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A complete guide to returning home gifts and souvenirs from India — Where to buy in Delhi and Gurgaon, item recommendations, customs clearance precautions

By ARAZIA India Desk9 min read

A view of the Darjeeling tea fields, where tea is grown, the number one souvenir upon returning home from India — Guide to shopping for souvenirs in India — Vyacheslav Argenberg (CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons)

Everyone has the same concerns as they finish their stay in India and are about to return home. “What should I buy for my family and colleagues in Korea?” Instead of the obvious souvenirs found at airport duty-free shops, we all want to bring a gift that reminds us of our time spent in India. This article collects only the items and places of purchase that Koreans living in Delhi and Gurgaon have actually purchased, gifted, and verified.

From foods such as tea, coffee, and spices to premium items such as block print fabric and pashmina shawls, we have organized recommended brands and store locations for each item, and at the end, we have also included customs clearance precautions such as duty-free limits and quarantine when entering Korea. 2-3 weeks before returning home, complete your shopping list with this article.

01Strategy for preparing gifts for returning home - Let’s start by deciding on the items and planning the route.

The key to preparing a gift for your return home is to first decide ‘to whom and at what level’. A casual gift to give to several co-workers and a formal gift to give to your parents or boss are completely different in terms of item, purchase location, and budget. The items that Koreans living in India actually choose most often are summarized below.

Product group	representative item	characteristic	To someone like this
Tea	Darjeeling, Assam, Masala Chai	Lightweight and luxurious package, available for purchase after tasting in store	Boss, formal gift
food	Instant chai, coffee, retort, spices	Inexpensive and highly satisfactory for its size	A gift to many people
block print miscellaneous goods	Tablecloth, pouch, eco bag	Equipped with both Indian sensibility and practicality.	friend, acquaintance
Cashmere/Pashmina shawl	Naturally dyed and embroidered shawls	High-end item, authenticity verification required	Parents, VIP
Seokcheong honey and healing crystals	Wild honey, meditation gemstone	A gift filled with health and collectible value.	one special person

The movement line is largeGurgaon Area(Crosspoint Mall, Sector 29, DLF Phase 1) andDeli ticket(Connaught Place, Hauz Khas, INA, Chhatarpur). It is realistic to split the trip into two half-day trips, and you should start shopping 2-3 weeks before returning home to give yourself enough time to pack and organize your luggage.

02Tea gifts — 3 tea boutiques in Delhi and Gurgaon

Tea is the undisputed number one gift when returning home from India. It is light, easy to adjust the volume, has few likes and dislikes of the recipient, and above all, has the symbolism of being the home of Darjeeling, Assam, and Masala Chai. The following is a comparison of three tea boutiques in Delhi and Gurgaon that have been proven by Koreans.

store	A place like this	location	Web/SNS
San-Cha Tea Boutique	India's first artisan tea boutique with 40 years of tradition. Its quality has been recognized enough to be used at official Indian government events and as gifts for state guests, and you can taste and choose from over 100 types carefully selected by Delhi's master tea tasters at the store. The elegant and luxurious packaging makes it perfect as a formal gift.	Gurgaon Cross Point Mall, Delhi Saket Select City Walk, etc.	www.sanchatea.com / Instagram @sanchateaboutique
Mittal Teas	A classic local tea house run by the Mittal family since 1954. Instead of flashy marketing, it competes with the quality of the tea itself and its reasonable price, and is famous for its professional consultation that helps customers choose a car that suits their taste. The cute tin case and traditional Indian embroidery pouch packaging are attractive.	Delhi Connaught Place, near Lodhi Road and Meherchand Market	mittalteas.com / Instagram @mittalteas
Happy Hunter	A sentimental tea shop and salon run by a Japanese owner. With a curation that accurately captures the tastes of Korean and Japanese residents, we have compiled high-quality teas from all over India with a modern and sophisticated sensibility. In addition to tea, you can also purchase Indian-style accessories and souvenirs.	Delhi Hauz Khas Village	Instagram @india_happyhunter

If it's a formal gift, it's safest to taste it and choose for yourself at a mountain tea shop that offers tasting. If you want cost-effectiveness and professional consultation, Mittal tea is the answer. If you want to buy tea and cute Indian accessories at the same time, Happy Hunter is the answer.

