Shopping in Andaman Islands
Unique Souvenirs & Local Products
The Andaman Islands offer a treasure trove of unique handicrafts, local artifacts, and specialty products that make perfect souvenirs. From shell decorations to indigenous tribal crafts, shopping here supports local communities while giving you authentic mementos of your island adventure.
Handicrafts
Authentic tribal crafts & shell items
Spices
Premium quality island spices
Pearl Jewelry
Beautiful South Sea pearls
Local Food
Unique island-made delicacies
Shopping Highlights
- Government Emporiums for authentic crafts
- Aberdeen Bazaar for local shopping
- Sagarika Emporium for premium souvenirs
- Local markets for fresh spices
- Best quality pearls at government stores
- Shell items at Marina Park shops
- Coconut handicrafts at Havelock
- Tribal crafts at Anthropological Museum shop
Must-Buy Products in Andaman
What to Buy
- South Sea pearl necklaces
- Pearl earrings and pendants
- Pearl bracelets
- Mother-of-pearl items
Best Places
- Government Pearl Shop, Port Blair
- Sagarika Emporium
- Andaman Pearl Museum
- Reputable jewelry stores
Price Range
- Small pearl sets: ₹1,000-5,000
- Medium quality: ₹5,000-15,000
- Premium pearls: ₹15,000+
Buying Tips
- Ask for authenticity certificate
- Check surface luster carefully
- Compare prices at multiple shops
- Bargain politely (10-20% possible)
What to Buy
- Shell jewelry boxes
- Decorative shell items
- Coconut shell lamps
- Shell wind chimes
- Coconut handicrafts
Best Places
- Marina Park shops
- Havelock Island markets
- Government emporiums
- Local artisan stalls
Price Range
- Small items: ₹100-500
- Medium crafts: ₹500-2,000
- Large decorative pieces: ₹2,000+
Buying Tips
- Check for cracks in shell items
- Support local artisans directly
- Look for unique handmade pieces
- Avoid protected species products
What to Buy
- Andaman cinnamon
- Pepper and nutmeg
- Coconut oil products
- Local honey
- Palm jaggery
- Seaweed snacks
Best Places
- Aberdeen Bazaar
- Local spice markets
- Government emporiums
- Farmers' cooperatives
Price Range
- Spices: ₹100-500 per 100g
- Coconut oil: ₹200-500 per bottle
- Local honey: ₹300-800 per jar
Buying Tips
- Check expiry dates
- Buy sealed packages
- Ask for local recommendations
- Small quantities for freshness
Best Shopping Locations
| Location | Specialty | Best For | Timings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sagarika Emporium | Premium souvenirs | Pearls, handicrafts | 9AM-7PM | Government-run, fixed prices |
| Aberdeen Bazaar | Local shopping | Spices, daily items | 8AM-9PM | Bargaining possible |
| Marina Park Shops | Shell items | Souvenirs, gifts | 10AM-8PM | Near waterfront |
| Havelock Markets | Beachside shopping | Casual souvenirs | 9AM-7PM | Relaxed atmosphere |
| Anthropological Museum Shop | Tribal crafts | Authentic artifacts | 9AM-4PM | Closed on Mondays |
| Local Fish Markets | Seafood | Fresh catches | 6AM-12PM | Early morning best |
Shopping FAQs
What payment methods are accepted in Andaman shops?
Most established shops accept credit/debit cards, but smaller vendors and markets prefer cash (Indian Rupees). ATMs are available in Port Blair and major islands, but it's good to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller islands.
Is bargaining acceptable in Andaman markets?
Bargaining is expected in local markets and with street vendors (typically 10-30% discount possible). However, government emporiums and fixed-price shops don't allow bargaining. Always negotiate politely and with a smile.
Are there any shopping restrictions in Andaman?
Yes, certain tribal artifacts and products made from protected species (like some shells and corals) cannot be legally purchased or exported. Always buy from reputable shops that provide proper documentation.
What's the best way to transport fragile items?
Most shops provide secure packing for fragile items like shell crafts. For pearls and jewelry, carry them in your hand luggage. Consider buying insurance for valuable purchases during transit.
Are there duty-free shopping options?
Andaman has limited duty-free shopping at Port Blair airport, mainly for alcohol and perfumes. Most shopping is local products which don't qualify for duty-free as they're already within India.
Shopping Tips
General Tips
- Carry small denomination notes
- Keep purchase receipts
- Check customs regulations
- Compare prices before buying
- Ask about return policies
Authenticity Checks
- Pearls: Look for slight imperfections
- Spices: Check aroma and color
- Handicrafts: Look for maker's mark
- Tribal items: Ask for provenance
- Coconut oil: Check for purity
Shopping Hours
- Markets: 8AM-9PM
- Government Shops: 9AM-7PM
- Malls: 10AM-10PM
- Local Stores: 7AM-8PM
- Sunday: Some shops close early
Shopping Support
Shopping Consultant
+91 94760 40000
WhatsApp Enquiries
+91 94760 40000
Email Assistance
info@offbeatandaman.com
What to Avoid Buying
- Protected coral products
- Turtle shell items
- Authentic tribal artifacts
- Items made from endangered species
- Unlicensed pearl jewelry
Top Souvenir Ideas
Pearl Jewelry
Elegant and timeless keepsake from the islands
Local Spices
Bring home the flavors of Andaman
Tribal Print Fabrics
Colorful traditional patterns
Coconut Sweets
Delicious edible souvenirs
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