Shopping in Galle, Sri Lanka Galle Fort Shopping - Reviews and Advise

Galle shops are typically open during the core business hours of 9AM-5PM. Some shops such as Barefoot open later and stay open till 7:00PM.

Most shops in the Galle Fort have fixed prices. The price tag is what you pay. You can still haggle in some of the smaller shops. Most jewelers will allow you to haggle with them. See Buying Jewellery below.

It is customary in Sri Lanka for shop assistants to follow you around their store. They do this to be helpful. It is part of the customer service. So don't be offended by their presence. Obviously, they are also keen to make a sale. Always be courteous.

Galle has always had a reputation for its jewelery shops. Some of them have been operating for generations. So if you are keen on a piece of jewelery do your homework. Shop around before you buy anything.

BE WARNED: There is no such thing as a fantastic bargain!

Only buy jewelery from a reputable shop. They usually display Tourist Board approval, etc.

Bargaining is acceptable in the jewelery trade. While reasonably honorable traders; they are out to maximize their profit - gullible tourist are fair game.

Basically offer them 40% less than the asking price and then work your way up. A 20% discount is probably a good outcome.

Always be courteous.

Sri Lankan legislation prohibits the export of any item older than 100 years without a government permit. So if you are offered anything older than that, it's either illegal or fake. Having said that there are still lots of old knick-knacks and reproductions that are really worth purchasing.

While you may be accosted by a motley collection of street vendors, con-artists and bamboozlers you will, in general, not be endangered in any way. Never ever be conned by sob stories and offers of fantastic prices on precious gems. Ignore these people or politely and firmly say "No Thank You" eventually they will leave you alone.