Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in Siwan

Siwan

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the Top 10 souvenirs you should consider buying in Siwan, Bihar — perfect for visitors and first-time travelers who want meaningful and memorable keepsakes:


1. Traditional Handicrafts & Folk Art

In local markets such as Barhan Bazaar and nearby craft stalls, you’ll find expertly made handcrafted items like wooden carvings, decorative figurines, wall hangings, and small artifacts. These make excellent gifts and memories of Siwan’s craft culture.

Why it’s a great souvenir:

  • Locally made with regional styles
  • Perfect for home décor or gifting
  • Often handcrafted one-of-a-kind pieces

2. Madhubani-Style Paintings (Local Folk Art)

Though originally from the Mithila region of Bihar, Madhubani paintings are often available in Siwan’s gift & craft stores and are among Bihar’s most popular art forms. Intricate designs reflect mythological themes and local stories.

Tips for buying:

  • Look for original hand-painted work (not printed reproductions)
  • Frames or scrolls make them easier to take home

3. Sikki Grass Handicrafts

Made from fine golden grass (known as sikki), these woven items include baskets, boxes, dolls, and decorative pieces. This eco-friendly craft is traditional to Bihar and makes a meaningful souvenir.

Common Sikki items:

  • Trinket boxes
  • Small animal figures
  • Woven baskets

4. Traditional Textile Items

While not unique only to Siwan, you can find beautiful handloom fabrics, scarves, dupattas, and traditional cloth in local shops — many with subtle Bihar weaving touches.

Special note: Look for authentic handloom pieces over machine-made copies.


5. Local Sweets & Food Gifts

Bihar is famous for its sweets, and Siwan has vendor stalls selling delightful local treats. Some you can take home (especially if well-packed) include:

  • Tilkut (sesame and jaggery sweet) — Bihar speciality sweet popular in winter.
  • Laddoo, peda, kaju katli and other traditional sweets

Tip: Buy sweets sealed for freshness — local sweet shops can pack them for travel.


6. Sattu & Traditional Food Packets

Sattu (roasted gram flour) is a staple Bihari ingredient and makes an interesting edible souvenir. Whether as powder or in prepared mixes, it’s easy to carry and share with friends back home.


7. Handmade Accessories & Fashion Items

From locally made jewellery and fashion accessories to embroidered bags and belts, Siwan’s gift shops stock a variety of wearable souvenirs. These reflect both traditional and modern local tastes.


8. Books & Local Literature

Small bookshops in Siwan carry local history, folklore, and regional literature — nice mementos for readers who want to remember their trip through stories and perspectives from this part of Bihar.


9. Quirky Gift Shop Finds

From novelty items to custom keepsakes, shops like Unique Gift Gallery and other local galleries offer creative toys, decorative items, keychains, and personalised souvenirs — ideal for casual, fun gifts.



10. Cultural Keepsakes with Historical Motifs

While in Siwan, you’ll likely hear about Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s ancestral house in Ziradei — a national figure who was India’s first president. Though not always sold at every shop, postcards, posters, or framed memorabilia reflecting his legacy make meaningful cultural souvenirs.


Where to Shop in Siwan

Siwan has many gift and handicraft shops clustered in key markets like Chapra Road, Mairwa, Basantpur, Andar Road, and Station Road. These shops sell everything from artisan pieces to everyday gifts.


Tips for Buying & Packing Souvenirs

  • Haggle politely — many shops expect some bargaining.
  • Ask for gift wrapping if you’re traveling far.
  • Local sweets are best consumed or packed carefully since Bihar’s weather may affect freshness.
  • Art and handicrafts can be framed or box-packed for safe transport.

This guide should cover all the essential souvenirs you can buy in Siwan, ensuring you don’t need to look for any additional information while exploring the city.