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20 Best Things to Buy in India | Guide by an Indian Expert
For many people like me, shopping while travelling is an integral part of.experience. There’s pure joy in discovering useful souvenirs made in their own land rather than the usual magnet stickers
My homeland, India, known for its diversity, vibrancy and millions of artforms with craftsmanship, is one of the best places in the world to buy colourful souvenirs that actually come in useful. Another perk of shopping in India as a traveller is that you can buy Indian things at affordable price without compromising on quality
As an Indian citizen living here for over 30 years and having traveled all over India, with a slight hint of “shopaholic” tendencies in my blood, I can show you some super cool stuff you purchase here as tourist. I have a huge fondness for local products crafted by native artists.
So this ultimate shopping guide to India for travellers is crafted by an insider to show you what are the best Indian Things to Buy on a budget and where to find them.
List of Best Things to buy in India
- Things to know before going for shopping in India
1. Indian Spices
Shopping for spices is at the top of the best things to buy in India for two reasons: India grows, uses, and exports the most spices in the world, so you get hundreds of varieties and high quality.
Secondly, if you buy spices as souvenirs from India, they never go to waste?they add flavor to your cooking
Beyond chilli, pepper, and cardamom, India grows many other spices?fenugreek seeds, mustard, bay leaf, hing (asafetida), clove, star anise, nutmeg, and even vanilla in certain parts of the country.
As a South Indian who uses spices daily and grew up on a spice farm, I know where to find the best ones. Here’s some advice on where to buy spices in India as a tourist.
Where to buy which spice in India?
Places where they grow: Nothing better than buying directly from the growers! Although almost all states in India grow various types of spices, not every town or place grows them.
For example, while Chikmagalur is heaven for pepper and betel nuts, you won’t find pepper plantations in Bijapur. Similarly, Ajwain grows in abundance in Jamnagar but not in Kutch, Gujarat.
General grocery stores: It isn’t difficult to buy spices in India, as almost all supermarkets and grocery shops will have a selection. Ask locals where they shop and head to local grocery stores away from touristy areas to experience the authentic aroma before making your purchase.
Spice markets: India boasts some incredible spice markets. Here are five of the best:
Khari Baoli Spice Market, New Delhi: The biggest spice market in India, offering everything.
Mattancherry Spice Market, Kochi: Famous for ginger, pepper, and cardamom. Kerala cinnamon is a standout.
Lalbaug Spice Market, Mumbai:Everything
The Clock Tower Market, Jodhpur: All Indian spices, especially hing (asafoetida).
The Old Market, Bangalore: Karnataka’s busiest market, offering betel nuts, black and white pepper + everything else
2. Indian Tea
I wonder if it’s tea or blood that runs in most Indians’ veins because India is one of the top 5 countries that produce tea leaves, and we consume 70% of it.
Indians call tea “Chai” and is often made with milk. Without a doubt Indian tea is indeed one of the best things to buy in India.
The five main states, Assam and West Bengal in eastern India, and Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu in southern India, produce different varieties of tea powder?some are meant for black tea, and others are for milk tea.
Having a spouse who is a “Chai Addict,” we’re always on the hunt for the best Tea powder in India, and here are our hot picks.
Where to buy tea powder in India
Almost every tea estate open for visitors will have a kiosk selling their powder. We have bought ourselves tea in Munnar of Kerala and also Darjeeling – they weren’t good!
So it is best to head to a local general store and grab the “Made in India” tea brands. We use and recommend the following brand for strong Chai made with milk.
Kannan Devan: Known for its strong flavor, grown and made in Munnar, it’s our top choice.
Red Label: Perfect for a lighter and simpler taste, made using North Eastern state-grown tea leaves, it’s a favorite in our household.
Jaipur Masala Company: A newfound love for its Masala Chai, using tea grown in the North Eastern region as a base and adding spices like ginger, cardamom, and more. Plus, Ashrith’s favorite is the one with rose petals!
Golden Tips: Famous for Darjeeling tea, ideal for tea without milk like lemon tea or black tea, especially popular in Sikkim.
