Shopping

Quite a few things make the must-buy shopping shortlist in Kerala, all of which are, naturally, readily available in the state's capital. Head to one of Trivandrum's vibrant markets to stock up on celebrated Keralan spices, and do try the state-grown tea and coffee, well-liked by both locals and visitors. There is no shortage of jewellery (including real gold and diamond) and hand-crafted souvenirs (most prominently, wood carvings), as well as cosmetics containing the essence of the Keralan-native coconut.