Souvenirs are an important part of travel, as they are the testimonial of the marvelous time spend and will keep reminding you about the experiences you had. Known for its majestic Himalayan peak, authentic cuisine and fascinating culture, Nepal has so much to offer. The journey is incomplete without a memento which will forever remind you of your once in a lifetime journey. From Thanka paintings to herbs and spices to classic singing bowls, there are so many things that reflect the unique cultural, traditional, religious and social aspects of the Country. The list contains top 10 exquisite souvenirs that can be brought in Nepal.

1.      Thanka painting- Traditional Paintings

 Thangka painting is a unique Tibetan Buddhist art form which originated in the 7^th century. The exquisite details embroidered and painted in vibrant color are marvelous. The painting is done on cotton, silk canvas that usually portrays a Buddhist deity, mandalas or mythological scenes. Depending on the size of the painting and how intricate the details are, it takes about 6 to 18 months to paint one Thangka. The paintings are one of the prime handmade work of art. 

You can buy Thanka paintings in Thamel.

2.      Pashmina and Yak wool

Pashmina also known as Cashmere, is the wool derived from the fur of Himalayan mountain goats. ‘Pashmina’ originates from the Persian word which means ‘soft gold’. The cashmere wool is renowned for the luxurious softness of the fabric and subtle embroidery work.  Yak wool also known as ‘Khullu” is considered as a cashmere alternative. The fabric is soft and very durable and warmer. The locals make tons of items from the yak wool such as yak woolen hats, scarves and sweaters and blankets.

If you feel like you can buy shawls, scarves, sweaters and other such items made from the real cashmere and Khullu.

3.      Singing Bowl

Singing bowl is a unique instrument which is traditionally used during Buddhist meditation and prayers. The Singing bowls are metallic bowls and are both, handmade and machine made.  The bowl generates sound when the bowl’s edge is strike with a small wooden stick. The music produced is tranquil and pleasing, it is also believed that the sound produced have some healing impact on the mind. Many meditational practitioners combine the healing music of the singing bowls into their daily routine as it is said that the music transforms negative energy into positive energy.

4.      Paper Product

Another souvenir that you can buy is Lokta paper. The Lokta paper or Nepali paper is handmade artisan paper made from the Lokta bark. It is a traditional paper exclusive to Nepal. In the past, this paper has been used to write ancient manuscripts, religious texts and royal documents. The paper is mostly renowned for its durability. If you’re interested you can buy notebook, diary, writing pads, papers, postcards, dolls and even paper lanterns. Hemp products such as bags and t-shirts are also quite fashionable and popular. The items are biodegradable, trendy and serve as a great souvenir.

5.      Herbal Product & Nepali Tea is an inseparable aspect of the people in Nepal. The fresh aroma of the Nepali herbs and tea is something that you can enjoy in your home as well. Similarly you can also look out for saffron, Himalayan salt, fresh cinnamon sticks and other herbal ayurvedic products that boost immunity such as the Yarsagumba.

 There is a diverse range of flavor packed tea available here, especially the poular milk based spice tea also known as masala chiya. Wide range of flavors such as the green tea, Ilam tea, silver and golden tips, oolong tea and Earl Grey are available. If you want to relish the flavorsome taste of Nepal back home, grab some chiya.

6.      Prayer Flags, Prayer Wheel & Beads

The prayer flags and prayer wheels are some symbols of faith in Buddhism. Usually the popular manta, ‘ om mani padme hum’ are inscribed on the prayer wheels and flags. It is believed that the prayer flags bring good health, wealth and fortune, especially when they are fluttering in the wind. The brightly colored fabric flags and prayer wheels also serve as unique decorations to you garden.

Necklace, bracelets, anklets and earrings and key chains made from vibrant red, turquoise blue beads and other such crafted bones and beads are also ideal for taking back home. You can also buy mala beads which are used during meditation. Usually, there are 108 beads in a mala, and one guru bead.

7.      Statues and Masks

Statues and masks are some of the interesting works of art made over here. The price range of the statue and masks depend on the size and the details embedded in the pieces. The statues and masks are mostly inspired from the religious deities and mythical figures. These items serve as a great decoration to rooms.

8.      Spices

The flavor packed nepali spices are something that you can take back home. The organic spices such as timbur, lapsi and others add a unique twist and flavor to the regular food items. You can try out other edible items such as the pickle, called achar in nepali language is an important element of nepali cuisine. Mula ko achar (raddish pickle), gundruk ko achar, aam ko achar (mango pickle), Lapsi ko achar (hog plum pickle) titaura, papad and churpi. Churpi is a traditional cheese which is neither too hard nor soft, typically made from cow or yak milk.

9.      Wood carvings

Wood carving and craftsmanship has always been a crucial aspect of the nepali handicraft industry. Many fine finished wooden products are easily available in the market hubs. Musical instruments such as flutes, wooden masks, decorative boxes and wooden decors are among some of the goods that are available for the purchase.

10.  Felt product

Felt handicraft also serves as a keepsake of your trip to Nepal. Felt is a textile material that is produced by matting, condensing and pressing fibers together. The popular felt items are handmade felt balls, felt mats and other such decorative items ranging from key rings to stuffed toys.