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An honest breakdown of what you actually pay for: the type of site, the platform, the content and what happens after launch. So you can compare quotes properly and pay once.
By
Chehan Gamage
·
7 min read
Quick answer
Website cost in Sri Lanka depends on five things: the type of site, the number of pages, the platform (Framer, WordPress or Shopify), who writes the content, and what happens after launch. A one-page landing page costs far less than a custom online store. Always ask for a fixed scope before you compare prices.
It is the first question almost every client asks us, and the honest answer is: it depends. That is not a dodge. Two websites can look similar on the surface and still be weeks apart in work. This guide breaks down what you are actually paying for, so you can compare quotes properly and avoid paying twice.
The 5 things that decide your website price
1. Type of website
A one-page landing page, a 5-page business site, a portfolio, a blog or an online store. Each step up adds design, content and testing time.
2. Number of pages and templates
Ten pages built from two templates cost less than five pages that each need a unique layout.
3. Platform
Framer, WordPress, Shopify or custom code. Each has a different build speed, running cost and editing comfort.
4. Content
Copywriting, photos, product uploads and Sinhala or Tamil versions are real work. Agree who does them before you start.
5. After launch
Hosting, domain, maintenance, SEO and updates. A cheap build with no support often costs more in year two.
Our recent business websites took 2 to 3 weeks from kickoff to launch. Online stores took about 3 weeks.
Typical website types and what to expect
Website type | What you get | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
Landing page | 1 page, 1 goal, form or WhatsApp button | About 1 week |
Business website | 5 to 8 pages, CMS, basic SEO | 2 to 3 weeks |
Online store | Shopify or WooCommerce, products, payments | 3 to 4 weeks |
Custom web app | Logins, dashboards, integrations | 6 weeks or more |
Prices depend on scope, so we quote every project on a fixed scope. Ask us for a quote.
Framer, WordPress or Shopify: how the platform changes the cost
Platform | Best for | Running cost | Edit it yourself? |
|---|---|---|---|
Framer | Service businesses, startups, portfolios | Monthly Framer plan, hosting included | Very easy |
WordPress | Large blogs, plugin-heavy sites | Hosting, plugins, updates | Easy once set up |
Shopify | Online stores | Monthly Shopify plan and apps | Very easy |
Running costs matter as much as the build. Framer and Shopify charge a monthly plan but include hosting, security and updates. WordPress can be cheaper to host but needs plugin updates and backups, or it slowly breaks. More on this in Framer vs WordPress for small businesses.
Hidden costs most quotes leave out
Ask about these before you sign:
Domain name renewal every year
Business email (Google Workspace or Zoho)
Professional photos or a product shoot
Copywriting in English, Sinhala or Tamil
Payment gateway and card fees
Maintenance and updates after launch
SEO and Google Business Profile setup
A cheap website that brings no customers is the most expensive website you can buy. Chehan Gamage, Founder, Mintleaf Digital
How to compare website quotes properly
Ask for the number of pages and templates in writing.
Ask who writes the content and who uploads the products.
Ask which platform it is built on and who owns the account.
Ask what is included after launch, and for how long.
Ask to see two or three live websites they built.
And always ask who owns the domain.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to build a website in Sri Lanka?
A landing page can take about a week. A business website usually takes 2 to 3 weeks, and an online store 3 to 4 weeks, depending on how quickly the content is ready.
Can I update the website myself?
Yes, if it is built on Framer, Shopify or WordPress with a CMS. We hand over a short training so your team can edit text, images and blog posts.
Do I need to pay every month?
Usually yes, for hosting or the platform plan, plus the yearly domain. Ask for these running costs before you sign.
Is a cheap website a good idea for a new business?
It can be, if it is fast, clear and easy to update. Avoid builds you cannot edit yourself or that lock you to one developer.
Want an exact price for your website?
Tell us what you need and we will send a fixed quote. No pressure, no jargon. Book a free 15-minute call.
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