Immersed in Local Craft: My Day at Sagarika Emporium

14/11/2024 . by Priya

During my recent trip to the Andaman Islands, I was eager to bring back a piece of this beautiful paradise with me. I had heard that no visit to Port Blair was complete without stopping by Sagarika Emporium, so on my last day, I decided to make my way there.

First Impressions: A Treasure Trove of Local Art
Walking into Sagarika Emporium felt like stepping into a hidden treasure chest. The place was bustling with both locals and tourists, all eager to browse through the wide array of handcrafted items. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by the warm smiles of the staff and the vibrant colors of the products on display. The emporium, run by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Handicrafts Society, is known for supporting local artisans, which made every purchase feel meaningful.

The first thing that caught my eye was the intricate woodwork. The shelves were lined with beautifully carved items made from Padauk wood, which is unique to the Andaman Islands. I found myself admiring the delicate craftsmanship of wooden bowls, coasters, and even miniature boats. It was hard to believe that these stunning pieces were made entirely by hand. I ended up choosing a small, intricately carved jewelry box that I knew would be the perfect keepsake.

The Allure of Seashell Souvenirs
Being surrounded by the ocean for days, I couldn’t resist exploring the section dedicated to seashell crafts. Sagarika offers a variety of items made from ethically sourced shells, ranging from jewelry and keychains to decorative wall hangings. I was especially drawn to a set of seashell wind chimes that made a soft, melodic sound with the slightest breeze.
After spending way too long deciding, I finally picked out a pair of seashell earrings and a delicate bracelet for myself. It felt like a fitting way to remember the island’s serene beaches and crystal-clear waters.

A Splash of Color with Local Textiles
One of the most pleasant surprises was discovering the section filled with handwoven textiles. I had no idea that Andaman was known for its vibrant sarongs and scarves. The fabrics were light and airy, perfect for the tropical climate. I ended up buying a few hand-dyed scarves, both as gifts for friends back home and as a treat for myself. The colors were so vivid that they instantly reminded me of the island’s sunsets.

Taking Home a Taste of Andaman
Beyond just handicrafts, Sagarika also offers a selection of locally made spices and pickles. As someone who loves to cook, I couldn’t resist picking up a few jars of Andaman’s famous organic coconut oil and a couple of packets of dried spices. The cashier even gave me a tip on how to use the local spices to recreate some of the island dishes I had tried during my stay.

A Thoughtful Shopping Experience
What I loved most about Sagarika Emporium was how relaxed the atmosphere was. Unlike some other touristy markets where vendors can be a bit pushy, here, the staff was polite and happy to let me take my time browsing. They even offered to wrap my purchases carefully, knowing I would need to fit everything into my suitcase.
I appreciated that the prices were fixed and clearly marked, which made the whole experience stress-free. It was refreshing not to have to haggle and to know that I was getting fair prices while supporting local artisans directly.

Why Sagarika is a Must-Visit
As I left the emporium, bags filled with unique souvenirs and gifts, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Shopping at Sagarika wasn’t just about buying things—it was about taking home a piece of the Andaman Islands. Every item I chose felt like a connection to the island’s culture, craftsmanship, and natural beauty.
If you ever find yourself in Port Blair, I highly recommend visiting Sagarika Emporium. Whether you're looking for handcrafted keepsakes, seashell jewelry, or simply a unique shopping experience, it’s the perfect place to find a little bit of Andaman to take back with you. And trust me, every time you look at those souvenirs, you'll be reminded of the island’s magic long after you've returned home.