Markets in Sri Lanka

Markets in Sri Lanka

Top 5 Markets in Sri Lanka

Cities in Sri Lanka

All Markets in Sri Lanka

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Best Markets in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan markets have predominantly been street markets where locals bring out their fresh produce to sell to the public. However, in the recent past, there have been some very interesting flea markets that have been organized. They feature an expanded range of items available for the locals and visitors. Below are some markets, which have caught our attention.

  • Pettah Market, Colombo

    This is one of the busiest and the largest open-air markets in Sri Lanka. Shopping around this market is surely going to satisfy your retail therapy. It covers a wide range of items including clothing, consumer electronics, knick knacks etc. You will also be able to find some amazing deals, which are surely going to get you excited.

    Make sure you learn the art of haggling, which your local guide can teach you! Soak in the sights and sounds of this market as shopping here is truly a memorable experience. It is a memory that you will cherish for quite some time.

  • Main Market, Kandy

    This colorful market in Sri Lanka features a wide variety of local handicrafts produced and designed by local artisans. Not only would you be supporting the local community by shopping here but also, you will definitely find so many items that have very good value for its price.

    This market is also known for featuring some fresh produce, which the locals come to the market for. Your local guide will let you know the best stalls to visit so you will save time and make the most of this wonderful market. Located in the heart of Kandy, getting here is very convenient too!

  • Main Fish Market in Negombo

    Being an island, surely you won’t be surprised to hear that Sri Lanka is home to some amazing fresh seafood. This popular seafood market in Sri Lanka is located in Negombo where several local fishermen auction their day’s catch.

    The best part about this market is that it is located right next to a beach. So, the fish here are as fresh as it can get. Get there at the right time to catch the fishermen sweep their catch to the shores. Learn the different types of fish there is as your local guide takes you around the market. Watch your step as you enter the market, as it could be slippery.

  • Boutique Street Markets, Galle

    If you’re looking for a boutique market in Sri Lanka, Galle is definitely the place to be! Through its narrow alleys and walkways, the streets feature local handicrafts and hand-woven bags that are sure to grab your attention.

    Look out for some unique places to eat –on the balcony of a local’s house facing the ocean for example! Your local host will guide you through it all! Oh, and don’t forget, it’s a great place to grab some souvenirs too! Let your guide know so they can show you around some shops that have a good range of items.

  • Good Market, Colombo

    This is the “go to place” if you’re looking for fresh and organic items. The vendors that are featured here are carefully selected to ensure their items are all organic and are sustainably produced. So, in essence, you will be contributing to its ecological initiatives by shopping here. Won’t that make you feel good about the whole experience of shopping at this market in Sri Lanka?

    It’s a great way to spend the day with your family and friends while also taking the opportunity to interact with the locals! Do note however that these markets are only held on Saturdays, so get your local guide to plan your tour accordingly.

What other travelers love about our local experts

Aleit
About local
31 May 2025
Knowledgable and friendly!

Very knowledgeable, took time to show us around and super friendly. We tried things we never had before. Great tour!

Jemima
About local
18 May 2025
Amazing tour - must do!

Deegoda gave us the most incredible tour today. We tried loads of different amazing foods, but also Deegoda took us around the food market and showed us all the local fruit and vegetables here. It was such a great way to see Colombo. Deegoda was so knowledgeable of everything, and really took the time to show us the city. He also helped give us advice for the rest of our travels and was just so nice. I really would recommend doing this to anyone visiting Colombo, especially with Deegoda who was just so fantastic!

Robin
About local
15 April 2025
We had such a fun, tasty afternoon!

Thank you to Deegoda for sharing his knowledge of Colombo and all it's flavours with us - we had an amazing afternoon seeing the key sights, tasting different things and hearing more about the history of this beautiful city.

Libby
About local
6 April 2025
Holiday Highlight!

Our street food tour with Buddhima was wonderful. Buddhima is so lovely, generous and knowledgeable, it was like spending the evening with a good friend. Buddhima introduced us to lots of different foods, answered all our many questions, and shared so much about life in Sri Lanka. She also gave us some great tips for the rest of our trip. If we return to Kandy we would definitely do the tour again - there is always more food to discover - and we would recommend Buddhima as a guide without hesitation.