In this post, we bring you a curated selection of the 37 best Indian gifts for foreigners, straight from the heart of India. From the land of spices, majestic saris, and Bollywood wonders, we’ve scoured every nook and cranny to present you with a collection of gift items such as handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry that will make you say, “Namaste, perfect gift!”
Indian souvenirs also make ideal corporate gifts due to their cultural significance and uniqueness, helping to strengthen client relationships and boost brand awareness.
Get ready to embark on a whimsical adventure filled with color, charm, and a touch of Indian quirkiness. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for an exhilarating ride through a treasure trove of unique and unforgettable gifts from India that foreigners and locals will love!
Are you short on time? Check out the editor’s top three gifts from India for foreigners by budget.
- Large budget: Chai tea gift set (#1)
- Mid budget: Indian spices gift box (#13)
- Small budget: Sari-covered journal (#36)
Save these Indian gifts for foreigners
Don’t forget to save these India gift ideas for the next time you need to find inspiration!
Explore India’s Rich Cultural Heritage
Discover the diversity of Indian culture
India is a kaleidoscope of cultures, each more vibrant and diverse than the last. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched beaches of the south, India is a land of contrasts and rich cultural heritage. Every corner of this vast country offers a unique tapestry of traditions, customs, and practices that are as varied as its landscapes.
One of the most enchanting ways to dive into Indian culture is through its festivals. Imagine the riot of colors during Holi, where people joyously throw colored powders at each other, or the twinkling lights of Diwali, illuminating homes and hearts alike. Each festival is a celebration of life, filled with unique rituals and a deep sense of community.
But the cultural journey doesn’t stop at festivals. India is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, like the ethereal Taj Mahal and the ancient ghats of Varanasi. Museums, galleries, and cultural institutions across the country offer a glimpse into India’s artistic and historical treasures. Whether it’s the classical music of the south or the vibrant street art of the north, India’s cultural offerings are as diverse as they are captivating.
So, whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a dance enthusiast, India has something to offer. Its rich cultural heritage is a testament to its enduring spirit and vibrant culture.
Indian gifts for large budgets
#1 Chai tea
Did you know that Chai actually means tea in Hindi? So when we’re saying Chai tea, we’re actually saying tea tea.
Anyways, back to the gift.
Chai tea is known as a spiced tea and depending on which region in India you get the chai tea from, you will get different spices. It’s incredibly popular both inside and outside India, making it a great gift from India for foreigners and natives who miss tea from home.
The Chai tea gift from Uncommon Goods includes spices such as cardamom, star anise, cloves, and of course black tea.
For different spice mixes, check out Amazon.
#2 Pashmina scarf
Looking for Indian gifts for foreigners with a touch of Indian elegance?
Present them with a stunning Indian pashmina scarf, lovingly crafted from repurposed saris. And handmade in Rajasthan, India, it’s a luxurious accessory that adds a regal touch to any outfit!
#3 Indian snack gift box
Surprise your foreign friends with a unique Indian Snack Subscription that will teleport their taste buds straight to the flavors of India!
Each month, they’ll receive a box filled with India’s finest snacks like chips, cookies, chocolates, and more, right at their doorstep. And the best part? With every box purchased, Indifix (the company) donates at least one meal to an Indian child in need, spreading joy with every bite!
#4 Map of India
Maps of India are another example of great Indian gifts for foreigners and locals who love India and who want to bring a bit of that magic into their homes. I quite liked this colorful map of India, but you can check out Amazon for more map designs.
#5 Gifts for Indian women: jewelry
Are you looking for gifts for Indian women?
Then this jewelry set from the Indian brand Aheli is the perfect gift for her. Sets like these are often worn at grand festive events such as weddings, anniversaries, engagements, or basically any celebration. And will make her the diamond of the party.
#6 Ticket to Ride India
Ticket to Ride is one of my favorite board games, and thus one of the best Indian gifts for foreigners and locals who love games.
So far, I have only played the Europe edition, but the aim of the game is pretty much the same for every location. The only difference is the way the board looks and the cities you have to build railways to.
I can try to explain the purpose of Ticket to Ride, but I’ve tried that before and it actually makes it sound like a boring game, so just believe me when I say it’s a super fun game, especially if it includes the map of the recipient’s favorite country.
