Handmade Snake and Ladders Game

One of the world’s oldest games, reimagined in hand-carved Sheesham wood. This decorative Snakes & Ladders set is crafted by artisans in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh — a region of India renowned for centuries of woodcarving tradition. The box features hand-painted snakes, lifts open to reveal four pegs and a die stored in a cloth bag, and looks just as good on a shelf as it does in play.

A game with a story: Snakes & Ladders originated in ancient India as a game of Hindu morality — ladders representing virtues, snakes representing vices. The Victorian version brought it to the world, but the soul of the game has always been Indian.

• Hand-carved Sheesham wood box, 6" square × 1" tall (closed)
• Hand-painted snake design on the lid
• Includes 4 pegs, 1 die in a cloth bag, and instructions
• Materials: Sheesham wood, stained finish
• Recommended age: 6+
• Handcrafted by artisans in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India

The Story Behind the Art

The woodcarving tradition of Saharanpur dates back centuries — the temples of the region bear witness to the early talent of its artisans. Today, the craft is still practiced using hand tools much the same as they’ve always been, passed down through generations of skilled carvers.

Due to the handmade nature, slight variations in size, color, and pattern are natural. Each piece is one of a kind.