Hello there! Have you ever desired to come to a place where there is a huge colorful party? A destination of all the senses? In my case, my local markets are the Kerala local markets. They are not only shopping centers. They are the blood and bone of Kerala culture and traditions.
I have visited numerous markets globally, but there is no more vigorous market than the market of Kerala. The odor of spices pervades the air. What you hear is the pleasant confidences of bargaining. Your eyes just do not know where to look there is so much beauty!
These markets are where you need to go in case you want to have the real Kerala cultural experience. I would like to give you a virtual tour around my favorite places and explain why they are so exciting to me.
Why Kerala Local Markets Are a Must-Visit Experience
These markets can be considered museums that come to life. You are able to see, touch, taste, smell the actual Kerala. You are not just a visitor. You are included in the day to day life. It is the gathering place of farmers, artists and families.
I always advise my friends: do not go to the bigger air conditioned malls. The open air busy markets are the real soul of this wonderful place. They narrate something you will not find in any book of history.
Most Famous Markets in Kerala
There are numerous markets in Kerala and each of them is rather charismatic. Days have been wasted in them! These are some of the most popular markets in Kerala that you must be aware of.
A Trip to Kochi's Spice Markets: A Feast for the Senses
I usually begin my journey at Kochi. These Kerala local markets are renowned in spices. Once you are in, you have a time travel experience of going to the ancient spice route.
The merchants stand behind vast quantities of bright yellow turmeric, dark red chili powder and black peppercorns. The smell is incredible! It is hot, sweet and a touch spicy at the same time. It is where one can get the true Kerala cuisine ingredients.
The Amazing World of Local Food in Kerala Markets
And now we shall discuss my favorite part the food! Kerala markets have a local food that is a food of dreams to any food lover. It is cool, tasty and made in front of your eyes.
Sweet and Savory Street Food Delights
You cannot pass through a market without having a bite. My top picks are:
- Banana Chips: They are crispy chips that have been made out of bananas and they are fried in coconut oil. They are salty and addictive!
- Kozhukatta: They are sweet, steamed rice balls stuffed with coconuts and jaggery. They are miniature bites of heaven.
- Fresh Sugarcane Juice: When it is hot, there is no better drink than a ice cold sweet glass of sugarcane juice. It provides you with immediate power to find out.
The Kerala culture includes an attempt to taste these foods. It’s how locals eat every day.
You may also read :- Famous Kerala Temples: History, Architecture And Culture
Your Guide to the Best Things to Buy in Kerala
You will be tempted to bring home souvenirs! Getting to know what to buy at its best in Kerala may be a challenge since there is a lot of selection. However, once on a lot of trips, I have a perfect shopping list to sell you.
From Handicrafts to Spices: Must-Buy Souvenirs
- True Spices: Purchase black pepper, cardamom and turmeric. Fresher, tastier than anything you will find back home.
- Coconut Oil: the coconut oil produced in Kerala is pure and aromatic. It makes a wonderful food-cooker and also a hairdresser!
- Handicrafts: Search wooden elephants, Kathakali masks and coir products (made out of coconuts husks). Both products promote the Kerala traditional arts.
- A Kasavu Saree or Mundu: It is also a beautiful work of art; one that you might never wear, but you will be glad to own it.
- Traditional Jewelry: Find something special, in terms of gold and silver, that are Kerala special.
Experiencing the Keralan Culture and Traditions
It is not just a store in the market. It is a social hub. I adore being seated in a little stool in a tea stall. I drink sweet milky chai and sit and watch the world.
I see friends laughing. I will watch shopkeepers making jokes with the customers. I observe the immense admiration of the Kerala culture and traditions everywhere. It feels warm and welcoming.
More Than Shopping: The Bazaar Beat of Culture
It is in the markets that traditions are conserved. You can find a young girl being taught how to select the best fish by her mother. Or a Kathakali mask painter telling a tourist the story of a Kathakali mask. These moments are precious. They demonstrate the way culture is inherited by the generations.
My Final Thoughts on Kerala's Vibrant Shopping Hubs
After visiting the Kerala local markets, my traveling behavior changed. It has taught me to relax and take time. It taught me to communicate with people, listen to them. My most valued souvenirs are the memories that I made there.
Thus, next time you are visiting Kerala, you should be sure to spend some time in the markets. Be there and accept the noise, the odours and the great chaos. You shall go home with a light heart and a fat stomach!
Questions and answers regarding Kerala Local Markets
Q1: When is the most appropriate time of the day to visit the markets?
Early morning, at 7-9 AM is the best. This is the time when you find the produce is freshest and you can get to see the market come alive. The weather is also cooler.
Q2: Is it acceptable to negotiate in markets of Kerala?
Yes it is a normal and expected culture in most open air markets to be found in a normal bargaining culture. In all times be nice and pleasant. Begin by bidding a bit lower of the price and negotiate with the seller to the middle. It's all part of the fun!
Q3: Do the markets present safety to tourists?
Yes Kerala is a very safe place. But as it is in any crowded area of any country in the world, it is best to lock your wallet and phone in a bag with a zip.
