India is known for its long tradition of handwoven carpets. The specialty of the carpets vary from region to region but are related to Persian influences. India produces hand woven, hand knotted and hand tufted carpets.

Here is our pick of the top carpet manufacturing centres of India and what makes them special.

Mirzapur

Located about 50km from Varanasi, Mirzapur is famous as the gateway to the much revered hilltop Vindhyaasini temple. It is said that carpet weaving began here during the time of Emperor Akbar when a group of Persian weavers settled here. Even today, there are several families which claim to be descendants of the original settlers.

Bhadohi

The hand-knotted wooden carpet of Bhadohi earned its Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010. Cotton and woollen yarns are used on a vertical wooden loom to produce these world renowned carpets. Patterns usually incorporate trees, flowers, animals, trellises, etc. Bhadohi is about 45km from Varanasi. Gopiganj in Bhadohi district is also known for its carpet weaving.

Sitapur

This town is known for its handmade rugs and durries. The origin of the carpet industry here dates back to the Moghul period. Their colourful door mats and bath mats are much appreciated as designer products. Sitapur is about 89km from Lucknow.

Agra

The carpet design of rows of flowers in vases is said to have been developed by the carpet weavers of Agra for the Moghul court which was later adopted by Persian rug makers. The colour palette of Agra rugs is a mute play of colours but with a royal look &ndash blue, pink, lavender and gold appear to be the major colours in use in the antique designs.

Jaipur

The Pink City is said to be the main carpet weaving centre of Rajasthan. It is said that weavers from Afghanistan who settled here in the 17th century introduced the craft here. The carpets here are known for their vibrant colours and geometric patterns.

Bikaner

This former royal city of Rajasthan is also known for its handwoven carpets made from specially prepared wool.

Panipat

This historic city in Haryana, about 100km from Delhi, is home to many master carpet weavers who make rugs and floor coverings from cotton, jute and wool.

Gwalior

This former royal city of Madhya Pradesh is also known for its handmade carpets, something which is not known to most visitors. These carpets are known for their softness and visual appeal.

Srinagar

The mecca of handwoven carpets in India, the carpets of Srinagar are famous for their exquisite designs, featuring a blend of Indian and Persian weaving styles. It is said carpet weaving was introduced here in the later 15th century. The workshops are called Karkhanas. Traditionally, hand-knotted Kashmiri carpets are made of silk and wool.