Kandy markets and shopping spots - Exploring the heart of Kandy's shopping scene

The city's top shopping centre, Kandy City Centre (KCC), is a symbol of Kandy's modernity. There are several shops and boutiques in this multi-story building, selling anything from clothing and accessories to electronics and cosmetics. It serves as a one-stop shop for customers looking for a modern retail experience. At KCC, you'll discover both national and international brands, making it a fantastic spot to buy trinkets, presents, or basic necessities. Don't forget to check out the food court while you're here, where you can sample a variety of regional and international cuisines. Additionally, KCC is conveniently accessible from the city centre if you are staying at one of the various hotels in Kandy, such as the luxurious Amaya Hills Kandy.

The Kandy Central Market is a sensory delight, located near the iconic Kandy Clock Tower. This crowded market is a veritable treasure trove of indigenous handicrafts, scented spices, colourful fabrics, and fresh fruit. It's the ideal setting for experiencing all of Kandy's sights, sounds, and flavours. You can find stalls offering traditional Sri Lankan sweets, unusual fruits, and spices that are crucial to the island's cuisine as you meander through the market's winding lanes. It's also a great place to buy some of Sri Lanka's famous tea, which is prized for its superior quality around the world. Explore the market, take in the vibrant ambiance, and interact with the welcoming neighbourhood sellers.

Kandy is known for its vibrant batik art, and shopping for batik textiles is an experience you shouldn't miss. Batik is a traditional Sri Lankan art form where intricate designs are hand-painted or printed onto fabric using a wax-resist dyeing technique. The result is a burst of colors and intricate patterns.One of the standout destinations for batik shopping in Kandy is the Jayamali Batiks Studio, a family-run business that began in 1979 under the creative guidance of Mr. Upali Jayakody. You may find a variety of high-quality batik products at Jayamali Batiks Studio, from fashionable clothes for men and women to home decor including bedspreads and pillow coverings. This studio stands out for its dedication to workmanship and capacity to produce products that are specifically tailored to your tastes. You can purchase a piece of Sri Lankan culture and art from Jayamali Batiks Studio while also supporting a locally owned, family-run company that has been a fixture of Kandy's artistic community for many years. 

Kandy's antique shops are true gold mines for people with a passion for history and vintage items. These charming shops provide a window into the past by stocking a variety of antique furniture, cutlery from bygone eras, pictures from bygone eras and one-of-a-kind knickknacks. Waruna Antiques, a hidden gem buried away in the centre of the city, is a notable location for antique collectors. Kandy's cultural legacy is celebrated through the historical artefacts that Waruna Antiques finds and preserves. You may browse a wide variety of products here, including excellent cutlery, old photographs that provide a look into the city's past, and antique furniture. A trip to one of these antique stores is like stepping back in time, whether you're an experienced collector or just enjoy the appeal of vintage objects.

The Ceylon Tea Museum, which is only 3 kilometres from Kandy, will captivate history buffs and tea connoisseurs alike. This museum offers a thorough look at the background and technology of Sri Lanka's renowned tea industry. You'll find a library there containing books, papers, and multimedia exhibits that provide background on the development of tea. Visit the top-floor tea café for a pleasant tasting experience with sweeping views of tea farms after an educational tour. Don't forget to browse the museum's gift stores for a selection of tea flavours and one-of-a-kind keepsakes, making it a memorable stop for tea lovers.