03Fail-proof food gifts — Chai, coffee, retort, spices

Food is the easiest thing to buy and distribute in large quantities. It is cheap and easily available at local supermarkets or brand stores, so it is sufficient for last-minute shopping before returning home.

Instant Chai— A product made in the form of a mix of India’s national drink Masala Chai. Milk and sugar are already included, so all you have to do is pour hot water and the local taste will be replicated. Recommended brands: Girnar, Chaayos, Octavius, TGL Co.
indian coffee— India is a world-class coffee producer, especially famous for its high-quality coffee beans from South India. It is characterized by a rich and savory taste and has a wide range from instant to coffee beans. Recommended brands: Blue Tokai, Devan's, Cohoma Coffee, Sleepy Owl.
Retort/Instant Noodle— The retort pack that allows you to simply heat curry or dal is the best gift for those who miss the taste of India. Instant ramen with unique Indian spice flavors is also unique. Recommended brands: MTR, Kitchens of India, Haldiram's, Maggi.
Spices— As a spice paradise, you can purchase high-quality peppercorns, cinnamon, turmeric, etc. at very low prices. The best gift for those who love cooking. Recommended brands: Catch, MDH, Everest, Sprig.

However, food products are also items directly related to customs clearance. For products or liquids containing meat ingredients, be sure to check the customs clearance precautions section below and place them in your carrier.

Indian spices that are popular as souvenirs upon returning home from India — turmeric, masala, and other spices — In India, a paradise of spices, you can buy high-quality peppercorns, cinnamon, and turmeric at very low prices. · Maskaravivek (CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons)

04Shopping for handicrafts — from select shops to artisan markets

If you want a 'discerning' gift rather than the typical airport souvenir, you should go to handicraft select shops and artisan markets. Delhi and Gurgaon have several unique handicraft shopping spots.

Frangipani Art & Kraft (Gurgaon)

This select shop is located in the Dia Park Hotel in Sector 29, Gurgaon, and curates exquisite wood crafts and Indian accessories with the owner's eye. There are many unique items that are different from the common souvenirs in large shopping malls, and there are many sophisticated designs that suit the tastes of Koreans and Japanese, so the probability of failure as a gift for returning home is low. Instagram @frangipani_india.

Nature Bazaar (Daska, Chhatarpur, Delhi)

This is a permanent exhibition hall run by Indian handicraft NGO ‘Dastkar’, where you can meet artisans from all over India. The theme changes every month, such as 'Winter Textile Exhibition' and 'Summer Festival', so it is essential to check this month's theme on Instagram (@dastkar.delhi) before visiting. Recommended items include naturally dyed scarves, sophisticated handmade pottery, and interior fabrics that reinterpret traditional patterns in a modern way.

Dilli Haat (INA, Delhi)

This outdoor folk market is operated by the Indian Tourism Organization and is located right in front of INA Metro Station. Artisans from each state rotate their booths every two weeks, so you'll encounter different items every time you go. Colorful leather shoes jutti, miniature paintings, Kashmiri silk scarves, and traditional accessories make great gifts, and there is a food court selling authentic dishes from each region, making it a popular outing destination. Just remember that there is a separate entrance fee for foreigners.

block print miscellaneous goods

A fabric product using the traditional Indian technique of creating patterns by stamping wooden stamps by hand. Tablecloths, pouches, and eco bags in natural colors and patterns are popular as gifts because they are light and practical. Representative brands include Anokhi, Fabindia, Soma, and Tarini.

Cover of ancient literature on handicraft traditions, the core of Indian souvenirs — Indian handicrafts homecoming gifts — Handicrafts are a core category of Indian souvenirs with a long tradition. · Hall, Herbert James, 1870-1923 Knox, Mertice McCrea Buck, 18 (Public domain, Wikimedia Commons)

05Premium souvenirs — Pashmina shawl, Himalayan wild honey, healing crystals

Parents or those who are especially grateful need a 'different' gift. Introducing three premium souvenirs that you can only buy in India.

