Shop for pretty keepsakes

The shopping scene in Kovalam may not be about malls and expensive markets, but it is a paradise for artsy picks and the enlightened shoppers couldn't be more obsessed. The markets are filled with fragranced incense sticks, traditional key rings, fresh home-grown spices, intricately handcrafted jewellery, prayer beads, hand-woven sarees and other gorgeously stocked shops. Fridge magnets carved in the form of Kathakali Mask is the ultimate buy for artistic individuals looking to stock up on unique supplies. There are a host of other things that always remain under the radar for most local shoppers. If you haven't been, get on it!