Shopping in Alleppey (2024)

Let's begin with the coir goods Alleppey is well-known for. In case you are unfamiliar with coir, it is just a naturally occurring fibre that is taken out of the coconut husk. "Why would I want to buy something made from coconut husks?" may be on your mind. Well, my buddy, Alleppey's coir items are true works of art. The variety of coir products available here is astounding, ranging from elaborate carpets and mats to eco-friendly bags and even furniture. These goods pay homage to Kerala's rich legacy of workmanship in addition to being long-lasting. They also make unusual gifts that will have your friends back home wondering where you got them.

Visit Alleppey's Coir Village to observe craftspeople in action and even try your hand at creating coir mats. And don't worry, you can discover coir goods that fit your style, whether you prefer brighter, more colourful patterns or minimalist ones. Just make sure your suitcase has adequate space!

Alleppey's spice markets are the place to go if you like to sniff and taste your way through a store rather than browse and bargain. Alleppey's spice markets are the reason Kerala is referred to as the "Spice Garden of India." The heady scent of freshly ground spices will reach your senses as soon as you enter one of these vibrant marketplaces. We are discussing spices like cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, and so on.

Peek down the little lanes of Alleppey's spice stores and you'll find mountains of colourful, aromatic spices that will make your food taste even better. Not to be overlooked is the tea—Kerala tea is exceptional. Everything from traditional black tea to unique concoctions enhanced with herbs and spices may be found. Asking for samples from the sellers is quite acceptable; they will be more than pleased to give you a taste.

Pro tip: Get some Malabar cinnamon and Alleppey green pepper; these are regional specialities that will wow even the pickiest eaters.

Alleppey's antique and artisan stores are a treasure trove for travellers who like bringing a bit of the local way of life home with them. Alleppey is only one of Kerala's many expert craftspeople. Beautifully created objects with unique stories made of bamboo, metal, and wood may be found there.

Visit the Alleppey Craft Fair, a sanctuary for lovers of classic design. Bamboo baskets, hand-painted ceramics, complex jewellery, and wooden sculptures are just a few of the many things you may peruse here. Each piece showcases Kerala's rich cultural legacy, and let's face it—they'll look amazing in your living room.

Not only that, but Alleppey has some amazing antique stores. These undiscovered treasures are brimming with antique coins, ancient furniture, and traditional artefacts from bygone eras. If fortune favours you, you may even come across an ancient artefact that has been handed down through the ages. Prepare yourself for intense haggling, since Alleppey's antique traders are notoriously difficult!

Discovering Kerala's colourful textile marketplaces is a must-do experience, and Alleppey is no exception. This is your chance to get a classic Kerala saree if you've always appreciated its elegance. The exquisite assortment of sarees available at Alleppey's textile stores are woven with elaborate designs and brilliant, rich colours. You may find anything you need here, from an elegant silk saree for a big event to a basic cotton saree for daily use.

Mullakkal Street is one of the best areas in Alleppey to shop for textiles. In addition to traditional Kerala sarees, this lively market offers a plethora of handloom cotton and silk textiles. The store owners are welcoming and will go above and beyond to assist you in selecting the ideal saree. They will even demonstrate how to drape it!

If sarees aren't your style, there are plenty of other clothing options available at Alleppey's textile markets, like traditional kurtas, shawls, and dhotis. Therefore, feel free to indulge in a little shopping therapy and take home a bit of Kerala's rich textile legacy.

Let's now discuss jewellery, as who doesn't enjoy a little bling? Alleppey is renowned for its fine jewellery, especially those crafted from precious stones, silver, and gold. Alleppey has everything you would want, from a spectacular necklace to exquisite earrings to a traditional Kerala bangle.

In Alleppey, buying jewellery is a unique experience. The stores are frequently run by families who have passed down decades of knowledge over the years. Every component has been meticulously and precisely crafted, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship. There are just so many options to choose from that you shouldn't be shocked if you wind up spending hours in one store!

The New Alleppey Jewellers is one of the top locations in Alleppey to shop for jewellery. This store is well-known for its exquisite assortment of both classic and modern styles, as well as its extremely experienced staff. You're likely to discover something that strikes your attention, whether you're shopping for yourself or searching for the ideal present.

Alleppey is a great place to shop year-round, but October through March is the coolest time of year to come. It's a nice enough day to stroll around the markets without being too hot. Additionally, Alleppey holds a number of cultural events during this season, which enhances the allure of your shopping trip.

Be ready for unexpected downpours if you're travelling during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September. Although the rain enhances Alleppey's attractiveness, it might make shopping a little more difficult. It's a trade-off because the rainy season is also when you can get some amazing prices if you don't mind getting a bit wet!

Shopping in Alleppey immerses you in Kerala's rich culture and tradition, making it more than simply a way to kill time. Alleppey's marketplaces have much to offer everyone, from colourful coir goods and fragrant spices to dexterous handicrafts and exquisite jewellery. Put on your negotiating cap, gather your shopping bags, and get ready for an unparalleled retail experience.

What better way to enjoy shopping without any hassles than to go on a guided trip with Backpackers United? They will drive you to all of Alleppey's top shopping locations, allowing you to concentrate on what truly counts: locating those undiscovered treasures and savouring the excitement of the hunt. Thus, why do you delay? Gather your belongings and travel to Alleppey, where shopping is more than just an activity—it’s a way of life!