Ever since the discovery of carbon nanotubes, several strategies have been developed for the synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) as well as single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). We examine novel methods such as the precursor route and nebulized spray pyrolysis for the synthesis of MWNTs as well as junction nanotubes. Nanotubes of inorganic layered materials obtained by various ingenious methods are discussed. Nanowires of inorganic materials are synthesized not only by high temperature methods such as the carbon-assisted route, but also by soft chemical routes. We describe some of the soft chemical routes for the synthesis of inorganic nanotubes and nanowires. Some of the proper-ties and applications of the nanotubes and nanowires are briefly described. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.