From handmade woollen carpets renowned for their durability and stunning traditional designs to exotic Temi Tea, the things to buy from Sikkim reflect a cultural tapestry unlike anywhere else in India. Walking through Gangtok’s markets, I discovered that shopping in this Himalayan state goes beyond typical souvenirs; it’s an exploration of rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.
Unlike other shopping destinations, Sikkim offers authentic treasures that showcase a blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and indigenous influences. However, this makes it challenging to determine what souvenirs hold the most value. In this guide, I’ll share the best hidden gems worth bringing home from your Sikkim adventure.
Cultural Keepsakes You Can’t Miss
Discovering Sikkim’s spiritual treasures offers a glimpse into centuries-old traditions that few tourists fully appreciate. When seeking authentic things to buy from Sikkim, these cultural artefacts stand out as meaningful keepsakes that carry profound significance beyond mere souvenirs.
Prayer flags and their spiritual meaning
Among the most vibrant things to buy in Sikkim are the colourful prayer flags (Lung-ta) that adorn monasteries, homes, and mountain passes throughout the region. These rectangular cloth flags come in five colours: blue, white, red, green, and yellow, each representing the five elements: sky, air, fire, water, and earth.
What makes these flags special is the belief that as they flutter in the wind, the prayers and mantras printed on them spread positive energy across the landscape.
Tip: For the most authentic options, consider purchasing them at Rumtek Monastery or from the stalls near Enchey Monastery.
Thangka paintings: Buddhist art from the Himalayas
Thangka paintings rank among the most treasured Sikkim famous things to buy for art enthusiasts. These intricate scroll paintings depict Buddhist deities, mandalas, or important scenes from Buddha’s life. Created using natural mineral pigments on cotton or silk, authentic thangkas require weeks or even months to complete.
When shopping in Sikkim for thangkas, prices typically range from ₹ 2,000 for simple designs to over ₹ 50,000 for museum-quality pieces with gold detailing.
The Government Institute of Cottage Industries in Gangtok offers certified, authentic pieces, though MG Marg also houses several reputable dealers.
Traditional masks used in Sikkimese festivals
The wooden masks used in Cham dance ceremonies represent some of the most distinctive Sikkim souvenirs available. These hand-carved masks depict various deities and characters from Buddhist mythology, often featuring elaborate designs with bright colours and intimidating expressions. Originally used by monks during religious ceremonies, particularly during the Losar (Tibetan New Year) festival, these masks now serve as powerful decorative pieces.
Tip: Before purchasing any religious item, especially thangkas or masks depicting deities, be sure to ask about proper handling and display protocols as a sign of respect for these culturally significant pieces.
Handcrafted Treasures from Local Markets
Beyond spiritual artefacts, Sikkim’s markets showcase functional art pieces that bring traditional craftsmanship into everyday living spaces. These handcrafted treasures represent generations of artistic tradition while serving practical purposes in modern homes.
Choose tables: Tibetan folding furniture
Choksee tables, originating from Tibet, stand out as must-have things to buy from Sikkim for those seeking both beauty and utility. These exquisite folding wooden tables feature elaborate carvings that transform functional furniture into conversation pieces. Craftsmen use local woods like Kath or Tsingh, carefully carving intricate motifs through a meticulous process that involves stencil transfers, drilling, and detailed hand carving.
What makes these tables truly special is their collapsible design, which often showcases religious symbols, dragons, snow lions, or nature-themed designs finished in vibrant colours, including blue, green, pink, and gold.
Woollen carpets: Handwoven warmth
The women of Sikkim’s Bhutia community practice one of the world’s oldest carpet-weaving traditions.
When shopping for these carpets in Sikkim, look for distinctive designs featuring dragons holding balls in their mouths, mythical Tibetan birds (such as the dak and jira), stylised floral motifs, or Buddhist iconography. Most carpets still use traditional vegetable dyes and natural materials. Genuine Tibetan carpets typically range from ₹ 3,000 to ₹ 8,000, with prices varying based on complexity and size.
Wall hangings and lanterns from MG Marg
For affordable yet authentic Sikkim souvenirs, MG Marg offers colourful wall hangings and Tibetan-style lanterns that brighten any space. These decorative pieces feature traditional designs on canvas or paper and start at just ₹100- ₹500.
Flavours of Sikkim to Take Home
The edible delights of Sikkim represent some of the region’s most prized treasures for travellers seeking authentic things to buy from Sikkim. These culinary gems not only capture the essence of Himalayan flavours but furthermore serve as perfect gifts that continue to evoke memories long after your journey ends.
Temi Tea: Sikkim’s organic pride
Temi Tea stands as Sikkim’s exclusive tea brand, produced in the state’s only tea garden, established in 1969 and spread across 435 acres. What makes this famous thing to buy from Sikkim exceptional is its distinctive flavour profile, offering delicate floral notes, a golden liquor, and subtle sweetness in its first flush, while the autumn flush delivers well-rounded tastes with hints of warm spices.
Black cardamom and bamboo shoots
Sikkim reigns as India’s largest producer of cardamom and the world’s second-largest producer after Guatemala. This aromatic spice, essentially smoke-dried with an intense aroma, brings a distinctive earthy flavour to biryanis and curries.
