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Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts and souvenirs: 15 super options  

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts and souvenirs reflect the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression of the island, blending ancient techniques with contemporary designs. Renowned for their intricate craftsmanship, these items include textiles such as batik and handloom products, wooden carvings, pottery, and intricate lacework known as “lichee.” 

Artisans often use locally sourced materials, creating unique pieces that showcase indigenous skills passed down through generations. Souvenirs like Ceylon tea, elephants, and gem-studded jewelry not only serve as mementos of Sri Lanka’s beauty but also support local communities and preserve traditional practices.




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Sri Lanka is renowned for its traditional handicrafts, deeply rooted in its history, culture, and artistry. Visitors to the island can bring home exquisite souvenirs that showcase the talent of local artisans. Here’s a guide to some of the best traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts and souvenirs:

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

1. Batik Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

What it is: A traditional textile art involving wax-resist dyeing, creating vibrant patterns on fabric.

Popular items: Sarongs, wall hangings, tablecloths, and clothing.

Where to find:

Kandy, Galle, and Colombo craft shops.

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Villages specializing in batik, like Kurunegala.

2. Masks and Wood Carvings

What they are Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts: Hand-carved and painted wooden masks are used in traditional Sri Lankan rituals and dances.

Popular types:

Raksha (demon) masks.

Kolam masks depicting folk characters.

Wooden figurines and sculptures.

Where to find: Ambalangoda is the hub for mask making.

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

3. Lacquerware (Laksha)

What it is: Decorative items coated with vibrant lacquer, often hand-painted with intricate designs.

Popular items Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts: Bangles, jewelry boxes, and ornaments.

Where to find: Matale district is famous for lacquerware production.

4. Handloom Products

What they are: Fabrics woven on traditional handlooms, known for their colorful designs and textures.

Popular items: Table runners, cushion covers, shawls, and sarongs.

Where to find Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts:

Weaving centers in Kurunegala and Batticaloa.

Urban outlets like Barefoot in Colombo.

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

5. Brass and Metalwork

What it is: Brassware crafted into intricate designs, often inspired by Buddhist motifs.

Popular items: Lamps, bowls, trays, and decorative statues.

Where to find: Kandy and Galle.

6. Pottery and Ceramics Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

What they are: Traditional clay pots, vases, and terracotta figurines.

Popular items: Cooking pots, flower vases, and decorative ceramics.

Where to find: Villages like Dankotuwa and Kelaniya.

7. Cane and Reed Products

What they are Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts: Handcrafted items made from bamboo, cane, and reed.

Popular items: Baskets, mats, and eco-friendly bags.

Where to find: Villages in areas like Hambantota and Kalutara.

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

8. Gemstones and Jewelry

What they are: Sri Lanka is famous for its precious and semi-precious gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and moonstones.

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Popular items Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts: Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and loose gemstones.

Where to find: Ratnapura (the “City of Gems”) and certified gem shops in Colombo.

9. Coconut Shell Crafts

What they are: Creative items made from polished coconut shells.

Popular items: Bowls, spoons, lamps, and ornaments.

Where to find Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts: Coastal towns like Galle and Negombo.

10. Tea

What it is: Ceylon Tea, known worldwide for its quality, is a quintessential Sri Lankan souvenir.

Popular types: Black tea, green tea, and flavored teas.

Where to find: Tea estates in Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and shops in Colombo.

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

11. Spices Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

What they are: Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage makes spices a fragrant and flavorful souvenir.

Popular items: Cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and curry powders.

Where to find: Spice gardens in Matale or markets in Kandy and Colombo.

12. Traditional Paintings

What they are: Hand-painted artworks depicting Buddhist temples, rural life, and wildlife.

Popular styles: Kandyan-style paintings and village scenes.

Where to find: Art galleries and workshops in Kandy and Galle.

13. Coir Products

What they are Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts: Items made from coconut fiber (coir), which is durable and eco-friendly.

Popular items: Rugs, mats, and brushes.

Where to find: Southern coastal towns like Galle and Matara.

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

14. Handmade Paper Products

What they are: Eco-friendly paper made from recycled materials or elephant dung.

Popular items Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts: Notebooks, cards, and gift bags.

Where to find: Kegalle and specialty shops in Colombo.

15. Ayurvedic and Herbal Products

What they are: Herbal oils, balms, soaps, and wellness products rooted in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

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Popular items: Sandalwood soap, herbal teas, and massage oils.

Where to find: Ayurvedic centers and herbal stores island-wide.

Shopping Tips Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts:

Bargaining: It’s common to bargain at markets but not at established shops.

Authenticity: Buy gemstones and high-value items from certified dealers to ensure quality.

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts

Transportation: Arrange for proper packing when buying fragile or heavy items like pottery or wood carvings.

Traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts and souvenirs embody the rich cultural heritage and artistic creativity of the island, reflecting its history, natural resources, and diverse communities. From intricately designed masks and handwoven textiles to exquisite woodwork and pottery, these crafts not only serve as unique mementos for visitors but also promote sustainable livelihoods for local artisans. 

By preserving these traditional skills and encouraging their appreciation, both on the local and global stage, Sri Lanka can celebrate its identity while fostering economic growth and cultural pride.

These handicrafts and souvenirs not only represent Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage but also support local artisans and communities.

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