India’s Top 10 Textile Markets and What They Are Famous For

India has always been recognized as the hub of textiles and fabrics. From traditional handlooms to modern powerloom fabrics, each region of the country carries its own legacy and specialization. Let’s explore the top 10 textile markets in India and discover what makes them unique.

1. Surat, Gujarat – The Saree & Fabric Capital of India

Surat is globally renowned as the textile hub of India. It is especially famous for:

• Designer Sarees

• Natural Fabrics like Silk and Cotton

• Chiffon and Polyester Fabrics

• Intricate Bharatkam (embroidery work)

Surat’s textile industry has a strong export base, making it one of the most important centers for fabric lovers and wholesalers.

2. Ahmedabad, Gujarat – Khadi & Denim Heritage

Ahmedabad has a long history in the textile sector. Popularly known as the “Manchester of India,” the city is well-known for:

• Sutrav Kapad (cotton fabrics)

• Khadi weaving tradition

• Denim production

• Traditional Block Printing

The mix of handwoven and industrial fabrics makes Ahmedabad a versatile textile market.

3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Banarasi Sarees & Zari Work

Varanasi, also called Kashi, is the pride of India’s textile heritage. This ancient city is famous for:

• Banarasi Sarees

• Brocade Sarees

• Zari (gold and silver thread work)

• Centuries-old weaving tradition

Banarasi sarees are considered one of the finest traditional attires, often chosen for weddings and grand occasions.

4. Bhiwandi, Maharashtra – The Powerloom Hub

Bhiwandi is known as the Manchester of India’s powerloom industry. It produces:

• Cotton fabrics

• Polyester blends

• Large-scale powerloom textiles

This city supplies fabrics in bulk across India, serving as a backbone for garment manufacturing.

5. Erode, Tamil Nadu – Lungi & Traditional Fabrics

Erode is one of the major textile cities in South India. It is famous for:

• Handloom and powerloom cotton fabrics

• Turmeric-dyed textiles

• Traditional Lungis

The region is also known as the "Turmeric City," combining agriculture and textiles together.

6. Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh – Hosiery & Leather Fabrics

Kanpur is a major industrial hub of North India. In textiles, it is recognized for:

• Hosiery fabrics

• Chamdu (leather-based fabrics)

• Cotton and Sutrav Kapad

Kanpur’s textile sector supports both domestic and export demand.

7. Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu – T-Shirt & Knitwear Capital

Tiruppur is globally acknowledged as the Knitwear Capital of India. It is best known for:

• Hosiery production

• Cotton T-shirts

• Knit garments

Many international brands source T-shirts and knitwear from Tiruppur, making it a key export hub.

8. Ludhiana, Punjab – Woolen Wear & Sweaters

Ludhiana is widely referred to as the Manchester of India (North) for woolens. It is famous for:

• Sweaters

• Shawls

• Jackets

• Woolen fabrics

During winters, Ludhiana’s products dominate the Indian market.

9. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu – Pure Silk Sarees

Kanchipuram, also known as the “Silk City,” is a heritage-rich textile destination. It is renowned for:

• Pure Kanchipuram Silk Sarees

• Traditional weaving with zari borders

• Wedding and festive silk collections

These sarees are treasured heirlooms, symbolizing luxury and tradition.

10. Panipat, Haryana – Home of Carpets & Blankets

Panipat is often called the “City of Weavers.” It is popular for:

• Dhabla blankets

• Carpets (Galicha)

• Handwoven rugs

• Home furnishing fabrics

The city is also a major exporter of floor coverings and home textiles