Best Shopping Places in Kochi: Markets, Malls & Local Finds
The shopping options across Kochi span from old antiques hidden away in the narrow streets of Mattanchery to contemporary boutiques in Fort Kochi and Kasavu sarees sold in busy local markets. Kochi offers a vibrant shopping experience that blends the past and the present. Here you can find heritage crafts located adjacent to independent stores, providing a place to shop for every type of shopper.
Shopping in Kochi is not about a checklist; it is about discovering the city, experiencing it at your own pace, and immersing yourself in its culture. This blog offers an overview of the best shopping places in Kochi, from popular local shops and malls to lesser-known locations that may hold hidden treasures. To explore Kochi’s markets, boutiques, and hidden shopping spots at your own pace, booking a self-drive car rental in Kochi with Revv makes getting around easy and convenient.
Traditional Markets & Street Shopping
A great way to soak in Kochi’s shopping culture is to walk through the historic streets of Fort Kochi, where boutique stores, art spaces, and local brands sit alongside colonial architecture. Explore Jew Town’s spice markets for aromatic spices, antiques, and curios, and browse local handicrafts near landmarks like the Mattancherry Palace and Paradesi Synagogue. Art lovers can stop by Kashi Gallery to discover and purchase works by local artists, while local markets offer elegant Kasavu sarees, handloom textiles, and traditional souvenirs.
Here are some of the best shopping places in Kochi for people who love to explore popular markets and street shopping:
1. Jew Town (Mattancherry)
This area is known for its antique stores, vintage furniture, antique lamps, clockwork, and religious artifacts. One of the most popular hubs and must-visit places in Kochi.
2. Broadway Market
This is one of the oldest and busiest marketplaces in Kochi, featuring a wide variety of products such as fashion apparel, footwear, electronics, and traditional spices.
3. Marine Drive
This is a beautiful riverside walk where there are many businesses on both sides; many people go here to shop casually or purchase goods produced in the local area.
4. Princess Street (Fort Kochi)
This Kochi shopping street has colonial history and charm, with many boutiques, cafes, bookstores, and shops selling souvenirs and other items.
5. Bazaar Road (Mattancherry)
Bazaar Road is the centre to find authentic spices, coir products, and raw materials for your use.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Kochi
Shopping Malls in Kochi
Alongside the busy street markets are the best malls for unique shopping experiences that can be enjoyed by locals and tourists. Kochi has one of the biggest shopping malls,which is a great attraction in the city.
1. LuLu International Shopping Mall (Edappally)
This is one of Asia’s largest shopping malls and is a hub for shopping and activities in Kochi, including fashion shows, musical performances, celebrity visits, and other family-oriented events happening here regularly. The mall covers all major international and domestic brands.
2. Centre Square Mall (MG Road)
Kochi’s very own shopping and lifestyle venue is Centre Square Mall on MG Road. Centre Square Mall features a variety of local and international retail brands alongside many food choices, and there’s plenty of entertainment to experience, all in one location. This popular mall is centrally located within Kochi and makes for an ideal stop for both avid shoppers and those visiting the city as tourists.
3. Forum Mall (Maradu)
Forum Mall, located in Maradu, Kochi, is a modern shopping mall with many popular retail stores as well as places to eat and get entertained. It’s an excellent spot to spend time with family and friends or for young people to meet up. It has a spacious interior and modern look and feel.
4. Oberon Mall (NH Bypass)
Oberon Mall boasts a first-class retail selection, a multiscreen cinema complex, an indoor amusement centre, and one of the largest glass domes in Southern India. It is one of the most popular places for shopping in Kochi. The mall also features stores with premium clothing brands and other items as well as children’s play areas.
Local & Souvenir Shopping
Shopping for local goods and souvenirs in Kochi is an opportunity to acquire unique mementos of the city’s culture, skills, and tastes. There are plenty of opportunities to buy memorable keepsakes at the area’s many markets, including:
1. Spices and tea
You can find spices such as cardamom, pepper, cloves, and Kerala teas at various spice markets in Jew Town and around the city.
2. Kasavu sarees and handlooms
You will find these traditional off-white sarees with golden borders at local textile stores.
3. Handicrafts and coir products
You can find eco-friendly mats, baskets, and decorative items made from coconut fiber throughout the area.
4. Antiques and curios
If you are seeking something very unusual and creative, check out the vintage artifacts, brass items, and wooden collectibles available throughout Mattancherry.
5. Art and local creations
You may wish to visit Fort Kochi to find paintings, prints, and crafts made by local artists.
Also Read: Best Places to Eat in Kochi
What to Buy in Kochi
Kochi is one of the best towns for shopping in Kerala for all types of aromatic spices, (black pepper, cardamom), quality handicrafts from Kerala as well as coir products (coir comes from coconut husks). Things of interest to buy are Nettipattam (elephant caparison), Aranmula Kannadi (metal mirrors), Kathakali masks, Nilambur teak furniture, and savory snacks, such as banana chips. Here are some popular items to shop for:
- Spices
- Food items like Banana Chips and Sweets
- Handicrafts and Decor
- Traditional Art and Masks
- Jewelry and Antiques
- Textiles
Shopping Tips for Visitors
When in Kochi, follow the tips below for a wonderful shopping experience:
- Explore the best shopping areas, such as Jew Town and Fort Kochi.
- Don’t miss spices and souvenirs, including cardamom, cloves, ginger, and coffee, in Jew Town.
- Buy traditional Kasavu sarees (white with gold border) and handwoven cotton clothing.
- Visit LuLu Mall, Centre Square Mall, or Oberon Mall for the best deals.
- Remember to bargain in local Kochi shopping markets like Jew Town and street shops.
- Shop during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially at malls.
- Carry cash for smaller local vendors and spice shops.
- Use rickshaws to travel between nearby markets, such as Fort Kochi and Mattancherry to avoid traffic congestion.
Drive Your Way in Kochi: Enjoy Freedom & Flexibility with Revv Self-Drive Rentals
To discover Kochi, the best way to do it is on your terms. With Revv’s self-drive car rentals, you are able to see all of the sites and explore as you see fit. If you are visiting Fort Kochi, going to the local shopping in Kochi, at the mall, or going to beachside locations, you can travel easily and comfortably without needing to rely on a taxi or public transportation. Revv offers flexible rental options and the ability to have the car delivered directly to your doorstep, allowing you to experience the charm of Kochi on your schedule and your terms.
Takeaway
The shopping scene in Kochi is different and exciting. There is a mix of traditional markets, local artisans, and high-end retailers to explore in Kochi. Use Revv’s car rental in Kochi to drive yourself around and see all of the great places to shop at your own speed. Make each stop a memorable part of your trip.
