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

Sue
About local
1 August 2025
Fantastic street food tour

We had such an awesome experience with Deegoda the communication was fantastic from the start with lots of helpful information and confirmation he was on the way to pick us up. Deegoda arrived right on time picking us up from our hotel in his tuk tuk. Deegoda is full of energy with a great smile and sense of humour, immediately making us feel welcome, he also has a wealth of knowledge about the local food and culture. All the foods we tasted were delicious and Deegoda went out of his way to find particular foods he wanted us to experience. What really stood out to us the most was his interaction with the local people, there was so much laughter and smiles and genuine connection, it is a tour we will remember for a long time. Please do not hesitate to book this tour with Deegoda he is an awesome person and guide

Elisabeth
About local
19 July 2025
Attentive & experienced!

Buddhima is a very attentive host. She showed us a very nice foodcourt and took us to the market and the oldest bakery in town. Her english is perfect, so we did not have to refrase a lot , this made it a very comfortabel experience.

Omar
About local
16 July 2025
Excellent food tour with Deegoda

We had an excellent food tour with a very friendly, knowledgeable guide, Deegoda. He made us try food which we would not have known to try otherwise and we enjoyed trying some fruits while getting a tour through the fruit and vegetable market. Would highly recommend booking him, and I would without hesitation book him again on a future trip to Colombo!

Wendy
About local
2 July 2025
Interesting morning in Colombo.

My daughter and I thorough enjoyed our Colombo food tour with Muditha. Communication and arrangements were easy. The tour was well paced, interesting information and we tasted a great selection of local dishes. Muditha is a great host.