Golconda Visitors Can Buy Souvenirs at Smarnika Store
Smarnika outlet will offer monument-themed souvenirs and promote local handicrafts.
Hyderabad: Visitors to Golconda Fort will soon be able to buy souvenirs, with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) set to make its Smarnika store fully functional by July 15.
ASI superintending official, Hyderabad Circle, Dr Nihil Das, said the store had begun operations and would be stocked further ahead of its formal launch. The outlet will offer customised products, including handicrafts and items inspired by the monument.
“The idea is to give visitors something memorable to take home instead of merely visiting the monument and leaving. The souvenirs are also expected to promote local handicrafts and generate employment opportunities," he said.
The Smarnika initiative has been introduced by the ASI at 57 monuments across the country. In Telangana, the facility has also been set up at Ramappa Temple and Warangal Fort.
The initiative was earlier implemented at sites such as Red Fort and Qutub Minar before being expanded to other heritage monuments.