Cashmere/Pashmina shawl

Thanks to its lightweight yet overwhelming warmth, it is a high-end item that is most welcome as a gift upon returning home. India is one of the world's leading producers of cashmere, and in particular, Pashmina, made from goat hair from the Himalayan highlands, is much softer, lighter, and warmer than regular wool. There is a wide range of choices, from soft colors of natural dyes to elaborate embroidery products. However, cheap products on the market often contain silk or synthetic fibers.Check the authenticity mark at the brand storeIt is safe to purchase. Recommended brands: Ahujasons, Andraab, Kashmir Loom, Jaypore.

Himalayan wild honey and propolis

It is known as a wild honey and bee-derived ingredient rich in antioxidants and minerals, and has traditionally been consumed for bronchial and throat care, oral health, and rejuvenation. Because it has a unique rich flavor of natural wheat, it is in constant demand as a gift for parents who want to take care of their health. Inquiries: KakaoTalk ID himalayahoney, WhatsApp +91 9582735007.

Moksa Healing Crystal

This is a crystal specialty store that sells meditation gemstones, bracelets and necklaces, incense for purifying space, and roller perfume. Recommended if you are looking for a special souvenir with an Indian atmosphere and a collectible value instead of a consumable souvenir. The store is located at DLF Phase 1 Mega Mall, Gurgaon (LG-15, Lower Ground, Golf Course Rd) and can also be purchased online at www.moksa.in. We recommend checking whether the store is open before visiting. Instagram @moksacrystals, WhatsApp +91 99104 93746.

Kashmir Pashmina Shawl, a high-end item as a gift upon returning home from India. — A Kashmiri shawl with elaborate embroidery is a premium and most welcome gift when returning home. · Owais Khursheed (CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons)

06Customs clearance and baggage precautions – To avoid embarrassment at customs

No matter how well you choose a gift, it will be of no use if something goes wrong at the airport. Please check the criteria for entering Korea and leaving India.

Entry to Korea — Duty Free Limits and Quarantine

The basic duty-free limit for traveler's belongings is per person.US$800no see. If you voluntarily report the excess, you can benefit from a partial tariff reduction, so it is advantageous to report it honestly.
Separate duty-free limits apply for two bottles of alcohol (total of 2 liters, less than USD 400) and 200 cigarettes.
Fresh fruit, seeds, plants with soil, and meat/meat products are restricted from being brought in or are subject to quarantine notification. For retorts and ramen containing meat ingredients, check the ingredient list before purchasing.
Animal-derived products such as honey may be subject to quarantine, so please list them on the customs declaration form and avoid bringing in large quantities that may be misunderstood for sales purposes.

Departure from India – Items restricted from export

Antiquities that are over 100 years old are prohibited from being exported under Indian law. When purchasing artifacts that look old, make sure they are not antiques.
Trade in products derived from wild animals such as ivory and 'Shahtoosh' shawls made from the fur of the endangered Chiru antelope is prohibited internationally. If you go to buy pashmina, avoid stores that offer shahtoosh.
Sandalwood wood products may also be subject to export restrictions, so it is safe to check before purchasing large wood crafts.

Luggage Packing Tips

Liquids such as honey, oil, and roller perfume are restricted to containers of 100 mL or less on board, so place them in checked baggage and double seal them with a zipper bag and air cap.
Place fragile items such as ceramics and crystal between your clothes, and place spices in an airtight container or double zipper bag to prevent odors from escaping.
Collecting receipts is useful when calculating tax exemption limits and reporting to customs.

Useful tips

Tea boutique starts with tasting

The biggest advantage of Sancha Tea Boutique is that you can taste and choose directly in the store. You can't go wrong if you taste it and choose while keeping in mind the taste of the person receiving the gift (milk tea, black tea, herb tea). At Mittal Tea, if you tell us your preference, we will select a tea for you through professional consultation.

