What to Buy in Thailand – 21 Best Souvenirs from Thailand

Thailand, “the land of smiles” as it is very appropriately nicknamed, is a known treasure trove for travellers seeking unique and unforgettable experiences. From stunning beaches to ornate temples, and incredible adventure experiences – the best way to remember the delight of Thailand is to bring home a mindful souvenir. So if you have been thinking of what to buy from Thailand, or what the best souvenirs from Thailand are, read on for some inspiration!

For those wondering about what spices to buy in Thailand or what souvenirs to buy in Thailand, the country offers a diverse range of mementoes that encapsulate the country’s rich heritage. Explore the enchanting realm of Thai handicrafts, where artisans showcase their skills through beautiful ceramics, lacquerware, and hand-woven textiles. Immerse yourself in the flavours of Thailand that give Thai cuisine its distinct taste. Take home a jar of authentic Thai curry paste or a bag of fragrant jasmine rice to recreate the country’s culinary magic in your own kitchen. What is good to buy in Thailand you ask? Just about so much more!

Here is what travel bloggers from around the world have to say about what to buy in Thailand and what the best souvenirs from Thailand are:

🏝️Visiting Thailand? Here are a few quick links at a glance:
✈️Book Flights: Skyscanner for cheapest deals
🚤Book Transfers: 12goAsia
🛌Book Hotels: Booking and Expedia for best deals
🤳Best Thailand Tours: GetYourGuide, and Viator
🩺Global Travel Insurance: SafetyWing
🧴Sunscreen: Thank You Farmer (Reef Safe), Foxtale (SPF 70)

Hand Painted Elephants: The Best Souvenir from Thailand

By Belinda of The Global Curious

If you’ve been thinking of what to buy in Thailand for a meaningful memento, what about a gorgeous little elephant from the Elephant Parade shop? Nestled in the relatively new (but ultra-cool) One Nimman Chiang Mai complex, this social enterprise turns a typical souvenir into an artefact of hope and change for elephants.

Mosha is a real elephant – the inspiration behind Elephant Parade (a social enterprise working towards providing a source of income for elephant welfare and conservation). She’s a brave survivor who lost her leg to a landmine in the jungle on the Thai/ Myanmar border when she was 7 months old. She’s the first elephant in the world to receive a prosthetic leg, and Elephant Parade donates 20% of its profits to help her – and others like her – receive the care and protection they need. 

Mosha isn’t alone in the Elephant Parade lineup; the store is jam-packed with brightly coloured, hand-painted elephants in various sizes and poses – each one with a story and name of its local artist. If you’re artistically inclined, you can buy a plain elephant and paint it yourself. This is one of the best souvenirs from Thailand because they’re all absolutely adorable and a real contribution to Thailand’s elephant conservation.

So if you’re in Thailand’s biggest and most vibrant northern city, pop into Elephant Parade in One Nimman Chiang Mai and buy a quality souvenir that you’ll feel great about. Another quick tip: Anantara Chiang Mai is one of the best places to stay in the city!

Hmong Batik Textiles and Accessories

By Emily of Wander-Lush

Thailand is home to a huge array of ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong, the country’s second-largest ‘hill tribe’ group. Hmong families mainly live around the border regions, near Chiang Mai, Lampang and Mae Hong Son. As well as having their own language, cuisine and cultural rituals, one Hmong custom is creating beautiful textiles – and these items make for the best souvenirs from Thailand for anyone visiting the country’s north.

Check out some experiential tours to engage with the Hmong Tribe:

Warorot Market in Chiang Mai has a huge range of Hmong fabrics by the roll, children’s hats, accessories, and traditional clothing. Hemp fabric textiles are quite heavy and bulky, and brocade skirts can also be very heavy – but you will also find a range of lightweight cotton products ideal for carrying home. If you’ve been looking for inspiration on shopping in Thailand clothes, this might just be it!

If you’re wondering what to buy in Thailand or what clothes to buy in Thailand, one of the most iconic Hmong products is batik. The indigo-blue textile is patterned with intricate designs created with a resist-dyeing technique, where hot wax is applied to the fabric. Contemporary bags and wallets with swatches of traditional batik make for excellent gifts.

