Traditional Arts & Crafts of Karnataka
Explore Karnataka's rich artistic legacy — from lustrous Mysore Silk to intricate Bidriware, colorful Channapatna toys to fragrant sandalwood carvings.
Famous Karnataka Handicrafts
Karnataka's artistic traditions showcase extraordinary skill passed through generations — from the royal workshops of Mysore to tribal artisans of North Karnataka.
Mysore Silk
Karnataka's pride — a luxurious silk fabric with natural sheen, rich texture, and pure gold zari borders. Originating during the Wodeyar dynasty, Mysore Silk sarees represent elegance and royal heritage.
Bidriware
A centuries-old metal craft from Bidar, known for stunning silver inlay work on a blackened zinc alloy surface. Popular items include vases, jewelry boxes, and trays.
Channapatna Toys
Eco-friendly wooden toys crafted using lacquer and natural vegetable dyes — spinning tops, dolls, and puzzles with a GI (Geographical Indication) tag for their sustainable artistry.
Ilkal Sarees
Handwoven sarees from Bagalkot district with bright red borders and signature pallu, combining cotton and silk with traditional 'tope teni' weaving techniques.
Kasuti Embroidery
Delicate folk embroidery from Dharwad and Hubballi showcasing geometric and floral motifs inspired by temple towers, chariots, and animals, hand-stitched on Ilkal sarees.
Sandalwood Carving
World-famous carvings from Mysuru creating idols, ornaments, boxes, and figurines. The delicate floral and mythological designs make it one of Karnataka's most prized heritage crafts.
Mysore Painting
Traditional South Indian artworks characterized by intricate brushwork, mythological themes, and gold leaf embellishments developed under royal patronage.
Kinhal Wood Carving
Practiced in the Raichur region, renowned for detailed depictions of deities and mythological themes. Made from softwood coated with natural colors to adorn temples and homes.
Leather Puppetry
Traditional shadow puppet theatre (Togalu Gombeyaata) — colorful puppets made from treated goat hide depicting stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Stone Carving
One of Karnataka's oldest crafts, seen in Hampi, Belur, and Halebidu. Artisans sculpt intricate designs on soapstone and granite, continuing the legacy of Hoysala craftsmanship.
Ganjifa Cards
Ancient hand-painted playing cards from Mysuru with mythological themes — circular in shape and beautifully detailed with natural dyes.
Bamboo Work
Common in the hilly areas of Coorg and Chikmagalur — artisans weave bamboo and cane into furniture, baskets, mats, and decor reflecting eco-friendly design.
Where to Buy Authentic Crafts
Government Emporiums
Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporiums in Bangalore and Mysore offer certified authentic handicrafts with quality guarantees.
Artisan Towns
Visit Channapatna for toys, Bidar for Bidriware, Mysore for silk and sandalwood, Ilkal for sarees, and Kinhal for wooden crafts.