Srinagar is famous for its traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. The Handicraft items make excellent souvenirs from Srinagar. Besides the number of utilitarian items of daily use, Woolen and silk carpets from Srinagar are a specialty. The carpets are not only known for their highly intricate decorations and patterns, which show a strong Islamic/Persian influence, they are also renowned for their durability and subtle colors. Chain-stitch carpets from Srinagar are also popular craft items.
Exquisite papier-mâché items such as boxes, vases, replicas of samovar (metal container used for heating water for tea), houseboat models, etc., in all shapes and having bright colors and designs also attract the tourists.
The handicrafts repertoire of Kashmir is incomplete without woolen shawls and woodcarving. You may purchase richly embroidered woolen shawls in all colors and intricate designs in Srinagar. Apart from regular woolen shawls, you can also buy Pashmina shawls (made from the hair of ibex), which is a highly valued shawl made in Kashmir. As Kashmir is the only state in India where walnut trees grow, craftsmen here create intricate carvings on walnut wood to make items like tables, chairs, stools, fruit bowls, partitions, etc., that have rich floral and trellis patterns carved on them. All these handicraft items make options for gift items from Srinagar.
Nearby destinations : Gulmarg