10 Things to Buy in North East India

The North East of India, a vibrant tapestry of unique cultures and unmatched natural beauty, offers an incredible range of authentic souvenirs. When you shop here, you bring home a piece of its ancient, artistic soul. These distinct regional products are arguably some of the most memorable Things to buy in North East India that you will find anywhere in the country.

​Planning a trip to this stunning region? Whether you are looking for textiles, spices, or handicrafts, integrating your shopping plans into your travel is essential. Many travelers book comprehensive North East tour packages that include visits to specialized craft villages and markets. This ensures you get direct access to authentic Muga silk weavers, skilled artisans crafting Manipuri black pottery, and local vendors selling potent Lakadong turmeric.

Top 10 amazing things to buy in North East India:

1. Assam Silk (Muga, Eri, Pat):

Assam is globally renowned as the ‘Silk State’ for its indigenous silks. The Muga Silk (Golden Silk) is exclusive and improves with every wash, while the warm Eri Silk is harvested non-violently. These magnificent textiles, often woven into the traditional Mekhela Chador, are without a doubt some of the most sought-after Things to buy in North East India for both quality and cultural significance.

1. Where to Buy: Sualkuchi (Silk Village near Guwahati), State-run Handloom Emporiums in Guwahati, or specialized silk stores in Jorhat and Sibsagar.
2. Price Guide: Eri Shawls (₹1,500 – ₹5,000); Muga Silk Mekhela Chador/Saree (₹10,000 – ₹50,000+ for pure handloom).
3. Tips: Always check for the Silk Mark label for certified authenticity, especially for expensive Muga items.

2. Handwoven Shawls (Naga and Mizo):

These heavy, hand-loomed tribal textiles are rich in cultural meaning. Each Naga Shawl uses distinct tribal patterns and colours, historically marking the wearer’s status. Similarly, the brightly patterned Mizo Puan makes a vibrant and authentic cultural souvenir that is highly prized by collectors.

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1. Where to Buy: Kohima Local Market and Heritage Village Kisama (Nagaland), Luangmual Handloom Centre (Aizawl, Mizoram), and state emporiums.
2. Price Guide: Naga Shawls (₹1,500 – ₹12,000 depending on intricacy and wool quality); Mizo Puan (₹1,200 – ₹4,500).
3. Tips: Look for pieces where the motifs are clearly defined and the weave is tight. Authentic Naga shawls are often woven in three pieces and then stitched together.

3. Bamboo and Cane Crafts:

Utilizing the region’s abundant natural resources, local artisans craft everything from durable furniture and elegant wall hangings to utility baskets. These beautifully woven, eco-friendly products are available across all states, making them an accessible item on any list of Things to Buy in North East India for quality and unique products.

1. Where to Buy: Markets in Shillong (Meghalaya), Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh), and Guwahati. Look for specialized cane furniture workshops.
2. Price Guide: Coasters/Small Baskets (₹100 – ₹500); Decorative Lamps/Large Baskets (₹800 – ₹3,000+).
3. Tips: Choose items that are lightweight and easy to pack, such as small utility baskets or decorative screens. Avoid wet items that could develop mould during transit.

4. Manipuri Black Pottery (Nungbi):

Hailing from Manipur’s Ukhrul district, this unique pottery is distinctive for being handcrafted without a potter’s wheel and acquiring a deep black colour from a special local firing technique. Delicate teapots, cups, and elegant serving vessels made from this unique process are fantastic decorative items.

1. Where to Buy: Paona Bazaar and IMA Market (Imphal, Manipur), and the local artisan market in Ukhrul district.
2. Price Guide: Tea Cup (₹300 – ₹600); Tea Set/Kettle (₹1,500 – ₹4,000+).
3. Tips: This pottery is naturally non-porous and high in iron. Wrap fragile items thoroughly, as it is stone-based and can chip if dropped.

5. Tribal Jewellery and Adornments:

Tribal ornaments are bold, colourful expressions of identity. Naga Jewellery is famous for its bold, statement pieces featuring intricate beadwork, shells, and brass, while other states like Mizoram offer unique designs using local materials. These authentic pieces make for memorable statement additions to any collection.

