Here are the top 5 best places for shopping in Kollam, offering a mix of local handicrafts, traditional Kerala attire, and other unique items. These locations provide an ideal shopping experience for tourists and visitors looking to take home souvenirs or local goods.
1. Kollam Municipal Market
- Location: Near Chinnakada, Kollam
- What to Expect: The Kollam Municipal Market is a bustling traditional market where visitors can find local produce, spices, fresh fish, and traditional Kerala handicrafts. It’s the perfect place for those wanting to experience the local culture and pick up authentic products at affordable prices.
- Highlights:
- Fresh spices, vegetables, and fish
- Traditional Kerala souvenirs like wooden sculptures, coir products, and brassware
- Vibrant local atmosphere
- Best For: Tourists interested in traditional shopping, fresh produce, and local handicrafts at reasonable prices.
2. Lulu Mall Kollam
- Location: Near the Kollam Bypass, Kollam
- What to Expect: Lulu Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Kollam, offering a wide variety of local and international brands. This modern mall is perfect for those looking for everything from clothing, electronics, and cosmetics to groceries, footwear, and home decor.
- Highlights:
- International and national brands
- Food court offering local and international cuisine
- Entertainment options including a movie theater
- Best For: Shoppers looking for a modern, air-conditioned mall experience with a diverse range of products.
3. Sree Krishnaswamy Silks
- Location: Near the Municipal Bus Stand, Kollam
- What to Expect: This is one of the oldest and most famous silk stores in Kollam. It specializes in high-quality silk sarees and traditional Kerala garments, including the Kasavu saree. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to buy authentic, handcrafted silk apparel, especially for weddings or festivals.
- Highlights:
- Traditional Kasavu sarees and Kerala mundu
- Embroidered silk fabrics
- Handloom products
- Best For: Shoppers interested in authentic Kerala silk and traditional attire, particularly for special occasions.
4. Kollam Craft Village
- Location: Near the Kollam By-Pass Road, Kollam
- What to Expect: Kollam Craft Village is a dedicated area for showcasing the traditional crafts of Kerala. Visitors can find a range of handwoven textiles, coir products, wooden carvings, and traditional Kerala handicrafts. This is the perfect place for tourists seeking authentic, handcrafted souvenirs that reflect Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
- Highlights:
- Handcrafted wooden artifacts, coir products, and pottery
- Traditional Kerala home decor items
- Local arts and crafts workshops
- Best For: Tourists looking to buy authentic Kerala handicrafts and engage with local artisans.
5. Chinnakada Shopping Street
- Location: Chinnakada, Kollam
- What to Expect: Chinnakada is Kollam’s commercial heart, where tourists can find a wide variety of products ranging from jewelry and textiles to electronics and souvenirs. The shopping street is filled with small local shops that offer everything from handcrafted jewelry to home décor, making it a great place to explore.
- Highlights:
- Traditional jewelry made of gold and silver
- Home decor items like wood carvings and terracotta artifacts
- Affordable clothes and accessories
- Best For: Those looking for a wide variety of goods in one location, especially souvenirs and gifts.
These shopping destinations in Kollam offer visitors a chance to purchase unique items and experience the local culture. Whether you’re looking for modern shopping malls, traditional Kerala textiles, or authentic handicrafts, Kollam provides a rich shopping experience for all types of shoppers.