What is the Best Souvenir From Nepal

What is the Best Souvenir From Nepal?

Jewelry and Traditional Ornaments

A huge variety of jewelry shops in Nepal sell traditional ornaments and other items to take as souvenirs, reflecting Nepalese people's rich cultural heritage. With real or imitation coral and turquoise stones in silver settings, Tibetan-style jewelry can be found everywhere here. 

Beaded bracelets are sold almost anywhere off the beaten track by women sitting on street corners, while stalls in squares will often have a selection to buy. 'Friendship' bracelets made from woven colored string are popular with tourists, too. Head for religious shrines, including Swayambhunath in Kathmandu, and you'll also find stone-carved pieces to take home.

Regular Hindu jewelry like silver anklets, nose rings, and colorful bangles are found in the local markets. A different ethnic group from Nepal have their unique design of jewelry pieces. The Tharu has beautifully elaborated silver-denominated hats, while the Limbu make an enormous gold disc, and Newari jewelers in Kathmandu Valley are more religious-oriented. Perhaps the easiest to take home and culturally important would be the colorful glass bead necklace known as pote. Married women will wear these matched with a large piece of gold known as Tilari. 

Where to Buy

Kathmandu's Thamel district is a particular favorite for anyone looking for dangly earrings. 

How Much Does it Cost

As for the ornaments, jewelry can start from a dollar and reach thousands, depending on the materials used and the work put into them. Expenses likely to be raised to a higher level include precious metals and gemstones.

Clothes (Colorful and Dress) & Shoes

Clothes and shoes are some of the best souvenirs in Nepal as they come in an interesting mix of traditional craftsmanship, materials, and modern style. We recommend checking out some embroidered t-shirts with Nepali themes like mountain landscapes or yeti (abundant in Thamel & Kathmandu). Woven pants and tops (often striped) also serve as comfortable streetwear or pajamas. 

Traditional Nepali clothes can be found easily around city shopping districts —  check out the numerous saris, kurtas, and sherpa robes sold in shop lots for a truly local experience. Likewise, yak wool items can be found cropping all over Kathmandu/Pokhara, so just compare prices/quality if you’re looking to buy them. 

You’ll find many shops selling authentic-looking but manufactured-in-China versions; they are of higher quality. Ponchos/shawls made from yak wool come in different colors & patterns, so do scout around differently from shop to shop as prices vary and selection differs.

Look also at Yak Wool Hats, which can be easily bought anywhere around the trekking areas and keep you warm. Similarly, there’s no lack of these flat sandals that Nepalese love wearing with floral embroidery/mirror work, especially when strolling through the Thamel or Lakeside area. Another popular buy is those hand-knit accessories for colder weather, such as hats/gloves/booties. 

Where to Buy

Different varieties of clothes from traditional to modern can be found in Thamel or around Ason, Indra Chowk market. 

How Much Does it Cost

Expect clothing and shoes in Nepal to range from budget-friendly finds starting around $5 to more elaborate items reaching $50 or higher.

Traditional Rugs and Woven Tapestries

Classic rugs and woven tapestries are typical Nepali handicraft products representing local art and cultural heritage. It is often found in Bhaktapur's old city, which displays beautiful sceneries, landscapes, and Nepali wildlife.

Tibetan refugees greatly contributed to the beginning of the woolen carpet-making tradition in Nepal. When China invaded Tibet in 1950, a large number of Tibetans came to Nepal as a refugee, and they started weaving woolen carpets at the Jawalakhel Tibetan Refugee Camp area in the Lalitpur district. Today, it has become one of the major exportable items.

The textiles come in various designs – from elaborate traditional patterns to something more modern, such as the stylized tiger design. Perhaps the most famous are the hand-knotted woolen carpets and rugs made of dyed sheep wool. These can be purchased in different colors, sizes, and patterns.

Several carpet showrooms across both Kathmandu and Pokhara offer these lovely pieces. Many offer shipping back home for larger items, too. By buying a rug or tapestry, you will get more than just a pretty craft item; you will also support Nepalese artisans and help preserve the country's rich culture, making it truly special.