3. Filter Coffee Powder and filter
India is famous for Chai, making tea the most popular souvenir for tourists. However, many people who travel to India are unaware of Indian coffee powder?a lesser-known aromatic caffeine treat.
Coffee beans from Yemen were brought by a Muslim pilgrim to Chikmagalur, my hometown in Karnataka in the late 1600s. Then during British times, it was taken to Coorg as well.
The robusta and Arabica coffee grown here are cured, dried, and powdered to make South India’s famous signature style “Filter coffee.”
The powder has a rich taste and full-bodied flavor with moderate acidity. It’s traditionally added to the top of brass or steel coffee filters, and hot water is poured over it.
Within 10 minutes, you get freshly brewed decoction collected at the bottom. Mix it with milk, add a pinch of jaggery or sugar?you’ll be savoring the finest filter coffee.
Where to buy coffee powder with filter in India?
The best place to buy Coffee powder in India is the major towns of South India, Chikmagalur, Coorg and Kumbakonam.
If you are looking for finest filter coffee powder, I love and recommend Cothas Coffee Coffee Powder Extra Strong ( Red Pouch) and Coffee Day Ultra Rich.
Along with the powder, don’t forget to buy coffee filter.
You get steel coffee filters in most of crockery shops in South Indian towns. Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu is famous for their Brass coffee filter.
4. Indian Sarees
If you are looking to buy something truly Indian, buy a saree. It is the most Indian thing to buy while visiting India especially for women travellers.
Salwar Kameez is also part of Indian woman daily attire. But it isn’t unique to India. It is worn by women in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and even Maldives. On the other hand, sarees are exclusive to India.
You may wonder how a saree would become a useful souvenir for a non-Indian traveller. Saree draping may be tricky for beginners, but there are countless YouTube videos to help you with it.
As a saree admirer who collects handloom sarees from every Indian state, I can list at least one saree from each state, except for the nine states where Buddhist women wear Chupa instead of sarees.
Altogether, there might be at least 130+ varieties of Indian sarees. Here is a list of Handloom sarees crafted by Indian masterminds that I personally use and recommend.
Which are the best handloom sarees in India?
- Ilkal and Patteda Anchu, Cotton Sarees in Karnataka- ?600 to ?4,500
- Kasavu Sarees in Kerala- ?800 to ?5,000
- Sungudi in Madurai and Chettinad Cotton Sarees in TN- ?800 to ?2,000
- Narayanpet and Venkatagiri in Andhra Pradesh – ?500 to ?1,500
- Chanderi Cotton Silk Sarees, Madhya Pradesh – ?1,500 to ?5,000
- Assam: Traditional Muga Silk Sarees – ?3,000 to ?5,000
- Bandhani in Gujarat and Rajasthan – ?1,500 to ?10,000
- Lucknow Chikankari, Uttar Pradesh- ?2,000 to ?4,00,000
- Phulkari Hand Embroidered Sarees in Punjab – ?1,500 to ?5,000
5. Scented Products
If you’re wondering what to buy in India besides food items and clothing, let me introduce you to the aromatic world of Indian scented products.
In India, scented products are everywhere, deeply rooted in our culture. They’re used in religious rituals and daily life, like incense sticks for offerings and meditation.
We’re big on aromatherapy too, using natural scents for healing. With our diverse climate, we’ve got plenty of aromatic plants to make fragrant goodies, even in personal care products like sandalwood soaps.
So, scented products are a big deal in India and makes it’s way to unique things to buy in India
What and where to buy scented products in India?
Local markets outside of tourist attraction areas are the best places to buy scented products in India.
Incense sticks are available in all general stores and outside Buddhist and Hindu temples. Then you can even consider buying specific products at specific places. For example:
- Mysore, Karnataka : Sandalwood oil and soap
- Kalimpong in WB : Pine wood incense sticks at Buddhist towns like Kalimpong in West Bengal
- Ladakh : Traditional perfume “Guge” made from juniper, cedar, and other herbs
- Kannauj in Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand : Rose water
Indian brands that manufacture these products which I use and recommend for scented products like essential oils and soap are Forest Essentials and Khadi Natural. They are a bit expensive but worth the money. So when you find their stores while wandering in the towns, do check them out.
