Cooch Behar, West Bengal

Cane and Bamboo Handicrafts

Cooch Behar is famous for its bamboo and cane handicrafts, in which cane is first thoroughly processed to make it insect-resistant and waterproof before being woven into baskets, trays and household artefacts. The district's 'mutra' cane, the raw material of the GI-tagged sitalpati, grows mainly here and also feeds the craft industry. Cane basket dealers and wooden-handicraft makers operate in and around Cooch Behar town, and local artisan firms ship jute, wood and cane goods across India. Buyers get sturdy, naturally finished woven ware that is a practical souvenir of the district.

Typical price: ₹100-1500

Buying tip: Pick from the cane basket dealers in Cooch Behar bazar or from local artisan firms, and check that the cane shows the boiled/processed finish that resists insects and moisture. Larger baskets and storage pieces give the best value per rupee.