» Fabrics
India is quite famous for its fabrics. The most popular Indian
fabrics include silks, cottons, and wools. They compete amongst
the best fabrics in the world. For silk, the most famous places
are Varanasi (brocade), Kanchipuram, Murshidabad, Patna and Surat.
For cotton, the best place is Rajasthan, especially cotton with
the ‘tie and dye’ in bright colors. Also popular is
the Chennai cotton, known for its special ‘bleeding’
effect after a few washes. For wollens, especially shawls, Kashmir
is the perfect place.
» Carpets
One of the world’s largest carpet industries is India.
Carpets have been famous in India since the time of the Maharajas.
Each region in India has its own specialty. Quite popular are
the brightly colored Tibetan rugs, available mainly in Darjeeling.
» Clothes
In India, you can get quality as well as reasonable prices. Cloth
includes silks, cottons, himroos, brocades, chiffons, chingnons,
etc. also, most of the international brands are now available
in India.
» Jewelry
The traditional Indian jewelry is very heavy and elaborate. However,
the new generation is going for more delicacy and sophistication
in the designs. Also quite famous is the Indian silverwork. Gems
include diamonds, lapis lazuli, Indian star rubies, star sapphires,
moonstones, aquamarines and so on. For pearls, Hyderabad is perfect
place.
» Handicrafts
and Leatherwork
There is no one best place for handicraft and leatherwork in India.
Each area has its own specialty. The items cover the range from
bronzes and brasswork (often inlaid with silver) to canework and
pottery. Also the Kashmiri woven rugs and papier mache (some decorated
in gold leaf) are very famous. Agra is known for its inlaid marble
and alabaster. Rajasthan specialties include its colorful fabrics
and silks. Leatherwork includes open Indian sandals and slippers.
» Other Goods
Apart from the above-mentioned goods, the following items are
also popular:
Pickles
Spices
Indian tea
Perfumes
Soap
Handmade paper, etc