Best Places to Buy Nepali Handicraft Items in Kathmandu
After the completion of the international airport in Pokhara, tourists might prefer Pokhara over Kathmandu as their first-time arrival destination in Nepal. However, for those visiting Kathmandu, the city offers a wide array of Nepali handicrafts in easily accessible locations, especially in areas frequented by tourists.
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is home to numerous handicraft industries that have been manufacturing, supplying, and selling products for decades. Many of these shops were established to cater to the needs of tourists visiting popular attractions and staying in key areas of the city. Here are some notable places to buy Nepali handicrafts in Kathmandu:
Thamel
Thamel is the central hub for tourists in Kathmandu, offering all the essentials for visitors. Most tourists stay in Thamel, making it an ideal location for handicraft shops. You will find high-quality pashmina products, including shawls, stoles, sweaters, beanies, trousers, and scarves. Shopkeepers often provide guidance on how to care for these delicate items. Prices are reasonable and typically lower than in Europe, the USA, or Australia, providing an excellent shopping experience.
Other Nepali Handicrafts in Kathmandu
Thamel also hosts shops selling singing bowls, which are used for meditation and relaxation. These shops often offer felt products with unique designs. Many accept credit cards without additional fees, making shopping convenient for international visitors.
The Street Stalls of Basantapur
Basantapur’s street stalls offer a variety of affordable handicrafts such as silver necklaces, chokers, bohemian earrings, kukri knives, amulets, and home décor items. Prices range from USD 1 to USD 10, and bargaining with the shopkeepers is common.
Boudhanath – Tibetan Carpets and Thangka Paintings
Boudhanath is the best place to purchase Tibetan carpets and Thangka paintings. Carpet shops provide customization options for size, color, and design, and often ship internationally. Thangka paintings, created by skilled artisans, feature unique colors and designs that differ from Western artwork. These masterpieces are highly valued for their aesthetic and cultural significance.
Patan – Wood Carvings and Metal Statues
Patan is known for small and unique wood carvings, available in a range of sizes from compact souvenirs to larger decorative pieces. Shopkeepers explain the quality of wood and craftsmanship. Patan is also a prime location to buy metal statues, including copper, brass, and bronze statues of Lord Buddha. These handcrafted items make excellent gifts and are notable for their intricate designs and high-quality materials.
Jawlakhel
Jawlakhel is a renowned center for Tibetan carpets in Nepal, created by Tibetan refugees. Tourists can observe the weaving process and purchase beautifully woven carpets on the spot, including designs like the Potala Palace Carpet. This makes Jawlakhel a must-visit location for collectors and enthusiasts of traditional textile art.
Kathmandu provides a rich and accessible shopping experience for handicrafts, allowing visitors to bring home authentic Nepali products that reflect the country’s culture, heritage, and skilled craftsmanship.
