Handicrafts of Karnataka
Karnataka is a melting pot of craft traditions from the Deccan plateau. The state is renowned for Mysore silk, Bidriware (inlaid metalwork), Channapatna wooden toys, Ilkal sarees, sandalwood carving, and the exquisite Mysore painting tradition.
Craft Heritage of Karnataka
Karnataka's craft traditions were shaped by the Hoysala, Chalukya, and Vijayanagara empires, which patronized stone carving, bronze work, and textile weaving. The Mysore kingdom under Tipu Sultan and the Wodeyars elevated silk weaving and sandalwood carving to royal arts. Bidar became the centre of the unique Bidriware craft — inlaying silver into blackened alloy.
Karnataka's crafts reflect its diverse cultural landscape. Mysore is the hub of silk weaving, painting, and sandalwood work. Channapatna's lacquered wooden toys are loved worldwide. The Lambani tribal embroidery of North Karnataka features distinctive mirror work. Udupi and coastal Karnataka are known for intricate palm-leaf weaving and Yakshagana mask-making.
Famous Craft Regions
GI Tagged Crafts
Shop Karnataka Crafts
View AllFrequently Asked Questions
What are the famous handicrafts of Karnataka?
Karnataka is famous for Mysore silk sarees, Bidriware (silver-inlaid metalwork from Bidar), Channapatna lacquered wooden toys, Mysore painting, sandalwood carving, Ilkal sarees, Lambani embroidery, Kinhal toys, and Ganjifa cards. Mysore is the main craft hub of the state.
What is Bidriware?
Bidriware is a unique metalwork craft from Bidar, Karnataka, where pure silver is inlaid into a blackened alloy of zinc and copper. The craft is over 500 years old, originating from Persian influence during the Bahmani Sultanate. The distinctive black-and-silver appearance is achieved through a special oxidation process using soil from Bidar Fort.
Explore More
More Regions to Explore
Discover Karnataka Handicrafts
Support artisans from Karnataka. Every purchase helps preserve centuries-old craft traditions.
Shop Now