Fasten your seatbelt and get ready to explore Puducherryâs unique shopping experience. Pondicherry, a stunning city on Indiaâs southeast coast, is well-known for being a great destination to learn about French culture and do shopping. Itâs the best place to go if you want to buy amazing leather products, handcrafted items, souvenirs, home decor, and stylish apparel that too at far lower prices than anywhere else as Pondicherry is a duty-free destination. Now that you know all the amazing things you can shop for in this coastal town, plan your trip and get ready to take yourself to the best shopping places in Pondicherry!
Top Shopping Places in Pondicherry
Taking into consideration the interests of various types of tourists, we have put together a list of the best shopping places in Pondicherry. These stores have everything you could need, so have a look at some of the best shopping places in Pondicherry:
1. Zuka Choco-La
Zuka Choco-La is a famous Auroville chocolate brand in Puducherry where travellers with a sweet tooth should stop and shop. The brand is famous for making high-quality handcrafted chocolates using locally sourced organic ingredients and without any preservatives, making it a healthier and eco-friendly option for buyers. For those who are fitness enthusiasts, Zuka Choco-La also offers some delicious quick bites. Trying their signature Hot chocolate when paying a visit to Zuka Choco-La is a must.
Location- 319, Mission St, Heritage Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Artisan Chocolate Bars, Chocolate Pralines, Chocolate Truffles, Chocolate Bonbons, Chocolate Bark, and many other varieties of chocolates.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Pondicherry: A Complete Guide
2. Casablanca
Casablanca is an attractive showroom located close to Hidesign on Mission Street selling a wide range of Indian objects and world-renowned trademarks. The place has everything for every age group and is considered one of the best shopping places in Pondicherry.
Location- 165, Mission St, Heritage Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Hand-Painted Ceramics, Vintage Furniture and Home Decor, Textiles and Bedding, Bohemian Clothing, Vintage and Retro Finds, Handcrafted Jewelry, Perfumes and Fragrances, French-inspired cookware and Tableware.
3. Janaki
Janaki is one of the best shopping places in Pondicherry that reflects the place's spirit, The place is well known for selling eco-friendly products and is considered to be one of the popular places for both locals and travellers who are interested in buying high-quality, handcrafted clothing items prepared by local artisans and therefore showcasing the vibrant culture of Pondicherry.
Location- Romain Rolland St, White Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Handwoven Sarees, Salwar Kameez and Dupattas, Handcrafted Jewelry, Kolhapuri Chappals, Cotton and Silk Fabrics, Handmade Bags and Accessories, Towels and Linen, Lamps and Lighting, Spices and Tea, Natural Handmade Soaps
4. Studio Ebony
If you are looking to decorate your home with high-quality furniture then Studio Ebomny is the place for you. Studio Ebony is one of the well-known shopping places in Pondicherry that sells high-quality Furniture and home decor items products such as centre tables, side chairs, and lampshades. The boutique focuses on promoting sustainable fashion combining contemporary style with traditional techniques. The products of Studio Ebony reflect the culture and craftsmanship of Puducherry and South India.
Location- 82, Pedro Canagaraya Mudaliar St, MG Road Area
What to buy- Contemporary Furniture, Handcrafted Wooden Items, Eco-Friendly Stationery, Textiles and Soft Furnishings, Sustainable and Ethical Lifestyle Products, Ceramics and Pottery, Brass and Copper Decor, Handwoven Rugs and Mats, Perfumes and Aromatherapy Products
5. Anokhi
Anokhi, as the name suggests is a unique brand that sells high-quality clothes and accessories for both men and women, all with an ethnic look. It is well known for its collection of Ajrakh, Balotra, Naphthol, Bagru, and Sanganer fabrics, making it one of the best shopping places in Pondicherry to shop for both men and women wear of all shapes and sizes at an affordable price.
