Kashmir is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite handicrafts. Shopping in Kashmir is a delightful experience that immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of the region’s cultural heritage. Hence, shopping becomes an essential part of your trip. If you are planning to fly to Kashmir then you should also be familiar with the famous shopping items that you should buy as a token of memory on your trip. The bustling markets of Srinagar, such as Lal Chowk and Polo View, offer a diverse array of traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. Pashmina shawls, woven from the soft wool of Himalayan goats, showcase the exquisite craftsmanship and warmth synonymous with Kashmir. The vibrant hues and intricate designs of Kashmiri carpets draw admirers seeking a piece of art for their homes. Paper Mache items, adorned with hand-painted motifs, tell stories of tradition and creativity. Strolling through the markets, one encounters the aromatic allure of Kashmiri spices, saffron, and dried fruits, enticing culinary enthusiasts.
If you are the kind of person who likes to buy such stuff while traveling to a new state then you must go shopping in Kashmir and buy amazing stuff for your loved ones. There are lots of things to buy when you visit Kashmir valley. You can pick up the most amazing Kashmiri items from famous markets like Maharaja Bazaar and Kokar Bazaar. These delightful markets let you explore the culture of Kashmiri people and also allow you to taste the delicious food.
The renowned Kashmiri tea, Kahwa, beckons with its unique blend of spices and saffron. Amidst the labyrinthine streets, local artisans showcase their skills in producing embroidered fabrics, adding a touch of elegance to traditional attire. The bustling bazaars also offer an opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of the locals, who take pride in sharing the beauty and craftsmanship of their homeland. Shopping in Kashmir is not just a transaction; it’s a cultural immersion, a journey through the centuries-old traditions that make every purchase a cherished memento of the enchanting valley.
Here are the top 12 most famous things you must consider buying when in Kashmir
1. Pashmina Shawls
Buying a Pashmina shawl in Kashmir is a delightful experience, as these luxurious garments are a symbol of the region’s exquisite craftsmanship. When shopping for a Pashmina shawl, consider visiting renowned markets and reputable stores in places like Srinagar. Lal Chowk and Polo View are bustling markets where you can find a variety of authentic Pashmina shawls.
Ensure that the shawl you choose is made from genuine Pashmina wool, sourced from the high-altitude Himalayan goats. Authentic Pashmina is known for its unparalleled softness, warmth, and fine texture. By purchasing a Pashmina shawl in Kashmir, you not only acquire a luxurious and beautiful accessory but also support the local artisans and contribute to the preservation of this age-old craft.
Pashmina cashmere shawls are widely known for their warmth and soft texture, their durability for which it is said to even pass down from one generation to another. Given its superlative quality, the shawls may come off as a little expensive but in due time, you will definitely come to understand the superior competency that makes them so desirable and loved.
2. Carpets
Kashmiri carpets are known all over the world for their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs. These handwoven masterpieces are available in various sizes, from small rugs to large room-sized carpets. The meticulous detailing and vibrant colours of Kashmiri carpets make them a valuable addition to any home decor.
Carpet making is a unique art and its quality depends on the number of knots. One of the purest kinds of carpet you can get from Kashmir only as it is hand-knotted and made using pure wool or pure silk. The Kashmiri Carpets are generally very expansive and their rates depend on the size and its quality.
These oriental rugs are hand-knotted, and they make a popular choice for their great patterns and colors. These handmade carpets add a certain charm to the décor of a home, and people buy them with enthusiasm whenever they find themselves in Kashmir.
3. Kashmiri Saffron
Considered to be one of the most expensive spices in the world, Saffron is indeed valuable since it is a labor-induced spice. . Saffron is obtained from the stigma of the flowering crocus. Kashmiri Saffron is said to be one of the world’s finest saffron. The town of Pampore is popular for saffron production and plantation.
