Nainital, the picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand India is often called the ‘Lake District’ of India. This weekend getaway spot in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas is not only famous for its serene hills and panoramic views but is also a shopper’s paradise with quaint markets offering everything from souvenirs to traditional local sweets. These unique souvenirs reflect the charm of this striking hill station. In this blog, let us share with you a list of souvenirs to buy in Nainital without which your trip to this quaint retreat might seem incomplete. These Nainital famous things to buy are sure to delight your family and friends.
Souvenirs To Buy in Nainital
From woollens, and pine cone art, to candles and local sweets Nainital offers unique souvenirs that are perfect for friends and family. These souvenirs to buy in Nainital will be great mementos from your trip bringing you happy memories for years to come. So when looking for shopping in Nainital, you can always keep this list handy.
Woollen Delights
Nainital has a pleasant and cool climate all year round with an average annual temperature of 17.1 °C. This pleasant climate makes this hill station a perfect spot to shop for woollens. You will discover a variety of cozy sweaters, cardigans, Himalayan shawls, scarves, angora sweaters and more that will keep you snug in the cold winter months.
Where to Buy – Check out local shops on Mall Road and Tibetian Market.
Tips for Nainital famous things to buy – Do not forget to bargain.
Pine Cone Crafts
The Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is home to a vast forest of pine trees and pine cone craft is one of the must-have Nainital famous things to buy. Local artisans are adept at creating beautiful handicrafts for home decor using pine cones. From decorative items like wreaths, and centrepieces to functional items like coasters and key chains you can find a variety of pine cone souvenirs to buy in Nainital local markets.
Where to Buy – Check out local shops on Mall Road, Tibetan Market, Bara Bazar, and also near Naukuchiatal Lake.
Tips for Shopping in Nainital for Pine Cone Art – Look for unique and intricate designs with polish for long-lasting pieces. Consider buying pine cone-infused candles.
Fancy Candles
Fancy candles and scented candles are found in abundance in local markets in Nainital. These cute candles are found in a variety of shapes and are among the top souvenirs to buy in Nainital. Gift them to your friends or use them for home decor, these handmade candles are sure to indulge you in some retail therapy.
Where to Buy – Check out local shops on Mall Road, Bhotia Bazar, Tibetan Market.
Tips for Shopping in Nainital for fancy candles – Opt for candles made from natural waxes like beeswax or soy wax. Choose candles made with aromatic oils like lavender or eucalyptus oil that promote relaxation.
Image Source: ANI News
Bamboo Fibre Fabric
One of the unique things to shop in Nainital is bamboo fabric. Garments made from bamboo fabric are naturally anti-microbial and keep you feeling fresh, clean and odour-free. One of the key souvenirs to buy in Nainital are stoles made from bamboo fibre fabric which usually starts from Rs. 1800/- at local shops.
Where to Buy – Check out the factory shop of Uttarakhand Textile Development Corporation near Naukuchiatal Road in Pandegaon.
Tips for Nainital famous things to buy for Bamboo fibre fabric- Look for authentic pieces to get value for money. Do not fall for cheap imitations.
Jewellery and Accessories
Traditional Himalayan jewellery is one of the best souvenirs to buy in Nainital. From exquisite stonework to silver and other metals, you can find jewellery in different varieties at extremely affordable prices in Nainital. From quirky jewellery to tribal ones you will be spoilt for choice while shopping in Nainital.
Where to Buy – Check out the factory shop of Uttarakhand Textile Development Corporation near Naukuchiatal Road in Pandegaon.
Tips for Shopping in Nainital for jewellery and accessories – Look for authentic pieces to get value for money. Do not fall for cheap imitations.
Bal Mithai
If you have a sweet tooth you cannot miss the famous bal mithai of Nainital. This local delicacy is made from roasted khoya (reduced milk solids) and covered with sugar balls. The rich, dense and caramelized flavour of this chocolate-like fudge makes it popular among tourists and locals. Bal mithai is often served at festivals, celebrations, and family gatherings.
Where to Buy – Check out the local sweet shops in Bara Bazar.
Tips for Shopping in Nainital for Bal Mithai – You can buy in bulk for your friends and family because Bal Mithai stays fresh for 20 days. To keep sweets fresh, you can store them in an airtight container.
Image Source: Your Uttarakhand
Wooden Handicraft Items
Wooden handicraft items like figurines and showpieces are popular souvenirs to buy in Nainital. Nainital’s woodworkers are celebrated for their beautifully carved wooden furniture and keepsakes.
Where to Buy – Check out the local shops in Bara Bazar, Mall Road, Bhotia Bazar, Mallital and Capitol Cinema Bazar.
Kumaoni Folk Art
Do not miss out on Kumaoni folk art, especially Aipan art. This traditional ritual art form is made by Women from the Kumaon region who create intricate designs often geometric or floral symbolizing good fortune. Aipan art plaques are also believed to help ward off negativity.
Where to Buy – Check out the local shops in Bara Bazar, Mall Road, Bhotia Bazar.
Key Take Away
As you wander through the lively markets and distinctive shops of Nainital, you’ll find a delightful array of souvenirs that truly reflect the charm of this picturesque hill station. While checking a variety of Nainital famous things to buy do not forget to immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the locales with your family.
Blue Book at Gethia is a luxury boutique hotel at Nainital that offers a luxury stay amidst the laps of greens of Jeolikote Valley. Enjoy a stay with your family at this bungalow from the 1890s amidst world-class Kumaoni hospitality. This luxury hotel in Nainital is only a 90-minute drive away from the nearest Pantnagar Airport and a 45-minute drive from the nearest railway station Kathgodam.
