Shopping

Shopping, Pondicherry Overview

Pondicherry, a city in the southern part of India, is renowned for its unique selection of vibrant and colorful souvenirs, textiles, pottery, and leather products usually found in its numerous local markets and boutiques. Whether you are a traveler looking for special gifts or an avid collector, you will find the best of Indian handicrafts in Pondicherry. The retail stores in Pondicherry sell a wide variety of handicrafts and souvenirs such as keychains, paper, notebooks, mugs, woodcrafts, jewelry, postcards, and coasters, all featuring delightful prints and designs. Traditional clay pottery and terracotta figurines in various shapes and sizes make great memorabilia from a visit to Pondicherry.Textiles are generally the most popular souvenirs in Pondicherry. Artisans from the nearby villages specialize in traditional printing techniques on sarees, stoles, and bedspreads. Gorgeous fabrics with intricate design work in bright colors and textures are ever popular among visitors. Fabrics like Kora and Kanchi are typically hand-woven and decorated with gold embroidery and brocade work.Leather goods from Pondicherry are also highly sought after. It is home to exquisite leather bags, wallets, journal covers, and passport holders in various shapes and sizes. Local artisans also make customized goods such as belt buckles, keychains, laptop sleeves, and passport wallets. Some of these products feature embossed designs for extra style and are made of soft cowhide.Other than the retail outlets, there are also several boutiques that offer exclusive products.

The antique stores and antiques malls are great places to find rare and one-of-a-kind vintage items like brass pieces, intricately-crafted wooden furniture, and relics from the French colonial period. For souvenirs that are not available in the stores, travelers can also check out flea markets and roadside stalls. To get the best deals on souvenirs, textiles, pottery, and leather goods from Pondicherry, make sure to shop around and compare prices. During peak season, travelers can also find special discounts and bargain offers.