Colombo

Get a real sense of life in Colombo and experience the hustle and bustle of Sri Lanka's capital with a visit to the Pettah Market. At this busy open-air market, visitors can explore scores of shops selling everything under the sun, from fresh vegetables, spices and meats to clothing, electronics, gold and jewelry. Arrive early before trishaws and touts clog up the streets.

Dating back to the colonial era, the Dutch Hospital has served as a hospital for the Dutch officers, a police station after the country's independence, and in 2011, it was converted into a shopping and dining complex. A nice place to hang out, grab a bite, and marvel at beautifully preserved seventeenth-century colonial architecture.

For authentic Sri Lankan souvenirs head over to Lakarcade. This shopping mall offers an amazing and unique collection of local products ranging from teas, spices and traditional art to gems and jewellery. Whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind art piece to decorate your home or just a souvenir from your trip to Colombo, you'll surely find it here.

Very close to Viharamahadevi Park, you'll find this charming shop selling multiple home decor items, including dishware, handicrafts and art, plus, antiques and unique gifts along with an array of condiments and jams. Very popular among locals and tourists alike. They also have a cafe on the 1st floor where you can relax with a good cup of coffee and a piece of cake.

Adjacent to Cinnamon Grand Hotel, this shopping centre features several floors of shops and exclusive boutiques linked by escalators selling everything from books, clothing, and records to a place where you can buy tea from the Mlesna Tea Centre. In the basement, there’s a supermarket and a large bustling food court.

Race Course Arcade is the perfect place for a leisurely evening stroll, even if you aren't looking to do much shopping. If you are, however, there are plenty of boutiques and shops to choose from. Here, you'll also find a variety of cafes and restaurants.