What to buy in Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful country located in South Asia, famous for its majestic Himalayan mountain range, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people. It is also a shopper’s paradise, with an abundance of unique products that are not found anywhere else in the world. In this blog, we will take a look at some of the best things to buy in Nepal.

Handicrafts

Nepal is famous for its intricate and beautiful handicrafts, which are handmade by local artisans using traditional techniques. The country has a rich cultural heritage, and this is reflected in its handicrafts, which are made using a variety of materials, including wood, metal, stone, and fabric.

Some of the most popular handicrafts to buy in Nepal include:

Thangkas

These are traditional Buddhist paintings that are painted on cotton or silk and are mounted on a scroll. They are usually used as religious objects and can be found in most souvenir shops in Nepal.

Wooden carvings

Nepal has a rich tradition of woodcarving, and you can find a variety of carved wooden objects, including statues, masks, and furniture. These objects are usually made from wood sourced from the Himalayan region and are intricately carved by skilled artisans.

Metalware

Nepal is also famous for its metalware, including copper and brass statues, bells, and lamps. These objects are usually made using traditional techniques, and many of them have religious significance.

Pashmina

Pashmina is a type of cashmere wool that is found only in the high-altitude regions of Nepal, India, and Pakistan. It is known for its softness, warmth, and durability and is used to make a variety of products, including shawls, scarves, and blankets.

In Nepal, you can find a variety of pashmina products, ranging from the affordable to the high-end. However, it is important to be aware of fake pashmina products, which are often sold at a fraction of the price of genuine pashmina. To ensure that you are buying genuine pashmina, look for products that are labeled as 100% pashmina, and avoid products that are labeled as “pashmina blend” or “pashmina wool.”

Tea

Nepal is becoming increasingly well-known for its high-quality tea, which is grown in the foothills of the Himalayas.

The tea is grown using traditional methods, and the cool mountain air and abundant rainfall provide the perfect growing conditions for tea plants.

Some of the most popular types of tea to buy in Nepal include:

Black tea:

This is the most common type of tea in Nepal and is known for its strong and bold flavor.

Green tea:

This is a lighter and more delicate tea that is known for its antioxidant properties.

White tea:

This is a rare and expensive tea that is made from the youngest leaves of the tea plant. It is known for its delicate and sweet flavor.

Nepali paper products

Nepali paper products are handmade using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations. The paper is made from the bark of the lokta tree, which is found in the high-altitude regions of Nepal.

Some of the most popular Nepali paper products include:

Journals and Notebooks:

These are usually bound with a leather cover and make great souvenirs or gifts.

Lampshades:

These are made by cutting intricate designs into the lokta paper and are a beautiful way to add a touch of Nepal to your home.

Greeting cards:

These are handmade and often feature traditional Nepali designs and motifs.

Spices

Nepal is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, and the country produces a variety of high-quality spices that are used in Nepali cooking.

Many of these spices are unique to Nepal and are not found anywhere else in the world.

Some of the most popular Nepali spices include:

Timur (Szechuan pepper):

This is a unique spice that is used in many Nepali dishes. It has a citrusy flavor and is known for its numbing effect on the tongue.

Masala (Spice blend):

This is a blend of spices that is used in many Nepali dishes. It usually contains cumin, coriander, turmeric, and other spices and is a great way to add flavor to your cooking.

Cardamom:

This is a popular spice that is used in both sweet and savory dishes. It has a sweet, floral flavor and is often used to flavor tea.

Nepali tea spices:

Nepali tea is often flavored with a unique blend of spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. These spices are believed to have a warming effect on the body and are a popular drink during the colder months.

Handmade clothing and textiles

Nepal is famous for its handmade clothing and textiles, which are made using traditional techniques and natural materials. The country has a rich history of weaving, and many of the textiles produced in Nepal are intricate and colorful.

Some of the most popular clothing and textiles to buy in Nepal include:

Hemp clothing:

Nepal is known for its hemp clothing, which is made from the fibers of the hemp plant. It is durable and breathable, making it a great choice for hot weather.

Handwoven rugs and carpets:

Nepal has a long history of rug making, and many of the rugs produced in the country are handmade using traditional techniques. They are often made from wool sourced from the Himalayan region and are known for their intricate designs and vivid colors.

Silk clothing:

Nepal is also known for its silk clothing, which is made from the cocoons of the silk moth. The fabric is lightweight and has a beautiful sheen, making it a popular choice for special occasions.

Himalayan Salt

Himalayan salt is a type of rock salt that is found in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its unique pink color and is believed to have health benefits due to its high mineral content.

In Nepal, you can find a variety of Himalayan salt products, including salt lamps, cooking salt, and bath salts. Salt lamps are especially popular, as they are believed to have air-purifying properties and can create a relaxing and calming atmosphere in your home.

Final thoughts

Nepal is a treasure trove of unique and beautiful products that are not found anywhere else in the world. From intricate handicrafts to high-quality tea and spices, there is something for everyone in Nepal’s markets and shops. If you are planning a trip to Nepal, be sure to set aside some time for shopping, and don’t forget to haggle for the best prices.