From Wazwan to Kehwa, Saffron goes in everything- good and pure in Kashmir. When buying saffron in Kashmir, the authenticity is ensured, as local markets and reputable spice shops offer the genuine, hand-harvested product. The transaction becomes more than a simple purchase; it becomes a connection to the land where the saffron blooms and the skilled hands that cultivate it. Each crimson thread holds the centuries-old tradition of saffron farming in Kashmir, making the experience not just a spice acquisition but a meaningful immersion into the cultural and agricultural heritage of the valley.
Tip: Best Place To Buy Kashmiri Saffron: Kashmir Online Store
4. Kashmiri Papier Mache Products
It is the process of converting waste paper to an interesting shape by using paper pulp and adhesive solutions. The paper pulp is then moulded into different shapes and sizes. And once the product dries, it is coloured and decorated by skilled craftsmen. Kashmir is known for its paper Mache Products. In Kashmir markets you will easily find shops and vendors that sell these products. You can buy these products like flower vases, coaster set and other products for decoration purposes.
The bustling markets of Srinagar, particularly areas like Lal Chowk and Zaina Kadal, offer a captivating display of handcrafted Papier Mâché items. From intricately painted boxes to delicate vases and trays, each piece reflects the skill and creativity of Kashmiri artisans. By making a purchase in the vibrant markets of Kashmir, you not only bring home a piece of art but also contribute to the sustenance of this cherished cultural legacy. Let the vibrant colors and delicate patterns of Papier Mâché captivate your senses, making your purchase not just an acquisition but a meaningful connection to the artistic soul of Kashmir.
5. Dry Fruits
Embarking on the journey to buy dry fruits in Kashmir is a delectable experience that immerses you in the region’s rich agricultural bounty. The vibrant markets of Srinagar, adorned with an array of dried fruits, present a feast for the senses. Renowned for their exceptional quality, Kashmiri dry fruits include delights such as almonds, walnuts, apricots, and figs, each boasting a distinct flavor and nutritional richness. The crisp and crunchy taste of dry fruits is surely one of the most loved tidbits. When making a purchase, explore reputable dry fruit shops to ensure authenticity and freshness. So if you love dry fruits then it is one of the best things to buy in Kashmir.
Engaging with local vendors allows you to savor the stories behind these wholesome treats, often handpicked from the fertile orchards of Kashmir. Beyond being a delightful culinary addition, buying Kashmiri dry fruits becomes a connection to the valley’s age-old tradition of cultivating premium-quality nuts and fruits in its pristine landscapes. So, in the bustling markets of Kashmir, let the aroma and taste of these premium dry fruits become a flavorful souvenir, embodying the essence of the region’s agricultural excellence. You can visit the local stores and buy the best quality of dried fruits for your loved ones
The best place to buy 100% original dry fruits is: Kashmir Online Store
6. Kashmiri Jewelry
Kashmiri jewelry is meticulously crafted to exude a rich and exquisite traditional allure. Each piece of jewelry from Kashmir is adorned with stunning stones that enhance its beauty, making it a must-have souvenir when visiting the region. Srinagar boasts numerous jewelry shops where you can find a wide array of adornments such as Nupura, ChaunkPhool, Tika, Kundals, and Kada, as these are among the most cherished and commonly worn ornaments by the local people.
he intricate craftsmanship in creating earrings, necklaces, and rings is awe-inspiring. Purchasing a piece of Kashmiri jewelry is a great way to carry a piece of the region’s culture with you. The ornaments in Jammu and Kashmir are crafted with the highest precision to offer a sheer luxurious look. As you know that Srinagar is the biggest abode of semi-precious gemstones, therefore; these stones are inserted in the jewelry to enhance the aesthetics of these ornaments.
7. Silverware Products
Silverware craftsmanship in Kashmir is a time-honored tradition, known locally as ‘naqash.’ These skillfully crafted silver items, such as ornate picture frames, are highly sought after by people from European countries and Australia. Kashmir offers a diverse range of silverware items, including flower vases, elegant tea sets, decorative frames, cigarette cases, and bowls. When you find yourself in a shopping mood in Kashmir, consider adding a piece of exquisite silverware to your collection; it’s a timeless souvenir that reflects the region’s rich artistic heritage.