When shopping in Sikkim, consider bringing home bamboo shoots as well, which are a versatile ingredient often paired with the region’s spices in traditional dishes and pickles.
Pickles and sauces: Dalle chilli and more
The traditional pickles and pastes made from these chillies add distinctive zest to meals and come in various preparations, in oil, vinegar, or pure paste.
Wearables and Collectables with a Story
Sikkim’s wearable treasures tell stories that connect travellers to the region’s rich cultural heritage in ways that other souvenirs simply cannot. Unlike items displayed on shelves, these things to buy from Sikkim become part of your personal expression and daily life.
Handwoven jackets and blankets
Among the most sought-after Sikkim famous things to buy are authentic woollen jackets handcrafted by local artisans. Made from 100% natural, locally sourced wool, these kimono-style jackets feature traditional designs that reflect Sikkimese cultural heritage. Prices typically range from ₹2000 to ₹4000, making them accessible yet valuable shopping finds in Sikkim.
Silver jewellery and semi-precious stones
Perhaps the most distinctive and best thing to buy from Sikkim is jewellery made with seven metals, a speciality of the region. Silver and gold pieces adorned with turquoise, coral, and other semi-precious stones showcase incredible craftsmanship with prices ranging from ₹200- ₹2000.
Best Markets to Buy Souvenirs from in Sikkim
From Gangtok’s lively streets to remote village bazaars, shopping in Sikkim is a cultural experience full of local charm and tradition. If you’re wondering where to go for souvenirs from Sikkim, here’s a complete guide to the top shopping places you should not miss.
1. MG Road, Gangtok – The Shopping Capital
MG Road is the heart of shopping in Sikkim- Gangtok. This popular promenade is lined with shops selling everything from traditional attire and woollens to handicrafts and local delicacies. It’s the best place for clothes shopping in Gangtok, and you’ll also find things to buy in Gangtok like Thangka paintings, prayer flags, choktse tables, and handmade paper products.
MG Road is your go-to for all kinds of Sikkim shopping items, making it a must-visit.
2. Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom – Cultural Souvenirs
Located in Gangtok, this centre promotes and sells authentic Sikkim famous things to buy like hand-woven carpets, carved wood items, and Lepcha handicrafts. It’s ideal for those looking for cultural and handmade souvenirs from Sikkim.
3. Lal Bazaar, Gangtok – Local Flavours and Finds
A short walk from MG Road, Lal Bazaar is a bustling market known for its local produce, dried fish, churpi (yak cheese), bamboo artefacts, and even religious items. It’s perfect for budget-friendly shopping and discovering what to buy in Sikkim that’s unique and locally loved.
4. Old Market, Gangtok – For Tibetan Curios and Handicrafts
The Old Market in Gangtok is ideal for purchasing prayer wheels, Tibetan jewellery, woollen clothes, and souvenirs. It’s less commercial than MG Road and offers good deals for things to buy in Sikkim that are spiritual and handmade.
5. Ranka Monastery Market – Spiritual Souvenirs
While visiting the peaceful Ranka Monastery near Gangtok, you’ll find local vendors selling Buddhist figurines, mini prayer flags, incense sticks, and other Sikkim shopping items with spiritual significance. It’s a great spot to shop after sightseeing.
6. Pelling Market – Local Craft Meets Mountain Vibes
Shopping in Pelling is calm and charming. You’ll come across stalls with woollen scarves, handmade soaps, organic tea, and traditional crafts. These make for some of the best things to buy in Sikkim if you enjoy authentic, handmade goods.
7. Lachung Village Market – Rustic Finds in North Sikkim
Shopping in Lachung is all about simplicity. Look out for handmade woollens, churpi, and local herbs sold by villagers. It’s one of the few places where things to buy from Sikkim are still untouched by mass tourism.
8. Melli Market – Local Snacks & Handicrafts
Located near the Sikkim-West Bengal border, Melli is a lesser-known but delightful market for picking up souvenirs from Sikkim, like dry fruits, pickles, and spices. It’s ideal for offbeat travellers.
9. Temi Tea Garden Outlet – For Sikkim’s Best Tea
If you’re a tea lover, don’t miss the Temi Tea Garden shop. Sikkim’s only tea estate sells premium-quality organic tea that ranks high on the list of best things to buy in Sikkim. You can even get gift-ready tea boxes, making them the perfect souvenirs.
Conclusion
Sikkim undoubtedly stands as a treasure trove of authentic souvenirs that transcend typical tourist trinkets. My journey through the markets of Gangtok revealed how each item, from prayer flags to Choksee tables, carries centuries of cultural heritage and craftsmanship within it. Therefore, when selecting mementoes from this Himalayan paradise, consider items that speak to both aesthetics and authenticity.
My recommendations come from personal interactions with craftspeople throughout Sikkim, whose pride in their work shines through every carefully created piece. Explore more hidden gems of North-East Sikkim for additional insights beyond what any single traveller might discover.
Loved the details. Would be visiting soon.
choksees not chosees.