6. Unique Indian Jewellery
On this planet, you won’t find any other place that offers such a variety of jewels at such low prices as India does.
The array of apparel doesn’t just end with necklaces and earrings?there are bangles, finger rings, anklets, nose pins, waist belts, and more.
Jewellery unique to India which I love are : Jhumkas (bell-shaped earrings with intricate designs and often featuring small hanging beads or pearls), Anklets, various types of neck pieces like choker to simple long chains.
Made of metals, they start from 50 Rs depending on the design and size, going up to 5000 Rs. So artificial Indian jewelleries are cheap and best things to buy in India as a budget traveller.
Where to buy Indian Jewelleries?
Everywhere in India. However few designs are unique and authentic to particular regions. Such as :
- Rajasthan: Kundan, Polki, Thewa, and Meenakari jewellery.
- Kutch: Beadwork jewels.
- Tamil Nadu and Kerala: Temple-themed jewellery.
- Maharashtra: “Nath” nose rings.
- Hyderabad: “Lac Bangles.”
7. Made in India clothing
“The second on the list of ‘best things to buy from India’ is ready-to-wear clothing?colorful, made from a variety of materials, and available in sizes from XS to 4XL for both men and women.
I recommend cotton and Khadi clothing as the best Indian souvenirs to take back hom , as cotton and Khadi are some of the most comfortable materials to wear.
Cotton and Khadi make fine Kurta pajamas for men, salwar kameez, and short kurtis (also known as tunics) for women and Cotton makes long flowing flared skirts,
Where to buy Indian clothes.
The best places to buy cotton clothing in India are Kolkata in West Bengal, Ahmedabad in Gujarat, and Jaipur in Rajasthan?they are the masters of it. Ajrakh print, hand block printing, and various types of embroidery add vibrancy to the cotton clothing,
Kalamkari designs from Andhra Pradesh on cotton fabric can bring real vibrance to the kurtis and skirts.
Desi and Charaka from Sagara in Karnataka, and the online brand Itokri are other places where you can buy cotton clothing online in India.
Any famous tourist spot that is popular among foreign travellers will always have markets that sell cotton clothing, such as Kochi, Gokarna, Goa, Hampi, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur. Make sure you bargain and check for quality before you buy.
8. Running Fabrics
Not happy with the fitting of ready-to-wear Indian clothes but love the colours and prints of Indian fabric? Don’t worry! You can find plenty of fabrics in every Indian city, available in any length you want.
Trousers and shirt fabrics for men, kurti and blouse materials for women, long skirts to short skirts?you name it, you get the fabric for it.
Don’t blame me if you get confused while buying fabrics in an Indian shop because you’ll have so much variety in materials and patterns to choose from!
Synthetic to Khadi, Embroidery to natural dye hand block printed, simple to grand – Choices are unlimited
You can use some of these fabrics as curtains, bedspreads or even get dresses/palazzo stitched once you get back home.
Where to buy Indian Fabrics?
You find fabric shops everywhere in India. But the best deals and highest variety of fabric can be found in capital city’s exclusive local fabric market.
I have ordered them in descending order from best to good places as per my experience in terms of value for money.
- Ahmedabad : Laal Darwaja
- Jaipur : Sanganer Market
- Kolkata Bada Bazar
- Mumbai Mangal Das Market
- Delhi : Multiple places including Central Market in Lajpat Nagar, Shankar Market
- Chennai : Cotton Street
- Bangalore : Raja Market
9. Scarf, Shawls and Dupattas
When you travel to India, especially as a female traveller, scarves become an essential part of your packing list, regardless of the season.
Don’t buy one from your country?buy it in India for several reasons!
You get plenty of variety in India in terms of colour, fabric, size, and price. This is because a long scarf, known as a “dupatta,” is an integral part of almost all Indian outfits?kurtis, salwar kameez, and even lehengas.
When you visit beachside towns like Goa and Gokarna, you’ll find thin scarves that can work as sarongs. In religious areas, scarves make great head coverings. Street markets offer long dupattas, my favourite. They’re versatile for beachwear, kurtis, and as wraparounds for knee-length dresses in temples.
