Finding authentic handmade brass lamps in Pilimathalawa
2 Answers from travellers
Pilimathalawa is the heart of traditional brassware. While the main road shops sell good items, many are cast in larger batches now. To find truly authentic, hand carved pieces, ask to visit the small backyard foundries located just off the main Colombo Kandy road.
If you venture into the workshops, you can watch them pour the molten brass and chisel the intricate swan motifs. It takes them weeks to finish a single large ceremonial lamp.
Scam Watch: kandy
TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.
Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).
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