The fabric display & a collection of table and bed linen. Table cloths, cushion covers, fabric by the meter, napkins, and much much more.
1 / 10

ODEL & Barefoot Colombo

4.5
·3k reviews·Colombo, Sri Lanka

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Live music & garden vibes

CrowdMedium
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The fabric display & a collection of table and bed linen. Table cloths, cushion covers, fabric by the meter, napkins, and much much more.

ODEL & Barefoot Colombo

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Live music & garden vibes

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(3k reviews)

"A visual paradise with top-notch handmade fabric and crafts, totally worth the quality!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Handwoven Textiles

Vibrant Handwoven Textiles

Main showroom

Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors with unique handloom fabrics, clothing, and home decor.

Artisan Crafts & Books

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

Barefoot Cafe Garden

Courtyard cafe

Enjoy delicious food and drinks in a charming garden setting, often with live music on Sundays.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Colors, Respect the Rules

Prepare for a visual feast of vibrant textiles and unique crafts at Barefoot. Remember, photography is generally not allowed inside to preserve the atmosphere and protect designs. Plan your visit to coincide with their cafe's live music for an extra special experience.

Quality Over Bargains

While not a budget destination, Barefoot offers exceptional quality in its handmade fabrics, clothing, and crafts. Visitors rave about the value for money given the craftsmanship. Consider it an investment in unique souvenirs and timeless pieces.

Best Times

When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Live music & garden vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter browsing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

"no more phone calls" - barefoot #barefoot #seujeitodeandar #movie #movies #edit #happierthanever #youmakemehatethiscity #scottspeedman #evanrachelwood #sad #sadscene #romance #romancemovies #viral #foryou #fyp #fy #foryoupage #fypシ
@bellemovies
1.4M likes • 13.7M views

📸 No Photos Inside!

Respect the 'no photography' rule to preserve the store's unique atmosphere and protect designs. Reddit

☕ Cafe's Sunday Serenade

Experience the magical Sunday live music in the garden cafe. Book ahead if possible! Reddit

MY TRAVEL GUIDE BELLOW 🏄🏼‍♀️ COLOMBO * DROP INN Hostel : - Really nice - 9$/night - Breakfast : 6€ smoothie bowl 🤤 - Can leave your bag : 5$/10days Tuktuk —> bus station : 1,5$ 🚌 Colombo —> Unawatuna : bus AC 3$ UNAWATUNA * HABIBI hostel : really chill, 13$/night, rooftop with a jungle view🌴 * Restaurants: GRANDGERS Unawatuna, so good with a good vibe, take the curry * To do : Jungle Beach 🚌 Una...
@lasophvadrouille
26.3K likes • 248.1K views
Kurunegala ට ආවා. හෙට ගිහින් බලන්න. 20% off store-wide. මේ Weekend එකේ කුරුණෑගල Spa Ceylon එකට එන්න!✨ 📍 Odel Mall, Colombo Road, Kurunegala #spaceylon #kurunegala #luxuryayurveda
foxyskitchendaily
251 likes • 6.5K views

🧵 Quality is Key

Expect high-quality, handmade items. It's an investment, not a bargain hunt. Reddit

🐾 Say Hi to Patchouli

Don't disturb her when sleeping, but give a friendly nod to the resident cat, Patchouli! Reddit

Unwind your style with boho-inspired elegance. 🌾✨ Let your wardrobe breathe with pieces made to wander. 📍Shop now at Cotton Collection Stores #CottonCollection #BohoVibes #odel
coco_by_cotton_collection
31 likes • 5.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 No Photos Inside!

