It is said that the best shoppers' items one can bring home from one's travels are the quintessential goods that reflect the destination's culture, art and cuisine. Although hobnobbing for bargains in branded stores may be some shopaholics' idea of the ultimate shopping experience, seasoned travellers know what local specialties make for a collector's item or the ideal souvenir that captures the soul of the holiday location. And if it's an authentic shopping experience in India one's after, there's no better place to hit the local markets than the sun kissed state of Kerala.
Renowned as a venue of choice for all that is traditional, the major shopping districts of Kerala are concentrated in Trivandrum and Kochi. A popular locale for all that shines, gold and ivory are much sought after items in the region while antiques are virtually available in every street corner. Jew Street in Kochi is one such hotspot that sells everything from Malayalam collectibles to Chinese ceramics while the metal mirrors of Aranmula are also popular items among travellers. Kairali and other government run emporiums are ideal for souvenirs such as Kathakali masks and other local crafts while wall mats, bags, natural fibre furnishings and carpets are all the rage in the Alappuzha and Kuttanad markets. Sandalwood figures, teak urus and rosewood snake boats are also staples in any Kerala shopping list while coconut shell, wood and coir creations are equally famous. Handicrafts made from buffalo horns are also prized items in addition to handlooms and Kasavu Mundu and Neryathu which are traditional garbs of Keralites.
Famed as the land of spices, Kerala is also the place to pick up those treasured condiments that form the basis of Indian and Asian cuisine. Whether it's aromatic cardamoms, ginger, arecanuts, spicy peppers or medicinal turmeric all that is needed for a well-stocked spice rack are available at the numerous spice markets in the state.
For those with a hankering for a steaming Kerala cuppa, look no further than the tea capitals of Idukki district and Munnar where real Indian tea is up for grabs. Caffeine fanatics on the other hand can head down to Kalpetta or Wayanad district to experience the state's coffee culture although there are a myriad of tea and coffee vendors approved by the Tea Board and Coffee Board scattered across Kerala.
Visitors in search of first class hotels in Kovalam will be more than satisfied with the stylish rest that is The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Kerala. Ideally situated within close range of the Trivandrum International Airport, it is also one of the most conveniently located Kovalam hotels in all of Kerala.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
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