So, purchasing silver items in Kashmir is not just a transaction; it’s an opportunity to own a piece of cultural legacy and be a part of the enduring tradition of Kashmiri craftsmanship. You must buy one silverware item when you are in a shopping mood in Kashmir.
8. Walnut Wood Carving
Wood carving objects are the most amazing and impressive shopping items in Kashmir. Carved walnut wood-work is the most significant crafts of Kashmir. The features of this wood include durability, close grain and detailed work that make the item more expansive and visually interesting.
The carving on wood is done by the highly skilled craftsman with the help of indigenous tools. The items like trays, tables, bowls, furniture, key chain, photo frames and key holder are the most buyable items by the tourists in Kashmir. You must buy wood carving objects as Kashmiri shopping item. Highly skilled craftsmen of Kashmir renders their creativity and craftsmanship as they carve wood into items like furniture, table, trays, photo frames, pen stands, toys, and key holders. These objects serve as great tools to gift as souvenirs or as home décor.
9. Kashmiri Apple
One of the finest quality apples in the world, the Kashmir Apple, is loved across the globe for its smell, flavor, and texture. The factors like soil, climate, and environmental conditions of Kashmir contribute greatly to the favorable growth of apples. It’s important to savor their freshness by consuming them within a week of purchase, as their exceptional taste and quality may diminish after a few days.
The Apple Orchards in Kashmir are well cared for and maintained and the amount of hard work that goes into the harvest is what makes the fruit the best in terms of its quality. So, make sure that whenever you visit Kashmir, buy some of those Kashmiri apples and take them back home to enjoy them with your loved ones.
10. Kashmir Willow Bats
If you enjoy playing cricket, you should look into the wide collection of Kashmir willow bats that are available at reasonable prices. These bats are light in weight and have outstanding grip. These bats are very tough and shock resistant. That is why Kashmir willow bats are used by top class cricket players.
The Kashmir willow bat is part of every major cricketer’s kit, as many players have even played international tournaments with the bats crafted in Kashmir. Top-quality affordable Kashmir willow cricket bats are available everywhere on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway.These bats have light pick up and outstanding grip. Although these bats are available at a cheap price but the hard work that is involved in its formation is much more.
11. Kashmiri Tea (Kahwa)
Embarking on the journey to buy Kashmiri tea, specifically the renowned Kahwa, in the picturesque valleys of Kashmir is a delightful experience. Kahwa is a traditional Kashmiri green tea infused with aromatic spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and saffron, creating a unique and flavorful blend. When seeking to purchase Kashmiri tea, consider exploring local markets in Srinagar or specialty tea shops that showcase the authentic flavors of the region. Engage with the local tea vendors who can guide you in selecting high-quality Kahwa leaves and provide insights into the preparation and cultural significance of this beloved beverage.
Kahwa is an exotic mix of Kashmiri green tea leaves, whole spices, nuts and saffron, which was traditionally prepared in a brass kettle known as samovar. Due to the presence of saffron, it serves as a warming drink and helps to withstand the cold winters. Kahwa is an exotic mix of Kashmiri green tea leaves, whole spices, nuts and saffron.
Tip: Best Place To Buy Kashmiri Kahwa: Kashmir Online Store
12. Kashmiri Embroidery and Textiles
In the vibrant markets of Kashmir, you’ll find a captivating array of traditional Kashmiri garments that beautifully showcase their rich cultural heritage. These garments are adorned with intricate designs and feature the highly skilled artistry of “aarikaam” embroidery, leaving a lasting impression on those who visit. If you wish to capture memorable moments, consider renting one of these garments for a photo session, allowing you to don the attire and create cherished photographic memories. Among the most renowned is the “Pheran,” a traditional Kashmiri garment characterized by its wide sleeves and striped border, typically worn during the winter season by the local Kashmiri people.
The embroidery work and complex design on the dresses highly impress the visitors. These dresses are specially designed to cater the cold weather of Kashmir. Pheran is one of the traditional costumes of Kashmiri people which is a two-piece dress having long and wide sleeves with stripes border. You can either buy these dresses or take it on rent to click a picture in Kashmiri style dress.
