25 Types of Sarees in India: Names, Fabrics & Origins

September 15, 2026

Why Indian Sarees Are So Special?

India is a country where every region has its own story, and often that story is woven right into the fabric of a saree. When you talk about the types of sarees in India, you are not just talking about different styles of clothing. You are talking about centuries of craft, community traditions, regional identity, and the hands of skilled weavers who have passed their knowledge from one generation to the next.

From the heavy gold zari work of a Banarasi silk to the light, breezy weave of a Kota Doria, Indian sarees cover an incredible range of fabrics, techniques, and aesthetics. Whether you are dressing for a wedding, a casual day out, a pooja, or a formal event, there is a type of saree in India made exactly for that moment.

At IJA BOJYU, the belief is that a saree is not just an outfit. It carries the skill, the culture, and the story of the artisan who made it. Co-Founder Rashmi Nainwal, who has lived across multiple regions of India and has deep hands-on experience with Indian handloom traditions, has built IJA BOJYU's collections around exactly this philosophy — celebrating authentic weaves and supporting the weavers behind them.

In this guide, we will walk you through 25 types of sarees in India, covering their names, fabrics, regions of origin, and what makes each one truly special.

Map showing the regional origins of traditional Indian sarees in India

1. Banarasi Saree

Origin: Varanasi (Banaras), Uttar Pradesh

Fabric: Pure Katan Silk, Organza, Tissue, Georgette, Cotton

The Banarasi saree is perhaps the most well-known type of saree in India. Woven in the ancient city of Varanasi, these sarees are famous for their fine silk, gold and silver zari work, and intricate Mughal-inspired motifs like floral patterns, kalgas, and janglas.

What makes Banarasi sarees truly special is the sheer variety within the category itself. There are different types of Banarasi sarees based on the fabric used:

Pure Katan Silk Banarasi — The most classic and luxurious variety, with a rich, smooth texture and beautiful drape.
Kora Organza Banarasi — Lightweight and slightly stiff with a natural sheen, perfect for warmer climates.
Tissue Banarasi — Known for their golden or silvery shimmer, tissue sarees look extraordinarily festive.
Cotton Banarasi — Comfortable for daily wear yet rich in traditional weave and design.

A Banarasi saree is often considered an essential part of an Indian bride's trousseau. They are equally elegant for festivals, weddings as a guest, and formal events.

If you are looking to explore the full range of Banarasi sarees, IJA BOJYU offers a carefully curated collection of handloom Banarasi weaves:

2. Kanjivaram Saree

Origin: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Fabric: Pure Mulberry Silk

Kanjivaram sarees, also called Kanchipuram sarees, are one of the most iconic types of sarees in India. Known for their thick, rich silk and heavy contrasting borders, these sarees often feature temple motifs, checks, stripes, and zari work made from pure gold thread.

The silk used in Kanjivaram sarees comes from mulberry silkworms and is known for its durability and deep lustre. These sarees are made using a special interlocking technique where the body and border are woven separately and then joined together — which makes them incredibly sturdy yet graceful.

A Kanjivaram saree is a staple at South Indian weddings. It holds deep cultural significance and is often passed down through generations as a family heirloom.

3. Chanderi Saree

Origin: Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh

Fabric: Pure Silk, Silk-Cotton blend, Pure Cotton

Chanderi sarees are known for their light weight, sheer texture, and soft shine. The fabric has a natural transparency to it that gives the saree a delicate, elegant look.

Chanderi sarees typically feature traditional motifs like coins, flowers, peacocks, and geometric patterns woven into the fabric. The borders are often accented with zari work. They are comfortable to wear, easy to drape, and suitable for both casual and festive occasions.

Chanderi has been a weaving centre since the medieval period, and the craft continues to be carried forward by skilled artisan families in the region.

4. Jamdani Saree

Indian artisan weaving a traditional handloom saree on a wooden loom

Origin: West Bengal (and Dhaka region historically)

Fabric: Fine Muslin Cotton, sometimes Silk

Jamdani is one of the oldest and most refined weaving traditions in the world. Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Jamdani saree is woven on a handloom using a supplementary weft technique — meaning the patterns are created while weaving, not embroidered or printed on afterward.

The result is a fabric that is light, breathable, and beautifully detailed. Jamdani motifs include floral patterns, geometric designs, and traditional Bengali art-inspired layouts.

Cotton Banarasi Jamdani sarees are a unique fusion of the Jamdani weaving technique and Banarasi design sensibility. IJA BOJYU offers a lovely range of these handloom cotton Jamdani sarees:

These cotton Jamdani sarees are ideal for women who want the beauty of handloom weaving in a fabric that is comfortable for everyday wear and suitable for milder weather.

