GI Products of Gujarat

About Gujarat

Gujarat lies on India's western coast, with the Rann of Kutch to the north-west, the Saurashtra peninsula and the industrial plains of the south and east. The state has a long trading history, with ports such as Lothal and Surat, and it is known for entrepreneurship. Its cultural traditions include Garba dance, Kutch embroidery, Jain and Hindu temples, and one of India's richest textile heritages.

Crafts, food and farm traditions

Textiles dominate Gujarat's craft identity, with block printing, bandhani tie-dye, Kutch embroidery, Ajrakh and the extraordinary double-ikat Patola of Patan all found here. The Patan Patola in this catalogue represents one of the most demanding textile crafts in the world, made by a small number of families. The state's GI list also includes other textiles and foods that reflect its diverse regions.

Visiting and buying

To buy Gujarati crafts, visit government emporia such as Gurjari, cooperatives in Kutch and licensed workshops in Patan, and ask for GI labels and artisan certificates. For Patola, expect a high price and long waiting periods. This page lists the Gujarat products in this catalogue, along with checklists for recognising real double ikat and where to buy it.

Best time to go and practical notes

October to March is the best time to travel, with Ahmedabad as the gateway city. Patan lies to the north of Ahmedabad and is also home to Rani ki Vav, a UNESCO-listed stepwell, so it pairs well with a craft visit. Patola workshops are family-run and often need advance notice, and orders may take months. Summers are very hot, and the monsoon between July and September can flood some roads.

Things to know before you buy

Patan Patola is made to order in most workshops, so expect a waiting period that can run to many months, often with an advance payment. Ask for a certificate naming the weaver family and confirming double ikat, and request photographs of the sari on the loom. Silk this valuable should be stored folded in muslin, refolded every few months, and cleaned only by specialists. Insure it for transit if it is sent by courier.