Are you someone who loves cooking and are intrigued by the Indian flavours that comes from their spices? Well, consider adding Kerala to your travel bucket list as this state is known as the “Land of Spices,” and has been a prominent hub in the spice trade for centuries. The spice markets of Kerala are a treasure box for spice enthusiasts, offering an array of aromatic and flavorful spices that have been cultivated and traded for generations. This blog will take you on a journey through the top 16 shopping places in the spice market of Kerala, providing insights into their locations, specialties, and costs.
Walking through the Spice Market Kochi, you are greeted with the rich scents of freshly ground pepper, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. This place cannot be missed in your next exciting Kerala tour package. While planning for these thrilling activities, you can also explore other places to visit in Kerala, each offering its own unique experiences.
Kerala spice exports are a significant contributor to India’s agricultural income, renowned for their high quality and rich flavors. Spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger from Kerala are in high demand worldwide, enhancing the state’s reputation in the global market.
1. Mattancherry Spice Market, Kochi
Being one of the famous places from Spice Market of Kerala, Nestled in the heart of Kochi, Mattancherry Spice Market is a historic spice trading hub. The narrow lanes are filled with shops brimming with the scent of freshly ground spices. This market is perfect for those looking to buy high-quality pepper, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. The vibrant atmosphere and the rich history of the Kerala spice trade make it a must-visit destination within the Kerala Spice market. The Spice Market Kochi, also known as Mattancherry Spice Market, is a historic hub where traders have dealt with aromatic spices for centuries.The best time to visit this place is in November, due to the scenic pleasure in Kerala.
- Location: Mattancherry, Spice Market Kochi
- Specialties: Pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon
- Price Range: Moderate
2. Broadway Market, Ernakulam
Broadway Market is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Ernakulam. Known for its budget-friendly prices, this market offers a wide variety of spices including turmeric, ginger, nutmeg, and star anise. The market’s bustling atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a popular spot within the Kerala Spice market for locals and tourists alike. exploring these places one of the best things to do in Kerala. - Location: Broadway, Ernakulam, Spice Market Kochi
- Specialties: Turmeric, ginger, nutmeg, star anise
- Price Range: Budget-friendly
Located in the coastal town of Varkala, this market is a favorite among spice lovers. Here, you can find fresh cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds at reasonable prices. The market’s proximity to the beach adds to its charm, making it a delightful place to shop for spices.- Location: Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Cumin, coriander, mustard seeds
- Price Range: Moderate
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Kozhikode Market is renowned for its high-quality fenugreek, asafoetida, and black pepper. The market is a bit more upscale compared to others, but the superior quality of spices justifies the price. The bustling market streets are a sensory delight with the rich aromas of various spices wafting through the air.- Location: Kozhikode
- Specialities: Fenugreek, asafoetida, black pepper
- Price Range: Moderate to high
5. Trivandrum Central Market
Trivandrum Central Market is a vibrant and bustling market in the heart of Kerala’s capital. It offers a wide range of spices, with curry leaves, fennel seeds, and bay leaves being the highlights of the Kerala Spice market. The market is a great place to experience the local flavor and pick up some fresh spices.- Location: Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialities: Curry leaves, fennel seeds, bay leaves
- Price Range: Moderate
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6. Periyar Spice Market, Thekkady
Being one of the famous places from Spice Market of Kerala, Situated in the picturesque town of Thekkady, Periyar Spice Market is known for its premium spices. The market is particularly famous for its green and black cardamom, and vanilla. The high quality of these spices makes them a bit pricey, but they are well worth it for their exceptional flavor.- Location: Thekkady, Idukki
- Specialities: Green cardamom, black cardamom, vanilla
- Price Range: High
Being one of the famous shopping places from the Spice Market of Kerala, Munnar Market, set amidst the scenic hills of Munnar, is a paradise for spice lovers. The market offers a variety of spices, with clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and mace being the most popular. The serene environment and the rich aroma of spices make shopping here a unique experience.- Location: Munnar, Idukki
- Specialities: Clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace
- Price Range: Moderate to high
Being one of the famous places in the Spice Market of Kerala, Alleppey Market is known for its wide range of spices, particularly pepper, turmeric, and cumin. The market is bustling with activity and offers fresh, high-quality spices at moderate prices. The friendly vendors and the vibrant atmosphere make shopping here a pleasure.- Location: Alleppey
- Specialties: Pepper, turmeric, cumin
- Price Range: Moderate
Kannur Market is famous for its fenugreek, black cumin, and dried ginger. The market offers a diverse range of spices at reasonable prices, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The lively market streets and the aroma of fresh spices add to the charm of shopping here. It is one of the famous Traditional spice market in kerala. - Location: Kannur
