Kerala, often described as “God’s Own Country,” is more than a scenic destination—it’s a cultural treasure chest. From unique handicrafts to traditional clothing, Kerala offers a variety of authentic souvenirs that showcase its rich heritage. Whether planning a honeymoon, family vacation, or spiritual retreat, Kerala’s markets will charm you with must-buy souvenirs that reflect its tradition, flavor, and artistry.
Best Things to Buy in Kerala
Kerala Shopping Souvenirs Overview
| Item | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Aranmula Kannadi | Unique metal mirror symbolizing prosperity |
| Aromatic Oils & Essence | Ayurvedic healing oils for wellness |
| Banana Chips | Crunchy snacks made using coconut oil |
| Coconut & Coir Products | Natural home decor, ropes, and mats |
| Handicrafts | Intricate items made of wood, shell, and palm leaves |
| Jewelry | Traditional gold and temple-style ornaments |
| Kasavu Mundu & Sarees | Classic handwoven attire with golden borders |
| Kathakali Masks | Colorful theatrical masks for home decor |
| Kerala T-Shirts | White tees with local slogans and motifs |
| Nettur Casket | Antique wooden makeup box with brass inlays |
| Nilavilakku | Bronze or brass traditional oil lamps |
| Snakeboat/Houseboat Models | Miniature backwater boats for decor |
| Spices | Aromatic spices like cardamom, pepper, and nutmeg |
| Tea & Coffee | Locally grown beverages with a rich aroma |
| Temple Paintings | Sacred and decorative traditional artwork |
| Uru Models | Mini versions of ancient Arabian trading boats |
| Wooden Idols | Carved elephants and gods for decoration |
| Cashews | Creamy cashew nuts from Kollam district |
1. Aranmula Kannadi (Mirror)
- A traditional metal mirror unique to Aranmula village.
- Known to bring prosperity and good fortune.
- Not made from glass—crafted through a secret metal alloy technique.
- Often considered a luxury souvenir.
2. Aromatic Oils and Essence
- Kerala is known for Ayurveda and wellness therapies.
- Oils are available for headaches, joint pain, asthma, and skin problems.
- Popular variants include eucalyptus, sandalwood, and jasmine oils.
- Must buy from reputed stores to ensure purity.
3. Banana Chips
- Made from raw Kerala bananas fried in coconut oil.
- Easily available near temples and in local shops.
- Great option for edible gifts.
- Trivandrum is a popular spot to find high-quality chips.
4. Coconut and Coir Products
- Includes mats, doormats, ropes, and handicraft decor items.
- Made from the husk of coconuts—a common material in Kerala.
- The Coir Kerala Fair in Alappuzha is a great place to explore these.
5. Handicrafts
- Made from ivory, wood, cane, shell, palm leaves, and mud.
- Reflect Kerala’s vibrant artistic culture.
- Items include wall hangings, figurines, and utensils.
6. Jewelry
- Traditional gold ornaments, including Pavithra rings and temple-style necklaces.
- Popular styles include Jimikki earrings and Kappu bangles.
- Often gifted during festivals and weddings.
7. Kasavu Mundu, Sarees, and Dress
- White garments with golden borders, ideal for formal and festive use.
- Available for both men (Mundu) and women (Sarees).
- Buy from Kasavukada or local textile shops for authentic designs.
8. Kathakali Masks
- Inspired by the classical dance form Kathakali.
- Available in vibrant colors and dramatic facial expressions.
- Makes for an artistic wall hanging.
9. Kerala T-Shirts
- Commonly bought by couples and youngsters.
- Feature fun slogans like “God’s Own Country.”
- Often white and locally made.
10. Nettur Casket (Old Makeup Box)
- Antique-style wooden box adorned with brass and artistic carvings.
- Symbol of Kerala’s rich woodworking legacy.
- Ideal as a gift or keepsake.
11. Nilavilakku
- Brass or bronze lamps are used in religious rituals.
- Symbol of light, purity, and positivity in Kerala homes.
- Available in multiple sizes and designs.
12. Snakeboat/Houseboat Models
- Replicas of Chundan Vallam and backwater houseboats.
- Symbolic of Kerala’s boat race culture and water tourism.
- Found in most handicraft shops.
13. Spices
- Includes cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves.
- Sold in well-packed boxes for easy transportation.
- The spice market in Kochi is especially famous.
14. Tea & Coffee
- Grown in the Munnar and Wayanad regions.
- Aromatic, organic, and freshly packed.
- The Tea Museum in Munnar offers tasting and purchase options.
15. Temple Paintings
- Inspired by murals in ancient Kerala temples.
- Painted using natural dyes on handmade paper or cloth.
- Often depict Hindu mythology.
16. Uru Models
- Represent ancient wooden trading vessels used by Arabs.
- Available in multiple sizes and can be customized.
- Aesthetic souvenir for nautical lovers.
17. Wooden Idols
- Carved statues of elephants, gods, and folk figures.
- Made from teak, rosewood, or sandalwood.
- Sold in craft bazaars across the state.
18. Cashews
- Kerala cashews are known for their creamy texture.
- Kollam is the cashew capital, offering roasted, salted, and spiced variants.
- Lightweight, nutritious, and ideal for gifting.
Quick Answers
1. What is the specialty of Kerala?
Kerala is famous for backwaters, Ayurveda, classical dance forms, temple festivals, and unique shopping items like spices and traditional attire.
2. What is famous in Kerala to eat?
Appam with stew, Kerala Sadya, Malabar Parotta, and Kerala-style seafood are very popular.
3. What is a famous sweet in Kerala?
Unniyappam, Ada Pradhaman, and Payasam are some traditional Kerala sweets.
4. Is Kerala worth visiting?
Absolutely. From beaches to tea plantations, backwaters to wildlife, Kerala is a diverse and fulfilling travel destination.