Here is a complete, tourist-friendly guide to the Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in Akola, crafted so that any new visitor will get all essential details in one place. No external searching required.
1. Traditional Warli Art & Bamboo Crafts
- What to Buy: Warli-painted wall frames, bamboo baskets, tribal décor
- Why It’s Special: Inspired by indigenous art and handcrafted by artisans
- Best For: Home décor, cultural gifts
- Where to Get: Artisan stalls and government emporiums
2. Local Pickles & Masala Mixes
- What to Buy: Mango pickle, Lemon pickle, Masala papad, Instant spice mixes
- Why It’s Special: Homemade flavor with authentic Maharashtrian tang
- Best For: Take-home edible souvenirs
- Where to Get: Women self-help groups, local markets, Patni Chowk
3. Akola Cotton & Handloom Fabrics
- What to Buy: Cotton sarees, kurta materials, stoles, dupattas
- Why It’s Special: Known for soft, breathable Vidarbha cotton handloom with unique textures
- Best For: Women’s apparel, gifts, and daily wear
- Where to Get: Local handloom stores near Civil Lines, Tilak Road
4. Handmade Brass & Metal Artefacts
- What to Buy: Brass idols, diyas, decorative wall pieces
- Why It’s Special: Vidarbha region’s metalwork craftsmanship is detailed and traditional
- Best For: Souvenir gifting, pooja items
- Where to Get: MG Road metal shops, Shastri Nagar markets
5. Local Savories – Bakarwadi, Shev, Chivda
- What to Buy: Fresh Namkeens from Akola’s famous snack stores
- Why It’s Special: Authentic Maharashtrian taste with crispy texture
- Best For: Foodies, office snacks, gifting boxes
- Where to Get: Bhelwadkar, local farsan shops
6. Akola-Special Sweets
- What to Buy: Barfi varieties, Peda, Motichur Ladoo, Kaju sweets
- Why It’s Special: Made with traditional recipes using pure ghee and premium ingredients
- Best For: Family gifting, festive purchases
- Where to Get: Janta Sweets, Shree Sweets, City-center halwai shops
7. Kolhapuri & Leather Goods
- What to Buy: Leather footwear, Kolhapuri chappals, wallets, belts
- Why It’s Special: Hand-crafted, sturdy, and stylish
- Best For: Fashion lovers, everyday wear
- Where to Get: Footwear markets near Akola Bazaar
8. Religious Souvenirs from Temples
- What to Buy: Rudraksha malas, Brass temple idols, wallets, Devotional books, Chandan & spiritual items
- Why It’s Special: Akola has popular temples like Raj Rajeshwar Mandir, offering authentic religious articles
- Best For: Spiritual gifts
- Where to Get: Temple shops around Old City
9. Wooden Handicrafts & Home Décor
- What to Buy: Traditional carved wooden boxes, pen stands, trays, carved idols
- Why It’s Special: Locally handcrafted with unique Vidarbha style
- Best For: Home décor, souvenirs
- Where to Get: Local handicraft stores along Tilak Road, MG Road
10. Vidarbha Turmeric & Spices
- What to Buy: Pure haldi, chili powder, garam masala
- Why It’s Special: Vidarbha turmeric is known for high curcumin and vibrant color
- Best For: Food lovers, home chefs
- Where to Get: Local kirana markets, Patni Chowk, Nehru Park Market
Recommended Shopping Markets in Akola
Here are the best places for tourists to shop:
| Market/Area | Known For | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Patni Chowk | Spices, pickles, namkeens | Best local & budget-friendly shopping |
| Tilak Road | Handloom, clothing, wooden crafts | Popular among travelers |
| MG Road | Brass items, home décor | Lots of variety |
| Civil Lines | Boutique fabrics & premium stores | High-quality souvenir shopping |
| Old City Markets | Religious items, traditional shops | Authentic local vibe |
Tips for Tourists While Shopping in Akola
- Compare prices across 2–3 shops for the best deal.
- Always check freshness when buying sweets and namkeens.
- For fabrics and handlooms, feel the texture and check stitching.
- Bargaining is common in local markets—negotiate politely.
- Many local shops accept UPI payments (Google Pay/PhonePe/Paytm).