Mysuru, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship, offers a plethora of unique souvenirs that capture the essence of the city. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 souvenirs to consider when visiting Mysuru:
1. Mysore Silk Sarees
- Description: Mysore silk sarees are celebrated for their exceptional quality, characterized by a distinctive sheen and intricate zari work made of golden thread. These sarees are lightweight, smooth, and maintain their luster even after multiple washes.
- Where to Buy: Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) Showroom, Devaraja Urs Road, and various reputable silk emporiums in the city.
2. Mysore Pak
- Description: A delectable sweet originating from Mysuru, Mysore Pak is crafted from gram flour, sugar, and ghee, resulting in a rich, melt-in-the-mouth experience.
- Where to Buy: Guru Sweet Mart on Sayyaji Rao Road, Mahalakshmi Sweets on Devaraja Urs Road, and other renowned sweet shops.
3. Sandalwood Products
- Description: Mysuru’s association with sandalwood dates back to the era of the Wodeyar dynasty. The city offers a variety of sandalwood items, including soaps, oils, powders, and intricately carved artifacts.
- Where to Buy: Government Sandalwood Oil Factory in Kuvempunagar and Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium on Sayyaji Rao Road.
4. Incense Sticks (Agarbattis)
- Description: Reflecting a tradition rooted in Vedic practices, Mysuru produces high-quality incense sticks in fragrances like jasmine, rose, sandalwood, and lily.
- Where to Buy: Devaraja Market and shops around KR Circle.
5. Mysore Paintings
- Description: Originating from the Vijayanagar school of painting, Mysore paintings are known for their intricate detailing and use of natural pigments, often depicting mythological themes.
- Where to Buy: Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium and specialized art galleries in the city.
6. Rosewood Inlay Work
- Description: This traditional craft involves embedding materials like ivory, mother-of-pearl, and sandalwood into rosewood to create detailed designs, resulting in exquisite furniture and decorative pieces.
- Where to Buy: Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium and other handicraft stores.
7. Channapatna Toys
- Description: Brightly colored wooden toys, originating from the nearby town of Channapatna, are crafted using traditional methods and natural dyes, making them safe for children.
- Where to Buy: Mysore Handicrafts Shop on Sayyaji Rao Road and various markets in Mysuru.
8. Coffee Powder
- Description: Proximity to coffee-growing regions like Coorg makes Mysuru a great place to purchase aromatic coffee powders, known for their rich flavor.
- Where to Buy: Coffee shops around Gandhi Square and Devaraja Market.
9. Khadi Cotton
- Description: Hand-spun and hand-woven, Khadi cotton garments are breathable and eco-friendly, reflecting India’s rich textile heritage.
- Where to Buy: Khadi Bhandar outlets and select clothing stores in Mysuru.
10. Stone Sculptures
- Description: Mysuru’s artisans are skilled in crafting detailed stone sculptures, often depicting deities and mythological scenes, using materials like soapstone.
- Where to Buy: Mandi Mohalla on Ashoka Road and specialized handicraft stores.
When shopping for these souvenirs, it’s advisable to purchase from reputable stores or government-run emporiums to ensure authenticity and quality. Always check for certification, especially when buying silk and sandalwood products.