Shopping & Handicrafts

Shopping in Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is not a typical shopping destination, but it offers unique, eco-friendly, and handcrafted souvenirs that reflect its island culture and marine beauty. Since the islands focus on sustainable tourism, most souvenirs are made from natural materials like coconut shells, corals (ethically sourced), and seashells.

 Best Souvenirs to Buy in Lakshadweep

1️⃣ Coconut Shell Handicrafts

✅ What to Buy? – Hand-carved bowls, spoons, decorative showpieces, and jewelry made from polished coconut shells.
✅ Where to Find? – Local markets in Agatti, Kavaratti & Minicoy Islands.

2️ Shell & Coral Jewelry

✅ What to Buy? – Beautiful necklaces, earrings, bangles, and pendants made from seashells and corals (ethically sourced).
✅ Where to Find? – Beachside shops & local craft stalls in Bangaram & Kavaratti.

 Note: Avoid buying items made from live corals, as it's illegal to remove them from the islands.

3️ Miniature Wooden Boats (Odam)

✅ What to Buy? – Miniature models of traditional Lakshadweep sailboats (Odam), handcrafted by local artisans.
✅ Where to Find? – Kavaratti & Minicoy markets.

4️ Coir & Palm Leaf Products

✅ What to Buy? – Handmade mats, baskets, and eco-friendly bags woven from coconut coir and palm leaves.
✅ Where to Find? – Kadmat & Agatti local markets.

5️ Tuna & Seafood Products

✅ What to Buy? – Sun-dried tuna, smoked fish, and pickled seafood, famous in Lakshadweep.
✅ Where to Find? – Fishermen’s markets in Agatti, Minicoy & Kavaratti.

6️ Traditional Handwoven Fabrics & Sarongs

✅ What to Buy? – Locally woven cotton sarongs and scarves, inspired by Malayali & Maldivian designs.
✅ Where to Find? – Local tailoring shops in Minicoy & Kavaratti.

7️ Organic Coconut Oil & Coconut-Based Products

✅ What to Buy? – Cold-pressed coconut oil, coconut soap, and beauty products, made by locals using traditional methods.
✅ Where to Find? – Local cooperatives in Agatti & Kalpeni.

8️ Spices & Herbal Products

✅ What to Buy? – Locally grown pepper, cloves, and herbal oils, influenced by Lakshadweep’s trade ties with Kerala.
✅ Where to Find? – Small spice stalls in Kavaratti.

 Where to Shop in Lakshadweep?

 Best Shopping Spots:

• Kavaratti Local Market – Best for handicrafts, spices & dried seafood
• Minicoy Traditional Handicrafts Market – Unique Island crafts & fabrics
• Agatti Beachside Shops – Shell jewelry, coconut products & souvenirs
• Bangaram Island Eco-Shop – Eco-friendly and handmade items

 Shopping Tips for Travelers

✔️ Support Local Artisans – Buy directly from small stalls & workshops.
✔️ No Large shopping malls – Only small markets & village stalls are available.
✔️ Limited Digital Payments – Carry cash, as card payments may not be accepted.
✔️ Avoid Buying Restricted Items – Live corals & certain marine species are illegal to export.

 Take home a piece of Lakshadweep’s natural beauty with these unique souvenirs!