#7 Cricket-related gifts
Cricket is the number one sport in India, so if you are looking for Indian gifts for foreigners or locals who sports, India’s national team’s cricket jersey is a great idea.
Or check out Not on the High Street for more cricket-related gift ideas, such as a poster, a shirt, or the cricket periodic table.
#8 Gifts related to Bollywood
The Indian film industry Bollywood is the largest film industry in the world (measured by the number of films produced) and is extremely popular in India and beyond.
So if you need gifts for an Indian woman who loves Bollywood, this custom-made Indian movie poster starring none other than herself is perfect!
Imagine her face in caricature, gracing the cover of a Bollywood film and being the leading lady of her own epic saga! This hilarious and unique gift will have her laughing, posing, and feeling like a true Bollywood superstar.
Alternatively, check out the Bollywood Periodic Table at Not on the High Street if you are looking for wall art gifts.
#9 Handmade candles
If you are looking for traditional Indian gift ideas for foreign friends, this gorgeous handmade candle is perfect!
Though for more designs, check out NOVICA
#10 Hindi language course
Did you know that there are 22 official languages in India?
The two most common ones are English and Hindi. And since there’s a big chance the recipient already speaks English, why not give a Hindi language course?
#11 Dahlia pajama set
This is the perfect Indian gift idea for foreign friends who love to snooze and spend hours in bed. Allow your favorite sleepyhead to get comfy in a handmade pajama from India!
These luxurious loungewear gems are like a soft, rosy dream come true. With their exuberant blossoms and butterflies hand-screenprinted on luscious cotton, your friends can get a good night’s sleep in the most stylish way possible.
#12 Indian food subscription box
Do you want to surprise your Indian food-loving friend not once, but every month?
Then a monthly Indian subscription box is the gift your need!
Each month, your (foreign) friends will receive a tasty surprise package filled with authentic Indian spices that will transport their taste buds to the colorful streets of Mumbai. From aromatic garam masala to fiery red chili powder, this subscription will take their culinary adventures to the next level.
Indian gifts for mid-budgets
#13 Indian spices gifts
Spice up your (foreign) friends’ kitchen game with this “Masala Magic” box!
This stainless steel gift box contains seven containers with different masala spices, so they can experiment with Indian flavors without resorting to a chaotic spice jar hunt!
#14 Handmade sari photo album
If you are looking for unique Indian gifts for foreigners who recently returned from a trip to India and who don’t stop showing photo’s on his or her phone, this photo album is the perfect gift.
It’s handmade from Indian Sari and thus perfect for them to collect all their photos of their India trip. You can choose different sizes and colors.
#15 Bangle bracelets
Looking to add some jingle to your foreign friend’s fashion game? Look no further than this gorgeous ocean-themed handmade bangle bracelet!
Bangles aren’t just accessories in India, they’re symbols of feminine grace and cultural significance. Derived from the word “Bangri,” which literally means “the ornament which adorns the arm” these bangles are the ultimate gift representing Indian culture. Whether it’s the auspiciousness they bring, the luck they symbolize, or the complete womanhood they represent, these bangles are great traditional and fashionable gifts from India for foreigners and locals.
#16 Yoga-related gifts
Did you know that yoga originated in India?
If not, perhaps you may find the book “The Story of Yoga from Ancient India to the Modern West” interesting. So just give it as a gift to the person who’s obsessed with India and then borrow it yourself ;).
Or check out Amazon for more yoga-related gift ideas.
#17 Indian cookbooks
Made in India: Recipes from an Indian Family Kitchen
With over 130 Indian recipes from three generations of Meera Sodha’s family, this cookbook is an awesome gift for foreigners from India.
Thali: A Joyful Celebration of Indian Home Cooking
And for people who love Indian food, but who don’t like the fuss, this cookbook with over 80 recipes to recreate a thali at home is perfect.
The Curry Guy Bible
Do you know someone who loves Indian curries? Then help them to recreate over 200 Indian restaurants and takeaway classics at home with the Curry Guy Bible! It’s a selection of the author’s favorites after eating Indian for two decades.
Authentic Indian Cooking with Your Instant Pot
Who doesn’t love the ease of instant pot cooking? And with this cookbook, they can make super simple classic, and innovative Indian recipes at home!
#18 Indian dance course
There are quite a few traditional dances in India such as bharatanatyam, kathak, kathakali, manipuri, kuchipudi and odissi. Now, I am definitely not an expert in Indian dances, so I wouldn’t be able to tell you what the difference is between them.
