What to Buy in Chennai: Best Local Products, Prices and Where to Shop

Kanchipuram Silk Sarees

Authentic Handwoven Silk Sarees from Kanchipuram

Only produced in Kanchipuram since the 9th century using traditional weaving techniques.
High-end sarees use pure Mulberry silk with vibrant colors.
Feature real gold and silver zari borders.
Body and border are woven separately and manually joined for strength and contrast.
Designs include temple borders, mythical creatures and natural motifs.
Retain value over decades while maintaining shape and lustre.
Worn for weddings and high-visibility events.
Ensure you buy sarees with silk certification.

Typical prices range from ₹5,000 to ₹2,00,000+ depending on quality.
Sarees priced around ₹2,000 are usually synthetic and not authentically made in Kanchipuram.

Recommended shops in T. Nagar / Mylapore:

Traditional Gold-Leaf Relief Art from Thanjavur

Origins date back to the 16th century in Thanjavur (Tanjore) in Tamil Nadu.
Made on wooden panels with intricate 3D relief work.
Uses 22 Karat gold leaf and is often adorned with gemstones.
Traditionally depicts Hindu deities, now also includes birds and landscapes.
High-quality paintings increase in value over time.
The gold work becomes more lustrous as it ages.
Always check for authenticity certificate for gold before purchase.

Recommended places in Chennai:

Traditional Jewellery Inspired by Temple Art

Originates from temple rituals, historically used to adorn deities.
Craft dates back to the 9th century in South India.
Features motifs inspired by temple carvings like Lakshmi, Ganesha and gopurams.
Made using a unique gold foil over silver base technique.
Characterized by a bold, heavy 3D sculptural design unique to Chennai.

Trusted jewellery stores in Chennai:

Traditional Swamimalai Metal Casting Sculptures

Premium statues are crafted using the lost-wax casting method from Swamimalai.
Each statue is one-of-a-kind as the wax mold is destroyed after casting.
This technique dates back to the Chola era (9th–13th century).
Some idols use Panchaloha (5-metal alloy) with spiritual significance.
Features distinctly Tamil forms like Nataraja and Bharatanatyam-inspired designs.

Recommended handicraft stores in Chennai:

Eco-Friendly Handwoven Crafts from Palm Leaves

Widely used in everyday life, not just as souvenirs.
Crafted using traditional techniques from villages across Tamil Nadu.
Features distinct geometric patterns and subtle natural or dyed colors.
Made using naturally processed leaves, ensuring eco-friendly sustainability.
Lightweight, durable, and practical for daily use.

Recommended handicraft stores in Chennai: