Finding the best local souvenirs in Uttarakhand

The Himalayan state of Uttarakhand has a long-standing tradition of making the choicest artefacts and handicrafts. Be it the local desserts, the jewellery or the home décor items, there is enough in the state for tourists to buy as a souvenir.

Bal Mithai is a brown, fudgy and gooey dessert of Uttarakhand made with roasted khoya or dried whole milk. It is coated in white sugar balls for an attractive look. It hails from the Kumaon region and popular in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. For a tourist in Uttarakhand craving for a piece of chocolate, Bal Mithai is the best substitute.

Jute work is widely popular in Uttarakhand. You can buy braided jute bags made by the women self-help groups. Interestingly, yoga slippers in jute also made locally. Consider buying a jute fruit basket for storing fruits, vegetables and other household things. Other jute items made and sold in the state are jute wall hangings, door mats and rugs for meditation and prayers.

Mukhota is a mask made by carving wood into the characters from the ancient Hindu scriptures. These masks depict characters from the old scriptural tales and are used in village theatrical performances and even group dances during the local festivals. The act of making a Mukhota is considered sacred by the artisans. These traditional masks can be purchased to be used for home décor.

Pahunchi is a traditional bracelet studded with large golden or silver beads. The bracelet may be either hollow or studded with lac. It may also come studded with gemstones. Pahaunchi bracelets are worn by the women in Garhwal. Due to its versatility, Pahaunchi would go well not just with traditional Indian clothes but also with western wear. It is truly a piece of jewellery worth buying.

This one is for the men. A traditional cap made of wool, the Garhwali Topi aka Sikoli is light weight and an important part of the Pahadi men's attire in both Kumaon and Garhwal. It was meant to protect from the harsh weather, and carrying load on the head.