But I do know that if you are looking for Indian traditional gifts for foreigners who love dancing, then giving an Indian dancing course is a super cool option. So check out Udemy for the online Indian dance courses they offer.
#19 India gift ideas for coffee lovers
If you are looking for India gift ideas for coffee lovers, then a travel mug with an Indian design is the gift you are looking for. My favorite was the mug with the map of India and with the option to add the recipient’s name. But check Zazzle for more inspiration.
#20 India posters
If you are looking for gift ideas for foreigners from India to add some color to their homes, check out Amazon for all Indian-themed wall art ideas.
Or go for my personal favorite; this gorgeous elephant watercolor painting.
#21 Taj Mahal 3D puzzle
Do you need Indian gift ideas for foreigners or locals who love puzzles and architecture?
Then this 3D puzzle of The Taj Mahal is perfect! It will take them about 2-4 hours to construct the miniature Taj Mahal puzzle at home.
#22 Indian-themed water bottle
Are you looking for gifts for a sustainable traveler who loves India? Then check out Zazzle for a unique India-themed water bottle.
Or go for this one with the skyline of New Delhi for someone who loves the city.
#23 Indian puzzle subscription for kids
This is probably one of the best gifts from India for foreigners with kids; a subscription box with Indian mysteries!
Each month, they will receive a top-secret envelope packed with enough mystery and intrigue to make Sherlock Holmes jealous. Their kids (or they) will need to unravel captivating puzzles while soaking up fascinating cultural tidbits about India. The box also includes a souvenir postcard, clue cards, a fun paper craft, and a sealed conclusion letter to keep the excitement going.
#24 Handmade purse
The next awesome Indian gift idea for foreigners is this beautiful handmade purse. You can find it in all sorts of designs. So don’t worry if the one in the photo is sold out, because these purses are handmade there are only so many of each design. But simply check out NOVICA for more design, because I guarantee each of the bags will make a great present.
#25 Ayurveda products
Ayurveda is a form of alternative medicine that originated in India. Which is why this mini hair Oil gift box is a great Indian gift idea for foreigners, who are interested in Indian alternative medicine systems or who love herbal serums,
#26 India travel guides
Essential India Travel Guide: A must-have guide for Westerners
As the name suggests, it’s a great travel guide for Westerners.
DK Eyewitness: India
DK eyewitness’ guides are great visual travel guides, with beautiful photographs and detailed illustrations.
The Rough Guide to India
A great and honest travel guide that also includes an e-book for people who’d prefer to travel with fewer items
#27 India-inspired passport cover
The India-inspired passport covers on Zazzle are great examples of practical Indian gifts for foreigners who travel a lot. I quite liked the one in the photo with the Taj Mahal and the recipient’s name.
Oh, and no worries if you’re not so fond of the color purple, you can also change that ;). Or just pick one of the many other designs on Zazzle.
#28 Decorative box
Looking to impress your foreign friends?
Say Namaste to this beautiful handpainted decorative box! This paper-maché masterpiece showcases the rich artistic heritage of paper-maché crafts in the Kashmir Valley in India. It’s the perfect gift to bring a little Indian glamor into their lives.
#29 Indian-themed tote bags
Whether they’re heading to the grocery store or strolling through the city, with an India-themed tote bag as their companion, they can spread the spirit of India wherever they go.
It’s a gift that’s both practical and a fashionable tribute to the land of rich traditions and unforgettable experiences.
#30 Interesting books about India
India: A History
Are you looking for Indian gifts for foreigners who are interested in history? Then this is the book you need. It’s an easy-to-read book that covers all the major events in Indian history up until the present day.
Shantaram: A Novel by Gregory David
Shantaram is an epic novel by Gregory David Roberts on which the eponymous Apple tv-show is based. It follows the journey of Lin, an escaped convict, in the bustling streets of Bombay. Immersed in a world of beggars, gangsters, and diverse characters, Lin searches for love and purpose while navigating the city’s slums and mafia underworld.
Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity
Behind the Beautiful Forevers is a gripping non-fiction book by Katherine Boo that delves into the lives of families in Annawadi, a settlement near Mumbai’s airport. Through vivid storytelling, Boo offers profound insights into the interconnectedness of people and the complexities of life in a world marked by global change and social disparities.