- Specialties: Fenugreek, black cumin, dried ginger
- Price Range: Moderate
Wayanad Market, located in the lush green district of Wayanad, is known for its premium spices. The market offers high-quality cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. The rich, earthy aroma of the spices and the scenic beauty of Wayanad make this market a must-visit for spice enthusiasts.- Location: Wayanad
- Specialties: Cardamom, pepper, cloves, cinnamon
- Price Range: High
Being one of the famous places from Spice Market of Kerala, Kumarakom Market is renowned for its high-quality nutmeg, mace, and vanilla. The market offers a range of premium spices that are perfect for those looking to buy the best. The serene backwaters of Kumarakom add to the allure of shopping at this market.- Location: Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Specialities: Nutmeg, mace, vanilla
- Price Range: High
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Being one of the famous places from Spice Market of Kerala, Palakkad Market is known for its budget-friendly prices and a wide range of spices. The market offers fresh mustard seeds, cumin, and coriander seeds. The bustling market streets and the friendly vendors make shopping here a delightful experience. Spice cultivation in Kerala has acquired a huge aspect from this place. - Location: Palakkad
- Specialties: Mustard seeds, cumin, coriander seeds
- Price Range: Budget-friendly
Thrissur Market is famous for its turmeric, curry leaves, and pepper. The market offers fresh, high-quality spices at moderate prices. The vibrant atmosphere and the rich aroma of spices make shopping here a pleasure.- Location: Thrissur
- Specialties: Turmeric, curry leaves, pepper
- Price Range: Moderate
14. Pathanamthitta Market
Pathanamthitta Market is known for its cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. The market offers a range of fresh spices at moderate prices. The friendly vendors and the vibrant atmosphere make shopping here a delightful experience. It is the famous Traditional spice market in kerala. - Location: Pathanamthitta
- Specialties: Cardamom, cloves, cinnamon
- Price Range: Moderate
Being one of the famous places from Spice Market of Kerala, Kollam Market is famous for its ginger, turmeric, and black pepper. The market offers fresh, high-quality spices at moderate prices. The bustling market streets and the rich aroma of spices add to the charm of shopping here. Kerala spice exports are a significant contributor to India’s agricultural income, renowned for their high quality and rich flavors. - Location: Kollam
- Specialties: Ginger, turmeric, black pepper
- Price Range: Moderate
Being one of the famous places from Spice Market of Kerala, Kasaragod Market is known for its pepper, cardamom, and nutmeg. The market offers a diverse range of spices at reasonable prices. The lively market streets and the friendly vendors make shopping here a pleasure. It is the famous Traditional spice market in Kerala. - Location: Kasaragod
- Specialties: Pepper, cardamom, nutmeg
- Price Range: Moderate
What are the Most Famous Spices Found in Kerala?
Kerala spice markets are renowned for their variety and quality. The most famous spices found in Kerala include:- Pepper: Known as the “King of Spices,” Kerala’s pepper is celebrated for its rich flavor and aroma.
- Cardamom: Often referred to as the “Queen of Spices,” Kerala cardamom is highly prized for its distinct taste and fragrance.
- Cloves: Valued for their aromatic and medicinal properties.
- Cinnamon: Sought after for its sweet, warm flavor.
- Turmeric: Known for its vibrant color and health benefits.
- Ginger: Widely used in cooking and traditional medicine.
Significance of the Kerala Spice Trade to Kerala’s Economy
The spice trade is a crucial component of Kerala’s economy, contributing significantly to the state’s agricultural income and export revenues. Kerala’s spices are exported to various parts of the world, making it a major player in the global spice market. Spices constitute a vital part of India’s agricultural exports. They account for approximately 15% of the country’s total agricultural exports. The spice trade supports numerous farmers, traders, and related industries, enhancing the socio-economic fabric of the region. India remains the largest exporter of spices globally. In FY 2021-22, India exported $4.1 billion worth of spices, including core spices like dried chili, cumin, and turmeric. Mint products, spice oils, and oleoresins also contribute to India’s spice exports
The Uniqueness of Kerala Spices Compared to Other Regions
Kerala spices are unique due to the region’s favorable climatic conditions, rich soil, and traditional cultivation methods. The spices are known for their high essential oil content, which imparts a superior flavor and aroma. Additionally, Kerala’s long history in the spice trade has led to the development of expertise in spice cultivation, processing, and marketing, ensuring that the spices from this region are of exceptional quality.The spice markets of Kerala are a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the region. From the bustling markets of Kochi to the picturesque settings of Munnar and Thekkady, each market offers a unique shopping experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef, a culinary enthusiast, or a curious traveler, the spice markets of Kerala will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the flavors of this enchanting land. Spice tourism of Kerala offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore spice plantations and busy markets, experiencing the journey of spices from farm to table.
Embark on your spice market journey in Kerala and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of spices that have shaped the region’s history and continue to enchant the world.