If haggling at the market sounds too overwhelming, plenty of shops in Chiang Mai sell ethical Hmong products. Thai Tribal Crafts Fair Trade is one of the most reputable.

Local Hmong Wine

Speaking of the Hmong Tribe, another one of the best souvenirs from Thailand is the local fruit wines made in Hmong villages in the country. Throughout my 2 months in Thailand, I only saw these local wines being sold at the Hmong market at Doi Inthanon National Park.

Check out some great Doi Inthanon National Park Tours:

Apart from textiles and apparel, these wines were being sold widely in the market. These were made from different kinds of fruit – from lychee to apricot, plum, strawberry and a lot more. These were quite reminiscent of the fruit wines you get back home in Himachal Pradesh but the one that stood out for me was the Black Ginger wine and needless to say, that’s the one I picked.

I was able to carry the wine bottle safely back to India in my checked-in bag. So if you happen to visit the national park, don’t forget to make a stop at the Hmong market and do some wine shopping. Wondering what to buy in Thailand? You’ve got your answer!

What to Buy in Thailand: Gold

By Rebecca of The Travel Scrapbook

Gold is one of the best souvenirs from Thailand because it represents both beauty and wealth. (Not to mention it is very inexpensive to buy gold in Thailand compared to other developed countries worldwide.) The intricate designs and craftsmanship of Thai gold jewellery are truly remarkable, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the country. There are many who travel to this stunning country for a Thailand honeymoon and choose to buy gold jewellery here due to the inexpensive prices and high quality.

Thailand has a deep cultural history intertwined with gold. It is considered a symbol of prosperity, luck, and protection. Gold is often used in religious ceremonies, such as weddings and Buddhist rituals, signifying blessings and good fortune. The craftsmanship and beauty of Thai gold reflect the country’s appreciation for the artistry and its reverence for tradition.

One of the best places to shop for gold in Thailand is Yaowarat, Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown. This bustling neighbourhood is renowned for its numerous gold shops, offering competitive prices and a vast selection. If you’ve been thinking of what to buy in Thailand, gold is a memorable way to bring a piece of Thailand home to you and your family.

Some of the best tours to explore Bangkok’s Chinatown:

Gold is generally allowed in both carry-on and checked-in luggage. However, it is recommended to check the regulations of your home country or any transit countries to ensure compliance with their customs policies. It’s also a good idea to keep the purchase receipts and declare the gold where necessary.

What to Buy in Thailand: Thai Curry Paste

By Kate of Kate Abroad

Thai cuisine is renowned for its rich and diverse curries, and the key to their authentic taste lies in the curry paste. If you’re wondering what to buy in Thailand, get curry paste so you gain the ability to recreate these mouth-watering dishes in your own kitchen and share the incredible flavours of Thailand with friends and family. Plus, it makes a great gift for any foodies in your life.

Each curry paste variety, such as red, green, or yellow, has its own distinct flavour profile and regional variations, so you can pick the one that reminds you most of your trip, or go for one of each to reflect the diversity of Thailand – making this one of the best souvenirs from Thailand. For example, red curry paste, which can be used as the base for khao soi, will always bring me back to Northern Thailand and is best purchased in the markets on the outskirts of Chiang Mai.

Curry paste is a convenient souvenir that can be packed in carry-on or checked luggage. Just remember that many countries will require you to declare it as a food product on your way home. It is lightweight and has a decent shelf life, allowing you to enjoy the taste of the country, long after you return home and your Thailand itinerary has come to an end!

Chips

Agreed, chips are not the first thing you think of when you look for the best souvenirs from Thailand…but hear me out. The variety of homemade chips available across Thailand simply blew my mind.

While visiting the Mae Klong Railway Market or Hoop Rom Market from Bangkok, I saw chips made from a whole number of fruits and veggies. Ranging from sweet potato and taro to even pumpkin crisps – this market had it all! I bought a packet of each and had a fun time sampling their different flavours and textures.

Another great place to buy a unique kind of chips was the Hmong market at Doi Inthanon National Park. I found mushroom chips here and they were so light and tasty. If you’ve been thinking of what to buy in Thailand, these chips are definitely worth considering, especially for cheap things to buy in Thailand.

