handicrafts

For an eco-friendly, authentic Sri Lanka souvenir, palmyra handicrafts are a fantastic choice. In the northern regions, especially around Jaffna, local artisans skillfully weave palmyra leaves into all sorts of items—baskets, mats, trays, and storage boxes.

These crafts are lightweight, durable, and made from natural materials, which makes them perfect for travelers who want to support local artisans and bring home something truly unique. I loved seeing the variety of designs and the care that goes into each piece.

Bonus Tip: Head to Yalpanam Market in Jaffna for the best selection. You’ll find various styles and sizes, so you’re sure to pick up some unique Sri Lanka gifts for family and friends.

15. Coconut Shell Handicrafts

Coconut shell handicrafts are also among the most eco-friendly souvenirs from Sri Lanka. I loved how lightweight they are, making them super easy to pack without adding much to your luggage weight—perfect for travelers trying to keep things light.

Sri Lanka’s markets, especially in Colombo and Kandy, are full of beautifully crafted coconut shell items that are both practical and unique. You’ll find everything from carved spoons and bowls to jewelry and wall decor, each piece showing off the creativity of local artisans using natural materials.

They’re the perfect gift from Sri Lanka for for that friend who just moved and could use something a little special to brighten up their new space!

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Don’t forget to check if you need a visa to visit Sri Lanka in 2024!

16. Sri Lankan Dolls

Sri Lankan dolls are such a unique, cultural souvenir to bring back from your trip. Made from natural materials like cloth and coconut husk, each doll wears traditional Sri Lankan attire,, capturing a bit of the island’s heritage.

They’re lightweight, simple, and so easy to pack—perfect if you want something distinctly Sri Lankan that won’t take up much space

I saw these dolls in markets around Galle and Colombo, but what I ended up buying was a little different—a set of door stoppers from Paradise Road in Colombo. Shaped like local characters, they’re not only incredibly useful l but make for fun conversation starters at home!

17. Postcards, Magnets, and Christmas Ornaments

Every time I travel, I love picking up a few small, meaningful items: postcards, magnets, and Christmas ornaments. They’re super affordable, lightweight, and take up almost no space—a perfect combo for any traveler!

• Postcards: I usually choose one with a beautiful Sri Lankan landscape or scene and write down a quick summary of my trip.
• Magnets: From elephants and tea leaves to colorful tuk-tuks, these magnets are a fun daily reminder of your trip to Sri Lanka.
• Christmas Ornaments: I try to find a locally-inspired ornament, and each holiday season, it brings back the magic of my trip as I decorate.

These are just some ideas for cheap things to buy in Sri Lanka. But honestly, the best souvenirs are the ones that remind you of what you loved most about your trip.

Was it the food? Pick up a handcrafted bowl. The wildlife? A mini elephant figurine is perfect. Or if you fell in love with tuk-tuks, grab a little tuk-tuk magnet! Choose something that brings back the memories that made Sri Lanka special to you.

Shopping Tips: Get the Best Souvenirs in Sri Lanka

Now that you know exactly what to buy in Sri Lanka, here are a few tips to make your shopping experience even better:

• Haggle Politely: Bargaining is part of the fun at local markets! Don’t be afraid to negotiate, but always keep it friendly and respectful. In boutiques or more upscale stores, prices are usually fixed.
• Check for Quality: For items like gems, batik, and wooden crafts, make sure to stick with reputable sellers. You don’t want to get scammed, especially when buying something as valuable as a gemstone!
• Mind Size and Weight: It’s easy to be tempted by large, beautiful decor items, but remember, you’ll need to figure out how to take them home. Smaller items are just as special and much more practical for travel.
• Support Local Artisans: Many Sri Lanka souvenirs are handmade, so buying directly from artisans or small shops not only gets you something unique but also supports the local economy (which really needs it!) and helps keep traditional crafts alive.
• Explore Local Markets: For a truly local shopping experience, check out markets in Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Jaffna. Pettah Market in Colombo and Yalpanam Market in Jaffna are my favorite markets in Sri Lanka!
• Save Shopping for Last: Since many souvenirs are widely available, consider waiting until the end of your trip to buy them. That way, you won’t have to carry them around while you explore!

Hopefully, these tips for shopping in Sri Lanka will be useful for your next trip! And if you’re already planning, don’t miss my guide to safety in Sri Lanka for solo female travelers for tips on staying safe, confident, and ready for adventure!

FAQs About What To Buy in Sri Lanka

Now that we’ve covered the best things to buy in Sri Lanka and shared some helpful tips, let’s dive into some of the most common questions about shopping in Sri Lanka!

Final Thoughts on Sri Lanka Souvenirs

And there you have it—all my favorite souvenirs from Sri Lanka! I hope this guide helped you uncover some unique gifts and made shopping in Sri Lanka a little simpler.

If you’ve skipped right to the end, here’s the recap: during my month-long trip, I kept things light but practical. I brought back lots of Ceylon tea, a small pottery bowl, a set of quirky door stoppers, plus my travel essentials—a postcard, a tuk-tuk magnet, and a Christmas ornament. It was tough not to grab more!

Have your own ideas on what to buy in Sri Lanka? Or any shopping tips you’d like to share? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear!

Other Sri Lanka Travel Guides You Might Like:

• Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Guide: Requirements, Tips & How to Apply
• Complete Guide to Getting Around Sri Lanka: Transportation Tips
• Why Visit Sri Lanka? Top Reasons You’ll Love This Island Paradise
• The Ultimate Sri Lanka Tuk-Tuk Travel Guide: What You Need to Know
• Should You Rent a Tuk-Tuk in Sri Lanka? Pros, Cons & Practical Tips

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