Where to Buy

Visit the ancient cities of the Kathmandu Valley if you want a good selection of traditional rugs and woven tapestries. The best shops are located in Patan, Kathmandu, and Bhaktapur. In Kathmandu, you'll also find them concentrated in Thamel (the tourist hub) and around the stupas and heritage sites.

How Much Does it Cost

Prices for traditional Rugs and Tapestries from Nepal are different. You can buy these with something reasonably sized for under $50. However, expect these items to cost more than $ 100 or $1000 per piece, depending on size, detailed intricacies, and fine materials.

Religious Keepsakes (Rudraksha Beads, Saligram, Buddhist Icons) 

Rudraksha Beads

These sacred beads, alleged to be the tears of Lord Shiva, are greatly prized in Hinduism. Nepal’s high-altitude regions are among the few places where rudraksha trees grow and produce these beads featuring different numbers of mukhis (ridges), each associated with specific deities and properties:

• Ek(1) and Paanch (5) mukhi: Associated with Lord Shiva.
• Char (four) mukhi: Linked to Lord Brahma, enhancing creativity
• Two mukhi: Represents Shiva and Shakti, promoting marital harmony
• 21 Mukhi: Associated with Kuber, the god of wealth

Shaligram Stones

These rare fossil ammonites originate from Nepal’s Kali Gandaki River and are worshiped as embodiments of Vishnu. The spiral mark is said to be a chakra or Symbol of the wheel (the starting and ending point in life). Different types represent different avatars of Vishnu; therefore, their spiritual import will also vary according to color and shape.

Buddhist prayer beads

These are found near most temples and stupas’ markets, which are close to the eastern stairway in Swayambhunath. Tiles and castings are for sale at Boudhanath. Well-stocked shops selling Buddhist and Hindu icons abound in shopping districts like Lakeside Pokhara and Thamel Kathmandu.

Prayer Flags 

Colorful prayer flags can be found in bookshops and at religious sites. Travelers looking to take home something larger can purchase Tibetan thangkas — elaborate paintings on fabric usually depicting mandalas or Buddha, at shops specializing in them near Buddhist sites throughout Nepal.

Where to Buy: Find religious keepsakes like Rudraksha beads, Saligram stones, and Buddhist icons around major religious sites in Nepal. Look for shops near Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and other temples.

How Much Does it Cost: Simple Rudraksha beads or small Buddhist icons can be found for just a few dollars, while intricate Saligram stones or large prayer wheels can reach $100 or more.

Singing Bowls

One of the most popular souvenirs people take from Nepal nowadays is singing bowls, which are Tibetan meditation tools that create the most incredible vibrations and sounds when you circle them with a mallet. They are made from an alloy of seven metals representing different celestial bodies.

Buddhist monks have used singing bowls for the last many centuries. It is also believed that singing bowls help achieve the meditational level and gain certain psychological power within. Not only this, it is also regarded as good in terms of physical fitness.

The vibration has its effect and provides incredible healing power, especially for heart, spinal cord, and respiratory diseases.

You will come across dozens of shops selling different types of singing bowls at most tourist sites in Kathmandu and Pokhara. The price of a singing bowl varies depending on various things like size, materials, and craftsmanship, ranging anywhere between Rs 1,000 to Rs 50,000.

Shopping in Nepal is often more affordable than online, and picking out a bowl in person allows you to find one with a resonance that speaks to you and matches particular chakras for health benefits.

Where to Buy

In Kathmandu, Thamel is the prime spot to find singing bowls. Many shops there specialize in handicrafts, and singing bowls are a popular item. These shops can also advise you on whether a bowl is handmade or machine-made.

How Much Does it Cost

Singing bowl prices in Nepal depend on size, quality, and material. Expect a range of $20 to $100 (USD), though some high-end bowls can cost more.

Scarfs, Pashminas and Kasto

In Nepal, good textile souvenirs are scarves, pashminas, and Kastos. There are many places to buy these goods in Kathmandu for as little as $5 or as much as $200, depending on the quality and material of the scarf. 

Pashminas are scarves made from the extremely fine wool of the Himalayan mountain goats (cameras) undercoat. It is also one of the most luxurious wools, admired for its extreme softness, warmth, and sheerness. Pure pashmina involves hard hand spinning and weaving to make a pashmina shawl, stole, or muffler, which inevitably makes them relatively pricey with a price based on quality. If you want something more affordable, you can choose those blended with silk or another fabric.

