Tourism

Pondicherry isn’t just about beaches and cafés — it’s also a hub of vibrant art and local handicrafts. While many visitors flock to the touristy souvenir shops, Pondy’s hidden craft markets offer a more authentic experience, with handmade art, locally sourced materials, and true Pondy spirit. Here’s a guide to the best hidden craft markets in Pondicherry where you can buy local art, unique souvenirs, and authentic handicrafts straight from the artisans The Goubert Market Backlanes: Traditional Handicrafts & Spices Just behind the bustling Goubert Market, the backlanes are filled with hidden stalls selling handmade crafts and spices that most tourists miss. What to find here: Wooden carvings: Local artisans craft small wooden figurines and traditional sculptures. Spices: Buy freshly ground spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and tamarind. Stone carvings: Unique stone sculptures that reflect the culture of Pondicherry. Why it’s special: Less crowded than the main market Authentic handicrafts straight from artisans Great prices for souvenirs Muthialpet: Textile Shops & Fabric Finds Muthialpet is known for its local textile shops, where you can find cotton fabric, traditional sarees, and embroidered linens that reflect the city’s cultural diversity. What to buy here: Block-printed fabrics: Get cotton or silk fabrics hand-printed with traditional Tamil designs. Sarees & dupattas: Locally made, with beautiful embroidery and kalamkari art. Towels, linens, and tablecloths: Soft, handwoven products that are both functional and beautiful. Why it’s special: The quality of textiles is high, and the prices are very reasonable  Friendly, local vendors who often share their knowledge of the craft  Perfect for unique clothing or gifts The French Quarter (White Town) Artisan Shops The French Quarter offers an eclectic mix of artisan boutiques and galleries that sell upscale art and crafts, ranging from pottery to paintings. What you’ll find here: Handmade pottery: Locally produced clay pots, mugs, and decorative plates. Brass & silver jewelry: Elegant and intricate designs made by local artisans. Hand-painted art: Traditional landscapes and vibrant portraits of Pondicherry, perfect for souvenirs. Why it’s special: High-quality craftsmanship  Ideal for purchasing unique, personalized gifts Galleries and artisan boutiques are located in historic French-style houses, adding charm to the experience Auroville Handicrafts: Sustainable & Artistic Souvenirs Auroville’s handicrafts are unique because they emphasize sustainability and artistic expression. The Auroville Handicraft Centre is a must-visit for eco-conscious shoppers. What to buy here: Handwoven baskets and recycled paper products: Beautiful eco-friendly crafts. Sculptures & paintings: Auroville artists create stunning work in various mediums, often with natural materials. Wooden and stone carvings: Artistic pieces inspired by Auroville’s philosophy. Why it’s special: Eco-friendly and sustainable materials  Handcrafted with care, and often produced with ethical labor  Great for gifting or adding uniqueness to your home decor The Villianur Market: Unique Wooden Crafts & Temple Art Villianur, a small town on the outskirts of Pondicherry, is home to traditional wooden carvings and temple art that are both spiritual and artistic. What to find here: Wooden temple carvings: Intricate designs of Hindu deities and mythological scenes. Wooden toys and figurines: Handcrafted small toys made from local woods. Bamboo products: Woven bamboo baskets, trays, and decorative items. Why it’s special: Village-based artisans keep traditional methods alive  Great for collectors and those interested in temple art  Affordable and unique Conclusion Pondicherry’s craft markets offer a rich diversity of authentic local art, handmade souvenirs, and traditional products that make for perfect gifts or personal keepsakes. While the city is famous for its beaches and cafés, its hidden craft markets are where the true spirit of Pondy can be found — in the hands of local artisans, in every corner of this historic town. So, the next time you’re in Pondicherry, explore these markets to take home something genuinely Pondicherry.