5. Paithani Saree

Origin: Paithan, Maharashtra

Fabric: Pure Silk with Gold Zari

Paithani sarees are one of Maharashtra's most treasured handloom traditions. They are characterised by a square design on the pallu and a distinctive peacock motif woven in the border using the tapestry weaving technique.

The colours used in Paithani sarees are traditionally vibrant — deep greens, royal blues, rich reds, and golden yellows. The zari used is made of gold or silver threads, adding a rich metallic sheen to the fabric.

A genuine Paithani saree takes months to complete and is considered a prized possession among Maharashtrian women, often worn at weddings and traditional festivals.

6. Bandhani Saree

Origin: Jaipur and Jodhpur (Rajasthan), Kutch (Gujarat)

Fabric: Silk, Cotton, Georgette

Bandhani is a traditional tie-and-dye technique where small portions of the fabric are tied tightly with thread before dyeing, creating a pattern of small dots or circles once the threads are removed.

The resulting patterns are incredibly intricate and colourful — often featuring designs like flowers, peacocks, and geometric shapes. Bandhani sarees are popular in shades of red, yellow, green, and orange, and are traditionally worn at weddings and festivals like Navratri and Teej.

Rajasthan and Gujarat both have distinct styles of Bandhani, and skilled craftspeople in these regions continue to preserve this centuries-old dyeing tradition.

7. Mysore Silk Saree

Origin: Mysore, Karnataka

Fabric: Pure Silk with Crepe Finish

Mysore silk sarees are produced exclusively by the Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation and are known for their smooth, crepe-like texture and subtle lustre. They are lighter and more understated compared to Kanjivaram sarees, making them suitable for both formal and semi-formal occasions.

These sarees are typically woven in solid colours or with minimal patterns, with zari borders adding a touch of elegance. The silk used is of the highest grade and the sarees carry a GI tag (Geographical Indication), ensuring their authenticity.

8. Pochampally Ikat Saree

Origin: Bhoodan Pochampally, Telangana

Fabric: Silk, Cotton, Silk-Cotton Blend

Pochampally Ikat sarees are famous for their geometric patterns created through a resist-dyeing technique called Ikat. In this process, the threads are tied and dyed before weaving, so when the fabric is woven, the pre-dyed threads create precise yet slightly blurred patterns that are distinctive to Ikat.

The designs typically feature diamond shapes, chevrons, and bold colour blocks. These sarees have a GI tag and are popular across India for their unique, artisan-made look.

9. Sambalpuri Saree

Origin: Sambalpur, Odisha

Fabric: Cotton, Silk

Sambalpuri sarees are known for their traditional tie-and-dye (Ikat) weaving technique, locally called Bandha. The motifs commonly used include shankha (conch), chakra (wheel), phula (flower), and traditional Odisha tribal designs.

These sarees are handwoven by artisan families in western Odisha and are made using both cotton and silk. The weaving process is time-intensive, and each saree requires several weeks to complete. Sambalpuri sarees hold a GI tag and are loved for their earthy tones and cultural richness.

10. Kasavu Saree

Origin: Balaramapuram and Chendamangalam, Kerala

Fabric: Cotton with Gold Zari Border

The Kasavu saree, also called Kerala saree, is the traditional dress of Kerala women. It is characterised by its off-white or cream body and golden zari border — simple, elegant, and deeply meaningful.

Kasavu sarees are worn during Onam, Vishu, weddings, and temple festivals. The simplicity of the design makes them timeless, and the quality of the cotton used ensures they are comfortable in Kerala's tropical climate.

11. Kota Doria Saree

Origin: Kota, Rajasthan

Fabric: Cotton-Silk Blend

Kota Doria sarees are known for their distinctive square (khat) patterns woven into the fabric. They are extremely lightweight, transparent, and have a crinkled texture that makes them very comfortable in summer.

These sarees are usually available in soft, pastel colours and subtle patterns, and they drape beautifully. Kota Doria sarees are ideal for daily wear and casual occasions where you want to look put-together without feeling heavy or overdressed.

12. Phulkari Saree

Origin: Punjab

Fabric: Cotton with Dense Silk Embroidery

Phulkari literally means "flower work" in Punjabi. While traditionally a form of embroidery done on shawls and dupattas, Phulkari motifs have been incorporated into sarees as well, creating a vibrant, heavily embroidered fabric that is rich in colour and folk art tradition.

Phulkari uses a darning stitch done from the wrong side of the fabric, creating geometric flower patterns on the surface. The embroidery is typically done in yellow, red, and orange silk threads on a red or blue cotton base.