Respect the 'no photography' rule to preserve the store's unique atmosphere and protect designs. Reddit

☕ Cafe's Sunday Serenade

Experience the magical Sunday live music in the garden cafe. Book ahead if possible! Reddit

🧵 Quality is Key

Expect high-quality, handmade items. It's an investment, not a bargain hunt. Reddit

🐾 Say Hi to Patchouli

Don't disturb her when sleeping, but give a friendly nod to the resident cat, Patchouli! Reddit

🛍️ Explore All Sections

From clothing to crafts and books, take your time to explore every colorful corner. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

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

High-quality handmade textiles
Vibrant colors and unique designs
Charming cafe with live music

What People Dislike

No photography allowed
Outdoor cafe can be warm

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. TikTok

Limited parking may be available, but it's often easier and more reliable to use taxis or tuk-tuks, especially during peak hours. TikTok

Yes, buses frequently run along Galle Road, and you can alight near Barefoot. This is a very budget-friendly option. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, ODEL has multiple locations, including ODEL Brands Outlet Stores in Kohuwala and OGF, and a store in Kandy. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to enter Barefoot Colombo. You can browse freely. Reddit

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. Reddit

The cafe does not have a separate entry fee; it's part of the Barefoot experience. You pay for what you order. Reddit

Barefoot often hosts exhibitions and events. It's worth checking their schedule online or in-store for any current happenings. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ 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. Reddit+1

While not considered a bargain destination, many find the prices reasonable for the exceptional quality and handmade nature of the products. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Barefoot is a prime spot for unique, culturally rich souvenirs that are beautifully made and represent Sri Lankan artistry. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

ODEL has outlet stores in Kohuwala and OGF, offering discounted items. There's also an outlet store in Kandy. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

Yes, the cafe provides a relaxed atmosphere for casual meals, especially if you enjoy dining in a garden setting. Reddit

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. TikTok

Yes, live music is a highlight on Sundays in the garden, creating a wonderful ambiance. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside Barefoot Colombo to protect their unique designs and maintain the store's atmosphere. Reddit

You can capture the exterior architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of the cafe garden, especially during live music performances. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by ODEL store. It's best to check signage or ask staff at individual locations. Instagram

The store's architecture, the vibrant colors of the textiles displayed outside, and the lush garden cafe create a visually rich environment. Reddit

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Barefoot offers a visually stimulating environment for families, with its explosion of colors and unique crafts. While photography is restricted inside, the garden cafe provides a pleasant space for children to relax. On Sundays, the live music can be an enjoyable experience for all ages. Consider purchasing a stuffed animal or a colorful toy as a memorable souvenir for the kids. Reddit+1

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

While Barefoot is known for its quality, it's not typically a budget shopping destination. However, you can find reasonably priced jewelry and smaller crafts that make excellent souvenirs without breaking the bank. Reddit Look for items like hand-painted greeting cards or small fabric pouches. Reddit

For more budget-friendly shopping in Colombo, explore the ODEL outlet stores in Kohuwala or OGF, which offer discounted items from various brands. Instagram Additionally, exploring local markets outside of the main tourist hubs can yield more affordable finds, though quality may vary.

🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts

Barefoot is a paradise for art and design lovers. The bold, contemporary designs on the handwoven textiles are a signature of the brand, reflecting a unique Sri Lankan aesthetic. The store's architecture itself is also noteworthy, creating a beautiful backdrop for the vibrant displays. Reddit

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. Reddit 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

Barefoot is synonymous with its vibrant, handwoven textiles. Each piece is a testament to traditional Sri Lankan craftsmanship, featuring bold colors and intricate patterns. The loom is right on location, meaning you're seeing products made with incredible care and attention to detail. Visitors often purchase everything from clothing and sarongs to cushion covers and table runners, appreciating the quality that makes them feel like lasting treasures. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Barefoot Cafe: A Culinary and Cultural Hub

The Barefoot Cafe is more than just a place to eat; it's an integral part of the Barefoot experience. Nestled in a charming courtyard, it offers a relaxed ambiance perfect for a leisurely lunch or a delightful Sunday brunch. The menu features a selection of popular dishes, with visitors often praising items like their burgers and cream cheese cake. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

ODEL: Colombo's Fashion Hub

ODEL is a well-known department store in Sri Lanka, offering a wide range of fashion, accessories, and lifestyle products. While Barefoot is a distinct entity with its own unique artisanal focus, ODEL often features brands and styles that align with contemporary fashion trends. Visitors can find everything from clothing and footwear to home goods and electronics across its various branches. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram