The art of souvenir hunting is a crucial part of travelling. Whether its gift seeking for loved ones or finding an ode to a trip well spent, you want to be sure you have the perfect token of your travels. Thankfully, this is something India has in spades. This vast and sprawling country has diversity and culture in every fold, with countless bazaars across every state. This makes trinket and souvenir sourcing even easier, which is why it’s time to ditch the clichés (we’re talking branded shot glasses, garish tea towels and fridge magnets) in favour of something new and more memorable. This could be the block printed garments and jewellery of Jaipur or the marbled stoneware of Agra, either way there’s something for all purse strings (and suitcase sizes) in this handcrafting haven. So, to help get you started with all things memorable shopping and gifting, we’ve comprised a list of six of our favourite souvenirs from India that will ensure those memory-making moments from your trip live on long after your return flight lands.
- Block Printing, Jaipur and Jodhpur
- Spices, Kerala
- Jewellery, Jaipur
- Marble Stoneware, Agra
- Tea, Munnar
- Ganesha, India
1
Block Printing, Jaipur and Jodhpur
While there’s no disputing that fabric printing likely originated in China some 4,500 years ago, it was the Indian subcontinent that took this hand-blocked fabric technique to new and intricate heights. This ancient art has stood the test of time, harnessing natural plant dyes and ornate carvings, bringing together a diversity of styles and techniques from around the country, which has earnt it a place among the best souvenirs in India. Most notably found in the thrumming spots of Jaipur and Jodhpur, nowadays keen travellers will find a wealth of locations offering handcrafted and block printed gems. Like the expansive Jaipur emporium of Anokhi, a must visit spot, with a high-quality range of incredibly well-priced dresses, kimonos, bedding, tablecloths, gifts and more on offer.
2
Spices, Kerala
No trip to India would be complete without a journey to the spice capital of the world: Kerala. Pepper still reigns supreme here as the self-annotated king of Keralan spice, but the state is also home to over twelve other varieties. Including ginger, garlic, cardamom, vanilla, cinnamon, coffee, tea, clove and nutmeg. All of which are cultivated in Thekkady and its neighbouring villages, where a number of tours can be taken to gain a deeper understanding of the nature and agriculture that’s helped to form the Kerala we see today. From the operational aspects of farming, harvesting and processing to the history and continued importance of the spice and herb industry. You’ll be left with a newfound appreciation for this still thriving sector, as well as a selection of culinary accompaniments that are sure to elevate any dish back home.
3
Jewellery, Jaipur
Live lavishly with this next contender on the list of the best souvenirs in India, as Jaipur offers travellers a wealth of exquisite jewellery pieces to choose from. Think precious stones, diamonds and emeralds for all your glitz and glamour needs. This regal hub is home to two families who have been creating masterpieces of wearable art since the early 1700s. When Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the Raja of Amer, founded the city, these families were invited to settle there and create opulent jewellery for the royals of Rajasthan. Since then, the jewels have adorned the likes of Bollywood stars, celebs and shoppers alike, all after the perfect and most unique jewellery pieces possible.
4
Marble Stoneware, Agra
For the best marble items, inlaid with semiprecious stones, a journey to Agra is a must. Here you can find everything from small ornately decorated tabletops to hand luggage-friendly coasters and elephant figurines. The traditions and techniques now serve a handful of artisans whose ancestors toiled in the construction of the Taj Mahal, crafting mesmerising marbled artifacts you’d quite literally be hard pushed to find elsewhere. In the shadows of the famous white marbled Taj Mahal lie stoneware emporiums demonstrating the ancient artful techniques and selling bespoke handcrafted items that make for the perfect keepsake from any trip.
5
Tea, Munnar
This next set of souvenirs from India is one for all the tea lovers out there. Sip the days away in the lush green carpeted tea region of Munnar, where you can enjoy warming cups and staggering views of the sprawling verdant landscape, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind. The teas themselves are cultivated in the undisturbed ecosystem of the Western Ghats, marrying clean and medium toned fragrances in a golden yellow-hued cuppa. Of course, that’s not the only option for your teapot, with Munnar offering a range of black teas, oolong teas and green teas to those in need of refreshment. Plus, it makes for the best accompaniment when you’re back at home unpacking.
6
Ganesha, India
This last entry in our list of six souvenirs from India is a nod to all things travel and is a symbolic token found throughout India. Ganesha is the god of new beginnings and of tiding over obstacles, but what many might not realise is that he is also the god of travel. Devotees even offer the sweet-toothed elephant-headed god his favourite treats - modak and ladoo - as thanks. So popular is Ganesha that you’d struggle to journey across India without spotting one of these figurine depictions. The intricate carvings are odes to success, protection and prosperity and tell of a god well-loved and continually worshipped, and by honouring this belief with your own Ganesha carving you’ll find you have the perfect reminder of travels well spent.