Handloom Day 2025: Top 10 Indian Cities Known For Their Traditional Weaving

Every year on 7th August, India celebrates National Handloom Day — a tribute to the country’s rich textile heritage and the skilled hands that keep it alive. In 2025, honour the spirit of Indian craftsmanship by exploring the cities and towns where handloom isn’t just a profession, but a cultural legacy. From fine silks to intricate ikats, these ten destinations reflect India’s unmatched weaving diversity.

1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Home of Banarasi Silk Elegance

In Varanasi, centuries-old looms echo through narrow bylanes as artisans craft Banarasi silk sarees renowned for their Mughal-inspired patterns and opulent zari work. Every weave is a story of devotion, heritage, and royal splendour.

2. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu – The Golden Thread of the South

Known as the Silk City of India, Kanchipuram's weavers create radiant sarees with temple motifs, bold hues, and gleaming gold borders. A Kanjeevaram saree is not just fabric — it's a timeless heirloom passed through generations.

3. Bhuj, Gujarat – The Artistic Soul of Kutch

Bhuj is a vibrant tapestry of traditional textiles. From intricate extra-weft weaves to geometric Ajrakh block prints, every design mirrors the Kutch region’s identity, history, and tribal spirit.

4. Sambalpur, Odisha – Where Ikat Comes Alive

Sambalpuri Ikat is woven from yarns dyed before they’re threaded — resulting in mesmerising patterns that feel both ancient and modern. The bright, earthy tones narrate folklore through fabric.

5. Pochampally, Telangana – A Village Woven into UNESCO’s List

Just outside Hyderabad lies Pochampally, a town famed for its geometric ikat weaves. Recognised by UNESCO, the intricate dyeing and weaving techniques here produce sarees that blend mathematics and art.

6. Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh – The Whisper of Elegance

Light, sheer, and shimmeringly elegant, Chanderi sarees are perfect for summer sophistication. With fine motifs and subtle textures, the weaves reflect the quiet charm of the heritage town they come from.

7. Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh – Weaving Stories by the Narmada

Set beside the sacred Narmada River, Maheshwar is known for its cotton-silk sarees with signature reversible borders. The weaving tradition here flourishes under the patronage of the Rehwa Society, reviving royal legacies.

8. Mysuru, Karnataka – The Royal Route to Silk

Beyond its grand palaces and vibrant festivals, Mysuru spins a silk legacy of its own. Visit the KSIC factory to witness how shimmering Mysore silk sarees are crafted, from cocoon to couture.

9. Murshidabad, West Bengal – Mythology Woven in Silk

The once-glorious capital of Bengal Nawabs, Murshidabad still produces elegant Baluchari sarees that depict epic tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata in elaborate silk brocade panels.

10. Imphal, Manipur – Threads of Identity and Strength

Handloom in Manipur is a woman-led legacy. Explore Imphal’s markets to find Phanek, Rani Phi, and other traditional weaves that celebrate both resilience and artistic excellence.

Why Handloom Travel Matters

Handlooms go beyond beauty — they sustain livelihoods, preserve ancient techniques, and strengthen communities. This Handloom Day 2025, celebrate India’s craft heritage by experiencing it first-hand. Your journey could help keep these traditions alive.