Then come shawls, which are thicker and useful in colder areas like hill stations or the Himalayan regions. Thus shawls and scarfs are the best things to buy in India.
Different types of Scarfs and Shawls you can buy in India
Pashmina shawls of Kashmir – Luxurious and super soft, made from Cashmere goat wool, perfect for keeping warm. Real Pashmina shawl made on a powerloom costs about 10000 Rs.
Kullu Shawls – Woollen shawls from Himachal Pradesh, known for their distinctive geometric patterns. They are warm and perfect for chilly weather.
Kapadaganda shawls – Traditional cotton shawls from Odisha, featuring intricate tribal designs. They are handwoven.
Kalamkari Shawls – Hand-painted or block-printed cotton dupattas from Andhra Pradesh, featuring intricate and detailed designs. They are made using natural dyes.
Bandini and Leheriya of Gujarat – Vibrant and colourful, with unique tie-dye patterns. Bandhini comes in both thin cotton and polyester, while Leheriya are the lightest polyester dupattas that just fly in the air.
10. Traditional Quilts
The sewing skills of Indian craftsmen are evident in the softest quilts for beds and couches. Indian quilts are known for their vibrant colours and patterns, ranging from traditional geometric designs to various floral motifs.
Some regions in India even use waste fabric to create “Patchwork Quilts.” These quilts are not only warm and soft but also colourful, making them one of the finest things to get from India.
Where to buy Traditional Quilts in India?
Kutch in Gujarat, Jaisalmer & Jaipur in Rajasthan, Sandur near Hampi and other parts of Karnataka for Patch work quilts
11. Traditional Handbags
If you’ve been sticking to solid-coloured rectangular bags and want to add a twist to your outfit, it’s time to go shopping in India for bags.
From cotton to silk, banana fibre to plastic, India offers bags made from a wide range of materials.
When it comes to designs, handcrafted bags come in all shapes and sizes. The Potli bag, once a royal family accessory adorned with beads, is now a fashionable addition to ethnic wear.
Gomukhi bags offer a simpler alternative to Potli bags, typically made of cotton without intricate work, often hand-painted or printed with religious motifs for holding chanting beads.
Embroidery and block prints commonly found on fabrics also adorn Indian bags. Tote bags and Banjara design backpacks are especially popular among both Indians and foreigners.
Where to buy Traditional Handbags in India?
Potli Bag : All over Rajasthan and Chhatta Chowk in Red Fort Delhi
Gomukhi Bags : Most of the religious places like Rishikesh, Rudraprayag and Banaras
Leather Bags in Rajasthan
Banjara Design bags : Sandur near Hampi, Kutch in Gujarat.
Tote bags : All over India, but flea markets in Goa are the best for it.
Banana Fibre Bags – Anegundi and Kochi in Kerala
Lama AKA Buddhist Monk Shoulder Bag : All over SIkkim, especially near Buddhist Monasteries. I bought one near Rumtek Monastery.
An NGO called “Re-Charka” uses waste plastic to manufacture super stylish, contemporary design bags in all shapes and sizes. They are based in Pune, Maharashtra. So when you are travelling in and around Mumbai, make sure to check them out.
12. Footwear
Indian craftsmen’s attention to detail and fondness for embroidery extends beyond clothing to footwear.
It’s said that the shoes Maharajas wore were studded with precious gems. Today, common stone studding on chappals makes them an awesome addition to your outfits and undoubtedly it is the one of the best things to buy in India which is colourful and stylish.
Some of the most common styles you can find in Indian footwear are slip-ons, loafers, and handmade sandals. Different regions add their own unique twists to these styles:
Where to buy Indian Footwear?
