Sthree Craft Shop and Café

The Sthree Craft Shop and Café in Kandy works with women in the local community to increase their income, strengthen their financial independence, and help them become economically empowered. The Sthree Café employs local women, providing them with a fair wage and the skills and training needed to work in the service sector.

The café serves fresh, locally sourced, seasonal vegetarian cuisine and provides a traditional Sri Lankan dining experience. You’ll experience this first hand on our Sri Lanka: Pearl of the Indian Ocean tour.

The Women’s Development Centre (WDC) promotes gender equality and combats violence against women. They empower women through programs like Sthree, a handicraft shop for women entrepreneurs. Planeterra supported the WDC to renovate the craft shop and outfit a working kitchen. The addition of a dining area attracted more customers to Sthree, ensuring a steady income flow. Women and youth now serve up breakfast, lunch and high tea to travellers.

THE IMPACT OF TOURISM

  • By working in tourism, Sthree increased cash flow by over 400% in the first year, expanding support for artisans.
  • The initiative enables them to continually support women and break the cycle of violence and poverty.
  • 200 people are currently earning an income from Sthree

  1. PLANETERRA PROJECTS

    Take a look at other Planeterra projects that we support.

Visit the Sthree Craft Shop and Café on tour...

  1. Sri Lanka - Pearl of the Indian Ocean

    Head to this paradise island afloat in the Indian Ocean to discover mysterious ancient sites, lush tea plantations, idyllic  beaches and more.

    • Return flights
    • 12 nights in 4 & 5-star hotels, 1 night in flight
    • 25 included meals: 12 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 12 dinners

    14 days from
    £3,549
    was £3,749
  2. Sri Lanka - Pearl of the Indian Ocean with Beruwala Beach Extension

    With its incredible natural beauty, ancient sights and cultural treasures, Sri Lanka has much to offer. Admire the majestic elephants of Habarana, visit Sigiriya's 'Fortress in the Sky' and view the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, then round off your tour with days of relaxation on the beach.

    16 days from
    £3,948
    was £4,148