Indian gifts for small budgets
#31 India coloring books
There are a surprisingly large number of coloring books related to India on Amazon.
I liked the “Spiritual Traditions of India” the most, it’s not only a cool gift representing Indian culture, but it’s also a great way to unwind and relax.
#32 India-inspired luggage tag
The luggage tags by Zazzle are great examples of practical and small Indian gift ideas for foreigners and locals who travel a lot.
I liked the one with the map of India where you can add the recipient’s name. But again, don’t limit yourself to my personal favorite, because Zazzle offers over 200 Indian-themed luggage tags.
#33 Handmade photo frame
Are you looking for unique traditional gifts for foreigners from India?
Then this handmade photo frame is perfect! Not only is it a cute and locally produced gift, but it’s also a gift that gives back! NOVICA is a fair-trade brand that provides fair wages for its artisans and uses its profits to support communities around the globe. Making this a win-win gift.
#34 India-themed jigsaw puzzle
This 1000-piece puzzle of Patrika Gate in India is another great gift for people who love India.
Are you looking for more gifts for a puzzle lover? You may also like my puzzle gift guide.
#35 Cosmetic bag
Do you need cute gifts for foreigners from India? Then this handmade cosmetic bag is perfect!
Both men and women can use this bag to store their toiletry items in Indian style!
#36 Sari journal
The cute coloring sari journals from Etsy are beautiful traditional Indian gifts for foreigners. They are handmade and support rural villages in India.
Alternatively, you could also check out Amazon for travel journals specifically designed for people traveling to India. Or check out the 25 travel journals here.
#37 India-themed socks
If you are looking for fun, random, and small Indian gift ideas for foreigners, this pair of socks might be a good gift for you. Socks are one of those essential items for everyone and with this Taj Mahal sign, the recipient can still enjoy some of India’s beauty, even when they’re not in India.
Save these gifts for foreigners from India
Don’t forget to save these Indian gift ideas for foreigners on Pinterest!
Traditional Indian Sweets and Beverages
Delight your senses with Indian sweets and drinks
Indian sweets and beverages are a feast for the senses, offering a delightful journey through the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the sweet, syrupy gulab jamuns to the tangy, refreshing lassi, Indian treats are a celebration of flavors and traditions.
Take, for instance, the beloved gulab jamun. These sweet, deep-fried dumplings soaked in a sugary syrup are a staple at Indian celebrations and a favorite among both locals and visitors. Then there’s the jalebi, a crispy, spiral-shaped treat that’s deep-fried to perfection and drenched in syrup, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
But it’s not just the sweets that steal the show. Indian beverages are equally enchanting. The spicy, aromatic chai is a daily ritual for many, offering a comforting blend of tea and spices. For a cooling treat, there’s the creamy lassi, a yogurt-based drink that’s perfect for hot summer days. And let’s not forget the array of fresh juices and smoothies, made with locally-sourced fruits and bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re indulging in a sweet treat or sipping on a refreshing drink, Indian sweets and beverages are a delicious way to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Home Decor and Furnishings
Bring a touch of Indian culture to your home
Transform your living space with the enchanting allure of Indian home decor and furnishings. From intricately hand-carved wooden furniture to vibrant, colorful textiles, Indian decor is a celebration of fine craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage.
Imagine a beautifully hand-carved wooden chair, its intricate designs telling stories of skilled artisans and timeless traditions. These pieces are not just furniture; they are works of art that bring a touch of Indian elegance to any home. Or consider the vibrant textiles, from hand-embroidered fabrics to colorful rugs, each piece a testament to India’s rich heritage and artistic flair.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Indian furnishings offer a world of possibilities, from plush cushions that add comfort and style to elegant lighting fixtures that create a warm, inviting ambiance. Decorative items, crafted with care and high-quality materials, add the perfect finishing touch to any room.
Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of furniture or a decorative item to infuse your home with Indian culture, these home decor and furnishings are a beautiful way to experience India’s rich cultural heritage. They are not just items; they are a celebration of India’s vibrant culture and fine craftsmanship.
Final notes on Indian gifts for foreigners
Alright, these were my 37 favorite gift ideas for foreigners from India! Though if you really want to my favorites, check out the top three by budget below!
Small budget: Sari-covered journal (#36)
Large budget: Chai tea gift set (#1)
Mid budget: Indian spices gift box (#13)
