Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal

Kunore Terracotta Pottery

Kunore is a village in the Kaliyaganj block whose potters have long been famous for hand-thrown and moulded clay/terracotta work, using clay sourced from the local tea-garden area. The craftsmen make plant tiles and tubs for small plants as well as telephone stands, lampshades, fancy idols and decorative tiles. Visitors to the village can watch the potters at work and buy pieces directly. It is one of the few dedicated terracotta craft clusters in the district, promoted by the district and West Bengal tourism departments.

Typical price: ₹50-1500

Buying tip: Visit Kunore village in the Kaliyaganj block (reachable via the Dalkhola/Kaliyaganj side of the district) to buy straight from the potters; small planters and tiles are the cheapest, decorative idols and lampshades cost more. Check that pieces are fully fired and free of cracks before buying.