Gift Shopping

The Chinese Gift Palace began with the arrival of a migrant family many decades ago. Like many Chinese who have established themselves as traders around the country, this family business has now moved down to the third generation of the first Chinese settlers. And so, what began as a store selling Sri Lankan wood carvings and statues has now diversified into selling items of much demand in Sri Lanka and abroad. The Chinese collection of Feng Shui products are sought after for many reasons, among which good fortune seems to be on everyone’s mind, not to forget the desire to ward-off evil. The Chinese Gift Palace still has the best selection of Sri Lankan wood carvings and statues like it did many decades ago. With the addition of handicrafts, the store is a platter of colour and fragrance. Every nook and every cabinet is brimming with objects, some with faces that wear a cherubically everlasting smile.

Step into Barefoot and the words bohemian, hippie, new age and ethnic will pop into your mind. The majority of products on offer are all woven goods. Barefoot goods have a rare character to them, and can be instantly recognised. Bright, bold colours and quality hand looms make Barefoot a unique addition to Colombo’s shopping scene. As with many stores in the city, Barefoot’s interior and ambience is exquisite. with rich yellow spotlights, wooden fixtures and raw cement floorings giving barefoot a rugged yet elegant feel.

This photography store and studio stocks a host of reproduction prints, from timeless images of old Ceylon to contemporary works. The shop was founded by a young couple who travelled to Sri Lanka over a century ago and began a career photographing the beautiful island. Since 1890 the company has diversified, and now specialises in studio and outdoor photography, framing, art supplies and interior decorating. Framing is conducted in a special department of the store, offering bespoke and high quality services. 

Perhaps one of Sri Lanka’s most well loved brands, Embark offers a large range of apparel, accessories and pet items–of which a large contribution go its noble cause of saving and homing stray dogs. Since its inception, Embark has been at the forefront, influencing policy in relation to animals and playing a vital role in making a significant change in the lives of animals and people alike.

LUV SL Dutch Hospital is a one-stop-shop to find goods that are uniquely Sri Lankan and designed by Odel. It offers souvenirs, products in fashion, household items, and casual clothing inspired by local culture. Look for the store’s exclusive collection of bathing, fragrance and skin care products made from ingredients native to this country. Being Odel’s premier souvenir store, LUV SL Courtyard, offers memorable keepsakes for tourists to inspire memories of Sri Lanka.

This branch is Spa Ceylon’s boutique store and sells a choice of their home products and doesn’t offer spa treatments. The place is lit softly and has a welcoming aroma – it’s hard to tell if it’s lemon grass or ginger or lotus. The décor is contemporary in contrast to the merchandise, which is traditionally Sri Lankan. There is a broad choice of essential oils, bathing oils, and of skin and hair care products. Spa Ceylon has a line of products manufactured with specific key ingredients like virgin coconut oil, ‘Gotukola’, Ceylon cinnamon, Organic Ceylon Tea and various other interesting options. The boutique has an expansive display of products to create an indulgent retail experience.