Wood crafting artisans have been part of royal households since the time of Emperor Ashoka. They built war chariots, impressive pillars, doorways, panels, screens and furniture. They also made other wooden artefacts needed for day to day life.

Different regions in India have their unique wood-carving traditions. Rajasthan is known for its woodwork in temples and palaces. Chittorgarh and Pali are notable examples. Artisans in Bengal use bel and neem wood for their woodcraft. In Bahadurgarh, Haryana, there is a community of ivory carvers who have adapted their craft to woodwork. Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, known as the "sheesham wood village", is believed to be the home of some of India's finest wood carvers.

Ashoka's palace at Pataliputra and the grand temple at Bodh Gaya (both in Bihar), and the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad have an impressive collection of wood carving. They include sandalwood figures, as well as furniture.