Tanjore paintings are renowned the world over for their dense compositions, vibrant colours and surface richness. Also known as Thanjavur paintings, they are a form of classical South Indian paintings. The art form, which originated back in the 1600s under the reign of the Cholas, has been recognised by the Government of India as a Geographical Indication in 2007-08.

Made from fine quality wood, handicrafts of Kanyakumari are known for their neat finish, impressive designs and termite resistance. Wood Craft is famous across the entire state and towns like Nagercoil and Suchindram are particularly known for their exquisite articles. The traditional craft is used to make beautifully carved and intricately designed articles that help in adding style and elegance to living spaces. The attractive wooden craft items can also be gifted on special occasions. Woodwork in the city mainly involves the use of wood from palm trees along with bamboo shoots, cane, grass and reeds. Besides the use of wooden barks, the artisans also use coconut fibres to make products like baskets, ropes, mats and other items. Some other articles include tables with floral motifs or panels with epic scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The handicraft stores in the city display a wide range of wooden artefacts and daily use items, which make for great souvenirs to carry back home.

Music has an important role in the lives of the people of Kanyakumari. The craft of making musical instruments is also quite popular and is generally practised in the Thanjavur region. Another interesting feature is that Tamils do not classify their instruments according to their types but by the occasions on which they are played. The instrument that is popularly played during weddings is Naadeeswaram, and Kumbu finds much use during religious festivals. One of the most commonly used musical instruments is Silappadikaaram, which is also among the oldest instruments. A particularly fascinating instrument is the Yaazah that comes in the shape of fish, crocodile and boat. Shaped like a lute or a harp, which were quite popular in ancient times, Yaazah resembles the veena (a stringed instrument). It is made of Jack wood. Other famous instruments are Thamburas, which have wooden bases, and Kuzhal that looks a lot like Lord Krishna's musical instrument.