Everywhere! But if you are keenon buying region specific varieties here is a list of unique footwear you can buy in India
Juttis in Punjab and Rajasthan : Initially worn by the Mughals and Rajputs, these traditional shoes were once a symbol of wealth and status. During those days it was made from leather and studded with precious stones. But now they are also made from rubber and artists make a fine embroidery over it. Cost about 700 TO 1500 Rs
Kutchi Embroidery on leather slip-ons – Bhuj in Gujarat
The Nagra in Rajasthan and Punjab : is a type of jutti with a soft, rounded top edge, similar to a ballerina shoe. Unlike Juttis they are made of solid colour. A pair costs 1000 Rs
Kolhapuri Chappals : Simple footwear made of leather and vegetable dye is made in Kolhapur of Maharashtra. I love these for their elegance and can go with any outfit-western or traditional Indian wear. Each pair costs 300-600 Rs
Lavancha root sandals: Made using vetiver root, these shoes are believed to have healing properties for the feet and meant for indoor use only. They are mainly sold in South Indian hill stations like Chikmagalur and Munnar. A pair costs 350-500 Rs
Osho Sandals : An Indian twist to flip-flop chappals is the Osho sandal, a hot favourite among hippies. Made with bamboo or cane with a soft rubber sole and a fabric strap on top, these sandals are commonly found in areas popular with international travellers.
13. Antique Brassware
If you’ve been to any Indian temple, you’ll notice that brass artifacts are an essential part of the culture. Even in Indian households brass artifacts are used for both decorative and functional purposes.
You can find idols, vases, and candle holders, as well as plates, bowls, and utensils made from brass – Thus brassware is the “Aesthetic Most” souvenir from India.
More than anything, I love Indian brass lamps. The traditional designs, featuring motifs like peacocks, mangoes, pearls, and floral patterns, are truly remarkable. So, brass items are one of the best things to buy in India for all visitors – They aren’t expensive.
Where to buy Brassware in India
You find at least one brassware shop right outside a Hindu temple all over India. But buying them in the place where they made bring in more joy. Such as :
Jaipur, Rajasthan:
Dhubri, Assam: Known for its traditional Assamese brassware, which includes religious and decorative items.
Delhi: The markets in Old Delhi, especially Chandni Chowk, have numerous shops selling brassware.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Known for its religious brass items, including idols and lamps.
Mysore, Karnataka: Famous for its brass and bronze idols and other decorative items.
Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu: Famous for its brass and bronze statues, especially those of deities, plus brass coffee filters
Karaikudi Antique Market : The abode of Chettinad wealth where you get plenty of brassware antiques along with other items including tin.
If you are keen on seeing the masters of brassware, head to Moradabad “The Brassware Capital of India”in Uttar Pradesh which is about 3 hour drive from Delhi.
14. Marble ware
Up for a Mughal-style wine experience? Think about adding some elegant marble ware to your India shopping spree, and Agra’s the place to be.
Agra, the Mughal capital known for the Taj Mahal, boasts marble with inlay work of precious stones in various floral patterns, known as Pietra Dura.
Today, craftsmen in Agra continue this art, creating usable products like marble tabletops and affordable wine glasses adorned with colorful gemstones.
While a marble tabletop may break your bank at over 3 lakhs, Pietra Dura wine glasses cost between 8000 to 10000 Rs?truly unique Indian souvenirs for your drinking pleasure!
Beware of fake Pietra Dura items sold in the streets of Agra. Check with your host for authentic options or visit government-approved workshops in Agra.
You can also opt to have your purchase shipped to your address at an extra cost if you prefer not to carry it for the rest of your India trip.
15. Pottery
India, home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations like the Indus Valley in the north and the Sangam era in the south, has a rich variety of pottery. The designs have evolved a lot over time.
Pottery is still a big part of daily life here. In places like Uttar Pradesh, you’ll find chai, lassi, and other sweets served in clay pots. So, shopping for pottery in India is always a good idea.
Where to buy pottery in India?
You do find road side stalls selling simple clay pots and cups in many rural parts of India. However, the designed ones varies regionally, each distinguished by unique techniques, designs, and cultural influences.
Notable pottery styles from India include the following and it is best to buy from there
Jaipur Blue Pottery: Originating from Rajasthan, known for its vibrant blue and white designs influenced by Persian design, made from quartz instead of clay.
Khavda Pottery: From the Kutch region in Gujarat, features intricate designs and is often painted with red, white, and black motifs – I use one of these to store daily home-made curd.
Longpi Pottery: Crafted in Manipur using black serpentine stone and clay, famous for its sleek black finish and durability.
