Shopping in Kerala

The beauty of Keralam (Kerala) does not stop at its stunning natural attractions, delicious cuisine, or fascinating history. While you soak in the culture, landscapes, and food, do remember to leave some space in your bag. Shopping here is fun and vivid. The markets are full of vibrant colors and lively sounds. Here you can enjoy shopping from piles of fresh spices to stacks of handcrafted fabrics and traditional crafts.

Buying local products in Kerala is a special way to take a piece of the state home with you. Kerala’s unique jewelry, antiques, artifacts with detailed carvings, spices, cloth, tea, and various forms of handicrafts are some of the best things to buy. These make perfect souvenirs and gifts for family and friends.

Here’s your guide to the best things to buy in Kerala.

Spices

Kerala is globally renowned for its spice. These spices of Kerala are sure to make daily culinary delights more aromatic, flavourful, and delicious.

Where to Buy- Thekkady spice plantations, and Local markets in Munnar and Wayanad.

Kasavu sarees-

These sarees are the white and gold sarees worn traditionally by Kerala women during festive occasions. They are meticulously handwoven from the finest cotton and have a gold border that is called Kasavu.

Where to buy- You can get the Kasavu sarees from any good textile shop, saree emporiums in Kochi and Trivandrum, government-run Kerala Tourism outlets.

Handicrafts of Kerala

Kerala handicrafts and textiles display the art and ingenuity of local craftsmen. You can buy-

• Aranmula Kannadi (local rare mirrors)
• Nettur petti (caskets)
• Coir products
• Elephant figurines
• Nettipattam (traditional caparisons)
• Nilavilakku (traditional oil lamps)
• Kathakali masks
• Chundan Vallam (snake boat models)
• Pulpaya (straw mats)
• Coconut shell handicrafts
• Temple paintings and mural art
• Ramacham Vishari (hand-held fans)
• Bronze ware
• Sandalwood figurines

Tea & Coffee

The cool hill stations of Kerala like Munnar and Wayanad are famous for their sprawling tea and coffee plantations. Rich in flavor, aroma, and color, you’ll find only the best version of your favorite beverage. When you visit, don’t miss the chance to buy freshly harvested tea leaves and coffee beans.

Jewelry

Malayalam jewelry is known for its fine detailing, eye-catching designs, and lustrous finish. These jewelry items are produced in Kerala and are in much demand due to their beauty and cultural essence.

Banana chips

Kerala’s crispy banana chips are more than just a simple snack. They are a local favorite and travellers favorite too. Travellers love to take them home as souvenirs.

Palakkadan Matta Rice

This unique red rice variety is grown mainly in the Palakkad region and is prized for its nutty flavor, rich texture, and numerous health benefits.

Herbal and Ayurvedic Cosmetics

Herbal cosmetics from Kerala blend ancient Ayurvedic knowledge with the state’s rich botanical diversity. The cosmetics here are known for avoiding harsh chemicals. They are natural, plant-based products and are used for nourishing skin, hair, and body.

Essential Oils

Kerala's tropical climate and fertile Western Ghats soil produce some of the world's finest, high-yield essential oils. These oils are very aromatic and are in the purest form. Some essential oils treat skin infections, migraine, joint and back pain, stress, and fatigue.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil from Kerala is renowned for its purity, versatility and high nutritional values. The oil is used in cooking, hair care, and skin treatments.

Best shopping places in Kerala and what for-

• Traditional Crafts & Antiques - Jew Town in Mattancherry, Kochi and Aranmula in Pathanamthitta
• Spices - Broadway & Convent Road in Ernakulam, Kochi
• Clothing & Local Markets - Chalai Bazaar in Thiruvananthapuram and SM Street (Sweet Meat Street) in Kozhikode
• Modern Malls - LuLu Mall in Thiruvananthapuram & Kochi and HiLITE Mall in Kozhikode

Explore vibrant local markets, spice plantations, and traditional handicraft stores during your trip with our Kerala Travel Packages. We give you a perfect blend of shopping and cultural experiences.