FAQ
Where can I buy handloom sarees in Kerala?
You can buy handloom sarees in Kerala from traditional handloom shops, co-operative societies, and textile showrooms across the state. Known for their cultural significance and elegant kasavu borders, these sarees are widely available in both urban and rural markets, reflecting Kerala’s rich weaving heritage.
To buy authentic handloom sarees in Kerala, visit Khadi Gramodyog Bhavans and Kerala Handloom outlets, which are government-run stores promoting the work of local weavers. These outlets, located in cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode, offer a wide range of sarees, including Settu Mundu sarees, known for their pristine white and gold aesthetic. Hantex is a Co operative network through out Kerala, which sells only Handloom products.
Located in the Neyyattinkara Taluk of Thiruvananthapuram district, Balaramapuram is a village renowned for its historic handloom industry and cultural significance. What sets Balaramapuram’s handloom apart is its adherence to time-honoured techniques, avoiding modern tools like Jacquard or Dobby. This craftsmanship ensures intricate designs, identical on both sides of the fabric. Many households in the village are engaged in handloom production or serve as collection points for these exquisite textiles, making Balaramapuram a key contributor to Kerala’s cultural and economic legacy and the best place to buy authentic handloom sarees.
Chendamangalam, a small village in Ernakulam district, is renowned for its handloom production and cultural significance. The region produces authentic Kerala attire, including kasavu sarees, set-mundu, and thorthu, with a weaving tradition that dates back to the Paliath Achans, who invited skilled weavers from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. These high-thread-count sarees, requiring two to four days of manual labour, reflect unmatched craftsmanship. Recognized with a GI tag in 2011, Chendamangalam handlooms continue to preserve the timeless artistry and cultural identity of Kerala.
If you are looking for region-specific designs, head to weaving villages such as Kuthampully in Thrissur. The sarees produced here are renowned for their intricate craftsmanship and high quality. Local weaving centres and cooperative societies in Kuthampully provide authentic handloom sarees directly from the artisans.
