govinda international imports

This little gem of a store is hidden upstairs in the Hari Krishna Temple (yes, I said Temple) off of Venice in Mar Vista. If you happen to be in the market for a great tunic, sari, pashmina, stacks and stacks of bangle bracelets or that hard to find Krishna prayer candle and incense burner - cheap - this is the one-stop-shop for you. The smell of incense burning will herald you upstairs where they sell clothing and accessories, mostly imported from India, for men, women and children. The quality of the embroidery and the variety of sizes and colors is amazing.

This store really is a find. The jewelry alone makes it worth the trip. All proceeds benefit the Temple. Expect to rub elbows with an interesting mix of devout Hari Krishnas, celebrities, stylists, hipsters and yoga Mommy's.

Tip: Grab some yummy Indian veggie hippy grub at Govinda's, the cafeteria downstairs attached to the Temple. Good stuff even for a flesh loving carnivore, like myself. There's a buffet and a salad bar, and you can pay by the pound or opt for the all you can eat. Wrap it all up with a piece of the surprisingly tasty Buckwheat Codicy Cake.

Hours can be sketchy, so when in doubt, call ahead.

3764 Watseka Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90034
(310) 204-3263