Shopping in Andaman (2026): A Guide to Souvenirs, Pearls & Markets

Your Andaman vacation will be filled with unforgettable memories, but taking home a special souvenir is the perfect way to keep that island magic alive. Shopping in the Andamans is a unique experience, centered around the natural treasures of the sea and the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans.

Forget generic keychains and magnets. The best souvenirs here are beautiful, authentic, and tell a story of the islands. From lustrous pearls to intricate shell crafts and aromatic spices, there is a perfect memento for everyone.

But where should you shop? And how do you know you're buying the real deal? This guide will walk you through the best things to buy in the Andamans, the main markets to visit, and the essential tips for smart and authentic shopping.

1. What to Buy in the Andamans: The Best Souvenirs

• Pearls: The Andaman Islands are famous for their pearl cultivation. You can find a beautiful range of pearl jewelry, from simple earrings to elegant necklaces. This is the most sought-after souvenir.

• Shell Crafts: Given the location, it's no surprise that shell art is a local specialty. Look for intricate decorative pieces, beautiful jewelry made from shells, and unique lampshades.

• Aromatic Spices: The islands were historically a part of the spice trade route. You can buy packets of high-quality, fresh, and aromatic whole spices like cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper from local plantations.

• Jute and Bamboo Products: For eco-friendly souvenirs, look for beautifully crafted jute bags, hats, and decorative items, as well as handicrafts made from bamboo.

• Coconut Handicrafts: The humble coconut is transformed into beautiful art here. Look for lamps, bowls, and animal figures carved from coconut shells.

2. Where to Shop: A Guide to the Main Markets

While you'll find small souvenir shops on Havelock and Neil islands, the main hub for shopping is Port Blair.

• Aberdeen Bazaar: This is the main, bustling market in the heart of Port Blair. You'll find a wide variety of shops here, from local stalls to branded stores, selling everything from clothing to souvenirs.

• Sagarika Government Emporium: This is the #1 recommended place for souvenir shopping. Run by the government, it guarantees the authenticity of its products, especially handicrafts, shells, and pearls. The prices are fixed, so you can shop with confidence without any haggling.

• Beach Markets: The small stalls near popular beaches like Corbyn's Cove or Elephant Beach are great for picking up small trinkets, sarongs, and refreshments, but are not the place for high-value purchases like pearls.

3. The Golden Rule: How to Buy Pearls & Corals Authentically

Buying Pearls: The market is flooded with fakes. To ensure you're buying a genuine pearl, ALWAYS purchase from a reputable, certified jeweler or the Sagarika Government Emporium. Ask for a certificate of authenticity with your purchase. Avoid buying from street vendors or unverified shops, no matter how good the deal seems.

Buying Corals & Shells: It is illegal to buy or carry raw, unprocessed coral and certain types of shells. They are protected under wildlife laws. You should only buy shell and coral artefacts from licensed shops like Sagarika Emporium, which can provide a proper receipt. You may be asked to show this at the airport.

4. Planning Your Shopping Spree

Your shopping adventure in Port Blair is the perfect activity for the start or end of your trip—either on the day you arrive or the day you return from the beautiful islands of Havelock and Neil.

To ensure you have plenty of relaxed time for souvenir hunting, a smooth and predictable travel schedule is key. Booking your inter-island travel in advance on a reliable private ferry through GoNautika means you'll know your exact return time to Port Blair. This allows you to easily plan a stress-free shopping excursion at Aberdeen Bazaar before you head to the airport for your flight home.