Shopping in Karnataka, Useful Tips and Guides

One of the states in India ideal for your short or long vacation is Karnataka. From scenic spots, cool hilltops to historically, artistically attractive locations to dynamic cities, the state is a totally blissful destination. Rich, diverse and beautiful, each district fills you with thrill. Shopping in Karnataka when on tour is an amazing add-on experience.

Of course, tourists don't leave their fav destinations empty-handed. They always take along with them cherished memories for a lifetime. Promises they make to come back to experience it all over again should they fall in love with these places. Besides sweet memories, shopping in Karnataka leaves you with tangible memories of the place.

The popular items and souvenirs are numerous to find while shopping in Karnataka. The large state has umpteen opportunities to hunt for them.

Let us start the shopping spree from Mysuru.

Mysuru Silk

Made from the mulberry silkworm, the silk manufactured here is used to make attractive intricate designs in silk material. Of course, the sarees have the amazing charm that can lure any woman while shopping in Karnataka to buy them.

Mysuru Sandal Soap and Sandalwood Oil

While shopping in Karnataka and visiting the city of Mysuru, you will come across several ads and spots selling the famous aromatic Sandal Soap and Sandalwood Oil. Avoid the street vendors and purchase these products from the authorized dealers to get authentic products. The city being one of the largest producers of sandalwood has become famous to produce sandal soap and sandalwood oil. You will not regret purchasing these products while shopping in Karnataka.

Traditional Paintings and handicrafts

Again Mysuru is one city famous for traditional paintings of royal families and deities. With this purchase, not just the memories of the place but traditionally crafted artwork can be possessed. Being a tourist city, you will come across several shops selling such items.

Channapatana is famous for classy and high-quality toys and dolls. Mostly crafted on wood, the craftsmanship displayed on the tiny pieces are unique and creative.

Kinnal is another town famous for wood-made toys and handicrafts in Karnataka.

At Shivamogga you can look through multiple Rosewood Carvings, wood-carved toys among the handicrafts.

The Bidriware is unique metal handicraft. The artwork is done on metals giving a jet black touch keeping it attractive and solid.

Terracotta Wall Hangings, Dasara Doll Set, Navalgund durries are more choices at your hand while shopping in Karnataka.

Sandalwood and Rosewood Carvings

Idols of lords and saints especially besides other attractive objectives carved out of pure sandalwood are classic and exclusive souvenirs you can take back after your Karnataka visit. Highly expensive, yes they are. But for those who have an eye for such products, you have many options in Karnataka.

Rosewood inlay painting works from the skilled artists of Mysuru give a unique touch to the interior of your house. Keep these items at the top of your list while shopping in Karnataka.

Food and beverage

Mysuru Pak could be one of the first items that come up your search while looking for edible items shopping in Karnataka. The gram flour prepared sweet delicacy is, sure enough, a special flavor to taste.

Traveling towards the Kodagu opens another large market of visual treats and unique items to shop. Homemade chocolates and wine are a couple of special items you can opt for. If inclined, do taste their pork preparation from a roadside vendor, you will feel the magic in your mouth.

When you are in Mangalore and Udupi, you are in a paradise of vegetarian delicacies and seafood. Do taste as many items and flavors as you can from the local shops.

Coffee, Tea, and Spices

Kodagu region is famous for its naturally beautiful locations, tea and coffee plantations. Along with tea and coffee, they grow several spices like pepper, cumin, clove, cinnamon, cardamom, areca nut, cashew nut, and Herbal Products. Almost every household in the region offers homestays. Hence, it is a good option to try one of them instead of a routine hotel. One of the advantages is, the family you are staying with may be able to guide you with several local shopping tips.

Shopping in Bangalore

Bangalore is a mega shopping hub. For those who have been to the happening city, no words are needed to articulate the shopping possibilities.

For those who go by the brands and class to those who look for the pseudo brands and spots to bargain while shopping, no dearth of options here.

From the posh brigade road to Commercial street to Chikpet; MG road to Malleswaram market, you have endless streets and posh buildings to shop till you drop.

What is special about shopping in Bangalore is that the range of choices is just mind-blowing. Unlike the above-mentioned items that are unique and special, here you have pretty much everything available. Of course, those characteristic items of Karnataka included. However, when you buy them from where it is produced you have the opportunity to glance at the production. And also the chance to avail them at a cheaper price.

Books and textiles, ornaments and sculptors, fruits and flowers, spices and beverages, gadgets and instruments, the list can just go on. You only have to find time to walk around to fill your shopping bag and empty your wallet.

Notes

• Keep a local acquaintance or take caution while shopping from street vendors.
• Bargaining with vendors is a tricky affair.
• Observe and estimate the average price before throwing in the ring.
• Beware of prevalent counterfeit products.
• Some food items are delicious, but over indulgence is not advised.
• Especially when visiting the state from outside do check the travel protocol.
• Check prevailing quarantine rules to be followed when landing in the state.
• Avoid crowded places.