13. Tant Saree

Origin: Shantipur and Fulia, West Bengal

Fabric: Pure Cotton

Tant sarees are the everyday sarees of Bengal. Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, they are woven on pit looms and are well-suited to the humid climate of West Bengal.

They typically have simple woven patterns and contrasting borders, often in bright colours. The pallu is simple but graceful. Tant sarees are worn by women across all age groups in Bengal — from the morning puja to everyday errands.

14. Chikankari Saree

Origin: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Fabric: Georgette, Cotton, Chiffon, Organza

Chikankari is a traditional hand embroidery technique from Lucknow, characterised by delicate floral and vine patterns stitched onto light fabric. The embroidery uses a variety of stitches — shadow work, jali (lattice), and outline stitches — creating a layered, textured effect.

Chikankari sarees are lightweight, elegant, and perfect for warm weather. They are equally popular for casual wear and formal occasions depending on the fabric used. White and pastels are traditional, but modern Chikankari sarees now come in a wide range of colours.

15. Patola Saree

Origin: Patan, Gujarat

Fabric: Pure Silk

Patola sarees are among the most expensive and rare types of sarees in India. Made using a double Ikat technique, both the warp and weft threads are separately tie-dyed before weaving, creating a perfectly symmetrical pattern on both sides of the fabric.

The patterns on a Patola saree include geometric shapes, flowers, parrots, and dancing figures — all rendered with extraordinary precision. A single Patola saree can take months to complete and may cost several lakhs of rupees.

In Gujarat, Patola sarees hold cultural and religious significance and are considered auspicious for weddings.

16. Maheshwari Saree

Origin: Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh

Fabric: Silk-Cotton Blend

Maheshwari sarees were originally woven for the royal court of Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century. They are known for their distinctive reversible border — meaning the border looks the same on both sides.

These sarees have a soft texture, mild sheen, and subtle zari work. The pallu is usually striped or plain with a simple pattern. Maheshwari sarees are comfortable, elegant, and suitable for both formal and casual occasions.

17. Nauvari Saree

Origin: Maharashtra

Fabric: Cotton, Silk

The Nauvari saree is nine yards long and is the traditional saree of Maharashtra. It is draped in a unique style that resembles dhoti pants — the fabric is pulled between the legs and tucked at the back allowing for ease of movement.

This style was historically worn by women working in fields, dancing traditional performances like Lavani, and participating in religious ceremonies. Today, it is a popular choice for Gudi Padwa and other Maharashtrian festivals.

18. Gadwal Saree

Origin: Gadwal, Telangana

Fabric: Cotton body with Silk Border and Pallu

Gadwal sarees are unique because of the way they are woven — the body is made of cotton while the border and pallu are woven in pure silk with zari, and the two are joined using an interlocking technique called korvai.

This gives the saree the comfort of cotton with the richness of silk at the borders. Gadwal sarees usually feature checks or stripes in the body and elaborate traditional motifs in the border and pallu.

19. Tussar Silk Saree

Origin: Jharkhand, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh

Fabric: Tussar (Wild Silk)

Tussar silk is obtained from wild silkworms that feed on forest trees. The resulting fabric has a naturally textured surface, a golden beige tone, and a muted sheen — quite different from the smooth, shiny look of mulberry silk.

Tussar silk sarees are often left in their natural golden colour or dyed in earthy tones. They are popular for their natural, organic aesthetic and are often hand-painted or block-printed with traditional motifs.

20. Muga Silk Saree

Origin: Assam

Fabric: Muga Silk (Golden Silk)

Muga silk is unique to Assam and is one of the most prized varieties of silk in the world. It has a natural golden colour that actually deepens and becomes more lustrous with age and washing — something no other silk can claim.

Muga silk sarees are traditionally worn by Assamese women during Bihu and other important festivals. They often feature traditional Assamese designs like the mekhela style and are paired with a chador (stole). Muga silk holds a GI tag.

21. Ilkal Saree

Origin: Ilkal, Karnataka

Fabric: Cotton-Silk Blend, Pure Cotton

Ilkal sarees are a traditional handloom variety from northern Karnataka. They are known for their distinctive tope teni pallu — a special joining technique where the pallu (end piece) is attached to the body of the saree using a looping method.

The pallu is usually woven in a different colour from the body and features traditional motifs like temple towers, parrots, and geometric patterns. The borders use a cotton thread base with silk or zari accents.

22. Kora Organza Banarasi Saree

Origin: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Fabric: Kora Organza (Raw Silk Organza)

Kora Organza Banarasi sarees are a lighter and more contemporary take on the traditional Banarasi weave. The fabric is made from raw silk threads that create a naturally crisp and translucent texture with a gentle sheen.

