Craft guides · 7 min read · Updated Jun 20, 2026
Indian crafts by region: a state-by-state guide
India's crafts are deeply local — a technique perfected in one town over centuries. Knowing the map helps you buy the genuine article from the place that does it best.
North
- Kashmir: Pashmina shawls, walnut wood carving, papier-mâché.
- Uttar Pradesh: Banarasi silk (Varanasi), brassware (Moradabad), chikankari embroidery (Lucknow).
- Rajasthan: blue pottery (Jaipur), block-printed textiles (Bagru, Sanganer), miniature painting.
West
- Gujarat: Bandhani tie-dye, Patola double-ikat, mirror-work embroidery.
- Maharashtra: Paithani silk, Warli painting, Kolhapuri leather.
South
- Tamil Nadu: Kanjivaram silk, Thanjavur bronze and painting.
- Karnataka: Mysore silk and sandalwood, Channapatna lacquered wooden toys.
- Kerala: coir, Aranmula metal mirrors, screw-pine weaving.
East & Northeast
- West Bengal: Kantha embroidery, terracotta, Dhokra metal casting.
- Odisha: Ikat (Sambalpuri), Pattachitra painting, silver filigree.
- Assam & the Northeast: Muga and Eri silk, cane and bamboo, tribal weaves.
Frequently asked
- Why does region matter so much for Indian crafts?
- Because the skill, materials, and design are place-specific and passed down locally. The genuine version of a craft usually comes from its home region — which is exactly what a GI tag protects.
- Can I browse haat by craft region?
- You can browse by category and discover the maker's city and state on each listing, so you know where a piece truly comes from.
Keep reading
- A guide to Indian handwoven textiles · Craft guides
- Where to buy authentic Indian handicrafts online · Buying
- A gifting guide to Indian handicrafts · Craft guides