Shopping in Kashmir- A List of Must-buys for Every Tourist

Majestic Chinar trees, rich green hillsides and the enchanting sound of the Santoor- all transportation you quickly to the Kashmir of the sixties and the seventies. Back then, no self-respecting Hindi film could pay for to miss out on shooting a romantic song in Kashmir; recently married couples aspired for a Kashmir honeymoon; and the rich and well-known holidayed here. But then came the eighties and political discord led to Kashmir slipping off the tourist radar. 

A distant memory, I inform you! Because all that flying fur has actually settled down to a terrific level and it is once again time to obtain away from the summer season heat and plan a trip to Kashmir. To include too this is intriguing shopping in Kashmir. Yes! Kashmir is certainly a popular shopping location since of the variety of items available that are unique to this area. Not only could you go shopping, markets in Kashmir proffer regional specials which are readily available so you can go shopping and munch at the exact same time.

With regular flights to Srinagar and safe bus journeys that provide you more of Kashmir per eye-blink, the valley is once again sizzling on the vacationer' most desired charts. Yes, you require bewaring and yes, you need to keep the eyes and ears working fulltime while here, but don't let that stop you from sampling the spoils of one of the most stunning locations on the world. Check out the temples and dargahs, go snowboarding and trekking, laze around on a houseboat for a whole day and store!

Shopping beyond Pashminas

Kashmir's Pashmina shawls and stoles have captured the hearts of thousands of buyers but you might return with a lot more. There are walnut wood carvings, papiér- maché knick knacks and the attractive red Kashmiri chillies- the essential shopping cart of every tourist. Continue reading to find out some not so essential items that you must hunt for in the city:

1.      Buy vintage maps of Kashmir

2.      Be a Chai Shoda- Kashmiri for 'tea addict'; bring back special green tea leaves that lead to the special Kashmiri salted pink tea or Noon Chai. You can get them quickly at the majority of supermarket

3.      Of course you're going to purchase a Kashmiri hand woven carpet or a Namda, but also let your roving eye rest on Kashmiri crewel-work wall hangings and carpets

4.      Buy antique copper ware like samovars and trays (you have to discover a sturdy guide who can take you to the Old City; don't venture to this area on your own).

5.      Take back some willow baskets; absolutely not your daily shopping bag.

6.      You've seen them at every handicraft exposition you've been to, however this time, get the real thing- Kashmiri Lac accessories. Go wild with pendants, bracelets and barrettes.

7.      A fantastic take-back would be old photographs and some Kashmiri art.

8.      Heat it up with spices-Other than the Kashmiri red chillies, you should reclaim saffron. Kashmir is among the couple of locations on the planet that grows saffron and you will need to travel to a saffron farm near Pampore Fields, a couple of miles from Srinagar to get it (with the assistance of a certified guide just!).

9.      If you're travelling back home by air, make a stop at a local bakery or Kandur Wan for some delicious Lavaasa, Girdas and Kulchas. You're going to be popular back home!

10.  The regional tweed is cut and tailored into the beautiful long garment called a Ferin- you’d be spoiled rotten for choice however does not return without a minimum of one piece to keep you warm in the cold winters.

11.  If you are in the state of mind to splurge, bank upon a piece of jewellery encrusted with the 'Doda Sapphire'- found only in Kashmir.

12.  Do go to the drifting markets on the dal lake and watch as locals haggle for daily items while their boats stay afloat on water.

13.  You might go to the Tibetan market in Leh and purchase a popular Thangka Painting.

14.  Go to Lal Chowk or Badshah chowk to acquire articles amde of Walnut wood, sculpted to perfection.

15.  Dont forget to buy a Shatoosh shawl when in Kashmir!

Things to keep in mind

There are intriguing handicrafts stores and marketplaces spread across the state where you can get lovely collectibles. However, stay with tourist-heavy places for shopping if you are alone. However, if you do wish to venture out to the Old City; do so just with the aid of a certified guide and an automobile recommended by the J&K Tourism Department. 

Go to Maharaja Bazaar and Kokar Bazaar for spices and the primary market area for Kashmiri embroidery things. 

Delight in the wonderful markets as you wander around and check out the range offered by the region. However, do not leave your hotel at odd hours and without correct identification. Finally, know that travelers are some of the safest individuals in Kashmir today- they're the backbone of the location's economy! So enjoy your time and do share your experience with us.

For more information on Kashmir holiday packages and any other holiday packages contact Swan Tours one of the leading travel agents in India.