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The Vibrant Kumarakom Street Market – A Glimpse into Local Life
The Kumarakom Street Market, located near the town centre, is a lively and colourful spot where you can experience the essence of daily life. The best time to visit is early morning when local vendors set up their stalls and the market is buzzing with activity. It’s a perfect place to buy souvenirs and experience Kumarakom’s authentic local charm. Visitors can find freshly harvested spices (cardamom, black pepper, cloves) sourced from local plantations. Handmade coconut shell crafts (bowls, lamps, and decorative pieces) are available from local artisans. Fresh seafood from Vembanad Lake is sold for those seeking authentic Kerala flavours. Eco-friendly coir products, including mats, rugs, and coasters crafted from coconut husk fibres, are also available.
Floating Markets on the Backwaters – A Unique Shopping Experience
One of the most fascinating shopping experiences in Kumarakom is the floating markets that operate on the serene backwaters. Inspired by the traditional market system in Kerala, these boat-based markets sell everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. Gliding through the waterways on a canoe, you can see vendors selling spices, vegetables, and flowers directly from their boats. Some boats also feature handmade jewellery, wooden carvings, and traditional Kerala sarees. Shopping here is a picturesque and immersive experience, combining natural beauty with cultural authenticity.
Handicraft Stores – Exquisite Souvenirs to Take Home
For those who love handcrafted goods, Kumarakom has several small stores and roadside stalls offering authentic Kerala handicrafts. Shops like the Old Curiosity Shop offer a selection of antique items, such as vintage wooden chests, brass lamps and traditional Kerala uruli (metal cookware). For those who appreciate art, Kathakali masks, which reflect Kerala's artistic heritage, are practical and make for suitable souvenirs. Another must-buy is the Aranmula Kannadi, a rare metal mirror crafted using a secret traditional method unique to Kerala, symbolising prosperity and good fortune. If you’re looking for traditional attire, the handloom Kasavu sarees and Mundu are excellent choices, woven from fine cotton with distinctive golden borders.
Local Spice Shops – The Essence of Kerala’s Flavours
Kerala is the Spice Garden of India, and Kumarakom is no exception. Many spice shops also sell homemade spice blends, allowing you to recreate the authentic flavours of Kerala in your kitchen. Spice shops in the area offer a variety of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which are suitable for adding aromatic flavours to home-cooked meals. Turmeric and saffron, known for their health benefits and vibrant colour, are also available. Also available are dried ginger and black pepper, key ingredients in Kerala cuisine and Ayurveda.
Why Stay at Rhythm Kumarakom?
After exploring markets and shopping, unwind at Rhythm Kumarakom, a luxurious backwater resort offering serene lake views, modern amenities, and authentic Kerala hospitality. Guests can relax in spacious accommodations, enjoy a dip in the infinity pool, or indulge in traditional Ayurvedic spa treatments. The resort’s culinary experiences feature local flavours, making it a perfect way to end a day of discovery. A stay at Rhythm Kumarakom ensures that your shopping adventure is complemented by comfort, relaxation, and a taste of Kerala’s charm.