Agra is famous for its marble and soft-stone inlay, as well as zardori-embroidered fabrics, leather goods, brassware, carpets, and jewelry. However, it's hard work dealing with what is probably the worst concentration of touts and scamsters in all India, so if you can, avoid shopping here. Unfortunately, there isn't a Cottage Industries Emporium - the government-owned shops that offer good, safe deals - in Agra. Beware of similarly named places that don't offer the same quality of goods. And remember that nearly everything you can find in shops here can be quite easily obtained in Delhi at half the price. If you absolutely must buy something to remind you of your visit here, Subhash Emporium (18/1 Gwalior Rd.; tel. 0562/222-5828) sells good-quality inlay work, souvenirs, and other gifts. Or make your way to one of the official government emporiums for reasonably priced sources of local handicrafts.