Handpainted Thai Umbrellas

By Meenakshi of Polka Junction

Thailand and colours go hand-in-hand, and so do souvenirs and hand-painted umbrellas of this country.  And, if looking for perfect memorabilia to take back home as a gift to friends and family, then look no further than the handmade umbrellas of Bo Sang, as they are easy to carry even as carry-on luggage.

Crafted either out of silk, cotton or locally made paper called saa, these pretty and vibrant umbrellas are affordable and easy on the pocket. Varying in size and shape, they are also made waterproof with a coating of lacquer or oil. However, it is always better to check before buying them as these umbrellas are also often used in interior decor which aren’t made waterproof.

The best place to get these umbrellas is from the Bo Sang umbrella village in Northern Thailand, where they are crafted. Located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai City, Bo Sang is a tourist attraction in itself. Flooded with souvenir shops, umbrellas and Thai silk-making units, it has evolved over the years as a craft village.

Explore Bo Sang Umbrella Village tours:

Wood Carvings: Best Souvenirs from Thailand

By Lowri of Many Other Roads

When it comes to the best souvenirs from Thailand you’d typically take back, wood carvings are the way to go. Not only can you find them in all shapes and sizes so you can buy the perfect gift based on your budget, but they also make for beautiful decorations that will remind you of your time in Thailand every time you see them.  And because they’re generally quite light and compact, they can conveniently go in your hand luggage or suitcase– just make sure to wrap them in a towel if you want to avoid any damage during the flight.

There are so many places you can get these all over Thailand. But If you’re looking for a great selection of wood carvings, Baan Tawai in Chiangmai is the place to go. It’s a market filled with shops specializing in wood carvings, making it easy for you to find exactly what you need. It is also the cheapest place in Thailand to find other items like silk, candles and bamboo products. The wood carvings from Ban Tawai can be found in major tourist sites like Phuket and Bangkok but with a 200% markup on the price. So if you have been thinking of what to buy in Thailand with the best value for money, get your gifts here!  

Indigo Dyed Textiles: Best Souvenirs from Thailand

By Ketki of Explore With Cokats

While there is no dearth of souvenirs from Thailand, something that caught my eye during my trip was the indigo-dyed textiles for sale everywhere. 

In Thai, Indigo is called khram, the plant that is widely grown along the Songkhram River in the northeast region of Isan such as in the Nakhon Phanom and the Sakon Nakon provinces. Indigo dye is used for dyeing cotton threads and these threads are then woven by hand to create indigo-dyed fabrics. Fabrics such as cotton, jute and silk are used. These fabrics are then turned into dresses, skirts, stoles, purses and bedspreads. If you’ve been looking for inspiration on shopping in Thailand clothes, this might be a good fit!

The importance of indigo clothes is so much that the local farmers use indigo-dyed clothes in their paddy farms – as a uniform and women wear it daily during their household chores.

I especially loved the variety of indigo-dyed textiles at the Nakhon Phanom night market with many stalls selling a variety of souvenirs and clothes. The range is 200 – 1000 baht for different items. To answer your “what to buy in Thailand” or what clothes to buy in Thailand questions – these textiles are affordable, easy to pack and carry and also make for a unique gift representing a particular region.

What to Buy in Thailand: Thai Spices

By Melodie of Travel Must Do’s

Fresh spices are the best souvenirs from Thailand to bring home as it encapsulates the flavours of the region uniquely. The best place to purchase fresh spices is at any of the local markets or speciality shops all around Thailand. Visitors can take their time to explore and find the best ingredients for their cooking needs. Furthermore, you can take part in a Thai Cooking Class to learn all about the fragrant spices and how they are used in local dishes.

Here are some more Thai cooking classes to choose from:

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The range of flavours and aromas available is quite impressive, as you can find both sweet and savoury spices. If you want to know what spices to buy in Thailand, then lemongrass, chilli peppers, galangal, and ginger are good to start with. This makes them the best souvenirs from Thailand. These spices are allowed in carry-on and checked luggage as long as they’re properly sealed and labelled, so you don’t have to worry about them going bad or being confiscated at customs.

The cultural and historical significance of spices in Thailand is extensive. Spices were used medicinally by locals for centuries before they became a fundamental part of the cuisine. They also had symbolic meanings, as certain spices were thought to bring luck or good health.

