Thiruvananthapuram is a shopper's paradise especially for Kerala handicrafts. Here one can find the traditional handicrafts such as wood carvings, copperware, cane and bamboo furniture and crafts, lacquer ware etc. Although ivory goods have now been banned, inlay on wood carving, Kathakali masks and traditional fabrics can be bought at a number of shops.

Besides the usual fare of government craft shops, City's main shopping centers are Chalai Bazar, Connemara market, shops in Power House Road and M.G.Road, Attukal Shopping Complex (East Fort), Narmada Shopping Complex (Kaudiar), Kedaram (Kesavadasapuram) and the main road from Palayam to the East Fort. Most shops open from 9am-8pm daily except Sundays.

For the traditional silks, visit the shops around the Padmanabhaswamy temple. The Gurukirpa Sri Venkatrao's Silk Shop, Alappat House of Silks (0471-2478908) and Allukas are also located near by.  For foot wear Hollywood, Boots( 0471-2477301), Kings (0471-2333465), Attukal Mall are the best bet.