Location- 1, Casern St, White Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Hand-Block Printed Clothing, Sarees, Scarves and Stoles, Bed Linen and Bedding Sets, Handbags and Purses, Jewelry, Wall Hangings and Tapestries
Suggested Read: 20 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry: A Guide To Famous & Hidden Gems
6. La Boutique d'Auroville
La Boutique dâAuriville is a shopping mall in Tamil Nadu. It is well known for offering typical handmade and eco-friendly goods such as clothing, accessories, home decor products, and various other handmade products that local artisans or Auroville community people produce. Auroville was formed to encourage peace and harmony which can be seen in the products available for sale. This place is considered one of the best shopping places in Pondicherry.
Location- 2R32+F96 International Township, Auroville
What to buy- Handcrafted clothing, organic food and beverages, eco-friendly bags and accessories, Natural beauty products, Handmade pottery, Arts and crafts, Sustainable footwear, Sculptures, and statues.
7. The cotton House
If you are looking to add trendy and bright cotton home furnishing items then The Cotton House is the place for you. It is a roadside shop in Pondicherry where visitors get to buy from a variety of options such as bed sheets, curtains, Pillow covers, cushion covers, sofa covers, and various other cotton-made items that too with eye-catchy prints at affordable prices.
Location- 27, Vysial St, Heritage Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Cotton Clothing, Handwoven Cotton Sarees, Bed Linen, Cotton Scarves and Stoles, Handmade Cotton Bags, Beachwear and Resort Wear, Cotton Rugs and Mats
Suggested Read: Paradise Beach, Pondicherry: A Slice of Coastal Bliss
8. Auro Woodworks
Are you looking for perfect handicraft options for your home while visiting Pondicherry? Then you should visit Auro Woodworks a place that specializes in wooden amenities that are handcrafted by skilled artisans reflecting a deep respect for woodworking techniques combined with the present designs. It is undoubtedly one of the best Shopping places in Pondicherry where you can customize your products.
Location- 44, M.G Road, Kottakuppam, Auroville, Puducherry
What to buy- Wooden Mirrors, Wooden Storage Solutions, Wooden Lamps and Lighting, Wooden Sculptures and Figurines, Wooden Jewelry Boxes, Custom Woodwork Services
9. Hidesign
Hidesign is a premium Leather brand in Pondicherry. It is the best place to shop authentic and exclusive handcrafted leather goods like wallets, belts, handbags, and other leather-made products. The brand is well known for its beautiful design which is well created after giving attention to details.
Location- 69, Jawaharlal Nehru Street, Puducherry
What to buy- Leather Handbags, Leather Wallets, Leather Backpacks, Leather Jackets, Leather Travel Accessories, Leather Keychains, Leather Satchels, Leather Gloves
10. Serenity Beach Bazar
Serenity Beach Bazaar is a charming beachside market that offers a super-cool vacation vibe and is considered one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry. One can visit the place to buy handicraft items such as bags, shoes, ceramics, and decorations that are locally sourced from Auroville. Visitors from all over the world, are attracted to this market by its atmosphere. Even though this place is crowded with people, you will be fascinated with how peaceful and quiet it is.
Location- Serenity Beach, Kottakuppam, Puducherry
What to buy- Handcrafted Jewelry, Beach Bags and Totes, Handmade Pottery and Ceramics, Wooden Sculptures and Figurines, Tapestries and Wall Hangings, Beach Towels and Mats, Incense and Aromatherapy Products, Essential Oils and Natural Products, Buddha Statues and Spiritual Items, Shell and Glass Trinkets
11. Kriti Eco Boutique
Kriti Eco Boutique in Pondicherry offers a unique shopping experience. Here you get to buy a variety of sustainable, ethical, and eco-friendly goods. If you are looking for eco-friendly products that are gentle to the planet then Kriti Eco Boutique is the place for you, NGOs make the products and therefore buying from here will contribute to a good cause.
