Handicrafts In Nepal | Nepalese Handicrafts

Strolling around the temples and the ancient palaces of Kathmandu valley, during dusk is one of my favorite habits. It’s not just that these places radiate a sense of serenity but the neighborhood filled with the antique shop full of Nepalese handicrafts and the temples with fabulous wood carving make my time worthwhile.

Handicrafts in Nepal is believed to have started since the Licchavi period (300-879 AD) though the official account of first handicraft is not available. But the classical period of Nepal (13th to 18th century) ruled by Malla dynasty helped, extensively in the enrichment of quality, authenticity, and originality of the Nepalese handicrafts.

Nepal Tourist Places | Beautiful Places to Visit In Nepal

What’s the first thought that pops up in your mind on hearing the word Nepal? When I put this question to any foreigner I meet while trekking or traveling, I get the same answer almost every time and you’ve probably guessed it right. Its freaking Mount Everest, right? And guess what, I can’t help grinning when that answer slowly strikes my eardrum and my auditory nerve, languishing delivers to it the cerebrum because it’s amazing.

What are topis anyway? Are they a symbol of honor, a basic fabric of culture or an utterly exaggerated form of clothing

Each culture that’s proud of its existence has pieces of clothing with stories that go back into the past. A veil or a scarf. A meager hair pin or an exaggerated gown. When it comes to Nepal, there is nothing that can explain our history as clearly as the Nepali topi.

Export earnings from handmade products surged 19 percent in the first four months of the current fiscal year, thanks to sustained demand from markets like China, the US and Europe. Nepal’s handicraft industry is on the recovery path after suffering a massive hit from the earthquake and trade blockade last year. Statistics released by the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (Fhan) show that Nepal exported handmade products worth Rs1.98 billion during the period mid-July to mid-November Shipments amounted to Rs1.67 billion in the same period last year.