
ODEL & Barefoot Colombo
A vibrant haven of Sri Lankan artistry, Barefoot offers stunning handwoven textiles, unique crafts, and a charming cafe.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music & garden vibes

ODEL & Barefoot Colombo
Best Time
Live music & garden vibes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant haven of Sri Lankan artistry, Barefoot offers stunning handwoven textiles, unique crafts, and a charming cafe.
"A visual paradise with top-notch handmade fabric and crafts, totally worth the quality!"

📸 No Photos Inside!
Respect the 'no photography' rule to preserve the store's unique atmosphere and protect designs.
☕ Cafe's Sunday Serenade
Experience the magical Sunday live music in the garden cafe. Book ahead if possible!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Handwoven Textiles
Main showroom
Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors with unique handloom fabrics, clothing, and home decor.

Artisan Crafts & Books
Gift shop and book section
Discover beautifully crafted souvenirs, jewelry, and a curated selection of books on Sri Lankan culture.

Barefoot Cafe Garden
Courtyard cafe
Enjoy delicious food and drinks in a charming garden setting, often with live music on Sundays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Colors, Respect the Rules
Quality Over Bargains
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 No Photos Inside!
Respect the 'no photography' rule to preserve the store's unique atmosphere and protect designs.
☕ Cafe's Sunday Serenade
Experience the magical Sunday live music in the garden cafe. Book ahead if possible!
🧵 Quality is Key
Expect high-quality, handmade items. It's an investment, not a bargain hunt.
🐾 Say Hi to Patchouli
Don't disturb her when sleeping, but give a friendly nod to the resident cat, Patchouli!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 No Photos Inside!
Respect the 'no photography' rule to preserve the store's unique atmosphere and protect designs.
☕ Cafe's Sunday Serenade
Experience the magical Sunday live music in the garden cafe. Book ahead if possible!
🧵 Quality is Key
Expect high-quality, handmade items. It's an investment, not a bargain hunt.
🐾 Say Hi to Patchouli
Don't disturb her when sleeping, but give a friendly nod to the resident cat, Patchouli!
🛍️ Explore All Sections
From clothing to crafts and books, take your time to explore every colorful corner.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Barefoot for its exceptionally high-quality, vibrant, and unique handmade textiles and crafts, making it a delightful shopping experience. The charming cafe, especially with Sunday live music, adds to the appeal. While prices are on the higher side, the craftsmanship is seen as well worth the investment. Some find the outdoor cafe seating can be warm.
"This was recommended from a friend on recent trip to Sri Lanka. Everything sold here is top notch high quality handmade fabric with loom right on location. Was able to buy tons of handmade crafts to remember trip and treat myself to a silk and cotton handwoven, handmade dress. I wouldn’t call it a bargain, but the quality makes it totally worth it. Added bonus is how gorgeous the store is with all the colorful textiles. Head’s up, no pictures allowed - but it’s a visual paradise!"
Tara Arguello
"One of my all-time favourite shops! The beautifully crafted, vibrant items are of exceptional quality. I’ve admired Barbara Sansoni’s work ever since my mother showed us the little stuffed mouse she had as a child. Visiting the Barefoot store in Colombo was an absolute delight, and I loved it so much that I went two days in a row—just to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the wonderful café as well!"
Els
"It is a great place for Sundays brunch and lunch. Burgers and cream cheese cake were good. Live music on Sunday in the garden was so atmospheric. One minus, it is outdoors a bit hot and not much of fans. Some humidifiers plus fan would be a fantastic option."
Sv Dm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barefoot Colombo is located on Galle Road. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available and are a convenient way to reach the store. If coming from further afield, consider using ride-sharing apps for ease.
Limited parking may be available, but it's often easier and more reliable to use taxis or tuk-tuks, especially during peak hours.
Yes, buses frequently run along Galle Road, and you can alight near Barefoot. This is a very budget-friendly option.
Tuk-tuks are iconic and fun for short distances, while taxis and ride-sharing apps offer more comfort. For longer journeys, consider the AC buses.
Yes, ODEL has multiple locations, including ODEL Brands Outlet Stores in Kohuwala and OGF, and a store in Kandy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Barefoot Colombo. You can browse freely.
Barefoot is typically open daily, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially around holidays.
The cafe does not have a separate entry fee; it's part of the Barefoot experience. You pay for what you order.
Barefoot often hosts exhibitions and events. It's worth checking their schedule online or in-store for any current happenings.
While Barefoot is known for its resident cat, Patchouli, it's best to assume pets are not allowed inside the store or cafe unless specifically stated.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Products
