Here are the top 10 souvenirs to buy in Nagercoil, with all the details a new tourist or city visitor needs—including where to find them, what makes each special, and practical shopping tips.
- Nagercoil Nendran Banana Chips
- Famous locally for their crisp texture and natural flavor.
- Found at sweet stalls, Kerala stores, and street snack vendors.
- Mundhiri Kothu
- A unique sweet made from green gram and jaggery, iconic to South Tamil Nadu.
- Available at local sweet shops and traditional snack stalls.
- Temple Jewelry
- Traditionally crafted pieces featuring local designs and semi-precious stones.
- Best bought at jewelry and gift shops, often with a Geographical Indication tag.
- Coconut Shell Handicrafts
- Eco-friendly home decor items, kitchen wares, and souvenirs made from polished coconut shell.
- Widely available at artisan stalls and fancy stores.
- Handmade Brass Lamps (Kuthuvilakku)
- Ornamental lamps symbolizing Tamil tradition, used in homes and temples.
- Local brassware stores and markets around devotional hubs stock them.
- Shell Crafts and Sea Artwork
- Souvenirs made from locally-sourced shells and corals, such as jewelry, frames, and art pieces.
- Commonly sold in beachside stalls and souvenir centers.
- Traditional Textiles and Sarees
- Soft-cotton sarees, Kerala-style dhotis, and ethnic wear reflecting local culture.
- Textile shops and major markets offer a wide selection.
- Spices and Herbal Products
- Fresh cardamom, pepper, turmeric, and medicinal herbs packed for gifting.
- Kerala stores and spice merchants are best for authentic products.
- Wooden Carvings and Miniature Statues
- Locally carved wooden statues and decor items, often representing temple deities and animals.
- Available in artisan stores and specialty shops.
- Local Sweets Box
- A packaged box of regional sweets and savory snacks—perfect to take home.
- Many sweet shops and online platforms offer assorted boxes.
Souvenir Shopping Tips
- Most souvenirs are available at local markets, gift shops, beachside stalls, and specialty outlets.
- Always ask sellers about the origin and craftsmanship of handmade items.
- Shell and coconut crafts are unique to the region and make for lightweight, travel-friendly gifts.
- Textiles like sarees and dhotis often come in gift-ready packaging; confirm quality and authenticity.
- Festive seasons and temple fairs are great times to shop for the widest variety.