Location- 6, H.M.Kassim Salai, Heritage Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Handcrafted Clothing, Organic Cotton Apparel, Handwoven Textiles, Natural Skincare Products Eco-friendly Bags and Accessories, Upcycled Products, Organic and Fair-Trade Teas and Spices, Eco-friendly Gifts.
12. SUNDâArt
SUNDâArt is a place that offers a wonderful array of colourful handmade items for children to adults. This is one of the finest places to shop in Pondicherry, If you are looking for a place to buy trendy stuff then SUNDâArt is the place for you where you get to buy the trendiest looks, cool handbags, and stuffed toys. You will love to spend time here.
Location- 44 Rue Aurobindo Street, Pondicherry
What to buy- Hand-painted Artwork, hand-carved wooden sculptures, wall hangings, Ethnic Clothing, Aromatherapy oils, essential oils, incense, Indian Folk Art
13. Nehru Street
Nehru Street is one of the best shopping places in Pondicherry which offers local handmade products like pottery, clothing, and daily consumer items that too at an affordable price. Nehru market in Pondicherry has everything from Small cart vendors to lavish shops making it a perfect place to shop.
Location- Jawahar Lal Nehru Street, Puducherry
What to buy- Pondicherry Handicrafts, Cotton and Linen Clothing, Jewelry (Traditional and Modern), Ayurvedic and Herbal Products, Spices and Tea, Leather Goods
14. Goubert Market
You should make a stop at Goubert Market Pondicherry if you're looking for places to shop in Pondicherry. One can find fresh fruit, flowers, and fish here! In Pondicherry, it provides the most genuine Indian street shopping experience. The vendors there are very kind and friendly and it is among the best things to do in Pondicherry.
Location- Goubert Street, Opp. Police Station, Nehru Street, Puducherry
What to buy- Spices, essential oils, ayurvedic powders, herbal soaps, body oils, wooden carvings, brass figurines, Flowers and Plants, Indian Spices and Tea Blends, Tea Sets, and Ceramic Mugs.
15. Ma Pondy Cherie
Ma Pondy Cherie is the famous spot for all the shopaholics who admire to buy cute stuff, womenâs wear, menâs wear, fashion accessories, stationery, and many more. The place offers a trendy collection that you canât resist buying. The colorful and beautiful walls of this store just add to the shopping experience, making it more enjoyable and exciting.
Location- 29, Needarajapayar Street, MG Road Area, Puducherry
What to buy- Handmade Clothing and Apparel, French-inspired fashion, Vintage Decor and Antiques, Local Handicrafts, vintage-inspired crockery, mugs, plates, Candles and Aromatherapy Products, books, women's and men's wear, bamboo products
16. Habitart
If you are looking for a place in Pondicherry where you can bargain, then Habitart is a place for you. It is one of the most visited places to shop in Pondicherry as it offers a wide range of authentic products that are made of sandalwood, glass, metal, textiles, and marble. You can also buy silver jewellery, artifacts, miniature paintings, fancy chess sets, and many more.
The market remains open from 10:30 am to 8:30 pm, and it remains closed every Wednesday.
Location- 1st Floor, No. 6, S.V Patel Salai, Puducherry
What to buy- Handcrafted Jewelry, mugs, bowls, plates, Eco-friendly Bags and Accessories, Natural Bath and Body Products, Eco-friendly Stationery, Candles and Incense
17. Sri Aurobindo Handmade Paper Factory
Sri Aurobindo Handmade Paper Factory is one of the most visited places to shop in Pondicherry if you are looking to buy unique, eco-friendly products or want to buy something unique from the place as a souvenir. This place has been producing its handmade papers since 1959 that too in different designs. You can visit the factory to see their papermaking process and can buy Wind chimes, notebooks, paper bags, birthday cards, designer envelopes, and many more items as a souvenir.
