Kerala, a land of lush greenery and rich traditions, is home to a wide variety of handicrafts that reflect its vibrant culture. The state’s artisans have preserved ancient techniques and added creative touches to suit modern tastes. These handicrafts are not only symbols of Kerala’s heritage but also serve as treasured souvenirs for visitors. A walk through local markets, exhibitions, or village craft shops offers a glimpse into the state’s artistic soul. Each handcrafted piece tells a story of skill, patience, and cultural pride.
Coir is made from coconut husks and used to craft mats, rugs, wall hangings, and bags.
Alappuzha and Kollam are famous for their coir industries.
Hand-twisted ropes and eco-friendly floor mats are tourist favorites.
Aranmula Kannadi (Metal Mirrors)
Unique metal mirrors are made with a special alloy.
Crafted only in Aranmula village in Pathanamthitta.
Known for their sharp reflection without glass.
Considered auspicious and used in religious rituals.
Nettur Petti (Jewelry Boxes)
Traditional wooden jewel boxes with brass inlay work.
Originating from Nettur village in Kannur.
Carved and assembled completely by hand.
Symbolizes luxury and royalty in traditional Kerala households.
Lacquerware
Wood turned items like flower vases and containers are decorated with bright lacquer polish.
Found mostly in Ernakulam and Palakkad.
Coated in layers for a glossy finish.
Coconut Shell Craft
Bowls, spoons, cups, and decorative items made from coconut shells.
Valued for their sturdiness and eco-friendliness.
Often polished to give a smooth finish.
Key Handicrafts and Their Features
Handicraft
Material Used
Famous Locations
Special Features
Coir Products
Coconut husk
Alappuzha, Kollam
Durable, eco-friendly, handwoven
Aranmula Kannadi
Alloy of copper and tin
Aranmula
Glass-free mirror, handmade, religious importance
Nettur Petti
Wood and brass
Nettur (Kannur)
Brass inlays, handcrafted, heirloom quality
Lacquerware
Softwood and lacquer polish
Ernakulam, Palakkad
Bright polish, ornamental value
Coconut Shell Craft
Coconut shells
All over Kerala
Rustic look, useful, eco-friendly
Hand Embroidery and Weaving
Kasavu Sarees
Traditional white sarees with golden borders.
Worn during festivals and weddings.
Made from fine cotton or silk with handwoven zari.
Handloom units in Balaramapuram are widely known.
Screw Pine Weaving
Mats and bags woven from the leaves of screw pine plants.
Mostly crafted by women in rural areas.
Lightweight and aromatic with elegant patterns.
Textiles and Embroidery of Kerala
Textile Craft
Material
Used For
Region
Kasavu Saree
Cotton with gold zari
Traditional wear, ceremonies
Balaramapuram
Screw Pine Mats
Screw pine leaves
Mats, wall decor, utility bags
Kottayam, Alappuzha
Wood and Bamboo Crafts
Wood Carvings
Intricate sculptures and figures carved from rosewood and sandalwood.
Used in temple doors, chariots, and home décor.
Thrissur and Kozhikode house skilled wood artisans.
Bamboo Products
Items like baskets, trays, lampshades, and musical instruments.
Idukki and Wayanad are major hubs.
Lightweight, sustainable, and artistic.
Wood and Bamboo Crafts
Craft Type
Material
Common Products
Notable Areas
Wood Carvings
Rosewood, Sandalwood
Statues, panels, furniture
Thrissur, Kozhikode
Bamboo Products
Bamboo
Baskets, trays, and household items
Idukki, Wayanad
Traditional Painting and Mural Art
Kerala Murals
Inspired by Hindu mythology and Puranic themes.
Painted using natural pigments and mineral-based colors.
Found in temples, palaces, and old mansions.
Thrissur and Thiruvananthapuram are mural painting centers.
Kalamkari (Kerala Style)
Ritual painting done on cloth with natural dyes.
Popular in folk performances and religious ceremonies.
Drawn with bamboo pens and vegetable colors.
Art Forms and Painting Styles
Art Form
Base Material
Technique
Primary Locations
Kerala Mural Painting
Lime-plastered walls
Natural pigments, brush technique
Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram
Kalamkari (Kerala)
Cotton cloth
Hand-drawn with bamboo pens and natural dyes
Local villages across Kerala
Terracotta and Clay Crafts
Pottery
Traditional earthen pots, diyas, and planters.
Available in decorative and functional forms.
Used during festivals and rituals.
Terracotta Sculptures
Small figurines, idols, and wind chimes.
Made from red clay and hand-modeled.
Burnt in open kilns for hardness.
Pottery and Terracotta Crafts
Craft
Material Used
Items Produced
Crafting Areas
Pottery
Red/black clay
Cooking pots, flower pots, lamps
Trivandrum, Thrissur
Terracotta Figurines
Terracotta (red clay)
Idols, home décor items
Malappuram, Palakkad
Where to Buy Kerala Handicrafts
Location
Type of Shops Available
Specialties
Cochin (Kochi)
Government emporiums, private outlets
Aranmula mirror, coir, murals
Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)
Handicraft centers, museum shops
Nettur petti, kasavu sarees
Kumarakom
Local craft villages
Coconut shell and screw pine crafts
Kozhikode
Street markets, artisan stalls
Wooden carvings and lacquerware
Thrissur
Craft fairs and exhibitions
Government emporia, private outlets
Wrapping Up
Kerala’s handicrafts showcase a perfect blend of culture, creativity, and sustainability. Each piece carries the essence of its origin—be it a coir mat, a golden-bordered saree, or a polished coconut bowl. These handicrafts do more than just beautify homes; they support artisan livelihoods and preserve age-old traditions. A souvenir from Kerala is not just an object—it is a timeless memory crafted by hand.
