What Makes Meghalayan Crafts Distinctive
Meghalaya's crafts reflect three tribal traditions — Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo — each with distinct textile and craft forms. The crafts are not mass-produced for tourist markets (though some souvenir versions exist) but are rooted in genuine community practice: textiles that women weave for family use, baskets that men and women construct for daily agricultural work, and jewellery forms with deep cultural significance.
Here's what to look for and what it means.
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Textiles & Weaving
Jainsem Fabric
The traditional Khasi women's dress (jainsem) is made from locally woven fabric — typically in rich jewel colours (deep blue, maroon, forest green) with subtle woven patterns. Fabric by the metre or made-up garments are available in Shillong's markets. The hand-woven versions are distinctly different from machine-made imitations — heavier, with a slightly uneven texture that is part of their character.
Garo Weaving (Dakmanda & Dokbanda)
Garo weaving is among the most distinctive in Northeast India — bold geometric patterns in red, black, and white on cotton fabric. The dakmanda (a Garo women's garment) and related textiles use traditional loom techniques with patterns passed down through generations.
Where to buy: Craft shops in Tura (Garo Hills) and specialist Northeast craft stores in Shillong.
Jaintia Weaving
Jaintia textiles use the loin loom — a backstrap loom where the weaver uses their body weight as tension. The fabrics have fine-striped patterns and are typically lighter weight than Khasi or Garo weaving.
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Bamboo & Cane Crafts
Meghalaya's forests provide abundant bamboo and cane, and the Khasi Hills have a long tradition of basketry and bamboo craft.
Thoh Blei (Bamboo Baskets)
The traditional Khasi conical basket — carried on the back with a head strap — is a functional work of art. Different basket designs serve different purposes: carrying produce, storing grain, and serving as general containers. Handwoven versions by village artisans are available at Iewduh market and craft shops.
Knup (The Traditional Rain Hat)
The famous Mawsynram rain protection — a large bamboo and palm-leaf umbrella hat that covers the entire upper body. Both functional and distinctive. Available at craft markets in Shillong and in Mawsynram village.
Decorative Bamboo
Smaller bamboo craft items — cups, trays, lampshades — are widely available in tourist craft shops and make lightweight, durable souvenirs.
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Jewellery
Khasi Gold Jewellery
Traditional Khasi jewellery — the elaborate gold crowns, necklaces, and earrings worn at Nongkrem Dance Festival — is ceremonial and extremely expensive. However, simpler versions of traditional designs in silver and semi-precious stones are widely available as souvenirs.
Coral & Shell Bead Necklaces
Traditional Khasi and Jaintia necklaces using coral, shell, and local beads are available at Iewduh market and craft shops. The older designs are more collectible; newer versions are more affordable.
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Natural Products
Cherrapunji Honey
One of the most prized products from Meghalaya — honey gathered by wild bees from the richly diverse flora of the Cherrapunji forests. Darker and more intensely flavoured than commercial honey. Available at the Cherrapunji market, from roadside vendors, and in Shillong specialty shops.
Lakadong Turmeric (from Jaintia Hills)
The Lakadong variety of turmeric from the Jaintia Hills has among the highest curcumin content of any turmeric in the world. Dark orange in colour, intensely aromatic. Available in Jowai and increasingly in Shillong specialty stores.
Smoked Pork
A Meghalayan specialty — pork smoked over wood fires for preservation. Available in vacuum-packed form for travel. Iewduh market has the best selection.
Black Sesame
Grown in Meghalaya's hills — aromatic black sesame seeds used in local cooking. Available at markets in small bags.
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Where to Buy
Take Meghalaya's best handicrafts home with you. Meghalaya Cabs can route your itinerary through the right markets at the right time. WhatsApp us to plan your Shillong shopping stop.
