Tamil Nadu offers a plethora of opportunities for shoppers. The rich cultural heritage is reflected in the arts and crafts originating from the state. These products crafted by artists and artisans have attained fame across the land and sea. Traditional items such as silk of Kanchipuram, Pattamara mats and the leaf, Tirunellveli's Palmyra-fibre handicrafts, bronze and brass castings and traditional jewelry from Kumbakonam, Tanjore's metal works and stone sculptures from Mahabalipuram are some of the much-sought-after products. 

The capital of the state, Chennai, is famous for its handlooms, especially the Kanchipuram silk, and cottons used for designer sarees, shirts and domestic use. The Co-optex showrooms in the city offer a wide variety of cottons and silks, while the Khadi Gramodyog outlets specialize in cottons. The Central Cottage Industries Emporium at Nandanam offers a variety of handicrafts. The city also boasts of some jewellery shops that specialize in making traditional, intricate designer jewellery patterns. Alwarpet region has some good shops selling contemporary arts and crafts.