Things to BUY...

Indian arts and crafts are intricate and fabulous, and the skill and technique are handed down generations. Every region has something unique to offer. Silk, spices, jewellery and many other Indian products have long enticed buyers from far and near.

Some of the things you need to check out while shopping in India...

FABRICS: One of India’s main industries, silk, cotton, and wool rank amongst the best in the world. Of the silks, the brocades from Varanasi are among the most famous variety; other major centres include Patna, Murshidabad, Surat and Kanchipuram. Rajasthan cotton with its famous "tie and die" design is usually brillantly colourful, while Madras cotton is known for its attractive "bleeding" effect after a few washes. Throughout the country may be found the "himroo" cloth, a mixture of silk and cotton, often decorated with patterns. Kashmir sells beautiful woollens particularly shawls.

CARPETS: India has one of the world’s largest carpet industries. Kashmir has a long history of carpet making, influenced by the Persians. Pure wool and woven & silk carpets are exquisitely made, and can be bought for a fraction of the cost that one would pay in the west. Each region has its own specialty such as the distinctive, bright coloured Tibetan rugs, available mainly in Darjeeling.

CLOTHES: Clothes are very cheap to buy, and can be tailor made in some shops, usually at short notice. You can choose from a wide range of silks, cottons, himroos, brocades, chiffons, chignons, touched with streaks of silver and gold thread, set with sequins or semi-precious gems and design a dress that fits you to a T.

JEWELLERY: The ones from Rajasthan (Kundan) are traditionally heavy and stunningly elaborate. Indian silverwork is popular the world-over. Gems can be bought and mounted. Apart from diamonds, other stones include lapis lazuli, Indian star rubies, star sapphires, moonstones and aquamarine. Hyderabad is one of the world’s leading centres for pearls.

HANDICRAFTS AND LEATHERWORK: The vast range includes fine bronzes, brasswork (often inlaid with silver), canework and pottery. Papier Mache is a characteristic Kashmir product, some decorated with gold leaf. Marble and alabaster inlay work, such as chess sets and ornamental plates are a specialty of Agra. Good leatherwork buys includes sandals and slippers.

WOODWORK: Sandalwood carvings from Karnataka, rosewood from Kerala and Madras, Indian walnut from Kashmir, are often exquisite and make excellent presents.

OTHER BUYS: Foods such as pickles, spices and Indian tea, perfumes, soap, handmade paper, Orissan playing cards, musical instruments- anything that takes your fancy.

PS: It is forbidden to export antiques and art objects over 100 years old; as well as animal skins or objects made from skins.