India, the land of many wonders. It is the land of different colours, customs and traditions. There has always been something attractive and interesting about India, no one place is alike, and unity in diversity has always been India’s catchword! India has always attracted numerous tourists from all over the world, be it the Mughals, the Chinese, and even the British. It has always had a unique, exotic identity associated with it.
From time immemorial, the silks, precious stones, sculptures, fabrics, spices and jewellery have been a hot favourite for travellers across the world. One can safely say that India has always been a shopper’s paradise! Today while India still retains its exotic identity (thanks to its ancient skills!), most of the products and specialities of our country even appeal to modern aesthetics. Every state and city has its own unique speciality and identity – whether it is Delhi atop north or Nagarcoil down south, there is something unique and specific you can find here in every part of the country.
Clothes, ceramics, musical instruments, jewellery, footwear, accessories, furniture, leather wear, carpets, hand-crafted works, books, malls. There is a perfect blend of both modern day comforts and street side town shops. When you pick up something in India, there is a guarantee that you will not find the same in any other part of the world!
Stone and Metal Sculptures
Sculptors carving stone in Mahabalipuram (Photo: Sambit / Trek Earth)
If you are looking for unique sculptures or small idols for your home or office space, then you must go down the shore side of Mahabalipuram. There are numerous sculptors along the coastline who have learnt this unique art down generations. There are number of beautiful sculptures of various shapes and sizes that can simply suit any purpose of yours!
Fabrics
Kanchipuram Silk – Pure Jari Silk (Photo: Harsith)
Mysore Silk Sarees
If you are looking for unique hand sewn fabrics and unique cottons, you can find that in almost every nook and corner of India. If you are in South India, do not miss trying the unique Kanchipuram Silks from Tamil Nadu and the unique Mysore Silks of Mysore, Karnataka. If you happen to be in the northern or western part of the country, there are unique and beautiful cottons and other fabrics. These fabrics are not only unique and beautiful for your personal use, but also perfect as gifts for family and friends. If you are looking for great woollen wear, do not miss the beautiful wools of Kashmir!
Carpets
Carpet Shop in Jaipur (Photo: Tropical Island)
While in India, do not miss buying carpets from here, for it is the world’s largest carpet industry! You can find some unique and beautiful Persian carpets made of wool and silk which are rather exquisite! Also, do pick the absolutely soft and beautiful Tibetan rugs, which are available in any part of the world for the steep prices!
Jewellery and Baubles
Gold Jewellery in India (Photo: Garavi Gujarati)
India has always been a land of beautiful precious stones, pearls and other jewellery wear items. Across the country, there are different and unique pieces of jewellery of gold, silver, semi precious and precious stones. In fact, India has the largest market of silverware – not only do you have jewellery made of silver and other semi precious stones, you can even find utensils of silver here! India, truly has been and will be the land of riches. The royalty of Rajasthan is seen in the beautiful blue pottery works and unique kundan made jewellery. The pearls of Hyderabad are world renowned! Indian Star rubies, Lapis Lazuli, Star Sapphires, Aquamarine and many others are known for their exquisite beauty the world over!
Handicrafts
A shop full of Papier Mache hand painted ornaments (Photo: Tristan and Dominique)
If you leave India without picking upIndian handicrafts,it is but a big waste. Do pick up the Papier Mache from Kashmir, Blue Pottery and Inlay work from Rajasthan, Wooden Inlay work from Mysore, Metal carvings from Kumbakonam Tamil Nadu, Marble work from Agra and numerous other unique arts and crafts. Also do pick some sandalwood carvings from Karnataka and Tanjore and Mysore paintings from Southern India.
Foods and Spices
Indian Species (Photo: Anupy Singla)
Also while in India, do not miss shopping for food items and spices. Try the teas of Assam and Darjeeling and do go in for the unique coffee of Coorg. If you are in the hills of Nilgiris or are at Ooty or Kodaikanal, do not miss the amazing varieties of spices like cinnamon, cloves, jeera, star anistine and many others.
Apart from these, the modern markets of Delhi, Mumbai and Goa do not fail to attract almost everyone from across the country and world. Places like Lad Bazaar, Janpath, Anjuna Market, Palika Bazaar, Commercial Street, Fashion Street and Chor Bazaar are some of the most famous shopping destinations set in different parts of the country. Not only do these places give you unique Indian clothes, footwear and accessories, you can also find some great bargains and items here.
India is a unique destination, you have adventure, sports, treks, pilgrimage and history along with great shopping and a rather unique heritage! Come, pay us a visit with The Other Home !
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