Walk into the government-run Cauvery Arts and Crafts Emporium on Sayyaji Rao Road around 10 AM and you’ll smell authentic sandalwood before seeing the intricate carvings. Since 1964, this Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation outlet remains the only official government store in the state where fixed prices mean no haggling – a 6-inch Ganesha costs exactly 2,850, unlike private shops charging 4,000-8,000.
Quick Cauvery Emporium Information
Location: Sayyaji Rao Road, 2 km from Mysore Railway Station
Timings: Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Contact: +91-821-2425789
Parking: Free street parking available
Online Store: cauveryhandicrafts.net
Payment: Cash, UPI, Cards accepted
Authentic Karnataka Handicrafts Collection
The emporium specializes in Karnataka’s traditional crafts established over centuries. Sandalwood carvings from Mysore remain the flagship product, with items ranging from 150 small keychains to 50,000 elaborate sculptures. Each piece comes with authenticity certificates proving genuine sandalwood origin.
Rosewood inlay work showcases intricate designs on jewelry boxes (800-3,500), photo frames (450-1,200), and furniture pieces. Channapatna lacquer toys, the famous wooden toys in bright colors, cost 80-800 depending on size and complexity.
Sandalwood Products and Pricing
Genuine Mysore sandalwood products carry the distinctive fragrance that lasts for years. Small figurines start at 800, while detailed Ganesha idols range from 2,850 to 15,000. The emporium’s pricing remains consistent year-round, unlike private shops that fluctuate based on tourist seasons.
- Sandalwood soap sets: 350-650 per box
- Essential oils: 1,200-3,500 for 10ml bottles
- Carved elephants: 1,800-8,500 based on size
- Religious figurines: 2,850-25,000 range
How to Reach Cauvery Emporium
By City Bus: Take bus numbers 201, 118, or 119 from City Bus Stand. Get down at Sayyaji Rao Road stop, 2-minute walk.
By Auto: From Mysore Palace costs 60-80 by meter. Most drivers know the location.
Walking: 15-minute walk from Devaraja Market via Sayyaji Rao Road.
Mysore Silk Sarees and Textiles
The textile section features authentic Mysore silk sarees priced 8,500-45,000 depending on design complexity and gold thread work. Each saree comes with a silk mark certification ensuring quality. The emporium also stocks Ilkal sarees (2,500-6,000) and Navalgund durries (1,200-4,500).
Bangalore silk sarees, slightly different from Mysore varieties, range 6,500-25,000. The staff explains differences between various silk types and helps customers choose appropriate options for occasions.
Bidri Ware and Metal Crafts
Bidri ware from Bidar features distinctive black metal with silver inlay work. Decorative plates cost 850-3,200, while jewelry boxes range 650-2,800. The traditional hookah bases (2,500-8,500) remain popular among collectors.
Mysore Traditional Paintings
Mysore painting style features intricate gold leaf work on mythological themes. Small paintings (6×8 inches) start at 2,200, while large pieces (24×36 inches) reach 15,000-35,000. Each painting requires 2-3 months to complete using traditional techniques.
- Ganesha paintings: 2,200-8,500
- Dasara scenes: 3,500-12,000
- Royal portraits: 5,500-25,000
- Religious themes: 1,800-15,000
Warning About Fake Cauvery Shops
Multiple private shops use “Cauvery” in their names to confuse tourists. The official government emporium is only at Sayyaji Rao Road with the KSHDCL certification displayed prominently. Fake shops charge 2-3 times higher prices and sell inferior quality products.
Always check for the official Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation board and ask for bills with GSTIN number. Private shops often quote 5,000 for items available at 1,500 in the genuine emporium.
Gift Packaging and Shipping Services
The emporium provides free gift wrapping for purchases above 1,000. Domestic shipping costs 200-500 depending on weight and destination. International shipping available to 25+ countries with proper documentation for sandalwood products.
Best Time to Visit and Crowds
Weekday mornings (10-11 AM) offer the most relaxed shopping experience with full staff attention. Afternoon hours (2-4 PM) see tourist groups making browsing difficult. Avoid weekends during Dasara season when the emporium becomes extremely crowded.
Shopping Tips and Bargaining
Government emporium maintains fixed prices with no bargaining possible. However, bulk purchases above 10,000 may qualify for 5-8% discounts during festival seasons. Ask about ongoing schemes and combination offers for multiple items.
- Carry cash for faster transactions during peak hours
- Check product authenticity certificates before purchase
- Compare prices with online store for reference
- Ask for care instructions for sandalwood items
What Not to Expect at Cauvery Emporium
Don’t expect extensive variety like private markets. The focus remains on quality over quantity. No bargaining culture exists here, which some tourists find disappointing. Limited contemporary designs as emphasis stays on traditional crafts.
Nearby Shopping and Attractions
Devaraja Market sits 800 meters away for spices, flowers, and local products. Mysore Palace is 1.5 km for post-shopping sightseeing. The Government Silk Factory on Manandavadi Road offers factory tours and additional silk shopping options.
Online Shopping vs Store Experience
The official website cauveryhandicrafts.net offers 60% of store inventory with home delivery. However, in-person shopping allows touching sandalwood to check quality and fragrance. Store staff provides detailed product history and maintenance guidance unavailable online.
Local’s Verdict on Cauvery Emporium
Reliable for authentic products with guaranteed quality, though prices are 20-30% higher than wholesale markets. Worth visiting for first-time sandalwood buyers who need authenticity assurance. The fixed pricing eliminates haggling stress but may not offer best deals for experienced shoppers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the exact timings of Cauvery Arts and Crafts Emporium?
Monday to Saturday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Sundays and government holidays.
How can I verify authentic Cauvery products vs fake shops?
Check for KSHDCL certification board, official bills with GSTIN, and location at Sayyaji Rao Road only.
Do sandalwood products from Cauvery emporium last long?
Authentic sandalwood maintains fragrance for 15-20 years with proper care and storage.
Can I return products if not satisfied with quality?
Returns accepted within 7 days with original bill and unused condition. Shipping charges applicable.
What’s the price difference between emporium and private shops?
Emporium prices are 40-60% lower than tourist-focused private shops but 20-30% higher than wholesale markets.
Last Updated: January 2025
Next Update: Pre-festival season 2025