pexels-roger-brown-3435524-5433851

Indigenous Handicrafts of Meghalaya

Besides being the "abode of clouds", Meghalaya is home to indigenous handicrafts. The art and craft of Meghalaya have evolved over the centuries. Among several local art forms, the most popular is the woodcarving of Meghalaya.

We have curated the ultimate list of the most popular crafts of Meghalaya!

Woodcarving of Meghalaya

Woodcarving is one of the state's cottage industries. Originating around the Garo Hills by the tribal people, today woodcarving can be seen everywhere in the state. It is very common to find wooden sculptures in temples across Meghalaya. The artisans spend days carving toys primarily of people, animals, and birds. These incredible sculptures can be bought from the handicraft market in Shillong. The city's main shopping centres are Police Bazaar and Laitumkhrah. Additionally, Bara Bazaar is another famous market for soaking in the smell and beauty of Meghalaya’s handicrafts.

abhijit-chirde-HQuYAV2Zaak-unsplash

The State's Incredible Bamboo Craft

For those intrigued by history and archaeology, the Pilak Archaeological Site is a must-visit. Situated near the border with Bangladesh, about 100 kilometres from Agartala, Pilak is a treasure trove of ancient artefacts, sculptures and terracotta carvings dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries. The site is scattered with remnants of Hindu and Buddhist cultures, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s rich heritage. Exploring Pilak feels like stepping back in time, making it a perfect offbeat destination for history enthusiasts.

If you are someone who absolutely loves handmade items, the handicrafts of Meghalaya will not disappoint you. From combs to buckets, a variety of items are crafted by the local people. One of the prominent ones is the Khasi bamboo comb. The locals take pieces of bamboo together and assemble them to make the combs. Often, you will find intricate hand-carved designs on the comb. Among others are winnowing fans made from special strands of cane. Handmade mud shovels are also widely used across the state for building and constructing. These are mostly made in Shillong using three bamboo splints woven together to give them a shovel shape.

leyla-m-Dxtt4o  kNg-unsplash

Wrap Yourself in Beautiful Handwoven Textile

The handicrafts of Meghalaya remain incomplete without exploring the spectacular textile industry. The locals create unique patterns on shawls, clothing, and other household items made of cloth while preserving their cultural legacy. In Meghalaya, the Eri silk is prized for its durability and texture. Meghalaya's women typically wear a type of cloth called Jainsen made from mulberry silk. If you are in Shillong, do not forget to get yourself a colourful shawl as a relic. Meghalaya Angami shawls are made with colourful threads or wool and reminisce about the glory of Meghalaya's past. Among the textile stitches, the most famous ones are Mikir, Taipchi and Pashni. Crafts of Meghalaya know no bounds and continue to evolve with time and technology.

As you explore the varied collection of art and craft in Meghalaya, treat yourself to an extravagant stay at Woodstock Farmhouse, Shillong, a rock-n-roll themed resort in Shillong. The boutique resort is beautifully decorated and inspired by rock and roll culture and the Woodstock Festival of 1969. So, pamper yourself with the best when you visit Shillong!

Related Blogs

floating- hotel-exterior (1)

Celebrate the New Year in Kolkata on a floating hotel! Enjoy river views, great food, live music, and unforgettable memories at Polo Floatel. Book your spot now.

A forest with thick green layer of vegetation in the foreground with a misty sky covering the mountain ranges at a distance.

This 4-day itinerary takes you through the heart of this northeastern gem, covering the misty hills of Cherrapunjee, the serene landscapes of Tura, and the bustling yet scenic city of Shillong.

a pile of phuchkas - polo floatel kolkata

Kolkata’s cuisine goes beyond its famous sweets, reflecting influences from British, Parsi and Mughal cultures. From rich meat dishes to fresh seafood and classic desserts, the city offers a diverse culinary experience.

view of howrah bridge at night - polo floatel kolkata

One of Kolkata's most recognisable monuments, the Howrah Bridge spans the Hooghly River to connect Kolkata with the nearby industrial city of Howrah.

rohit-dey-57e6xbb1S9M-unsplash

Dive into the vibrant cultural heritage of Northeast India with our guide to the diverse folk dances that grace its lands.

Aerial view of the Seven Sisters Falls, where water cascades from towering cliffs draped in lush green trees.

Dive into the vibrant cultural heritage of Northeast India with our guide to the diverse folk dances that grace its lands.

aniket-banerjee-LC5DvLqnxNA-unsplash

Discover the vibrant culture of Tripura through its colourful festivals. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and diverse heritage of this northeastern Indian state.

chandan-parihar-rRA1cAcCpY8-unsplash

Discover one of Meghalaya’s most striking natural attractions, a dramatic 335-metre plunge waterfall near Sohra (Cherrapunjee). Surrounded by lush cliffs and misty landscapes, the falls are known for their breathtaking views and the poignant local legend of Ka Likai associated with them.

mrinmoy-hJQY7 cCaIg-unsplash

Mawlynnong, known as Asia’s cleanest village, blends lush greenery with strong Khasi traditions, offering a serene glimpse into a community rooted in cleanliness, sustainability, and harmony.

A waterfalls running down a cliff

Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon waterfalls in Meghalaya and explore a hidden abode. The Blue Lagoon is the perfect place for a refreshing swim amidst the verdant lush mountains of Meghalaya.

