Kerala is famously known for its backwaters, houseboats, tea plantations, and beaches, and that’s exactly why I planned my trip there. But before I left, my mother instructed me: “Bring back some spices.”
I was shocked. Spices? In Kerala? I wondered what she was talking about. But she quickly ended the conversation, saying, “Just go and make sure you bring the spices back.”
So there I was, reluctantly starting my trip, thinking about this extra chore my mom had given me. Once I arrived in Kerala, I explored the serene backwaters and stayed on a houseboat. It was a magical experience. But soon, it was time to tackle the mission my mom had assigned me: buying spices.
Not knowing much about Kerala’s spices, I asked my tour guide for help. He explained, “Yes, Kerala is also famous for its spices!” I laughed and told him, “Please help me buy some spices to take home. Otherwise, my mom will kill me!”
When we reached the spice market, I was amazed. I had never seen so many varieties of spices in my life! I bought many of them, hoping to impress my mom and prove that her son isn’t just a carefree traveller but can also take care of her wishes.
Oh, wait! You came here to read a blog, and here I am telling my story. Apologies!
So, if you’re planning a trip to Kerala and are curious about its spice markets, this blog is for you. Read on to discover the best spice markets in Kerala, choose the one nearest to your destination, and bring back loads of aromatic spices.
Let’s get started!
Why Visit Kerala Spice Markets?
Kerala is called the “Spice Capital of the World” for a reason. This coastal paradise has been at the centre of the global spice trade. In ancient times, sailors and traders were drawn to Kerala for its black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These aromatic treasures made Kerala a melting pot of cultures and culinary traditions.
Spice markets in Kerala are not just places to shop; they are vibrant cultural centres where you can learn about the region’s history and cuisine. Pack your bags with Spices and your heart full of insightful experiences that Kerala offers.
Top Spice Markets in Kerala
Now, you have heard a lot of praise about Kerala’s spice markets. Let’s now explore some of the famous spice markets in Kerala that you can visit, along with their locations. Here are a few renowned markets:
a) Mattancherry Spice Market, Kochi
The first market I visited was Mattancherry Spice Market since it was closest to my hotel. This market is just 10 km from Kochi, making it an easy spot to visit after sightseeing. Did you know Mattancherry was famous for tea and spice trading in the 20th century? Today, it’s renowned for its spices!
This Spice market is filled with the exotic aromas of ginger, cloves, cardamom, turmeric, and pepper, often called black gold. So when you visit this market, buy some cloves and cardamom from here.
Location: Village Spice Market, Bazaar Rd, Mattancherry, Kochi
b) Kumily Spice Market, Thekkady
Kumily spices are renowned for their aromatic flavour and culinary value. It is commonly sold in transparent, compact packets, and its aroma and freshness make it irresistible. A few of the most popular items on the market are spiced chocolate, spiced preserves, speciality teas, and speciality coffees.
The market also offers a variety of handloom fabrics, jute and bamboo products, fine fenugreek, Kerala chips, and pickles of Kerala.
In addition to traditional handlooms from Kerala, you can also buy handlooms from Gujarat, Kashmir, etc.
Location: Kumily Alady Rd, Thekkady, Kumily, Attappallam
c) Varkala Local Market
Varkala Beach offers many beautiful places to shop. Many shops sell spices and manufacture traditional handbags and accessories from conventional leather.
Black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and cinnamon are some spices you can find here. These spices not only enhance the flavour of your food but make excellent gifts as well.
Varkala is also known for its tea plantations. A variety of tea leaves are sold in local tea shops, including Kerala black tea. You can bring Varkala tea back home as a souvenir.
Location: Varkala, Kerala
d) Kozhikode Market
Kerala’s Kozhikode Market, which stretches over 1km, is another famous market. The street has many shops selling rice, vegetables, spices, and other goods.
Among the spices that are popular in the Kozhikode Market are fenugreek, asafoetida, and black pepper. Although the market is a bit more expensive than others, the superior quality of spices justifies the higher price.
Location: Kozhikode, Kerala
e) Kalpetta Market, Wayanad
Locals and tourists alike flock to this market for its fresh produce and local handicrafts. The market offers an insight into the traditional way of life, with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Shops sell antiques, crafts, and souvenirs where guests can relax and breathe in the aroma of spices like cardamom and cloves.
Cultural diversity can also be seen in Wayanad’s products, which reflect its old traditions. For those interested in immersing themselves in Wayanad culture, this market at the city’s centre is a must-visit.
Location: Kalpetta, Kerala
f) Thrissur Local Market
At the Thrissur Local Market, vendors sold everything from Kerala spices to handcrafted items and locally made jewellery. As I’ve mentioned, my mother has an immense love for spices. So, to earn her praise, I bought some spices from here.
Here, I spoke with vendors and locals about the spices in detail. It’s more than just shopping at the Thrissur Local Market—it’s an immersion into Kerala’s culture.
Location: Thrissur, Kerala
Must-Buy Spices From Kerala
When I visited the markets of Kerala, I felt like taking the entire shop home with me—just kidding! But honestly, the variety of spices there is overwhelming. Even if I bought just a little bit of each spice, my bag would be full. So, I came up with a smart plan and picked some of the most famous and authentic spices from there.
The aroma of these spices is truly unique and unmatched. Here are some of the spices I purchased, which you can also consider buying:
- Black Pepper
- Cardamom
- Cloves
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Turmeric
- Vanilla
- Ginger
- Tamarind
- Fennel Seeds
How to Enhance Your Kerala Spice Market Tour?
If you’re like me and don’t know much about Kerala, the best solution is to plan your tour with Indian Holiday. Their experts will arrange everything for you—be it flight bookings, hotel accommodations, or sightseeing tours. But most importantly, you will get to explore the local spice markets with their assistance, making it easier to navigate and shop.
Malayalam is the primary language in Kerala, and sometimes, communicating with shopkeepers can be challenging. Having a guide from Indian Holiday can bridge this gap and make your experience smoother. So, it’s highly recommended that you book your Kerala tour package with Indian Holiday and explore Kerala’s spice markets and other attractions without worries.
Final Words
Now that you know everything about Kerala’s spice markets, when are you planning your visit? Contact Indian Holiday today to reserve your package. Explore all of Kerala and bring back a variety of spices from its vibrant markets. Every time you add these spices to your food, they remind you of your Kerala trip.
Happy Journey!
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