Ambur, a vibrant town located between Chennai and Bengaluru, is famous for its leather craftsmanship, local markets, and traditional goods. While the town is small, it offers several unique products that make memorable and affordable souvenirs for tourists.
1. Genuine Leather Goods
What to Buy: Leather bags, belts, wallets, jackets, and laptop sleeves.
Why It’s Special: Ambur is a major leather manufacturing hub exporting goods worldwide. You’ll find factory outlets and small shops selling genuine leather at reasonable prices.
Tourist Tip:
- Check for the natural leather grain and authentic smell.
- Compare prices across outlets for the best deal.
- Ask for a “tax-included” invoice to ensure transparency.
2. Leather Footwear
What to Buy: Formal shoes, boots, sandals, and loafers made by local craftsmen.
Why It’s Special: Ambur’s tanneries supply high-quality leather to international brands. Many shops sell export-quality footwear at discounted factory rates.
Tourist Tip:
- Try the shoes before purchasing; check stitching and soles.
- Leather footwear makes a long-lasting and stylish souvenir.
3. Leather Accessories (Belts, Wallets & Card Holders)
What to Buy: Compact accessories such as wallets, belts, pouches, and keychains.
Why It’s Special: Lightweight, durable, and easy to carry — perfect as gifts or keepsakes.
Tourist Tip:
- Look for well-finished edges and sturdy buckles.
- Ideal for corporate gifts or practical souvenirs.
4. Readymade Garments & Tailored Outfits
What to Buy: Shirts, trousers, dresses, and traditional Tamil wear.
Why It’s Special: Ambur’s tailoring shops and clothing stores offer affordable and customized stitching options.
Tourist Tip:
- Allow an extra day for tailoring services.
- During festive seasons (Diwali, Pongal), discounts are common.
5. Textiles & Handloom Fabrics
What to Buy: Cotton fabrics, sarees, and dress materials.
Why It’s Special: Tamil Nadu’s weaving traditions are reflected in Ambur’s local textile markets, offering soft cotton and elegant designs.
Tourist Tip:
- Ask for colorfast or pre-washed varieties for better durability.
- Bargaining is acceptable in smaller stores.
6. Imitation Jewellery & Boutique Accessories
What to Buy: Earrings, bangles, necklaces, and scarves.
Why It’s Special: These items are trendy, inexpensive, and easy to pack. You can find both traditional and modern styles in Ambur’s bazaar.
Tourist Tip:
- Check clasps and fittings for durability.
- Great for gifting or as additions to personal collections.
7. Spices & Dry Fruits
What to Buy: Cardamom, cloves, pepper, almonds, and cashews.
Why It’s Special: Many small traders sell locally packed, high-quality Indian spices and dry fruits at competitive prices.
Tourist Tip:
- Ensure products are sealed and freshly packed.
- Store them in airtight containers during travel.
8. Local Sweets & Snacks
What to Buy: Ambur Biryani spice mix, homemade sweets, and crispy snacks.
Why It’s Special: Ambur’s biryani is world-famous, and local spice mixes let you recreate it at home. Traditional sweets and snacks also make thoughtful edible souvenirs.
Tourist Tip:
- Buy from reputed sweet shops for freshness.
- Pack items securely to avoid spilling.
9. Handcrafted Home Decor Items
What to Buy: Wooden handicrafts, wall hangings, key holders, and traditional lamps.
Why It’s Special: Locally crafted pieces showcase Tamil Nadu’s artistry and make unique home décor souvenirs.
Tourist Tip:
- Choose compact, lightweight items for easier transport.
- Ask for bubble wrapping for fragile pieces.
10. Custom Gift Sets & Souvenir Hampers
What to Buy: Leather accessory combos, dry fruit boxes, and local craft gift sets.
Why It’s Special: Many shops offer pre-packed gift boxes combining Ambur’s signature products. These are perfect for gifting friends and family.
Tourist Tip:
- You can request customized packaging.
- Ensure you’re not overcharged for decorative wrapping.
Additional Shopping Tips for Tourists
- Best Time to Shop:
- November to February offers pleasant weather and festive sales.
- Visit before noon for a relaxed shopping experience.
- Where to Shop:
- Ambur Bazaar Street (for local markets and textiles).
- Industrial Estate & NH-44 Bypass (for factory outlets).
- Devalapuram Main Road (for leather and footwear).
- Payment & Bargaining:
- Digital payments and UPI are widely accepted.
- Bargaining is appropriate in local markets, not in branded stores.
- Packing & Transport:
- Pack leather items separately from food or clothes.
- For international travel, check customs rules for leather and edible goods.
- Authenticity & Warranty:
- Buy from reputed stores or factory outlets.
- Ask for receipts for high-value items like jackets or shoes.
- Local Festivals for Shopping:
- Diwali, Pongal, and Eid are the best times for festive discounts.
- Many shops offer “combo deals” and clearance sales during these periods.
Summary
If you’re visiting Ambur, the best souvenirs to buy are leather products, local textiles, spices, and handcrafted items. These reflect the town’s heritage and offer excellent value. With a little bargaining and timing your visit right, you can take home authentic, high-quality souvenirs that represent Ambur’s craftsmanship and culture.