West Bengal Terracotta Pottery: Characterized by its reddish-brown color, often depicting traditional and mythological themes, used for decorative and functional items.
Black Clay Pottery: Found in Nizamabad, Uttar Pradesh, known for its lustrous black finish achieved through a special firing technique and inlay work with silver motifs. You find a few places in Banaras selling those.
Heads up: Apart from these, the regular chai and lassi cups are available in many parts of Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. While buying, check with the seller if you need to condition them further under heat.
Many of these clay pots sold on the streets require a second treatment of heat before use.
I made the mistake of using them directly, and whatever items I put in there developed a foul smell. Later, I heated them gently over coal and got rid of the smell.
16. Puppets and Toys
India is famous for its hundreds of handicrafts, and toy making is one of them. Traditional toy making exists in almost every part of India, each with its own captivating story.
These handmade toys aren’t just for kids?they’re also part of our festivals like Dasara. So traditional Indian toys are one of the best things you can buy in India. It is like carrying cute souvenirs from India that got a story behind it.
Where to buy Traditional Handmade Toys
The types of toys made in India vary from region to region. It is in the villages where these toys are made, so make sure to add a visit to these countryside craft villages on your trip to buy them. Some of the village clusters where they make traditional Indian handmade toys are :
Channapatna Toys near Mysore, KA – Wooden Toys with organic dye
Vilachery Golu near Madurai, TN – Clay dolls
Tanjore Dolls, TN – Dancing Terracotta dolls
Kondapalli Toys, AP – Wooden dolls
Kathputli , Rajasthan – Puppet show toys made of cotton clothes and metal wires
Natungram Toys, West Bengal – Wooden toys with Owl as main motif
Andaman and Nicobar– Toys made of coconut coir and bamboo –
However, you can usually find toys made in each state at the official emporiums in the state capital cities.
17. Papads & Namkeens
International travellers have diverse opinions on Indian food, but all can agree on one thing: Indian snacks offers a huge variety.
From roasting to baking, pressure cooking to steaming, and deep frying to serving raw, Indian snacks come in all shapes and sizes.
Many of these Indian snacks are just “One Fry” away, like papads and fryums, perfect for pairing with meals or enjoying during evening tea time.
Papads are thin wafers made of ingredients like rice flour,sabudana mixed with Indian spices. Some are suitable for roasting, while most must be deep-fried. South Indian papads are primarily made of rice, rice and mint leaves, sabudana (tapioca pearls), and urad dal (black gram papads). Other famous snacks from South India include banana chips, fried okra, and jackfruit chips (seasonal).
As a South Indian myself, I can attest that the people of Rajasthan and Gujarat are the masters of Namkeens!
They know how to make them healthier and tastier than anywhere else in India. Gujarat’s khakhra, bhakarwadi, ghatiya, and chevdo typically have a shelf life of 1-2 days.
Rajasthani namkeens like bhujiya sev, aloo bhujia, fried moong dal, and Ratlami sev make for excellent edible souvenirs to take home!
Heads up : Avoid buying coloured fryums and namkeens sold in open-air local markets. Always check with your host for recommendations and purchase them from reputable sources.
18. Masala Powder
You may be wondering why Indian cuisines are so flavorful (or spicy) – The secret lies in the masala powders we use. The most famous Garam Masala powder is made using about 7 different spices.
The curry powders are even more complex. So, Indian masala powder is one of the best things to buy in India – You will take home the taste of India as a souvenir.
What and Where to Buy Masala Powder in India?
I recommend buying Rasam powders in Southern India and Garam Masala in Northern India. Curry powders’ ingredients and flavors vary a lot by region. For example, the Kerala curry style is totally different from Tamil Nadu’s. So whenever you like something in a place, it is best to ask your host.
If you stay in homestays, especially, many homestay owners run a side hustle of making and selling these curry powders. So if you like their home food, buy from them. Or head to local markets along with a trustworthy local.
Planning a 21-day trip to India? We’ve crafted a DIY 3-week India travel itinerary with 10 options just for you.
19. Cashew Nuts
There are only about 20 nations in the world that grow cashew nuts, and India is one of the top three!
