Kerala handicrafts represent the culture, skills, and traditions of the people of Kerala. Items such as coconut shell crafts, Aranmula mirrors, wood carvings, coir products, and handloom fabrics are not only beautiful but also tell stories of heritage. Choosing the right place to buy them is important if someone is looking for authenticity and quality. Many locations across Kerala offer genuine handicrafts, but knowing where to go makes the experience better and more meaningful.
Popular Cities and Places in Kerala to Buy Handicrafts
Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
- Kairali Showrooms: Government-run stores that offer authentic, fixed-price items.
- Connemara Market: A local market for small vendors and handmade pieces.
- Sree Chitra Art Gallery: A Place that sometimes features handmade art and crafts for sale.
Kochi (Cochin)
- Jew Town in Mattancherry: Famous for antiques and handmade goods.
- Broadway Market: A budget-friendly shopping area with craft vendors.
- Kairali – The Kerala State Handicrafts Apex Co-operative Society: Trusted source for certified products.
Thrissur
- Kerala Lalithakala Akademi: Sells local artists’ works, including crafts.
- Crafts Bazaar during Thrissur Pooram: Temporary markets during festivals.
- Poompuhar Craft Emporium: Offers South Indian crafts, including Kerala-specific products.
Kozhikode (Calicut)
- SM Street (Sweet Meat Street): Traditional shopping area with handicraft shops.
- Regional Craft Stores: Sell coir products, woodwork, and handwoven fabrics.
Kollam
- Ashramam Ground Craft Fair: Seasonal event offering authentic local crafts.
- Kairali Emporium: Official outlet offering genuine items at reasonable prices.
Best Government-Run Handicraft Stores in Kerala
| Store Name | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Kairali – Handicrafts Emporium | All major cities | All types of Kerala handicrafts |
| Sargaalaya Arts & Crafts Village | Iringal, Kozhikode District | Live demonstrations, workshops, crafts |
| Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan | Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi | Cotton-based handicrafts and fabrics |
| Handloom Development Corporation Stores | Kannur, Palakkad, Thrissur | Kerala handloom sarees and textiles |
| HANTEX Showrooms | Across Kerala | Handloom products and traditional items |
Artisan Villages and Craft Hubs
Iringal Craft Village (Sargaalaya)
- Location: Kozhikode district
- Features:
- Live demo by artisans
- More than 90 stalls of handmade products
- Chance to interact with crafters
- A project by Kerala Tourism and the local government
Cherpu Village
- Famous For: Wooden handicrafts, especially elephants, and Kathakali face masks
- Nearby City: Thrissur
- Special Features: Locally produced goods, direct from artisans
Balaramapuram
- Famous For: Handwoven cotton clothes and Kerala sarees
- Location: Near Thiruvananthapuram
- Interesting Fact: One of the oldest weaving centers in the state
Unique Kerala Handicrafts to Look For
| Handicraft | Material Used | Typical Source Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Aranmula Mirror (Kannadi) | Polished metal alloy | Aranmula, Pathanamthitta district |
| Coconut Shell Craft | Coconut shells | Kozhikode, Palakkad |
| Coir Products | Coconut husk fibers | Alappuzha, Kollam |
| Wood Carvings | Teak, rosewood, sandalwood | Cherpu, Thiruvananthapuram |
| Screw Pine Weaving | Screw pine leaves | Central Kerala, especially Kottayam |
| Nettipattam Wall Décor | Brass and fiber | Thrissur, Guruvayoor |
Seasonal Fairs and Cultural Festivals
Kerala International Handicrafts Fair (KIHF)
- Held In: December–January
- Location: Kochi
- Features: National-level artisans, cultural performances, a wide variety of products
State Handicrafts Expo
- Organized By: Directorate of Industries and Commerce
- Usual Venues: Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Thrissur
- Best For: Government-certified artisans, price-controlled genuine goods
Thrissur Pooram Craft Market
- Specialty: Traditional Kerala products sold during festival time
- Best Time to Visit: April–May
Online Platforms for Authentic Kerala Handicrafts
| Platform | Types of Products | Authenticity |
|---|---|---|
| Kairali E-commerce Website | Handicrafts, Sarees, Home Decor | Government-certified |
| Sargaalaya Website | Village crafts, unique handmade items | Artisan-direct |
| Amazon Karigar (India Only) | Traditional crafts from Indian artisans | Verified seller base |
| Craftsvilla & Jaypore | Sarees, accessories, home decor | Mixed – check seller ratings |
| Coconut Heritage (Private) | Coconut shell and coir items | Kerala-based brand |
Things to Check Before Buying
- Certificate of Authenticity: Especially important for Aranmula mirrors and expensive carvings
- Fixed Price Tags: Found in government emporiums; reduces the chance of overpricing
- Material Used: Ensure products are made from natural, traditional materials
- Direct Purchase from Artisans: Encourages fair trade and ensures handmade quality
- Label Information: Read tags for origin, maker’s name, and product details
Local Tips for Tourists
- Bargaining: Common in street markets, but not in government stores
- Timing: Morning and evening hours are better for fewer crowds
- Combo Deals: Often offered at fairs and craft villages
- Transport: Easy to reach artisan villages via public or hired transport
- Language: English and Hindi are commonly understood in shops
In Summary
Kerala handicrafts bring together tradition, art, and beauty in unique forms. From wood carvings to metal mirrors, these pieces are more than decorative—they are cultural treasures. Buying them from authentic sources ensures quality and supports the artisans who preserve Kerala’s heritage. Whether visiting in person or shopping online, many trusted places in Kerala offer genuine products that reflect the state’s rich craftsmanship.