If you’re looking for what to buy in Thailand to bring back home, then fresh spices are a great option for you.

Muay Thai Boxing Shorts

Muay Thai is an ancient traditional martial art in Thailand. It is a very popular thing in the country and I’m sure if you visit Thailand, you’ll come to know of a match happening near you, regardless of where you go. And across the country, you’ll also find several Muay Thai gyms where you can take classes to learn something new.

But the most interesting thing about Muay Thai for me is the colourful glittery shorts that boxers wear. And these shorts make for the best souvenirs from Thailand too. While roaming around the streets of the famous Khao San Road Market in Bangkok, I saw some of the most incredible colours, designs and patterns that I really think are your answer to what to buy in Thailand Bangkok – especially for cheap things to buy in Thailand!

Sak Yant Tattoo: Best Souvenirs from Thailand

By Hannah and Adam of Getting Stamped

Instead of purchasing your traditional knick-knack souvenirs from a market in Thailand, consider some of the best things to do in Thailand and get a commemorative tattoo to remember your amazing adventure. A tattoo is one of the best souvenirs from Thailand that will last time and takes up no room in your luggage! Not only is this a cool souvenir but a great way to learn more about the culture and spiritual significance of monks in Thailand.

This is a very unique tattoo as it is not created with a tattoo gun but instead is done by a monk using a metal rod. The Sak Yant Tattoo is customized to each person as the tattoo is said to be blessed with magical powers, but the monk creating the tattoo will design yours based on what they feel you need protection from. You can also discuss with the monk completing the tattoo what protection you would prefer, and they will choose the appropriate design. So while my husband and I both got a tattoo this day, ours look similar yet different based on the protection the monk decided we needed.

So if you’ve been thinking of what to buy in Thailand, you can instead get a clean and safe Sak Yant tattoo in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Ayutthaya, and Sukhothai with this company. We used this company when getting our Sak Yant tattoos in Chiang Mai.

Explore more activities in Chiang Mai:

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What to Buy in Thailand: Herbal Inhalers

By Saran of ExpatDen

It’s one of the many things that fascinated me when I first came to Thailand. Thais call it ya dom; but known to the average farang as herbal inhalers. And as far as I knew then, they were only used when one has a stuffy nose. Until I had my first vertigo attack at the Onnut BTS station and one lady came to my aid with a dab of Tra Poy Sian eucalyptus oil on my temples. From that day onward, a herbal inhaler became my favourite item. I always bring them home as they are the best souvenirs from Thailand to my friends in the Philippines. And they all love it! This is one of the best cheap things to buy in Thailand too.

These herbal inhalers in tubes can be used in two ways. One end for sniffing, the other for dabbing. The other variants that come in a small bottle are what I call the OG of herbal inhalers. Instead of oil, the Hong Thai brand contains boiled herbs that were dried. The smell can be pungent at times, but I find them more potent than the tube ones. You can even try this Thai inhaler-making class in Phuket!

If you’re thinking about what to buy in Thailand, the ya dom is very inconspicuous and they can be easily stored in a purse or pocket. The ya dom has transcended its use not only as a household item but as a cultural thing. It won’t be easy to find a Thai person without a ya dom in the pocket!

Flower Soap Carvings: Best Souvenirs from Thailand

By Tasha of Backpackers Wanderlust

One of my best souvenirs from Thailand that I brought back was actually a hand-carved soap flower. You can find these at markets all throughout the country, though Chiang Mai is where they are the most popular. Numerous stalls sell them on the ever-popular Sunday Chiang Mai Night Market. Usually, they will cost 100 to 200 THB. Though as with any stall in Thailand, it is expected that you will haggle for the best price, so don’t be surprised if you get quoted higher at first. 

While spending 3 days in Chiang Mai I was thinking of what to buy in Thailand to take home so started looking online at options where I found a soap carving class. It takes 2 hours and in this time, you will be able to carve 2 different flowers with a local master teaching you how to do so. I did cut my hands a couple of times, so if you are a bit clumsy maybe this isn’t the best activity for you.