Honestly, until I travelled abroad, I didn’t realise how much foreign travellers admire cashew nuts. Growing up with cashew nut trees in the backyard, they were just another ingredient for our desserts like Payasam and Kesaribath.
In India, we use cashew nuts in various ways. We fry them with ghee as a topping for sweet dishes and even rava idli.
Some people roast them and add chilli powder or pepper to make snacks for chai time.
In the North, cashews are a key ingredient in curries that go with roti or naan.
Recently, with the rise of veganism, people have started making cheese from cashews! Whether you want to snack on them, use them as a topping, or make cheese, cashew nuts are one of the best things to buy in India.
Where to buy Cashew Nuts in India?
You can find cashew nuts in most grocery stores in India. But the best places to buy them are Goa and the coastal regions of Karnataka like Udupi, Mangalore, Ankola, Gokarna, and Karwar. These areas are where cashew nuts are grown.
20. Ayurvedic Products
Being the birthplace of Ayurveda and thousands of herbal plants, Ayurvedic products are available in abundance.
Unknowingly, many rural households like mine in India were using naturally extracted products such as clay for shampoos.
So when in India, buying legit Ayurvedic products is a good idea – kind of a healthy souvenir to take back home from India.
I suggest you buy Ayurvedic products that you can use externally rather than buying tablets or syrups for internal use.
Because internal Ayurvedic medicines must be prescribed by doctors – Buying random syrups because your friend in India suggested may not be suitable for health conditions.
So I recommend buying natural soaps, Ayurvedic lip balms, toothpaste made of clove and neem, oils for massages, ointments, and oils for joint pains, and aromatherapy oils for migraine headaches.
Where to buy Ayurvedic Products in India?
Herbs for Ayurvedic products are naturally grown in hilly regions of India such as Uttarakhand state, parts of Kerala, and Karnataka, which are parts of the Western Ghats. So you get the best there.
However, don’t buy Ayurvedic products sold on the streetside or in local markets that don’t have proper labeling. So consider buying Ayurvedic products in the following places:
Ayurvedic pharmacies and stores: Look for dedicated Ayurvedic shops or pharmacies in cities and towns, especially in areas known for their traditional medicine practices.
Wellness centers and spas: Many wellness centers and spas offer Ayurvedic treatments and products, often sourced locally or from reputable Ayurvedic brands.
Ayurvedic ashrams and retreats: If you’re looking for authentic Ayurvedic experiences, consider visiting Ayurvedic ashrams or retreats where you can learn about Ayurveda and purchase products directly from practitioners.
Expensive Souvenirs to buy form India
- Carpets and Rugs – Kashmir carpets, Jaipur Rugs, Bhadohi rugs in Varanasi, Navalgund Durries in Karnataka
- Diamond and Gold Jewellery : All over India, design varies in each state.
- Expensive Sarees : KSIC Mysore Silk, Banarasi silk in Varanasi, Kanjeevaram from Kanchipuram, Patolu from Patan
- Silverware items
Things not to buy in India.
Don’t buy cinnamon. It’s easy to get tempted by average-quality cinnamon since India is known as the spice capital of the world. Personally, I find Sri Lankan cinnamon to be of better quality.
Not all Dry fruits are worth buying. Dates and figs are grown in India to a limited extent. Aside from cashews and almonds, I prefer Middle Eastern dry fruits over the Indian varieties.
Skip buying gemstones. Although 90% of the world’s diamonds are cut in Surat, the quality of diamonds and gemstones available in India isn’t the best. Opt for precious stone jewellery, but avoid buying loose stones.
Don’t buy animal products like ivory and horns. You might have heard of fine leather bags made from King Cobra skin or ivory-studded jewellery boxes. Even stuffed stag heads with beautiful horns are sold. It’s illegal to hunt animals for these products, and it is banned by the government. However, poachers still manage to sell them. Avoid buying any animal-related objects to discourage this illegal trade.
Don’t buy winterwear. Handwoven woollen sweaters are suitable for temperatures above 12°C. Indian winter clothing typically isn’t designed for anything colder than that.
Tips on how to shop in India for travellers
Know the regional specialities – Seek out unique finds crafted by local artisans across different regions of India.
