Laksala
Sri Lanka's premier government-endorsed emporium for authentic handicrafts, offering a vast selection of unique souvenirs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Laksala
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sri Lanka's premier government-endorsed emporium for authentic handicrafts, offering a vast selection of unique souvenirs.
"The government-endorsed place to buy crafts of Sri Lanka with fair prices and helpful staff."
🎯 Government-Endorsed
Shop with confidence at this official government store for authentic crafts. No haggling needed!
🎁 Wide Gift Selection
Find everything from tea and spices to jewelry and carvings for everyone on your list.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Handicrafts Galore
Discover a vast collection of authentic Sri Lankan crafts, from intricate carvings to vibrant textiles.
Sri Lankan Tea & Spices
Take home the rich flavors of Sri Lanka with a selection of high-quality teas and aromatic spices.
Batik Clothing & Jewelry
Browse unique batik apparel and exquisite jewelry, perfect for a stylish souvenir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Authentic Sri Lankan Crafts
Gift Shopping Made Easy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Government-Endorsed
Shop with confidence at this official government store for authentic crafts. No haggling needed!
🎁 Wide Gift Selection
Find everything from tea and spices to jewelry and carvings for everyone on your list.
🤝 Staff Assistance
Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they're knowledgeable and helpful.
🅿️ Ample Parking
Convenient parking is available on-site, making your visit hassle-free.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Government-Endorsed
Shop with confidence at this official government store for authentic crafts. No haggling needed!
🎁 Wide Gift Selection
Find everything from tea and spices to jewelry and carvings for everyone on your list.
🤝 Staff Assistance
Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they're knowledgeable and helpful.
🅿️ Ample Parking
Convenient parking is available on-site, making your visit hassle-free.
♿ Accessible Entrance
Laksala offers a dedicated entrance for differently-abled visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Laksala is highly recommended as the go-to place for authentic Sri Lankan handicrafts and souvenirs, praised for its wide selection, fair fixed prices, and helpful staff. Visitors appreciate the assurance of authenticity and the convenience of not having to haggle. While some items might be perceived as slightly expensive, the overall experience is consistently positive, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking genuine local crafts.
"Only government endorsed place to buy crafts of Sri Lanka. The Price point is better than most stores and you don't have to haggle. The staff is helpful and suggests items to buy. Take some time out from your schedule to visit this place and you won't be disappointed"
Paul S
"Great place to get souvenirs for friends and family. The store is large and they have many beautiful things for you or your loved ones. Some items include clothing, hand carved items, precious stones, jewelry, ayurvedic oils, artwork, collectibles and much more.
I visited this store in 2023 when I first came to Sri Lanka and again during my current trip to pick up gifts not only for myself but for friends and family back home."
xXAngelicBluXx “MetalShiv”
"If you are looking for Sri Lanka-branded gifts and souvenirs, this is the perfect place to visit. It is popular among travelers, even more so than locals. The store features a large collection of mostly handcrafted items. The place is well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. If you are a traveler, I recommend seeking assistance from the staff rather than wandering around aimlessly. While some gifts may seem a bit expensive, there is a wide range of prices available. Additionally, there is ample parking inside the premises."
Eranga Tennakoon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laksala is located in Colombo 7, a central area. You can reach it by taxi or tuk-tuk. Many travelers find it convenient to visit after exploring nearby attractions.
Yes, Laksala is a well-known government emporium and is generally easy to locate in Colombo. Using a GPS or asking a local driver will help.
While the Colombo branch is the most prominent, Laksala has other outlets across Sri Lanka, though the selection might vary.
Absolutely! Apps like Uber and PickMe are widely used in Colombo and can easily take you to Laksala.
Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable option for short distances. For longer trips or more comfort, consider a taxi or ride-sharing app.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Laksala is free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase.
Laksala typically operates during standard business hours, usually from morning to late afternoon on weekdays and Saturdays. It's advisable to check specific hours before your visit.
There is no admission fee to enter Laksala. It's a retail space for purchasing souvenirs and handicrafts.
Laksala operates on a walk-in basis. While they have a wide selection, specific items are not typically reserved in advance.
Opening hours can vary, but many government-run stores like Laksala may have reduced hours or be closed on Sundays. It's best to confirm their schedule.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping Experience
Laksala offers a vast range of authentic Sri Lankan handicrafts, including tea, spices, batik clothing, jewelry, hand-carved items, artwork, and collectibles.
No, Laksala is known for its fixed prices, which are generally considered fair for authentic, government-endorsed products. You won't need to haggle.
Yes, Laksala is an excellent place to purchase high-quality Sri Lankan tea, along with other local spices and food items.
Laksala features a selection of jewelry, including precious stones and handcrafted pieces, making it a good spot to find unique accessories.
Laksala is the government's official handicraft emporium, ensuring authenticity and fair pricing, unlike many tourist-trap shops.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use inside Laksala, but it's always a good idea to be discreet and respectful of other shoppers and staff.
The displays of colorful textiles, intricate carvings, and vibrant tea packaging can make for visually appealing photos.
It's best to ask for permission before taking photos of staff members.
You can capture images of the diverse range of handicrafts, the store's layout, and the unique Sri Lankan products available.
For commercial photography, you would likely need to seek official permission from Laksala management.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for small, lightweight items like wooden toys, painted masks, or packets of Sri Lankan tea and spices that are easy to pack and transport. The staff are generally accommodating, and the store's layout is spacious enough for strollers.
🎁 Gift-Focused Travelers
Consider purchasing Sri Lankan tea and spices for foodies, batik sarongs or scarves for fashion-conscious recipients, or hand-carved decorative items for home decor enthusiasts. The range of price points allows for thoughtful gifts without breaking the bank.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Cruise Passengers
Focus on pre-packaged items like tea, spices, or small handicrafts that are easy to select and purchase quickly. The helpful staff can expedite your shopping if you're short on time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Authenticity of Laksala Crafts
The range of products is extensive, covering everything from traditional batik clothing and intricate hand-carved wooden items to precious stones, jewelry, and Ayurvedic oils. This variety ensures that whether you're looking for a personal keepsake or a gift for a loved one, you're likely to find something suitable. The store is well-maintained, and the staff are known for being friendly and helpful, often guiding visitors to the most representative pieces.
For those seeking to bring a taste of Sri Lanka home, Laksala is also an excellent source for high-quality Ceylon tea and local spices. These are not only delicious but also make for wonderful, consumable souvenirs that can be enjoyed long after the trip. The store's commitment to showcasing Sri Lankan culture through its products makes it a must-visit for any traveler interested in authentic local experiences.
Navigating Your Shopping Experience
One of the most appreciated aspects of Laksala is its fixed pricing policy. This eliminates the need for haggling, a common practice in many markets, and provides a transparent shopping environment. While some items might appear pricier than in smaller shops, the assurance of authenticity and fair pricing often justifies the cost for many visitors. There's also a wide range of prices available, ensuring that budget-conscious travelers can still find beautiful souvenirs.
Practical considerations like ample parking on the premises add to the convenience. Furthermore, Laksala is committed to accessibility, featuring a dedicated entrance for differently-abled visitors, making it a welcoming destination for everyone. This thoughtful approach to customer service and accessibility underscores Laksala's role as a premier destination for authentic Sri Lankan crafts.
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