In terms of getting it back home, you can travel with it as a carry-on or checked-in as it is not a liquid. I also had no issues bringing it into New Zealand which is notorious for its strict customs regulations.  Nevertheless, you can keep this souvenir as a decoration, or actually use it once you are home. I decided to keep it, and it still looks exactly the same as the day I made it a couple of years ago!

What to Buy in Thailand: Dried Mango

By Victoria of Guide Your Travel

Dried mangoes are one of the best souvenirs from Thailand to take back home. With their sweet and tangy flavour, they make for a delightful treat and a perfect gift to share with friends and family.

One of the best places to shop for dried mangoes in Thailand is the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok. You can explore the stalls and sample different varieties of dried mangoes before selecting the ones you like best. To answer your “what to buy in Thailand Bangkok” questions, dried mangoes make are special because the drying process enhances the mango’s taste and creates a chewy texture that is irresistible.

Some top market tours in Bangkok:

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When it comes to transportation, dried mangoes can be safely packed in checked-in luggage or carried on board. They are not restricted items and can be brought back home without any issues. However, it is recommended to check the customs regulations of your home country regarding the import of food products.

Coconut Oil and Products

By Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop

Thai coconut oil and its products are some of the best souvenirs from Thailand that capture the essence of this tropical country. Thai culture and cuisine are deeply ingrained in coconut oil. Thai coconut oil is known for its purity because it is extracted using traditional methods from freshly harvested coconuts. Coconut oil is well-known for its numerous health benefits, which include promoting heart health, immune system support, and skin and hair nourishing, answering your questions about what skincare to buy in Thailand!

Bringing authentic coconut oil and its products back as a souvenir from Thailand allows you to share the country’s rich heritage and wellness traditions with loved ones. It’s a meaningful gift that embodies Thailand’s flavours, scents, and natural goodness. It’s the perfect answer if you’re wondering about what to buy in Thailand.

Coconut oil and related products are widely available in Thailand and the best place to buy are local markets such as Klangson Market and Chatuchak Market.

Learn how to make coconut oil or get a coconut oil massage in Thailand. Here are some options:

Coconut oil and its products are generally permitted in checked luggage on domestic flights within Thailand. It is critical to check the regulations of both the departure and arrival countries when flying internationally. It may be more convenient to purchase coconut oil products in sealed containers with proper labelling from reputable sellers to ensure hassle-free travel.

Butterfly Wing Earrings

Butterfly farms are one of the most popular things to do in Thailand. They can be found across the country and are a great way to acquaint yourself with different species of butterflies roaming free in a habitat curated for them with beautiful blooming flowers.

And once these butterflies die, their wings are carefully preserved in resin and turned into gorgeous earrings that can be found in many markets in Thailand too. The best butterfly earrings I saw were at the Mae Klong Railway Market in Bangkok and in the Koh Lanta Old Town.

These butterfly wing earrings are cheap, lightweight and easy to carry and make for the best souvenirs from Thailand. (I brought home a pair each for my sister and mother). If you’re wondering what to buy in Thailand Bangkok, this might just be the perfect answer for you!

Hammocks: Best Souvenirs from Thailand

By Janice of Gather and Go Travel

While on a five-week trip, we bought some of the best souvenirs from Thailand that we had to ship a box home! Though out of the things we bought, my favourite and longest-lasting was a woven fabric hammock. Several years after our trip—and each time I head to our backyard, swing my legs up, and settle in for a gentle sway with blissful relaxation in our hammock—I remember all the best parts of our time spent in Thailand.

Since Thai hammock fabric is light and rolls down—sometimes even into its own pouch—a hammock makes for an excellent and transportable souvenir, especially if you know you have an indoor or outdoor place to hang it. We carried ours home in checked luggage. You may even be able to fit yours into a carry-on. This is definitely our answer to every “what to buy in Thailand” query.

Although we bought our hammock from a souvenir shop on Kho San Road that has since closed, you can find them at several shops in and around the Kho San area, especially ones that sell home goods. We chose a durable cotton fabric hammock for easy cleaning. Over the years, we have thrown it in the wash several times, hung it to dry, and have been beyond pleased that the hammock has maintained its colour, shape, and strength well.