Location- 50, Sardar Vallabhai Patel Salai, Kuruchikuppam, Puducherry
What to buy- Handmade Paper, Paper Bags and Gift Wrapping, Art Prints and Wall Hangings, Handmade Paper Envelopes, Paper-Made Photo Albums
18. Kalki
Kalki is one of the shopping places in Pondicherry which is a paradise spot for women. It is a beautiful store in Pondicherry that offers an exquisite collection of fragrances, Jewelry, personal care products, mesmerizing accessories, scented candles, incense, and handmade products like Pottery and stationery. This place will instantly lift your mood.
Location- 134, Mission St, Heritage Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Handwoven Fabrics and Clothing, Handmade Jewelry, Handcrafted Bags and Accessories, Footwear, bamboo toothbrushes
19. Titanic
Titanic is a factory outlet in Pondicherry where you can shop a surplus of international brands like GAP, Benetton, UCB, Ralph Lauren, and many more at an affordable price. It is a convenient and enjoyable place to do budget brand shopping for men, women, and kids at cheap prices.
Location- 33-A, Kosakadai Street, Heritage Town, Puducherry
What to buy- Handwoven saris, embroidered kurtas, cotton, silk, Wooden Carvings and Statues, Tea Sets and Ceramics, Ethnic and Bohemian Accessories, Brass and Copper Artifacts
20. NavaVihan
NavaVihan is a unit of memorial trust, it was started in 1983 with a group of 4 and now itâs a larger team where each one is motivated to contribute their creativity. A large number of travellers are attracted to this place, as it is considered the centre of creativity. You can find some alluring handicrafts, educational items, desk calendars, and raw materials such as handmade paper, seeds, leaves, wood, and much more.
Location- 23, Rue De La Compagnie, Puducherry
What to buy- Handcrafted Rugs and Carpets, local spices, herbal teas, woven baskets, hand-painted trays, brass artefacts, essential oils, candles, incense sticks, fragrance diffusers
21. Cluny Embroidery Center
Cluny Embroidery Centre is an 18th-century beautiful building that reflects stunning French architecture, the place is run by nuns and underprivileged women. It is the perfect place for all the ladies who love embroidery on their clothes. Cluny Embroidery Center is a perfect place where women can be seen working on embroidery items like tablecloths, shawls, and many more, the embroidery here consists of cross-stitched floral patterns, table napkins, and bed covers.
Location- No 46, Romain Rolland Street, White Town, Puducherry
What to buy- hand-embroidered garments, hand-embroidered sarees and dupattas, tablecloths, table runners, placemats, cushion covers, tote bags, clutches, Ayurvedic and Herbal Products, Embroidered Quilts and Bedspreads
Conclusion
Pondicherry is a southeastern coastal place, where the magic of the French touch still lingers in every corner, this place offers a unique experience to cherish. There are various things to do in Pondicherry and one of them is shopping, some of the best places to shop in Pondicherry which offers various things to shop from handcrafted leather goods, eco-friendly products, home decor, trendy clothes are Cluny Embroidery Center, NavaVihan and many more. So next time you visit to Pondicherry make sure to take some souvenirs with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are famous things to buy in Pondicherry markets?
You can find a variety of items like handmade jewellery, scented candles, colourful textiles, traditional French décor, and locally crafted souvenirs such as pottery and wicker items. The vibrant markets also offer organic spices, essential oils, and artisanal chocolates.
2. Why are goods cheap in the Pondicherry markets?
Goods are comparatively cheaper in Pondicherry markets due to the absence of high taxes and more focus towards the local artisans selling their products directly. The relaxed trade regulations and competition among small vendors also contribute to lower prices.
3. What is a famous thing to eat in Pondicherry?
You can find many French-inspired cuisine options in Pondicherry. You must try bakery items like French baguettes, croissants, and pastries. For sea-food lovers, you can try local delicacies like Fish Moilee, a coconut milk-based curry, and Tandoori Lobster for a unique coastal flavour.
