Mangaluru, a coastal city in Karnataka, offers a rich tapestry of cultural and culinary delights, making it an ideal destination for souvenir shopping. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 souvenirs to consider, ensuring that visitors can take home a piece of Mangaluru’s unique heritage:
1. Cashew Nuts and Sweets
- Phalguni Cashew Center: Renowned for its high-quality cashew nuts and traditional sweets like cashew macaroons.
- City Bakery: Famous for its ‘Benne Butter’ (butter cookies) and ‘Saat’ (a sweet delicacy).
- Availability: These items are also available at Phalguni Cashew outlets in Hampankatta and Urwa.
2. Mangalorean Spices and Condiments
- Bafat Powder: A unique blend of spices used in Mangalorean cuisine.
- Ghee Roast Masala Paste: Essential for preparing the famous Mangalorean ghee roast dishes.
- Where to Buy: Ideal Café offers these masala pastes, perfect for recreating local flavors at home.
3. Yakshagana Masks
- Description: Traditional masks used in the classical dance-drama of Yakshagana, depicting various characters.
- Where to Buy: Local gift shops such as Nipashi Gift Store offer these handcrafted masks, serving as unique decorative pieces.
4. Sandige (Sun-Dried Snacks)
- Varieties: Onion and garlic sandige are popular choices.
- Where to Buy: These can be found in local markets like Central Market and Hampankatta Market.
5. Kori Rotti (Chicken Curry with Rice Crisps)
- Description: A traditional Mangalorean dish comprising spicy chicken curry served with crispy rice wafers.
- Where to Buy: While best enjoyed at local eateries, packaged versions are available at select stores for home preparation.
6. Coir Products
- Description: Items made from coconut husk, such as mats, ropes, and brushes.
- Where to Buy: Handicraft stores in Mangaluru and nearby coastal regions.
7. Thalangara Thoppi (Traditional Caps)
- Description: Handmade prayer caps from the Thalangara region, known for their intricate designs.
- Where to Buy: Specialty shops in the Kasaragod area, near Mangaluru, offer these unique caps.
8. Mangaluru Tiles
- Description: Traditional red clay tiles known for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Where to Buy: Local construction material suppliers and specialty stores in the region offer these tiles.
9. Traditional Mangalorean Sarees
- Description: Handwoven sarees reflecting the region’s rich textile heritage.
- Where to Buy: Shops in Badangupet Market and Dubai Market offer a range of these sarees.
10. Cashew Apple Products
- Description: Products made from the cashew apple, including juices and jams.
- Where to Buy: Local markets and specialty stores in Mangaluru.
When shopping in Mangaluru, exploring local markets such as Central Market, Hampankatta, and Badangupet Market provides an authentic experience of the city’s vibrant culture and traditions.