Kannur is not just a cultural hub with historical landmarks, but it also offers excellent opportunities for shopping. Whether you’re looking for local handicrafts, traditional textiles, or even modern apparel, Kannur has something for every shopper. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 places for discount and tax-free shopping in Kannur, so you don’t have to look anywhere else for great shopping deals.
1. Kannur Duty-Free Shop
Location: Kannur International Airport
Cost per Person: Varies by product
Why Visit:
- The Kannur Duty-Free Shop offers a wide range of luxury goods and duty-free shopping options for international travelers, including cosmetics, watches, alcohol, and tobacco. It’s one of the best places to buy items tax-free if you’re flying out.
What to Buy:
- Perfumes and cosmetics
- Alcohol (whiskey, wine, etc.)
- Watches and jewelry
- Sunglasses and electronics
Best Time to Visit:
- Before your departure flight for the best selection of tax-free items.
Secret Tip:
- Stock up on high-end cosmetics and fragrances, which are significantly cheaper than in regular retail stores.
2. Sree Kannara Jewellery & Handicrafts
Location: Kannur Town
Cost per Person: ₹500 – ₹5,000 (depending on items)
Why Visit:
- Known for its traditional Kerala jewelry and handicrafts, this shop often offers discounted rates for bulk purchases or regular customers. It’s a perfect place to buy authentic Kerala jewelry without the tax burden.
What to Buy:
- Gold and Silver Jewelry
- Wooden Handicrafts
- Brass Lamps
- Coir Products
Best Time to Visit:
- Weekdays for better discounts and fewer crowds.
Secret Tip:
- Ask for any special offers or bulk discounts on jewelry if you’re planning to buy multiple pieces.
3. Vismaya Mall
Location: Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹500 – ₹2,000
Why Visit:
- A modern mall offering great discounts on branded products, clothes, and electronics. Vismaya Mall is perfect for those who want to shop tax-free and find both local and international brands.
What to Buy:
- Clothes (both local and international brands)
- Electronics
- Accessories
Best Time to Visit:
- Weekdays (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM) for fewer crowds and better deals.
Secret Tip:
- Look out for seasonal sales to get the best discounts, especially on electronics and fashion items.
4. Thalassery Market
Location: Thalassery, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹100 – ₹2,000
Why Visit:
- Located in Thalassery, this market offers a variety of spices, handicrafts, and textiles at discounted rates. You can also find local spices at unbeatable prices compared to other areas.
What to Buy:
- Malabar Spices (Cardamom, Pepper, Cloves)
- Handicrafts (Wooden carvings, Coir items)
- Traditional Kerala Wear
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM) for the freshest spices.
Secret Tip:
- Bargain for spices to get the best deals, especially if you’re buying in bulk.
5. Malabar Bazar
Location: Fort Road, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹200 – ₹5,000
Why Visit:
- This local bazaar is perfect for budget shoppers. With a range of local products and handicrafts, you can shop for souvenirs and local wear at discounted rates without the tax burden.
What to Buy:
- Handloom Sarees
- Spices
- Brass Lamps
- Coir Products
Best Time to Visit:
- Late morning or early afternoon (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM).
Secret Tip:
- Shop for traditional Kerala souvenirs and wooden items; they are available at great prices here.
6. Sultan’s Bazaar
Location: Near Kannur Beach
Cost per Person: ₹100 – ₹2,000
Why Visit:
- Known for its handmade jewelry, spices, and textiles, Sultan’s Bazaar offers both unique items and great prices. If you’re looking for local handcrafted jewelry or spices, this is the place to be.
What to Buy:
- Spices (freshly ground cinnamon, cloves, cardamom)
- Handmade Jewelry
- Coir Products
Best Time to Visit:
- Afternoon (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM) for fewer crowds.
Secret Tip:
- Visit for handmade jewelry and spices, as they offer unique local products at discounted prices.
7. Puzhathi Village Handicrafts
Location: Puzhathi, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹300 – ₹3,000
Why Visit:
- A local handicraft market where you can find coir-based products, wooden carvings, and handmade textiles. It’s a great place for tax-free shopping, especially for tourists looking to buy authentic Kerala crafts.
What to Buy:
- Coir Mats and Rugs
- Wooden Craft Items
- Traditional Kerala Furniture
Best Time to Visit:
- Mornings (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Secret Tip:
- Coir products like rugs and mats are sold at much better rates compared to the city stores.
8. Kannur Beach Shopping Complex
Location: Near Kannur Beach
Cost per Person: ₹200 – ₹1,000
Why Visit:
- A perfect place for tourists looking for souvenirs and traditional textiles at discounted prices. You can also find handicrafts and local jewelry here.
What to Buy:
- Traditional Kerala Jewelry
- Souvenirs like keychains, magnets
- Handwoven Bags
Best Time to Visit:
- Late afternoon or early evening for a relaxed shopping experience.
Secret Tip:
- Visit for small souvenirs that make for great gifts at very affordable prices.
9. Thavakkara Market
Location: Thavakkara, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹50 – ₹1,500
Why Visit:
- Known for its bargain-friendly prices, Thavakkara Market offers a great mix of spices, local textiles, and handicrafts. It’s a great place to shop for Kerala-specific goods.
What to Buy:
- Spices (cardamom, cinnamon, pepper)
- Sarees
- Local Kerala Handicrafts
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for the freshest produce and items.
Secret Tip:
- Always haggle for better deals, especially when purchasing spices or handicrafts.
10. Kannur Handloom Weaving Centre
Location: Kannur Town
Cost per Person: ₹500 – ₹3,000
Why Visit:
- This government-approved store offers tax-free shopping on traditional handwoven textiles, including famous Kasavu sarees and cotton fabrics. You’ll find premium-quality handloom products at great prices.
What to Buy:
- Kasavu Sarees
- Cotton Towels
- Traditional Kerala Wear (Lungis, Dhotis)
- Handwoven Bed Linen
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March when the variety is the best.
Secret Tip:
- Kasavu sarees are a must-buy here, and you can get a good deal if you buy multiple items.
Conclusion
From local handicrafts and spices to branded clothes and luxury goods, Kannur offers plenty of tax-free and discounted shopping options. Whether you are looking for authentic souvenirs or high-quality textiles, these top 10 destinations offer great deals for savvy shoppers.