Barefoot is renowned for its vibrant, high-quality handwoven textiles, including clothing, sarongs, cushion covers, and bags. They also offer unique crafts, jewelry, books, and toys.
While not considered a bargain destination, many find the prices reasonable for the exceptional quality and handmade nature of the products.
Absolutely! Barefoot is a prime spot for unique, culturally rich souvenirs that are beautifully made and represent Sri Lankan artistry.
ODEL is a department store that carries various brands, including some collaborations or sections featuring items similar to Barefoot's aesthetic, like Cotton Collection. Barefoot is a distinct entity with its own unique offerings.
ODEL has outlet stores in Kohuwala and OGF, offering discounted items. There's also an outlet store in Kandy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The cafe offers a delightful menu with options like burgers and cream cheese cake. It's a popular spot for Sunday brunch and lunch.
Yes, the cafe provides a relaxed atmosphere for casual meals, especially if you enjoy dining in a garden setting.
While specific options aren't detailed, cafes in Colombo often cater to various dietary needs. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff.
Yes, live music is a highlight on Sundays in the garden, creating a wonderful ambiance.
The cafe has outdoor seating in a garden area. Some visitors note it can get a bit hot, suggesting fans or humidifiers would be a good addition.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside Barefoot Colombo to protect their unique designs and maintain the store's atmosphere.
You can capture the exterior architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of the cafe garden, especially during live music performances.
Photography policies can vary by ODEL store. It's best to check signage or ask staff at individual locations.
The store's architecture, the vibrant colors of the textiles displayed outside, and the lush garden cafe create a visually rich environment.
The colorful exterior of Barefoot and the lively garden cafe are popular spots for photos. The surrounding Galle Road area also offers glimpses of Colombo's urban charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the cafe seating is outdoors and can get warm, so plan accordingly. The unique textiles and crafts might also spark curiosity and creativity in younger visitors, offering a glimpse into Sri Lankan artistry. It's a great place to find high-quality, durable items that can withstand a child's playful nature.
🛍️ Budget-Conscious Shoppers
For more budget-friendly shopping in Colombo, explore the ODEL outlet stores in Kohuwala or OGF, which offer discounted items from various brands. Additionally, exploring local markets outside of the main tourist hubs can yield more affordable finds, though quality may vary.
🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the curated book selection, which often features titles on Sri Lankan art, culture, and design. Visiting during an exhibition can offer further insights into the local art scene. The entire experience at Barefoot is an immersion into a world of color, texture, and thoughtful design.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Barefoot Textiles
Barbara Sansoni, the founder, has a deep connection to this craft, and her vision is evident in every colorful thread. The sheer variety and the way the fabrics are displayed create a visual paradise, even if you can't capture it with your camera. It’s an experience that engages all your senses, from the feel of the fabric to the riot of colors.
While the quality is exceptional, it's important to note that these are not mass-produced items. The pricing reflects the artisanal nature of the work. Many visitors feel the cost is justified by the durability and unique beauty of the handwoven goods, making them worthwhile souvenirs and additions to any home.
Barefoot Cafe: A Culinary and Cultural Hub
A significant draw for the cafe is the live music that often graces its garden on Sundays. This creates a truly atmospheric setting, blending delicious food with soulful melodies. It’s a perfect way to soak in the local culture and enjoy a laid-back afternoon. However, be prepared for the tropical climate; the outdoor seating can get warm, and some visitors have suggested adding more fans for comfort.
Visiting the cafe is highly recommended to complement your shopping spree. It provides a tranquil escape and a chance to savor local flavors while surrounded by the vibrant spirit of Barefoot. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and appreciate the holistic experience the establishment offers.
ODEL: Colombo's Fashion Hub
ODEL is particularly popular for its sales and promotions, with events like the 'End of Season Sale' offering significant discounts of up to 70%. These sales are a major draw for shoppers looking for branded items at more affordable prices. The store also houses various sub-brands and collaborations, such as Cotton Collection, which offers boho-inspired fashion.
For those seeking more budget-friendly options, ODEL operates outlet stores in locations like Kohuwala and OGF. These outlets provide an opportunity to purchase items from previous collections at reduced prices. This makes ODEL accessible to a broader range of shoppers, catering to different price points and fashion preferences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit