Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in Mandya

Here’s a comprehensive guide for Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in Mandya, designed so any new tourist or visitor won’t need to look elsewhere:

1. Brass & Bell Metal Artifacts

• Description: Decorative lamps, utensils, and miniature statues made of brass or bell metal.
• Where to Buy: Local metal craft stores and Mandya city markets.
• Price Range: ₹200 – ₹5,000.
• Tips: Ideal for home décor enthusiasts; confirm weight and authenticity.

2. Sandalwood Carvings

• Description: Beautiful handcrafted items such as figurines, incense holders, and keychains made from sandalwood.
• Where to Buy: Local handicraft stores and Mandya markets.
• Price Range: ₹150 – ₹5,000.
• Tips: Check for genuine sandalwood by scent; cheaper items may be artificial.

3. Organic A2 Desi Cow Ghee

• Description: Mandya is known for pure, traditional A2 cow ghee – a healthy and aromatic edible souvenir.
• Where to Buy: Organic Mandya outlets and local supermarkets.
• Price Range: ₹500 – ₹1,500 per liter.
• Tips: Prefer sealed jars and check GST bills for authenticity.

4. Coconut Shell Handicrafts

• Description: Handmade decorative bowls, keychains, and jewelry made from polished coconut shells.
• Where to Buy: Local craft stores and Mandya street markets.
• Price Range: ₹100 – ₹1,000.
• Tips: Lightweight and easy to carry; often sold in sets.

5. Mysore Sandal Soap

• Description: Iconic natural soap made from sandalwood oil and glycerin.
• Where to Buy: Local supermarkets, souvenir shops, and organic stores.
• Price Range: ₹40 – ₹150 per soap.
• Tips: Perfect small souvenir; check expiry date for freshness.

6. Spices & Condiments

• Description: Fresh and aromatic spices such as cardamom, turmeric, and coriander seeds sourced from Mandya farms.
• Where to Buy: Mandya local spice markets.
• Price Range: ₹50 – ₹500 per pack.
• Tips: Buy in vacuum-sealed packets to retain freshness during travel.

7. Handmade Paper Products

• Description: Notebooks, greeting cards, and diaries made from recycled handmade paper with natural dyes.
• Where to Buy: Local handicraft and souvenir shops.
• Price Range: ₹100 – ₹800.
• Tips: Great eco-friendly souvenir; often comes with artistic prints.

8. Mysore Silk Sarees

• Description: Mandya is close to Mysore, famous for its luxurious silk sarees with gold zari work.
• Where to Buy: Local silk stores in Mandya city markets.
• Price Range: ₹2,500 – ₹25,000 depending on design and quality.
• Tips: Look for authentic silk with silk certification tags to avoid fake silk.

9. Local Jaggery & Traditional Sweets

• Description: Handmade jaggery, sugarcane products, and traditional sweets like Mysore Pak.
• Where to Buy: Local sweet shops and food markets in Mandya.
• Price Range: ₹50 – ₹500 depending on quantity.
• Tips: Carry in airtight packs to avoid melting or spoilage.

10. Terracotta & Clay Figurines

• Description: Small traditional terracotta idols and clay toys representing local culture and wildlife.
• Where to Buy: Mandya craft markets and roadside souvenir shops.
• Price Range: ₹50 – ₹1,500.
• Tips: Fragile; pack carefully for travel.

Secret Tips for Souvenir Shoppers in Mandya

• Bargaining: Always negotiate prices in local markets.
• Timing: Visit early mornings or weekdays for the freshest products and less crowd.
• Packaging: Ask for gift wraps or secure packaging, especially for fragile items.
• Authenticity: Check labels, GST bills, or certification tags for silk, sandalwood, and organic items.
• Transport: Some products like ghee, jaggery, or clay items may need bubble wrap for safe travel.