What to Buy in Thailand: Thai Tea

By Tiana of Where Tiana Travels

One of the best souvenirs from Thailand we got is the famous Thai Tea. Thai Tea is a popular drink in the country and is a unique blend of Thai black tea, star anise, and tamarind. It’s usually served iced and topped with coconut milk or condensed milk. It’s sweet, creamy, and slightly aromatic. And it’s unlike anything you’ve had before! 

Thai tea dates back to the reign of King Rama V. It was introduced as a way of demonstrating the country’s modernity. Today, it’s more than just a drink, it’s a part of Thai identity, a symbol of Thai hospitality. And what’s more, it’s one of the best souvenirs from Thailand and an easy answer to all “what to buy in Thailand” questions. Before you buy a can, you can even experience a Modern Thai High Tea afternoon!

You can easily find Thai tea in any of the bustling street markets or even in the local grocery stores or 7-Elevens. Thai tea comes in compact, vacuum-sealed bags, so it’s easy to travel with and perfect for stuffing into that last empty corner of your suitcase. But here’s the catch: they’ve gotta go in your checked luggage. I know you want to keep your precious cargo within arm’s reach, but airport security rules are strict about this.

Sarong From Jim Thompson

By Marquis of Kiki La Gringa

A sarong is a versatile piece of cloth that can be worn in multiple ways and it is one of the best souvenirs from Thailand. Sarongs have a cultural significance in most Asian countries and each culture has its own unique print, weaving techniques, or use as traditional dress. If you’ve been looking for inspiration on shopping in Thailand clothes, a sarong makes for a good fit. It’s also one of the best luxury gifts from Thailand.

One of the best places to buy a sarong is the Jim Thompson Museum in Bangkok. The museum is the former home of Jim Thompson, an American businessman who made a fortune in producing and selling Thai silk. Thompson is credited for revitalizing the Thai silk industry after World War II. The museum is composed of traditional Thai houses made of teak, and the structures were built without any nails. The mandatory guided tour through the opulent home takes visitors to a collection of Thai art, a lovely garden, and a silk weaving demonstration.

Some tours to the Jim Thompson House in Bangkok that are worth checking out:

The gift shop is where sarongs, silk clothes, and other accessories can be bought. The sarongs have intricate designs, which makes them different from other shops in town. Plus, they are lightweight and can be easily packed into a carry-on or worn as a scarf for the plane ride home – so you don’t have to worry if you’re wondering about what to buy in Thailand Bangkok and what clothes to buy in Thailand!

Traditional Thai Paintings

By Catherine of Nomadicated

Traditional Thai art paintings are not only beautiful decorations for your wall, but each depiction holds a significant cultural significance, making them some of the best souvenirs from Thailand. These paintings have a long history, evolving from cave paintings to mural temple paintings to portable pieces, such as scrolls and hand-held fans. 

Artists use natural pigments made from plants and minerals, while materials may include gold leaf, cloth, silk, and even rice paper. Many traditional Thai paintings depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and are found in most religious places, even modern attractions like Chiang Rai’s White Temple. Bangkok’s Chatuchak Weekend Market and Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar or the Phuket Walking Street are great places to discover a wide selection of high-quality works from local artists. Or you can try this Thai art painting tour in Phuket! Either way, these paintings are your definite answer to “what to buy in Thailand Phuket”.

As for carrying these paintings, vendors will wrap the art up in sturdy paper or a container tube, so they should be safe to take as a carry-on or checked-in luggage. However, smaller pieces would be much easier to bring back without damage.

What to Buy in Thailand – Frequently Asked Questions

What best things we can buy from Thailand?

There’s so much to pick from if you’re thinking about what to buy in Thailand for souvenir. There’s something in Thailand for everyone. From spices to tea, textiles and apparel to local snacks and even wine and art. There’s no dearth of souvenirs to pick from in Thailand!

What is Thailand cheap for?

Thailand is known for its cheap gold, snacks, clothes and jewellery.

What is famous in Thailand for gift?

Some of the best souvenirs from Thailand you can gift someone include Thai sarongs, Thai curry paste and spices, Hmong textiles and other goods, Thai inhalers and balms and a lot more.

Is gold cheaper in Thailand than India?

Yes, gold in Thailand is cheaper than gold in India. Thailand comes second after Dubai in the list of places with gold cheaper than India.