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Shopping in Kerala is a delightful experience, offering a wide array of traditional handicrafts, textiles, spices, and other unique products. Here are some highlights of shopping in Kerala:

  1. Handicrafts: Kerala is famous for its exquisite handicrafts made by skilled artisans. Look for items like intricately carved wooden statues, masks, and furniture. Traditional coir products, including mats, carpets, and wall hangings, are also popular. You can find these handicrafts in government emporiums, craft fairs, and local markets.
  2. Textiles: Kerala is known for its vibrant and colorful textiles. Traditional Kerala sarees, such as the Kasavu saree with a golden border, are a popular choice among shoppers. Other textile products include handloom fabrics like Mundu (dhoti), set mundu (saree with matching blouse piece), and Kerala cotton shirts. Thrissur and Kannur are known for their handloom products.
  3. Spices: Kerala is the land of spices, and shopping for authentic spices is a must. Look for spices like cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, which are renowned for their quality and aroma. The spice markets in cities like Kochi and Kozhikode are excellent places to purchase these aromatic treasures.
  4. Ayurvedic Products: Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments and products. Ayurvedic oils, herbal soaps, and wellness products made from natural ingredients are widely available. You can find Ayurvedic pharmacies and wellness centers where you can purchase authentic Ayurvedic products.
  5. Jewelry: Kerala’s jewelry is known for its unique designs and craftsmanship. Gold jewelry is particularly popular, with traditional Kerala designs like the Nettichutti (headpiece), Manga Mala (mango-shaped necklace), and Kasu Mala (coin necklace). Thrissur and Kochi are known for their gold and jewelry markets.
  6. Tea and Coffee: Kerala produces some of India’s finest tea and coffee. Look for aromatic tea varieties like black tea, and green tea, and specialty teas like Nilgiri tea. The Malabar region is famous for its flavorful coffee beans. You can buy these products in tea and coffee outlets or specialty stores.
  7. Souvenirs: Kerala offers a range of unique souvenirs that make for perfect gifts. Look for items like Kathakali masks, traditional musical instruments like the Chenda and Thalam, elephant figurines, coconut shell handicrafts, and bamboo products. These souvenirs are available in tourist-centric areas and local markets.

Remember to bargain and compare prices before making a purchase. Government emporiums, handicraft cooperatives, and local markets like Broadway in Kochi, MG Road in Thiruvananthapuram, and SM Street in Kozhikode are popular shopping destinations in Kerala. Enjoy the shopping experience while exploring the rich cultural heritage and traditions of this beautiful state.

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