These sarees are perfect for women who love the aesthetics of a Banarasi saree but want something lighter and more comfortable for warm weather or extended wear.

IJA BOJYU has a beautiful selection of Kora Organza Banarasi handloom sarees in modern colours:

23. Tissue Saree

Origin: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (and Kerala for Tissue Kasavu)

Fabric: Tissue (Metallic Thread Interwoven with Silk or Cotton)

Tissue sarees get their name from the French word for "woven" — and they are indeed the very definition of finely woven fabric. Tissue sarees have gold or silver metallic threads running through the entire fabric, giving them a shimmering, translucent appearance that catches the light beautifully.

Banarasi tissue sarees are particularly popular for weddings, receptions, and festive occasions because of their extraordinary shimmer and luxurious feel.

IJA BOJYU offers two beautiful tissue Banarasi options:

Both are handloom woven and carry the authenticity and craftsmanship that defines every IJA BOJYU collection.

Comparison of Katan silk, Kora organza, cotton Jamdani and tissue saree fabrics

24. Kalamkari Saree

Origin: Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Fabric: Cotton, Silk

Kalamkari sarees are hand-painted or block-printed using natural dyes and a pen-like tool (kalam). The designs are inspired by Hindu mythology, epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata, and nature — featuring motifs like trees, birds, elephants, gods, and goddesses.

There are two distinct styles:

Srikalahasti Style — Completely hand-painted, featuring mythological stories and intricate freehand work.
Machilipatnam Style — Block-printed using carved wooden blocks, featuring more repetitive geometric and floral patterns.

Kalamkari sarees are popular among women who appreciate art-inspired fashion and traditional Indian craftsmanship.

25. Supernet Saree

Origin: Sualkuchi, Assam

Fabric: Fine Cotton and Silk Blend

Supernet sarees from Assam are a lighter alternative to the heavier silk sarees of the region. They are made using a fine cotton-silk blend that gives them a smooth, semi-sheer texture. The fabric is breathable and drapes easily.

These sarees often feature traditional Assamese motifs like the endi (pattern from eri silk) or simple geometric designs. They are suitable for both daily wear and casual festive occasions.

How to Choose the Right Type of Saree for You

With so many types of sarees in India to choose from, it can feel a little overwhelming. Here are a few simple things to consider:

Guide showing the best Indian saree types for weddings, festivals, daily wear and summer

By Occasion

Occasion	Best Saree Types
Wedding (Bride)	Banarasi Silk, Kanjivaram, Patola, Paithani
Wedding (Guest)	Kora Organza Banarasi, Tissue Saree, Chanderi
Festive / Pooja	Kasavu, Mysore Silk, Cotton Banarasi Jamdani
Casual / Daily Wear	Tant, Cotton Banarasi, Kota Doria, Maheshwari
Summer / Hot Weather	Kora Organza, Cotton Jamdani, Kota Doria, Tant

By Fabric Preference

If you prefer lightweight sarees, go for Kora Organza, Tissue, Kota Doria, or Cotton Jamdani.
If you love rich, heavy fabrics, Kanjivaram, Pure Katan Silk Banarasi, or Patola would be ideal.
If you want everyday comfort, Cotton Banarasi Jamdani, Tant, or Chanderi Cotton are excellent choices.

By Budget

Premium / Investment Pieces: Katan Silk Banarasi, Kanjivaram, Patola
Mid-Range: Kora Organza Banarasi, Tissue Banarasi, Chanderi Silk
Everyday Value: Cotton Banarasi Jamdani, Tant, Kota Doria

Final Thoughts

India's saree tradition is one of the richest textile heritages in the world. From the shimmering zari work of a Katan Silk Banarasi to the naturally golden beauty of Muga silk, from the geometric precision of Pochampally Ikat to the hand-painted stories of Kalamkari — every type of saree in India tells a story that goes far beyond its fabric and colour.

Understanding the types of sarees in India — their names, fabrics, and origins — helps you make more thoughtful choices, connect with the artisan traditions behind each weave, and truly appreciate what you are wearing.

At IJA BOJYU, every saree in the collection is handpicked by Co-Founder Rashmi Nainwal, whose deep roots in Indian handloom culture, personal relationships with weavers, and hands-on knowledge of textile craftsmanship ensure that every piece is authentic, beautifully crafted, and worth cherishing for years to come.

Whether you are drawn to the timeless elegance of a Pure Katan Silk Banarasi, the soft comfort of a Cotton Banarasi Jamdani, or the delicate sheen of a Kora Organza Banarasi, there is a handloom saree waiting for you that feels like it was made just for you.