Scarves come in different materials, weights, and designs suitable for both summer and winter wear. They make good gifts as they can be used in myriad ways. Prices vary, but you can also get quality scarves in the range of $10-$15. Then there is taste, a traditional Nepali shawl that provides a more authentic rustic option. Made generally from sheep or yak wool, it will keep you warm through winter and provide a cultural talking point.

Where to Buy

For scarves, pashminas, and kasturi (also known as Kasto), head to Kathmandu's Thamel district, a vibrant tourist hub known for its shops that sell clothing and souvenirs. You might also find some options along New Road, Ason, Intra Chowk. 

How Much Does it Cost

Expect to pay between $10-50 for scarves, $50-$100+ for pashminas, and $1000-$3000 for Kasto (kasturi) depending on quality.

Khukuri

The khukuri is a traditional Nepalese blade rooted in deep traditions. Used by civilians and Gurkha warriors, this weapon/tool has a curved construction that makes it a versatile implement around the house or a powerful weapon in battle. It carries with it the pride of Nepal soldiers, the legendary Gurkhas.

Khukuris come in all shapes and sizes as souvenirs for your trip home. Local workshops allow you to create custom kukris or settle on one of many styles available for sale. Decorative pieces feature ornate scabbards, while practical versions have leather or resin-encased sheaths. Designs range from the original wooden handle to an ornamental type. 

Where to Buy

You can buy Authentic Khukuri in Thamel . Any local market has them. 

How Much Does it Cost

They vary in price; the basic ones start at 15 dollars, and you can pay anything up to several hundred dollars for one of these decorated pieces – the good news is that they are within reach of any pocket wanting a souvenir. 

Stationery products

Stationery products from Nepal offer a unique souvenir that also comes in handy. Patches are one of the most popular stationery items in Nepal. They are usually sold at the same stalls selling embroidered t-shirts and carrying depictions of some touristy places in Nepal, like the Chitwan National Park, or simply written trekking in big, bold letters.

For trekkers, mountaineering guides and maps are essentials. Since most tourists do trekking in Nepal, bookstores and outdoor gear shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara stock many brands of mountaineering literature and associated topographical maps.

Other stationery items are handmade Nepali paper products, like journals, writing sets, and notebooks. These often feature traditional designs that are made using local techniques. 

Products from Lokta paper

Products made from Lokta or local Nepali paper are incredible souvenirs to bring back home. In addition, they also provide an environmentally friendly and culturally significant aspect that a normal souvenir can't quite match. Lokta paper is made from the bark of the Daphne bush and has been used for thousands of years in Nepal to write sacred texts and important official documents.

You can get Lokta paper in several forms. There are Lokta notebooks, Lokta sketchpads, Lokta paintings, Lokta cards, bags, and even lamps, photo frames, or wall hangings made of paper. 

This paper is made by hand using traditional methods. The making process is from cooking the bark and washing it by beating it with a wooden hammer till sun drying to finally make this kind of good quality handmade paper with a smooth, soft touch. These items are widely available in tourist neighborhoods such as Thamel. However, more authentic versions can be found at local markets like Ason Market, where you can also find traditional notebooks or religious images printed on Lokta paper. 

Where to Buy

In cities like Kathmandu, many souvenirs shops sell these products; however, they are also available online in marketplaces or local craft stores.

How Much Does it Cost

Generally, high-quality Lokta papers range from NPR 200 to NPR 1,500 per kilogram; notebooks or gift wrapping papers cost between NPR50 and NPR 500. 

Food & Consumables (Tea)

Nepal has a great selection of tasty cuisines and drinks that symbolize views of the Himalayas.  

