Whelp... It's happened again. You're awfully late for buying that perfect gift or holiday gift—plus, it's suddenly much more overwhelming to think of what to get. If you're running dry on ideas, don't stress—you've come to the right place. We've rounded up a list of the best gift shops in the city you can always turn to and be everybody's favourite person. Never again will you have to go through the awkward I-didn't-get-you-a-gift moment that all mortals fear.
8 Gift Shops In Bangalore That Are Perfect For All Gifting Occasions
Overview
Varnam Craft Collective
Varnam Craft Collective is an institution for anyone seeking a gift (or accessory, home decor, or toy) with a local flavour. Their main offerings include Channapatna-style toys and decor that are so charming, you'll just want to display them for all to see. Bottle openers shaped like dancers, actual dancers with bobbing heads, bugirees, and other indigenous-style toys that will entertain both children and adults alike. They also offer plenty of knick-knacks, such as storage jars, collectible animal sets, wall and door accents, and more. If that’s not quite your (or the recipient's) style, you can pick up their cotton shirts with playful prints, soft cotton sarees, or jewellery, featuring wood, lacquer, and Bidri work, among other styles.
Must-Buys: Lamps, Channapatana toys, home decor curious, and jeweller
Timings: 10 AM to 8:30 PM
Social Handle: Instagram
12/2
For conscious consumers, check out Twelvebytwo (12/2) for their thoughtful curations. Working closely with small brands, NGOs, local businesses, and passionate creators and designers, they have products that range from rare but local honeys, vintage tin collectables, and zero-waste personal care & wellness products to locally bottled condiments & pickles, handmade bags, artisan soaps and jewellery. They also periodically host lunch and dinner pop-ups with a curated menu at their cafe.
Must-Buy: Jewellery, vintage toys, home decor, and apparel
Timings: 10:30 AM to 7 PM. Sundays closed
Social Media: Instagram
Asiatic Arts And Crafts
Looking like it's straight out of Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, Asiatic Arts And Crafts in Commercial Street is crammed with antiques that seem like they're from a history book. For that friend with spy-level instincts or your self-proclaimed history-buff sibling, you'll find magnifying glasses that look like they once belonged to Sherlock Holmes, vintage telescopes perfect for stargazing, and old-school cameras with leather bags.
Must-Buys: Vintage cameras, vintage home decor pieces such as lamps and coffee table ornaments
Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM
The Entertainment Store
The Entertainment Store is the Mecca for comic nerds and pop culture enthusiasts in the city. Make sure to set aside a budget before you go in here, or risk emptying your bank account because the store has everything from The Godfather posters, lightsabers, Marvel and DC stuff (bobbleheads, T-shirts and more) and even comic books that you and your friends have probably spent years tracking down! The top floor houses music from iconic artists like The Beatles, Pink Floyd and Jimi Hendrix. For your gamer buddies, apart from old favourites including Mario, and Call of Warfare, there are FIFA and God of War’s latest editions too.
Must-Buys: Comic books, action figures, die-cast vehicles, collectables
Timings: 11 AM to 8:45 PM
Social Media: Instagram
Jute Pragnya
This small space in Malleshwaram is packed with jute everything, including a wide range of bags, accessories, and knick-knacks. Available in all kinds of colours and patterns, the bags are the biggest draw here. Surprise your friends with bags that feature Aztec prints, light embroidery, or portraits of celebrities like Marilyn Monroe or Michael Jackson. If you're over the jute bags, check out some of their offbeat jute jewellery (INR 50 upwards) and choose from bangles, earrings, and necklaces.
Must-Buys: Tote bags, Jute table organiser, and jewellery
Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM
Zwende Space
Zwende is your one-stop shop for all kinds of gifting, be it custom, handmade (as everything is in their catalogue), or even DIY. One of their most popular offerings are name boards that you can get made in a variety of styles, shapes and materials. Customise available options to suit the occasion or recipient. Their garden decor section has a bunch of lovely stained glass suncatchers that would delight anyone. Scented candles, nesting dolls, Christmas decor, journals and mandala colouring kits are also available. And if you're a DIY kinda person, they have arts and crafts supplies too for whatever your next project is. This also makes for a great gift for kids.
Must-Buy: Garden decor, home furnishings, home fragrances, and stationery
Timings: 11 AM to 6 PM. Sunday closed
Social Media: Instagram
The Bobble Street
We love ourselves pop-culture and anime gifts and if you have friends and family who share the same enthusiasm, be sure to get them something from The Bobble Street. The merchandise store stocks up on bobbleheads, action figures, figurines, posters, and accessories from almost every popular anime out there such as Dragon Ball, Demon Slayer, One Piece, Naruto, Sailor Moon, and Spy x Family.
Must-Buy: Posters, action figures, stickers, stationery, die-cast vehicles, and collectable
Timings: 11 AM to 10 PM
Social Media: Instagram
Playport
Playport is a haven for pop culture enthusiasts and it stocks up on merchandise from all your favourite TV shows to anime, and manga. Graphic tees, anime tees for all you Naruto, Bleach and One-Piece fanboys and girls. Plus bits and bops include keychains, bottle openers, wallets, badges, posters and stationery. The poster collection is perfect for anyone looking to adorn the walls of their bedroom or even office. There are a whole lot of action figures and model cars including Formula 1 cars.
Must-Buy: Die-cast cars, Formula 1 cars, graphic tees, and action figures
Timings: 12 noon to 9 PM
Social Media: Instagram