Get savvy with bargaining: Brush up on your bargaining skills to snag better deals in local markets. Feel free to negotiate prices down to half of what’s initially quoted.
Play it cool while shopping: Keep a poker face to avoid revealing too much interest and gain the upper hand in negotiations. Take your time, compare prices at different shops, and return to your preferred shop for the best deal.
Learn some local lingo: Pick up basic phrases in regional languages to chat with vendors and score discounts.
Have cash on hand: While digital payments are on the rise, cash is still king for many transactions, especially in smaller shops.
Avoid fancy-looking spice shops near tourist attractions : They often inflate prices for tourists. Instead, venture at least 1.5 km away from tourist spots to find good products at reasonable prices, without the tourist markup.
Trust but verify recommendations: Be cautious of recommendations from drivers, and do your own research before making purchases.
Watch out for fakes: Stay alert for counterfeit goods, especially if the prices seem too good to be true.
Dress comfy for market strolls: Wear comfy clothes and shoes for leisurely market explorations.
You find most of the things in New Delhi:’As the nation capital, much of the items I have listed above will be available in Delhi.
Check out local shopping events: Keep an eye out for fun shopping festivals and events in different parts of India.
Bring your own bag: Be eco-friendly and tote around a reusable cloth bag for your shopping adventures.
Explore beyond the usual souvenirs: Look beyond typical trinkets and keep an eye out for unique kitchen tools and accessories.
FAQ
Is it cheap to buy clothes in India?
Buying clothes in India is cheaper compared to western countries. However you get cheaper clothes with better quality in Thailand, Vietnam and Sri Lanka than India
Does India have shopping malls?
Yes. Mall culture in India started during British time, but increased in Delhi and Mumbai in 1990s. So there are plenty of Shopping malls in many Indian cities selling brands like Louis Vuitton, H&m, Forever 21 etc.
Is bargaining allowed in Indian shops
Bargaining or Haggling is common in Indian shops. Unless you are in a branded store where the board says “fixed price” only, Shopkeepers will not be offended by haggling and bargaining
How to haggle in India
When haggling in India, start by showing interest in the item but also be ready to walk away. Keep a friendly tone and don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. Always aim to settle on a price that works for both parties. And remember, a smile goes a long way!
What’s the best thing to get from india?
Spices, Sarees, Tea and Filter Coffee Powder.
What gifts to buy for family in india
Traditional Paintings are the best family gifts. The types of paintings varies with region. For example : Madhubani from Bihar, Warli from Maharashtra, Pichwai and miniature paintings from Rajasthan, Tanjore Paintings from Tamil Nadu etc make great wall hangings.
What are good gifts to take for American friends from India
Cashew nuts make excellent gifts for American friends from India. They make delightful dessert toppings when crushed, serve as tasty bar snacks when fried with pepper, and can even be used to make cheese.
Found our guide and tips on Best Things to Buy in India useful and what all would you buy as a visitor in India? Let us know in the comment section below.
Ooooh I love shopping in India! I lived in New Delhi as an expat for a while and i bought so much stuff!
Hehe. Hope you are having a good time in my country
If I ever go to India, I’ll be bringing for sure too many stuff! Scarfs, fabrics, pottery (I love collecting tea pot from places I have visited) I will for sure need extra space in my suitcase.
Great! Definitely you will need extra space â¤ï¸
I like your advice about how to haggle. Being ready to walk away is always one of the most important in my experience.
Hi Sonia. Here is what I follow- Act cool as if you are just checking the price. Even if you loved what they are selling don't show it on the face , they l play some tricks and make you pay more. Then, deny when they talk about quality. Point at minute defects or makeup if there is no fault🤣 and say you need it for lesser price. If they say no, walkaway- when you start walking away usually they come to your price.
So many wonderful things to buy on a visit to India – where to start? And thanks for the advice on how to haggle, as not every country like you to do this.
Hi Sharyn! Yes there is a lot to buy in India that too being in budget😊
There are so many things that I would want to buy! I think the spices or a handbag are at the top of my list. Great post!
Hi Andrea. I am sure you will love it. My personal favourite is green pepper 🙂