• Coffee: Similar to the ever-popular Masala Chai, Nepali coffee is best bought from local grocery stores. Look out for vacuum-packed Himalayan Arabica Roasted coffee – the perfect gift for coffee lovers at home.
• Himalayan Pink Salt: This is probably Nepal’s favorite export. You can pick up 200g bags of pink salt rocks at Thamel grocery stores, and they won’t cost more than $2 per bag. This pretty pink salt does wonders for the look of your plates.
• Khukuri rum: An adventurous taster? Khukuri Rum would be highly recommendable, then. Available anywhere in Nepal, it’s a lot easier to decide on rather than the locally brewed Everest Beer or the locally brewed ‘rakhi,’ which is a strong distilled drink, after having spent an afternoon out sightseeing.
• Nepali Tea: Nepal has a rich tradition in tea-drinking culture; therefore, Nepali tea grown in the laps of the Himalayas tastes the best. Masala Chai is a flavored tea beverage made by brewing black tea with aromatic spices and herbs. It will be another rare drink for you to find in local supermarkets because you may not want to miss the opportunity to try this delicious spiced tea blended with milk and sugar. And to take home your blend, avoid those expensive ones at Thamel or Lakeside areas and get an authentic one at the local supermarket. To be more specific about the tea type, try Nepali black teas. Illam, known as the “tea capital of Nepal,” has topographical and climatic conditions almost similar to Darjeeling in India, which is famous for its fine black teas. For the best taste of Nepali back tea, find teas from Illam or other regions like Panchthar, Terathum, Jhapa, or Dhankuta.

Yarsagumba

Yarsagumba, called 'caterpillar fungus, ' is a rare and precious souvenir from Nepal. This medicinal herb is collected from the high pastures of the Himalayas, especially Manaslu and Mustang. The locals in these high places use it as an impotence cure. The herb has many health benefits that can prevent respiratory diseases, heart diseases, fatty liver, blood disorders, and impotence. Studies show that Yarhsagamba has a rich antioxidant capacity and tendencies. Herb is scarce and hard to farm; thus, it is hugely pricey.

Yarsagumba even comes in capsules of powdered tea or is infused with whiskey. One should consider legal regulations while taking them out of Nepal, and buyers are advised to go to my trustable company or shops.

How Much Does it Cost

The cost of this commodity in Nepal varies from 250000 to 2.5 million NRs per kilogram, and in the international market, it costs $ 40000-$ 50000 per kg, but buying in Nepal might afford better value.

Antiques, Statues and Masks 

Nepal has a cultural history of over two thousand years and possesses some of the finest artisans in South Asia. Newari craftsmen in Kathmandu Valley have made several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and their work can be seen in China and Tibet. Beautiful old items can be seen in curio shops and art stores in Thamel, Boudha and Patan, including finely carved statues of metal and stone deities, paintings, and painted manuscript covers. However, a special certificate from the Department of Archeology is required for export. At the same time, things over a hundred years old are considered national treasures and not allowed to be taken out of the country.

Statues and masks are important components of Nepali culture and are used as religious, cultural, and traditional symbols and souvenirs. It can be seen in Hindu-related monuments and features at several religious events. Statues depict Buddha and different Buddhist aspects, whereas mask faces refer to various deities like Shiva, Indra, etc.

These items highlight the outstanding craftsmanship shown by Nepalese people. They are made of brass, clay bronze, gold-silver, and sometimes cotton or paper for a mask. The statues &masks become good luck charms and are considered excellent decorative features for the home.

Antiques, statues, and masks give you a chance to bring home a piece of Nepal’s incredible culture. They’ll be beautiful art pieces for your collection and souvenirs from an amazing trip.

Where to Buy

• Visit the ancient towns in Nepal for antiques, statues and masks.
• Tour 7 UNESCO World Heritage areas in Bhaktapur, Patan or Kathmandu.
• Try visiting Thamel, Asan Market, and Jhochhen Tole in Kathmandu's city center.

How Much Does it Cost:

Antiques are costly in general. Masks are cheap, starting from USD 20-50. Statues depend on the materials – brass statues could be expensive, while clay ones might be quite affordable.

Newari Pauba Painting

Pauba painting or paubhā could be another unique gifting option in Nepal. Originating from Kathmandu Valley, Pauba is a religious painting made by the Newari Chitrakars on Buddha and Hindu deities. It is believed to bring merit to the artist and the owner.

Paubhas are distinct because they are produced under strict traditional rules, with common measurements, colors and Deus poses. They are drawn on cotton or silk prepared with buffalo glue and white clay. Traditional organic paints, gold, and silver dust are used, though some modern artists now incorporate artificial colors.

