Onam is a time for joy, togetherness, and the cherished tradition of exchanging gifts. If you're searching for unique Onam gift ideas that go beyond the usual box of sweets, you've come to the right place. This curated guide is packed with thoughtful presents for your loved ones, from handcrafted local treasures to sustainable options that honor the spirit of the harvest festival.
1. Handpicked Onam Hampers: The All-in-One Love Pack
Gift boxes never go out of style, especially when they're beautifully packed with Kerala’s finest.
Look for hampers that include:
Banana chips and jackfruit crisps.
Traditional Onam sweets like sharkara upperi and adai.
Mini bottles of coconut oil or homemade ghee.
Brass diyas or Kerala-style incense.
A small kasavu handkerchief or stole.
Online platforms like The Kerala Store, Jaypore, and local sellers on Instagram offer curated Onam hampers with beautiful packaging.
2. Support Local Artisans: Gift Kerala’s Handicrafts
Ditch factory-made goods and go for something with a personal touch. Kerala’s local crafts speak volumes:
Aranmula Kannadi: The famous metal-alloy mirror, a symbol of good luck and tradition.
Nettipattam: The ornamental caparison used on elephants, now reimagined as wall decor.
Coir Products: Eco-friendly mats, bags, and slippers that are both useful and beautiful.
Wooden Kathakali Masks: Quirky and colorful, perfect for wall decor.
Visit local emporiums or fair trade platforms like Dastkar and Okhai.
3. Eco-Friendly Presents: Thoughtful & Timeless
Onam also reminds us of harmony with nature. Show you care by gifting sustainably:
Plantable Seed Ganeshas or seed bombs.
Reusable cotton or jute gift wraps.
DIY herb garden kits.
Beeswax candles with floral fragrances.
Use banana leaves or handloom fabric for wrapping. Adds a rustic charm and cuts down on waste.
4. Gifting for the Foodie Soul: Spice & Everything Nice
For the ones who love cooking or just eating, you can’t go wrong with edible gifts:
A box of Kerala spices: pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Bottled rasam and sambhar masalas.
Small-batch pickles and chutneys.
Organic tea blends from Wayanad or Munnar.
You could even assemble a DIY Sadhya Kit with all the essentials for a traditional feast.
5. Traditional Wear & Accessories: Elegance, the Kerala Way
Everyone loves dressing up during Onam. Gift your loved ones timeless Kerala attire:
Kasavu Sarees or Dhotis: Choose cotton-silk blends for elegance and comfort.
Mundu Sets for Men: Lightweight and breezy, with golden borders.
Ethnic Jewelry: Think palakka mala, temple necklaces, or coin jewelry in antique gold finish.
Wrapping it with a handwritten note about the significance of Onam—adds emotion to elegance.
6. Experiences Over Things: Gifting Moments
Some of the best gifts are memories. This Onam, think beyond tangible items:
Cooking classes for Kerala cuisine. (can be online!)
Tickets to a cultural event, Kathakali performance, or temple visit.
Staycation at a traditional homestay in Kerala.
Donation in their name to a Kerala-based charity.
These ideas show thoughtfulness and let your loved ones feel even more connected to the spirit of Onam.
In the rush to pick the “perfect” gift, don’t forget the real essence of Onam, togetherness, gratitude, and shared happiness. Whether it's a box of banana chips or a handmade mirror, if it’s given with love, it’s the best gift of all.
So go ahead, wrap up some warmth this Onam and make someone’s day brighter.