Did you know that there is a town in India that produces more than 2 million wooden toys every year? If you are curious to know more about this town and its unique craft, then you should visit Channapatna, a town in Karnataka that is also known as the toy town of India. Channapatna is a place where you can experience the charm and beauty of rural India and bring home some of the finest wooden toys in the world.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating story of Channapatna’s wooden toy industry, the best places to visit and shop in Channapatna, and how to plan a trip to this toy town of India.
The Story of Channapatna’s Wooden Toy Industry
Channapatna’s wooden toy industry dates back to the 18th century, when Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, invited Persian artisans to train the local craftsmen in making wooden toys. The artisans used a technique called lacquerware, which involves applying natural colors and lacquer (a resin obtained from insects) on wood to create smooth and shiny toys. The wood used for making the toys is usually ivory wood, rosewood, sandalwood, or teak wood.
The wooden toys of Channapatna are known for their design, material, color, quality, and variety. They are made with natural and eco-friendly materials and are safe for children. They come in various shapes and sizes, such as dolls, animals, birds, vehicles, puzzles, musical instruments, games, etc.
They are also decorated with intricate patterns and motifs that reflect the culture and heritage of Karnataka. The wooden toys of Channapatna have received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Government of India, which means that they are unique to this region and cannot be replicated elsewhere.
The wooden toy industry of Channapatna is not only a source of income for the local artisans but also a symbol of pride and identity for the town. The artisans have preserved and passed on their skills and knowledge from generation to generation. They have also adapted to the changing market demands and customer preferences by introducing new designs and innovations.
The wooden toy industry of Channapatna has also attracted national and international attention and recognition. Some of the famous personalities who have visited Channapatna and appreciated its wooden toys include Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, etc.
The Best Places to Visit and Shop in Channapatna
Channapatna is not only famous for its wooden toys but also for its other attractions and activities. Here are some of the best places to visit and shop in Channapatna:
Janapada Loka:
A folk museum that showcases the folk art and artifacts of Karnataka. It is located on the Bangalore-Mysore highway and is open from 9 am to 5.30 pm. The entry fee is Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 25 for children. It is a great place to learn about the culture and history of Karnataka and witness folk-based programs throughout the year.
Also check out: Road trip to Heritage Winery in Channapatna
Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary:
A bird sanctuary that is home to several species of migratory birds, such as pelicans, storks, ibises, etc. It is located about 12 km from Channapatna and is open from 6 am to 6 pm. There is no entry fee. It is a great place to enjoy nature and wildlife photography.
Narsapura Lake:
A scenic lake that offers boating and fishing facilities. It is located about 15 km from Channapatna and is open from 9 am to 6 pm. There is no entry fee. It is a great place to relax and have a picnic.
Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium:
A government-run emporium that sells authentic and high-quality wooden toys and other handicrafts made by local artisans. It is located on the Bangalore-Mysore highway and is open from 10 am to 8 pm. The price range varies from Rs. 50 to Rs. 5000 depending on the size and type of the product. It offers a wide range of wooden toys, such as dolls, animals, birds, vehicles, puzzles, etc.
Varsha Handicrafts:
A private shop that sells colorful and innovative wooden toys and other handicrafts made by local artisans. It is located near Janapada Loka and is open from 10 am to 8 pm. The price range varies from Rs. 100 to Rs. 3000 depending on the size and type of the product. It offers a variety of wooden toys, such as musical instruments, games, educational toys, etc.
Channapatna Toy Factory:
A factory that allows visitors to see the process of making wooden toys and interact with the artisans. It is located near Janapada Loka and is open from 10 am to 6 pm. There is no entry fee. It offers a unique and educational experience of learning about the art and craft of wooden toy making.
Channapatna Bazaar:
A local market that sells a variety of wooden toys and other products at affordable prices. It is located in the heart of Channapatna and is open from 9 am to 9 pm. The price range varies from Rs. 20 to Rs. 2000 depending on the size and type of the product. It offers a chance to bargain and buy some of the best wooden toys in India.
How to Plan a Trip to Channapatna
If you are interested in visiting Channapatna, here are some tips and suggestions on how to plan a trip to this toy town of India:
The best time to visit Channapatna is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and the festivals are celebrated. Some of the festivals that you can witness in Channapatna are Dasara, Deepavali, Makara Sankranti, Ugadi, etc.
The best itinerary for Channapatna is a one-day trip from Bangalore or Mysore, as it takes only about an hour to reach by road. You can start your day by visiting Janapada Loka and learning about the folk culture of Karnataka, then head to Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary and enjoy the nature and wildlife, then have lunch at a local restaurant and taste the delicious cuisine of Channapatna, then visit Narsapura Lake and relax by the water, then go shopping at Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium, Varsha Handicrafts, Channapatna Toy Factory, and Channapatna Bazaar, and finally return to your destination by evening.
The best budget for Channapatna is around Rs. 2000 per person, which includes transportation, food, entry fees, and shopping. You can save money by traveling by bus or carpooling, eating at local eateries, bargaining at the market, and buying only what you need.
You may also like to read: Exploring Chennapatna! The Land of Toys!
Channapatna is a town in Karnataka that is famous for its wooden toy industry. It has a rich history and culture that reflects in its art and craft. It has many places to visit and shop that offer a variety of attractions and activities. It is an ideal destination for a day trip from Bangalore or Mysore. It is a place where you can experience the charm and beauty of rural India and bring home some of the finest wooden toys in the world.