India is known for its extensive collection of hand woven carpets. They are available not only in silk but also jute, coir, bamboo etc. the wide range available in carpets is not only in the terms of color, design, material and size but also price. It is not very hard to find a carpet that matches your requirements.

The various types of Indian carpets are showcased in stores all across the nation with diverse origins and designs. The colors and patterns of these carpets are unique and exquisite from the very next one and are still one of the best buys in the market.

The most important aspect while choosing a carpet is the design. The general characteristic design of Indian carpet is very rich, noble, and refined.

All Indian rugs are designed using the asymmetrical knot and stand apart technically because of their particularly dense knotting, well suited to rendering realistic figural motifs. The foundation is usually of cotton and the pile wool; in northern regions the soft and glittery wool of Kashmir is used. Sometimes silk is used both in the base work and for the pile.

Some of the popular designs of Indian carpets that are widely woven are as follows:

- Kashan - This is an interrelated leaf and tendril design.

- Ispahan - This is a leaf and tendril pattern with elaborate corners, a floral border, and an encircling medallion.

- Tabriz - This is a leaf and tendril pattern, with an elaborate motif at the corner areas and a floral border. There is an extended medallion.

- Herati - This pattern is made up of diamond shapes and leaves. There is usually no medallion.

- Bokhara - This design comprises of repetitive oval medallions that are called gulls or `elephant footprints.

- Heriz - This design used in Indian carpets is geometric in shape. There is a medallion similar to a starburst too.

- Serouk - This is a pattern of independent flower bouquets.

- Serapi - This pattern developed into the Heriz design and is geometric in shape that consists of a medallion from which arms extend.

- Mir - Also known as Boteh, this Indian carpet design is a paisley design that is spread all over.

- Kerman - This pattern consists of a floral medallion, intricate corners and a border.

- Aubusson - A large floral medallion with intricate corners and elaborate border. This is actually a French design.

- Mahal - This is a nonfigurative floral design, noticeably geometric.

- Tribal - These are irregular patterns of diverse kinds.

- Savonnerie - This is an elaborate Aubusson pattern.

- Bidjar - There is a hexagonal medallion, and a herati field bordering it.

Indian Silk Carpets are the traditional ones that are procured from Kashmir. The silk carpet of Kashmir is typically hand knotted, and is renowned for its softness and the superb skill with which it is crafted.

The firmness, thickness and appearance of the back of the carpet, are important considerations. Rajasthan and Gujarat are also famous for making namdah that is appliquéd, printed or embroidered ones. Carpets from the Punjab and Haryana are woven in traditional stripes as well as with realistic birds, animals and human forms used as motifs. In Rajasthan too, carpets are given hunting patterns with trees and floral motifs.

Central Asian and Persian rugs inspire designs and patterns of carpets in Kashmir. In Punjab the is mouri and the carpets are generally treated with chemical baths for a high sheen. Uttar Pradesh is also famous for luxurious carpets, which are attractive, with geometrical patterns in black on a maroon background.

Carpets render a sophisticated look to the room in which they are placed. A timeless beauty, carpets also make perfect house warming gifts for loved ones.