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I have always believed that a trip is never really complete when you return home with only photographs on your phone. I like bringing back a little piece of the place with me. Sometimes it is something as simple as a pair of footwear, sometimes it is a beautiful textile, and sometimes it is a packet of coffee that instantly takes me back to that holiday. After years of travelling and exploring different parts of India, I have also learnt that every state has its own little treasures worth looking out for. You just need to know what to buy. I have walked through markets, browsed local shops, stopped at roadside stalls and spent far too much time looking at things I absolutely did not need. Over time, I’ve put together a list of some of my favourite things to bring home from popular Indian destinations.
A trip to Maharashtra calls for a pair of Kolhapuri chappals. These traditional leather sandals are one of those purchases that are both practical and strongly linked to the region. I love their straightforward design. There is no unnecessary fuss, and they work beautifully with Indian as well as casual Western outfits. The best part is that they are easy to pack too. If you are anything like me and tend to shop during every holiday, footwear that does not take up half your suitcase gets bonus points. Look for a comfortable pair from a reliable local seller and give them a little time to soften before wearing them for long hours. Kashmir is one place where I find it almost impossible to leave without looking at the textiles. Pashmina shawls are an obvious choice, thanks to their softness, warmth and beautiful craftsmanship. A good shawl can be more than just something you wear in winter. If you are buying pashmina, pay attention to the material and ask questions about its origin and craftsmanship. It is worth spending a little time with the seller rather than picking the first shawl that catches your eye. If there is one souvenir from Karnataka that makes perfect sense for coffee lovers, it has to be Coorg coffee. Open a fresh packet of coffee at home, and suddenly you are thinking about that morning in Coorg, the cool weather and that first cup of the day. You can pick up locally produced coffee during your visit and take home enough to keep the holiday mood going for a few more mornings. Just remember to check the roast and packaging date so you get the best possible flavour once you are back home. Rajasthan is another state where I can happily spend hours browsing local crafts. Blue pottery is high on my list. The striking blue and white designs make these pieces instantly recognisable, and there is something lovely about bringing home an object that also tells you where it came from. From decorative pieces to useful items for the home, there are plenty of options depending on how much luggage space you have left. And yes, I always recommend checking the piece properly before buying it, especially if you plan to carry it back on a flight. A Kerala trip feels incomplete to me without at least looking at Kasavu sarees. The classic ivory and gold combination is timeless, easy to style and perfect for festive occasions. I particularly like how the simplicity of the saree lets the border do all the talking. If you already have plenty of colourful sarees in your wardrobe, a Kasavu can bring a completely different look. It is also a lovely gift for someone who appreciates Indian textiles. Here’s what to know about the Grand Train Tour
Destination Buzz: Planning a Switzerland train holiday in 2026? Because it instantly makes an outfit feel special, it can become one of those pieces that comes out year after year. Because they bring back a destination in such a simple way, i still think food and drink make some of the nicest travel memories.
