Kanchipuram is a small town located in the state of Tamil Nadu, South India, known for its iconic Kanchipuram sarees. The sarees are made from pure mulberry silk and are distinguished by their exquisite craftsmanship and vibrant colors. These sarees are an essential element of the traditional South Indian wardrobe and are worn for weddings, religious ceremonies, and other important occasions. In this article, we will provide you with a shopping guide for Kanchipuram sarees, helping you navigate through the town's many shops to find the perfect saree for your needs.

Where to Buy Kanchipuram Sarees

Weaver's Cooperatives The first type of shop that you will come across in Kanchipuram is the weaver's cooperatives. These cooperatives are run by the weavers themselves, who make sarees by hand, using traditional techniques passed down through generations. These sarees are often more affordable than those sold in larger stores and come with a silk mark certification, indicating that they are made of pure silk. Some of the best weaver's cooperatives are located on Gandhi Road, one of the main streets in the town.

When you enter one of these cooperatives, you will find that they are often small and unassuming. The sarees are displayed on racks and shelves, and there may be a few salespeople around to help you. When purchasing a saree, it is essential to ask the salesperson about the type of silk used and the quality of the saree. They can also assist you in selecting the appropriate saree for your occasion and budget.

Multi-Floor Showrooms The second type of shop you will encounter in Kanchipuram is multi-floor showrooms. These showrooms are often more spacious than the weaver's cooperatives, with multiple floors dedicated to displaying sarees of different designs, colors, and price ranges. When entering a multi-floor showroom, it is customary to remove your shoes before proceeding further.

Upon entering the showroom, a salesperson will greet you and ask about your budget. Based on your budget, they will direct you to a specific floor where sarees are available within your price range. Once you are on the floor, the salesperson will show you a range of sarees to choose from, which they will display on aqua-green colored cotton sheets.

If you are comfortable sitting on the floor, you can select the sarees you like from the ones shown to you. However, if you are unable to sit on the floor, the staff will provide you with a plastic chair. They will also assist you in selecting the appropriate saree for your occasion and budget, as well as helping you to match it with appropriate jewelry and accessories.

Shopping Tips Here are some tips that will help you navigate through the saree shopping experience in Kanchipuram:

1. Quality of Silk - When purchasing a Kanchipuram saree, it is essential to inquire about the quality of the silk. Ensure that the saree is made from pure mulberry silk and that it has a silk mark certification.

2. Check for the Silk Mark - Always look for the silk mark when buying Kanchipuram sarees. The silk mark certifies that the saree is made with pure silk and is of good quality. If the saree does not have a silk mark, it is best to avoid it as it may not be made with pure silk.
3. Choose the Right Shop - Choose the right shop to buy Kanchipuram sarees. The weaver's cooperatives are ideal if you are looking for a saree at a reasonable price, while the big showrooms offer a wide range of sarees in different designs and colors.

4. Design and Color - Kanchipuram sarees are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. While selecting a saree, ensure that it complements your skin tone and matches the occasion you plan to wear it for.

5. Bargaining - Do not hesitate to bargain when buying Kanchipuram sarees. The prices at the big showrooms can be high, and bargaining can help you get a better deal. However, when shopping at weaver's cooperatives, be respectful and do not bargain too hard as the prices are already reasonable.

6. Customization - If you have a particular design or color in mind, you can ask the salesperson to customize a saree for you. This option may cost more than buying a pre-made saree, but it can result in a unique and personalized garment.

7. Jewelry and Accessories - When purchasing a saree, it is essential to consider the jewelry and accessories that will complement it. You can find various options for jewelry and accessories to go with your Kanchipuram saree. For instance, gold and silver jewelry are popular choices to match the opulence of the sarees. You can also opt for traditional jewelry, such as temple jewelry or antique jewelry, to add a unique touch to your look.

Kanchipuram sarees are known for their exquisite designs and intricate workmanship. Shopping for these sarees in the town of Kanchipuram can be a unique and rewarding experience. With the right tips and information, you can get the best quality saree at a reasonable price. So, the next time you are in Kanchipuram, make sure to explore the town's silk industry and buy a beautiful Kanchipuram saree to take back home.