Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 souvenirs you should buy when visiting Kollam, Kerala. Kollam offers a variety of traditional handicrafts and local goods that make perfect mementos or gifts. These souvenirs capture the essence of Kerala’s culture, craftsmanship, and natural beauty.
1. Spices
- What to Expect: Kerala is known as the “Spice Garden of India,” and Kollam offers a wide range of fresh, aromatic spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. These spices are great for culinary enthusiasts who want to bring the flavors of Kerala back home.
- Where to Buy: Kollam Municipal Market, Kottarakkara Market
- Cost: ₹50–₹500 depending on quantity and type
- Best For: Food lovers and anyone looking to bring a taste of Kerala back home.
2. Coir Products
- What to Expect: Kollam is famous for its coir products, made from the coconut husk. You can find a range of coir-based items like mats, ropes, handbags, and decorative pieces. These eco-friendly products make great souvenirs that represent the traditional craftsmanship of the region.
- Where to Buy: Kollam Municipal Market, Kottarakara Market, and Coir Museum
- Cost: ₹100–₹2,000 depending on the product
- Best For: Eco-friendly souvenirs, home décor, and functional items.
3. Wooden Handicrafts
- What to Expect: Kollam is known for its intricate wooden carvings, which include figures of gods and goddesses, elephants, and decorative items like jewelry boxes and picture frames. These wooden pieces are often hand-carved and beautifully painted, making them a great souvenir.
- Where to Buy: Kollam Municipal Market, Sree Krishnaswamy Silks, and local artisans
- Cost: ₹200–₹5,000 depending on size and intricacy
- Best For: Decorative home items and religious figurines.
4. Kasavu Saree
- What to Expect: Kasavu sarees are one of Kerala’s most iconic handicrafts. These traditional white cotton sarees with gold borders are often worn during festivals and special occasions. The sarees represent Kerala’s rich weaving heritage and are a perfect souvenir for anyone looking for authentic Kerala textiles.
- Where to Buy: Sree Krishnaswamy Silks, Zam Zam Shopping Complex
- Cost: ₹1,500–₹10,000 depending on the design and material
- Best For: Those looking for an authentic Kerala textile, especially during festivals like Onam.
5. Tea and Coffee
- What to Expect: Kerala is home to some of the best tea and coffee plantations in India. Kollam offers high-quality, locally sourced tea and coffee that make excellent gifts. You can find a variety of teas like masala chai, green tea, and local coffee beans.
- Where to Buy: Local tea shops, Kottarakkara Market, and spice shops
- Cost: ₹150–₹1,000 depending on type and packaging
- Best For: Tea and coffee enthusiasts looking to try Kerala’s premium brews.
6. Brassware
- What to Expect: Brassware is a traditional craft in Kerala, and Kollam offers beautifully crafted brass items such as lamps, figurines, and utensils. These items are often made using age-old techniques and have a rich, antique appeal.
- Where to Buy: Kollam Municipal Market, local handicraft shops, and Sree Krishnaswamy Silks
- Cost: ₹200–₹2,500 depending on the item
- Best For: Collectors of traditional and antique home décor.
7. Traditional Kerala Umbrella (Chattayum Mundum)
- What to Expect: The traditional Kerala umbrella is made from bamboo and palm leaves, and it is an important cultural symbol of the state. These umbrellas are often used during festivals and ceremonies and make unique souvenirs.
- Where to Buy: Local markets, Kollam Beach Road
- Cost: ₹500–₹1,500 depending on size
- Best For: Tourists looking for a unique, cultural souvenir that reflects Kerala’s tradition.
8. Handmade Pottery
- What to Expect: Kollam is home to many skilled potters who create beautiful, traditional pottery. You can find everything from small terracotta figurines to large clay pots and vases. These handmade items are unique and often have intricate designs.
- Where to Buy: Local handicraft markets, Kollam Municipal Market
- Cost: ₹100–₹1,500 depending on size and complexity
- Best For: Those seeking unique, handcrafted home décor items.
9. Jewelry (Traditional Kerala Gold and Silver Jewelry)
- What to Expect: Kollam, like the rest of Kerala, is known for its traditional jewelry, particularly gold jewelry. You can find intricate designs that are perfect for special occasions. The jewelry is often based on traditional Kerala designs, making it a valuable keepsake.
- Where to Buy: Jewelers in Kollam, such as Jos Alukkas, Kalyan Jewellers
- Cost: ₹1,000–₹50,000 depending on the design and metal
- Best For: Those looking to buy traditional Kerala jewelry as a gift or souvenir.
10. Mural Paintings
- What to Expect: Kerala is known for its traditional mural paintings, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology, nature, and Kerala’s rich cultural history. These paintings are often hand-painted on canvas or wooden boards and are perfect for those looking for a piece of Kerala’s artistic heritage.
- Where to Buy: Local handicraft shops, Kollam Beach Road, and Sree Krishnaswamy Silks
- Cost: ₹500–₹5,000 depending on size and quality
- Best For: Art lovers and those seeking cultural and historical souvenirs.
These top 10 souvenirs reflect the rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship of Kollam and Kerala. Whether you’re looking for textiles, handicrafts, or local spices, Kollam offers a wide range of products that make for perfect souvenirs or gifts.