Uniquely Indian Souvenirs And Where To Buy Them In New Delhi

There’s no need to travel the whole country to bring back the best souvenirs from India: the lanes and markets in New Delhi offer eclectic souvenirs that represent the essence of the country. Here’s your guide to what to buy in India’s capital city.

1. Madhubani paintings

Market, Shop

India, New Delhi, 30 Mar 2019 - Market with Madhubani Paintings for selling

Beautiful pieces of intricate art, Madhubani paintings are an ideal way to adorn your home with Indian patterns and colours. These pictorial representations of various Hindu themes – from Lord Krishna dancing to village landscapes – make unique souvenirs and are available at Dastkar in Anuvrat Marg.

2. Silk saris

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Saris hanging in a clothing store, Dilli Haat, New Delhi, India

Crafted during hours of intensive labour and featuring intricate handiwork, silk saris are a unique piece of Indian culture and a luxurious souvenir to take back home with you. These woven mementoes can be found in Nalli at South Extension II and Connaught Place.

3. Indian tea

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Cardamon, walnuts, peanuts, dates and black tea are displayed in bowls in the Old Delhi spice market

Various tea blends, brewed to perfection, with herbs and spices such as cardamom and cloves, represent the essence of India in a fine range of unique flavours. Try different varieties during your stay, and take the ones you like home with you as souvenirs. The best place to source a vast range of tea is the Aap Ki Pasand tea shop.

5. Handicraft puppets

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Hand made puppets attached to string in Rajasthan India. Dolls men and women face wearing traditional Indian dress Saree or Sari, Lehenga for plays

Used in the past in folk entertainment, string puppets are a vibrant aspect of Indian culture. Traditional puppets are on sale at Dilli Haat open-air market in New Delhi and are a colourful way of bringing a piece of India back home with you.

6. Pashmina shawl

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pashmina scarves on display at a store amritsar

Fine cashmere wool is a luxurious Indian souvenir with a rich past. Available in various colours, a cashmere scarf looks equally good worn with Indian and Western clothing. Original pashmina shawls can be found at Ahujasons at South Extension Market and more affordable variations at Lajpat Nagar Market.

7. Indian spice box

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Beautiful Metal Indian Spice Box loaded with Fresh Spices

An Indian spice box captures the pure essence of India and is one of the best souvenirs to bring back home. A sectioned box with a huge range of spices can be prepared at Mehar Chand & Sons.

8. Dibbis (small boxes) with inlaid or patterned lids

Market

Created in various sizes for storage and decor purposes, Indian handicraft boxes are both popular and beautiful. The lid boxes are decorated with inlay and enamel patterns, forming a souvenir that shows real craft in every detail. These items can be picked up at Janpath Market.

9. Traditional silver jewellery

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Indian jewellery with silver and stones hanging on a market stall. Leh, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, India

The small streets of Dariba in Chandni Chowk are filled with silver jewellery in an extensive range of intricate patterns, finishes and designs. With styles varying from hip to conservative, traditional silver jewellery from Dariba is a unique souvenir to bring home.

10. Traditional oil lamps

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Woman selling cray oil lamp for Diwali festival

Found in numerous designs, shapes and sizes, traditional oil lamps are unique gifting and keepsake options from India. Head to Janpath Market to get a lamp that will both illuminate your home and remind you forever of your time in India.

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