Where to buy alcohol in Hikkaduwa and is duty free cheaper than local shops?
From messages by 5 participants in 2 sources · Last activity: 12 days ago
From messages by 5 participants in 2 sources · Last activity: 12 days ago
TL;DR
Imported spirits are usually better bought at duty free before arriving, as local wine-shop prices are regulated and may not be lower. In Hikkaduwa, try local beer, rum and arrack; a price of about US$19 is also seen at wine shops.
For imported whisky or gin, check duty free before arrival: these spirits are generally cheaper there than in Hikkaduwa’s local shops.
Alcohol prices in Sri Lanka are regulated and printed directly on the bottle, so the same item is usually not cheaper at a wine shop. A price of around US$19 was reported there as well.
Locally, beer, rum and arrack are the practical choices, while imported brands are noticeably more expensive. If you want a particular familiar drink, bring a couple of bottles with you.