1. Where to Buy: Handicraft stalls at major festivals (Hornbill, etc.), local markets in Kohima and Aizawl, and State Emporiums.
2. Price Guide: Simple Bead Necklaces (₹300 – ₹800); Intricate Brass/Shell pieces (₹1,500 – ₹5,000+).
3. Tips: Always inquire about the materials used, especially the source of shells or animal parts, to ensure you are buying ethically and legally.

6. Arunachal Wood Carvings and Headgear:

Tribes like the Monpa and Wancho are masters of woodcraft. Look for beautifully carved wooden bowls, functional utility items, or intricate animal and bird sculptures that make for excellent home decor. Traditional cane and bamboo headgear are other unique Things to buy in North East India that reflect tribal diversity.

1. Where to Buy: Tawang and Bomdila markets (Monpa crafts), Local markets in Longding or Khonsa (Wancho crafts).
2. Price Guide: Small Carvings (₹500 – ₹2,000); Low Wooden Tables (Cho-tze) (₹4,000+).
3. Tips: For heavy wood carvings, ask if the wood has been treated to prevent insects. Smaller items like engraved keychains are easier to carry.

7. Lakadong Turmeric and Regional Spices:

Meghalaya’s Lakadong Turmeric is celebrated globally for its high curcumin content, giving it an intensely bright colour and potency. This, along with other specialized herbs and spices found in the hill states, offers a powerful culinary keepsake.

1. Where to Buy: Farmers’ co-operatives and specialized spice stores in Shillong, Jowai, or The Meghalayan Age Store.
2. Price Guide: Lakadong Turmeric Powder (₹250 – ₹500 per 250g); Turmeric paste/oil (Varies).
3. Tips: Authentic Lakadong turmeric has a GI (Geographical Indication) tag. Check the curcumin percentage, which should be 7% or higher, for genuine potency.

8. Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) Products:

For those who crave heat, the North East is the original home of the Bhut Jolokia. Jars of Naga Chilli Pickle or specially prepared chilli oil are fiery souvenirs, perfect for gifting to any adventurous food lover. These products are popular Things to Buy in North East India that travelers often pick up at local markets.

1. Where to Buy: Local food stalls and small vendors in Kohima and Dimapur (Nagaland), and Tezpur (Assam).
2. Price Guide: Small bottle of chilli pickle/paste (₹200 – ₹400).
3. Tips: Be sure the jar is tightly sealed for transport, as the strong oil and aroma can leak. Ask for the traditional recipe made with fermented soybean or bamboo shoot.

9. Sikkim Woolen Goods and Tibetan Art:

The cold climate ensures the quality of Sikkim’s woolen carpets and shawls, often featuring rich Tibetan-Buddhist motifs. Alongside textiles, genuine Thangka paintings (Buddhist scroll art) are profound and beautiful cultural Things to buy in North East India from the monastic regions.

1. Where to Buy: Directorate of Handloom & Handicrafts in Gangtok, local shops near Rumtek Monastery, and M.G. Marg.
2. Price Guide: Woolen Shawls (₹1,500 – ₹5,000); Small Thangka paintings (₹2,500 – ₹10,000+).
3. Tips: Thangka paintings can be very fragile. Look for reputable sellers and ensure it is properly rolled and packaged in a protective tube for travel.

10. Speciality Teas and Wild Honey:

Beyond the everyday brew, seek out fine Temi Organic Tea from Sikkim or a premium blend of Assam Orthodox Tea. Complement this with raw, highly medicinal Wild Forest Honey sourced from the pristine forests of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh for an all-natural, delectable purchase.

1. Where to Buy: Temi Tea Estate outlet (Sikkim), Assam tea auction centres/boutique tea shops in Guwahati, and co-op stores in Shillong for honey.
2. Price Guide: Specialty Tea (₹500 – ₹1,500 per 250g); Wild Forest Honey (₹600 – ₹1,000 per 500g).
3. Tips: Buy tea in vacuum-sealed packs for maximum freshness. Avoid buying honey from unverified sources; always purchase from a registered store or cooperative.

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