Indian leather tanning has a history dating back to 3000 BC. Tanning in the rural areas is done by indigenous methods, making the use of this material easier. No village can exist without a cobbler.

The most popular leather products in India are footwear and hand bags. The footwear comes in a variety of traditional embroidery, brocade or textile designs. Bright colors and individual designs are used. The all time favourite, kholapuri chappals of Maharashtra, are soft and comfortable to wear.

A particular type of thickish shoes, called mojadis are made in Rajasthan. They are decorated with silk, metal embroidery and beads. Jaipur has the most fancy and sophisticated footwear. Jodhpur, on the other hand, has good embroidery in potent patterns and bold shades. 'Kopi', a rather unusual and attractive object, is a water bottle made in Bikaner from camel hide. Bikaner and Jaisalmer have decorative saddles for horses and camels.