A beautiful landscape of Shillong featuring lush green mountains with a bright blue sky and distinctive clouds floating over it.

Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon waterfalls in Meghalaya and explore a hidden abode. The Blue Lagoon is the perfect place for a refreshing swim amidst the verdant lush mountains of Meghalaya.

An aerial view of the rolling hills in the Northeast with a group of tourists overlooking them from a view point.

Explore some of the offbeat places in Tripura with our guide to hidden gems like Jampui Hills and Chabimura. Make your stay unforgettable at Hotel Polo Towers in Agartala, offering luxury and comfort for the perfect Tripura getaway.

the-gambia-ikDsTxHn9-g-unsplash

Meghalaya’s crafts reflect its rich tribal heritage, with intricate woodcarvings and finely woven bamboo and cane products. From sculptures and toys to baskets and mats, these handcrafted pieces showcase skilled artistry and are widely found in local markets like Shillong’s vibrant bazaars.

pexels-pixabay-39288

Beyond its misty landscapes, Meghalaya delights with unique local flavours, especially the much-loved Sohphie fruit, an iconic delicacy that holds a special place in the region’s culinary identity.

aj-McsNra2VRQQ-unsplash

Celebrate the phenomenal Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong with your close ones. Visit some of the places that get decorated with the pink blooms!

pexels-sonika-agarwal-1264788-9461018

Tripura, a serene gem of Northeast India, blends rich tribal diversity with deep-rooted history. From ancient references to the Manikya dynasty, its heritage reflects a vibrant cultural legacy shaped over centuries.

pexels-cottonbro-3171768

Kolkata comes alive with vibrant New Year celebrations, blending global festivities with cultural traditions like Chinese New Year and Poila Baisakh, creating a lively, diverse festive spirit.

pexels-nishantaneja-5491495

Let us explore how the Poush Sankranti festival brings people together in Tripura to celebrate cultural heritage and the bounty of the harvest.

daniel-pelaez-duque-YCNbx2AbxTE-unsplash

The Khasi tribe of Meghalaya follows a matrilineal system where lineage and inheritance pass through women, with the youngest daughter inheriting family property and husbands living with the wife’s family.

pexels-ksphotography-13243817

Dive into Tripura's culinary legacy as we unveil Agartala's famed traditional dishes. Indulge in Mui Borok, Bamboo Shoot- Muya Awandru, and other local delicacies. Elevate your stay at Polo Hotel Agartala, where comfort meets authentic Tripura dining experiences.

A view of living root bridge in Meghalaya, crossing a river in a lush forest | Polo Resort Cherrapunjee

This is a perfect 2 day itinerary for Cherrapunjee. Cherrapunjee is known for its unique climate, untouched forests, adventurous trails & its overall natural beauty. A trip to Cherrapunjee is all you need to refresh your senses with a rush of adrenaline & spending time amidst the beauty of nature, as you explore the things to do & places to see.

Ujjayanta Palace

Ujjayanta Palace, a historic palace in Agartala, Tripura, served as the royal residence of Tripura kings until 1947. Transformed into the Tripura Legislative Assembly, it boasts a museum highlighting the region's cultural heritage. Polo Hotel Agartala, is the ideal choice for visitors exploring Ujjayanta Palace and other attractions in Agartala.

Series of waterfalls falling down the rocks

Discover the enchanting Lyngksiar Waterfall and immerse yourself in nature's beauty as you witness these cascading waters near Cherrapunjee. Plan your perfect getaway to this breathtaking waterfall.

abdul-raheem-kannath-SF8PdZUYj9I-unsplash

Khasi cuisine from Meghalaya offers a unique culinary experience rooted in tribal traditions, featuring rice, pork, and a variety of rich, lesser-known regional flavours.

indra-azzikri-wt-QLG1r-Mw-unsplash

For the intrepid traveller seeking an adrenaline rush amidst breathtaking scenery, the bamboo trek in Meghalaya offers an unforgettable experience, also known as the Mawryngkneng Trek. In this blog, we will uncover this trek, the distance, the difficulty and things to remember.

abhishek-chakraborty-d2eVURGcqjc-unsplash

Kolkata in winter offers cool, pleasant weather and a festive charm, with vibrant celebrations like Durga Puja, Kali Puja, Christmas, and New Year drawing visitors from around the world.

a man boating on the crystal clear water of the Dawki River

Dawki is a small village nestled in the southern part of Meghalaya. Surrounded by idyllic riverside camps like Shnongpdeng and Darrang, Dawki is a quaint haven amidst the lush green mountains, crystal clear water and a bountiful amount of fresh air. Take a break from the bustling of city life and embark on a therapeutic journey at Dawki, Meghalaya.

A large and vibrant Durga Puja idol, showing the goddess Durga with ten arms slaying a demon. She is surrounded by her children: Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya.

The City of joy vibrates throughout the year with numerous festivals. Let's check out the vibrant celebrations that light up every corner of Kolkata!

abdul-raheem-kannath-SF8PdZUYj9I-unsplash

Shillong offers a rich culinary experience with local Khasi delights like Jadoh, Tungrymbai, Doh Khlieh, and popular favourites like momos, blending tradition with bold flavours.

More than
a stay, it is an experience.

Continue your booking