Visit Nature Bazaar after checking this month’s theme

Nature Bazaar, operated by Daska, is a permanent exhibition hall with monthly changing themes such as ‘Winter Fabric Exhibition’ and ‘Summer Festival’. You can find the items you want much more efficiently by checking the month's theme on Instagram @dastkar.delhi before visiting.

Dilly Hot uses a two-week rotation.

Dilly Hot has artisans from each state rotating their booths every two weeks. If you have time, visit twice, two weeks apart, to try completely different local specialties. There is a separate entrance fee for foreigners, so it is a good idea to prepare small cash.

Packaging utilizes store services

Many stores have excellent packaging, such as Mittal Tea's tin case and traditional embroidered pouch packaging, and Sancha's luxury packaging. You can save time and effort by requesting gift wrapping at the store in advance so that you do not have to package it separately in Korea.

Common pitfalls and how to solve them

The cheap 'pashmina' I bought at the market turned out to be a blend of silk and synthetic fibers.

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Many low-priced products on the market are blended. Check the authenticity mark before purchasing from brand stores like Ahujasons, Andraab, Kashmir Loom and Jaypore. Excessively low prices are a warning sign in themselves.

Honey, oil, and perfume were confiscated during security check after being placed in carry-on baggage.

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Liquids carried on board are limited to containers of 100 mL or less. Be sure to place wild honey, roller perfume, and oils in your checked baggage and double seal them with a zipper bag + air cap to prevent leakage and damage.

Caught by quarantine for bringing in retort meat ingredients and honey without reporting

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Importation of meat and meat products is restricted, and animal-derived products such as honey may be subject to quarantine notification. Check the ingredient list before purchasing, and fill it out honestly on the customs declaration form when entering the country. It is safe to take only small amounts for personal consumption.

I bought an old craft, but it is subject to a ban on taking out antiques.

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India prohibits the export of antiques more than 100 years old by law. When purchasing antique-looking crafts, check the production date and keep the receipt to prove that it is an ordinary craft.

Latest updates

Duty-free limit for Korean traveler's belongings is USD 800.The basic duty-free limit for travelers entering Korea has been increased to US$800 per person since it was raised in September 2022, and two bottles of alcohol (total of 2L, less than US$400) and cigarettes are tax-free with a separate limit. Use this as a guideline when creating your return shopping budget.
Premiumization of Indian specialty tea and coffeeIndian specialty coffee roasters and artisan tea brands, such as Blue Tokai, are growing rapidly and expanding their luxury packaging lines for gifts. There are a lot more stylish packaging options that are 'good for gifting' than before.

FAQ

What is the duty-free limit when entering Korea?

The basic duty-free limit for traveler's belongings is USD 800 per person. Two bottles of alcohol (total of 2 liters, less than USD 400) and 200 cigarettes are exempt from tax, with the excess amount subject to partial tariff reduction upon voluntary declaration.

Can I bring honey or spices bought in India to Korea?

Dried spices are generally okay in small quantities for personal consumption, but animal-derived products such as honey may be subject to quarantine notification. Please fill out your customs declaration form honestly and avoid bringing in large quantities. Liquids such as honey and oil are limited to 100mL in carry-on baggage, so they must be checked in.

How can I check the authenticity of my pashmina shawl?

Many inexpensive products on the market are blended with silk or synthetic fibers. It is safest to check the authenticity mark before purchasing from branded stores such as Ahujasons, Andraab, Kashmir Loom and Jaypore. The trade of Shatoosh shawls made from the fur of endangered species is prohibited, so do not buy them even if offered.

When you're short on time, where's the best place to buy all your homecoming gifts in one place?

If you are in Delhi, you can see handicrafts and special products from each state of India at the Dili Hat in front of INA Metro Station (admission fee for foreigners is separate). If you're in Gurgaon, it's efficient to take a half-day tour combining Sancha Tea Boutique at Cross Point Mall and Frangipani at Sector 29.

References & links

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in India (Consular/Safety Information)Korea Customs Service (Information on duty exemption and declaration of traveler’s belongings)Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Quarantine Headquarters (Quarantine of animals, plants and livestock products)Ministry of Tourism, India KOTRA (Indian market and lifestyle information)