Shopping & Handicrafts

Unique Souvenirs to Bring Back from Kerala

Kerala, known as God’s Own Country, offers a variety of authentic souvenirs that reflect its rich culture, traditions, and natural beauty. From spices and handicrafts to handloom sarees and Ayurvedic products, here are the best souvenirs to take home from Kerala:

1. Spices – The Fragrant Treasure

✔️ Kerala is the "Spice Garden of India", making spices one of the best souvenirs to bring back.
✔️ Buy black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and turmeric.
✔️ Available in local markets, spice plantations, and government spice shops.

 Best Places to Buy:

• Kumily & Thekkady Spice Markets
• Mattancherry Spice Market, Kochi
• Wayanad & Munnar Spice Plantations

 Best for: Food lovers and home chefs who enjoy fresh, aromatic spices.

 2. Kerala Kasavu Sarees & Mundu – The Traditional Wear

✔️ The Kasavu Saree (Settu Mundu) is Kerala’s signature handwoven attire, featuring a white cotton base with a golden border.
✔️ The Mundu is a traditional men’s garment, often worn during festivals and formal occasions.

 Best Places to Buy:

• Kuthampully Handloom Village (Thrissur) – Best for handwoven Kasavu sarees.
• Kasavukada Showrooms (Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur) – Trusted store for authentic Kasavu sarees.
• Seematti & Jayalakshmi Silks (Major Cities) – Offers designer & bridal Kasavu sarees.

 Best for: Those looking for an elegant and timeless piece of Kerala’s tradition.

 3. Nilavilakku (Traditional Kerala Brass Lamp)

✔️ A symbol of Kerala’s culture, often used in homes, temples, and festivals.
✔️ Available in various sizes, from small tabletop lamps to large temple-style lamps.

 Best Places to Buy:

• Vishwa Brahmana Handicrafts (Thrissur)
• Shilpakala Handicrafts (Kochi, Trivandrum)
• Kerala Handicrafts Emporium (Government Stores, Major Cities)

 Best for: Home décor lovers who want a symbol of prosperity and tradition.

 4. Aranmula Kannadi (Handmade Metal Mirrors)

✔️ Unique, handmade mirrors made of metal alloy instead of glass, crafted only in Aranmula (Pathanamthitta district).
✔️ Considered auspicious and a symbol of good luck.

 Best Places to Buy:

• Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple Shops
• Authentic Aranmula Mirror Craft Stores (Pathanamthitta, Trivandrum)

 Best for: A rare and luxurious souvenir, perfect as a decorative or spiritual gift.

 5. Coconut Shell Handicrafts & Coir Products

✔️ Kerala is famous for eco-friendly crafts made from coconut shells & coir.
✔️ Includes decorative items, bowls, showpieces, keychains, mats, and bags.

 Best Places to Buy:

• Coconut Development Board Stores (Alappuzha, Kochi)
• Cochin Coir Society (Alleppey & Ernakulam)
• Local craft markets in Kovalam & Varkala

 Best for: Sustainable, handmade gifts for eco-conscious travelers.

 6. Ayurvedic & Herbal Products

✔️ Kerala is the home of Ayurveda, making herbal products a perfect souvenir.
✔️ Buy Ayurvedic oils, herbal soaps, wellness teas, and skincare items.