Looking for souvenirs to bring a piece of India back home? From common household items like local spices to traditional handmade jewellery, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to Delhi’s souvenirs.
1. Paintings
You’ll find 2 popular forms of paintings being sold in Delhi: madhubani and miniatures. Either way, these paintings will make a fine addition to your home decor.
Madhubani paintings are made with natural dyes and pigments on cloth canvases. This makes it easy to transport as it doesn’t take up a lot of space. The paintings feature a wide range of vivid colours and unique patterns that seem almost psychedelic. Common motifs include beautiful renditions of Hindu deities and festive rituals like marriages and Holi.
Miniatures were developed during the Mughal period where it saw a blend of Indian and Persian styles. Colours from minerals are extracted and painted on cloth canvases. You’ll mostly find miniatures of elephants or replicas of court miniatures in souvenir shops.
Where to buy:
Delhi Emporium
Central Cottage Emporium
2. Incense Sticks
If you’re looking to turn your bathroom into a spa, India has got some of the best selection for incense sticks - their incense industry is the largest in the world. Some popular ingredients include sandalwood, star anise, and frankincense. Some producers have also started to infuse it with insect repelling-oils, making it perfect for a barbeque.
Where to buy:
Fragrance Palace
Some general stores
3. Assamese Silk
Assamese silk is a well-known luxury item that can be found in stores and bazaars in Delhi. They showcase the beautiful patterns and vibrant colours that you see in Indian fabrics. If you can’t find a design that you like, many shops sell the whole piece for you to tailor back home. If you prefer local craftsmanship, some shops can have them done in a few days to fit your itinerary.
Where to buy:
Shankar Market
Janpath Market
4. Pashmina Shawl
Treat yourself to soft pashmina shawls for a simple yet elegant accessory. The shawls aren’t too heavy on the patterns which makes it suitable for any dress. Drape it over a plain dress or tie it as a scarf to spice up your outfit! Pashmina shawls are commonly sold in markets and you’ll get some of the best deals there.
Where to buy:
Janpath Market
Lajpat Market
5. Indian Tableware
If you eat a lot of Indian food, you’ll notice that everything is served on stainless steel. Now that you’re in Delhi, it’s the perfect chance to explore unique tablewares; whether it’s a tumbler for tea or a tray for sauces like dal.
6. Lac Bangles
You’re in luck if you’re a big fan of bracelets. Lac bangles are a traditional Indian bracelet made from the resinous secretion of lac insects. Jaipur is best known for their lac bangles industry although many stores and markets carry these beautiful bracelets.
Where to buy:
Sadar Bazar
7. Spices
You’ve tasted Indian food, now it’s time to recreate it. Indian spice markets offer some of the best variety of spices you can find, including popular spice blends like garam masala. Chilli powder, turmeric, they can all be found at Khari Baoli, Old Delhi’s spice market. For a more souvenir-oriented purchase, you can buy a spice box which is a full set of essential spices in an Indian kitchen.
Where to buy:
Khari Baoli, Old Delhi
8. Tea
One of the largest producers of tea in the world, the tea trade in India has a long and reputable history. Look out for the notable blends like masala chai or the regional loose-leaf teas like Darjeeling. It makes for a great gift and it’s reasonably easy to pack.
Where to buy:
Aap Ki Pasand Sancha Tea Shop
Khari Baoli, Old Delhi
9. Jewellery
The streets of Dariba Kalan (meaning “street of the incomparable pearl”) at Old Delhi boast one of the finest selections of jewellery made in the traditional Indian or contemporary style. Some of the best regional works from cities like Jaipur can also be found in the showrooms at Dariba Kalan. The best part? It’s all for a low price.
Where to buy:
Dariba Kalan, Old Delhi
Khan Market
10. Kites
India has a lively kite-flying culture. Kites fill the windy skies in annual celebrations and festivals like Makar Sankranti and India’s Independence Day. If you’ve always wanted to shop at a street dedicated to kite shops, take a stroll down at Lal Kuan at Old Delhi.
Where to buy:
Lal Kuan, Old Delhi
11. Handicrafts
Most souvenir shops carry traditional wooden or silver handicrafts. Whether it’s a wooden carving of the beloved Ganesha or elephant keychains made from lac, the handicrafts make great affordable souvenirs for friends.
Where to buy:
Delhi Emporium
Central Cottage Emporium
12. Dibbis
These beautifully handcrafted boxes make for unique and functional decor. They’re made with a variety of materials from marble to brass. Although many emporiums do carry it, the best place to buy them is at a busy market where the prices are the lowest.
Where to buy:
Janpath market
Delhi Emporium
Central Cottage Emporium
