10 Most Unique Souvenirs from Nepal to Remember Your Trip By
Need some souvenirs from Nepal to remember your trip by? These Nepali souvenirs reflect the nation’s culture and heritage, and buying them helps support local artisans and the preservation of their crafts.
Nepal is a country of diverse cultures and heaps of natural beauty, home to many different ethnic groups living in harmony. Due to its climate and unique geography, Nepal’s landscapes are incredible, ranging from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the subtropical Terai region in the south.
When visiting Nepal, it’s almost impossible to resist taking some souvenirs back home as a reminder of your amazing journey. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to take home from your trip to Nepal, you’re truly spoiled for choice.
From beautiful handicrafts and jewellery to delicious Nepalese food, there are lots of options when it comes to what to buy from Nepal. Here are a few of my favourite souvenirs from Nepal that’ll serve as lifetime mementos of your trip.
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10 Best Souvenirs from Nepal
Whether you want something that reflects Nepal’s culture or a decorative piece that’ll diversify your home’s style, these souvenirs from Nepal promise to be high-value purchases.
1. Thangka paintings
A Nepal thangka is a painting or embroidery on cloth, usually depicting a Buddhist deity, scene or mandala. They’re traditionally hung in homes or temples and are used as an aid for meditation.
Many thangkas are created by skilled artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations. As a result, each Nepal thangka is a unique work of art and a great Nepal souvenir.
When choosing a Nepal thangka, selecting one that is meaningful to you is important. If you plan to hang the painting in your home, consider choosing one that features an image of a deity you worship or a design that complements your home’s décor. If you want to use the painting as a meditation aid, look for one with a calming scene or mandala design.
2. Pashmina scarves
Pashmina scarves are made from the softest and most luxurious cashmere wool. The wool is carefully hand-woven into beautiful patterns, making each scarf a unique thing to buy from Nepal.
Pashminas are perfect for sprucing up any outfit. They can also be used as a shawl or blanket when travelling or simply relaxing.
When shopping for a pashmina scarf, look for one made from 100% pure cashmere wool. You should also check to see if the scarf has been hand-woven or hand-embroidered; these characteristics will add to the beauty and value to your souvenir from Nepal.
3. Statue of Buddha
Buddha statues come in all shapes and sizes, from small figurines to large sculptures. They’re often made using materials such as stone, bronze, wood and porcelain.
When choosing a Buddha statue, try to find one that has meaning for you. For example, you may want to choose a statue that depicts the Buddha in a meditative pose if you’re looking for a peaceful decoration for your home.
Alternatively, choose a more active statue if you want to use it as a reminder to live life with compassion and joy. These make for great souvenirs from Nepal.
4. Traditional musical instruments
Nepal is home to many different types of traditional musical instruments. These include percussion instruments like drums and gongs, string instruments like sitars and Sarangsi, and wind instruments like flutes and trumpets.
Traditional Nepali music is often lively and upbeat, making it perfect for dancing or simply enjoying as background music.
When choosing a traditional Nepali musical instrument as a Nepali souvenir, you must consider what type of music you enjoy most. If you like lively and upbeat music, then percussion instruments might be your best choice. Alternatively, string or wind instruments might be more suitable if you prefer more relaxing music.
Musical instruments are definitely one of the more unusual things to buy in Nepal!
5. Carved wooden masks
Wooden masks are commonly used in Nepal during religious festivals and ceremonies. These masks are usually carved from lightweight wood such as cedar or balsa.
Available in a range of intricate designs and vivid colours, wooden masks are works of art and symbolic objects.
When selecting a carved wooden mask from Nepal, choose one with meaning. Perhaps you want a mask that depicts the face of a god or goddess, or maybe you’d prefer a mask that represents an animal spirit guide to which you feel connected?
Whichever mask you choose, it’ll make an eye-catching addition to your home’s interior décor, or a great gift from Nepal for a friend.
6. Traditional Nepalese jewellery
Nepal is home to many unique and beautiful styles of traditional jewellery. These include colourful beaded necklaces, bangles, earrings, and rings made from semi-precious stones such as turquoise and coral. Silver jewellery is also popular, often featuring intricate designs or Hindu symbols.
When shopping for Nepali jewellery, always purchase pieces from reputable sources. This will ensure you get authentic jewellery made with care and attention to detail. At the same time, choosing traditional jewellery from Nepal is a great way to support local artisans and help them preserve their cultural heritage. If you want a Nepal souvenir with meaning – jewellery is a great idea.
7. Nepalese teapots
Nepal is known for its wide range of traditional teapots, which are usually made from clay and come in various shapes, sizes and styles. Some teapots feature decorative designs and colours, while others are much simper with little or no ornamentation.
When shopping for a Nepali teapot, prioritise choosing something as durable as it is beautiful so that it’ll remain a practical and attractive memento of your trip to Nepal.
8. Handcrafted marbled lokte paper
You’ll find a wide variety of handmade paper products (lokta paper) when you’re shopping in Nepal, which can range from greeting cards and journals to origami and marbled art pieces.
Handcrafted Nepali paper is usually made from recycled materials such as cotton rags, banana fibres or even animal dung. This traditional method of papermaking produces strong and durable sheets that can be decorated with beautiful designs.
Purchasing Nepali paper products is a great way to support local artisans and help preserve this ancient craft. They also make unique and eco-friendly gifts from Nepal for friends.
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9. Khukuri knives
Khukuri knives are a traditional Nepali tool for chopping, slicing and cutting. These blades are typically made from high-quality steel and feature an inwardly curved shape that makes them easy to use.
Khukuri knives come in many sizes, so choosing one that suits your needs is important. A larger and sturdier blade might be the best choice if you plan on using the knife for outdoor activities such as camping. On the other hand, if you want something smaller and more lightweight, you should look for a shorter khukuri knife for outdoor activities such as hunting.
You might need to check you can bring these Nepal souvenirs back into your country though!
10. Handwoven fabrics
Handwoven Nepal fabrics are perfect for making stylish items of clothing and traditional decorations. These fabrics come in many different colours, patterns and textures, making them ideal for creating one-of-a-kind garments – the perfect souvenir from Nepal!
When shopping for handwoven fabric from Nepal, it’s important to select high-quality materials that skilled artisans have carefully crafted. This ensures that your fabric will last for many years and make a fashionable addition to any wardrobe or home décor collection.
Inspiration for souvenirs from Nepal
Nepal is home to many unique and beautiful items that make memorable souvenirs or gifts. Whether you’re looking for traditional jewellery, handcrafted paper, khukuri knives, teapots, masks or handwoven fabrics, Nepal has the perfect souvenir for you.
As an added bonus, shopping for these souvenirs from Nepal helps support local artisans and the preservation of their culture. No matter which souvenir you choose from your trip to Nepal, it’ll remind you of your wonderful adventure every time you look at it. Choose wisely!
Quick list of the best souvenirs from Nepal
- Thangka paintings
- Pashmina scarves
- Statue of Buddha
- Traditional musical instruments
- Carved wooden masks
- Traditional jewellery
- Teapots
- Handcrafted marbled lokta paper
- Khukuri knives
- Handwoven fabrics