The Paubha carries deep religious value in Nepal and can be seen hanging on the altars, monasteries and temples. During religious occasions, the Paubha is especially important. People think it helps to meditate. For travellers, a Pauba painting offers a piece of Nepal's rich artistic and spiritual heritage. 

Where to Buy

These paintings are available at most of the art galleries in the country specializing in Himalayan art. The places you can visit to purchase this painting are around the Lalitpur and Bhaktapur areas. 

How Much Does it Cost

Pauba paintings vary in price, generally due to the quality of the artistry and how detailed it is. Some Paubas can start as low as $100-300; a large Pauba may go for $900 or more for an amazing piece.

Nepali Spices

You may have fallen in love with local Nepali food after your stay in Nepal, so why not take some Nepali spices back home? Nepal is a country known for its unique and exotic flavors. The country’s wide range of spices manufactured and sold in markets ensures that these are responsibly sourced from the wilderness and Himalayan fields. These are available in many shops at prices much cheaper than abroad.

Buy commonly used spices such as coriander, ginger, Timur (Sichuan pepper), chillies, cumin, turmeric, fenugreek and mustard seeds in powdered or raw form for amazing gifts or additions to your kitchen. This would allow you to get a taste of Nepal back home. To avoid customs issues, get spice packets labeled.

Where to Buy

There are specific spice shops and outlets across Thamel and Asan Bazaar, as well as most tourist areas such as Pokhara & Bhaktapur. Also, when you are on treks like on Annapurna Base Camp, there is no lack of authentic shops on routes that sell local produce.

How Much Does it Cost

Generally, expect to pay between 100-500 Nepali Rupees (roughly $1-USD 5) for small packets of common spices. Rarer or organic varieties may uplift that price.

Local Food Products

Titaura

You mustn't miss out on local indigenous berries and fruits cooked into sweet-tasting, savory candies. Other special candies are 'Titaura' or Pau is unique and represents Nepali cuisine. These are prepared from hog plum, gooseberries, tamarind, raw mangoes, ginger and lime, boiled and then sugar with jaggery and chilli flakes.

The soft paste is then thrown under the sun for drying, and the product is later dehydrated and cut according to desired shapes and sizes.

It smells and tastes delicious. It offers various flavors, such as sour flavored or mild spicy flavored. In addition, you might just purchase this before the trek and even use it to prevent motion sickness, which Is an added advantage. They Come available in small plastic packs. You'll find them easy to purchase even from the streets of Nepal's local grocery Shops Or supermarkets.

• Where to Buy: In Kathmandu, find Titaura snacks at local markets like Godawari, Sanga, Ason, and Bhaktapur.
• How Much Does it Cost: Titaura Snacks are available for $1 for a small pack to $5 for a large pack.

Churpi

Churpi is a hardened yak cheese – and an ideal Himalayan keepsake. This speciality food is made from yak buttermilk – the liquid is pressed out, and the solid part is dried to a bullet-like hardness. Initially rock hard, it slowly softens in the mouth as you work through its mild, smoky taste.

Historically treasured for its warming properties in cold, high Himalayan climates, it's a gift of nourishment with cultural significance. Given to friends or family, it provides an instant taste of high-altitude Nepal that will last and last. Churpi reveals much about the creativity of food preservation techniques around the Himalayas, not to mention that it tells a story about some rich produce in that region.

• Where to Buy: Buy it at local stores anywhere in Nepal or on your way to Kalinchowk if you happen to be heading there. Similarly, the Ason Market area in Kathmandu isis full of shops selling Churpis. 
• How Much Does it Cost: A small pack of Churpi will cost around $1, and a larger package can go up to $5 or more.

Mustang's Apple Cider and Apple Brandy

The apple farms are bountiful in the high-altitude region of Thak Khola, Mustang. But in and around Marpha, you will find the best apples in Nepal. During harvesting season, a red carpet seems to be spread all over the land in Marpha.

Natives here have mastered the art of varied apple products, but Apple cider and apple brandy are two apple creations from Mustang that you must take back home after your visit to Mustang. Taking back these flavors will remind you of a taste of rich agricultural traditions flourishing in each household of Mustang people. While on touristic ventures here, one can also enjoy the still apple wine, pies & crumbles, and sun-dried apples bought particularly for long-lasting treats.

• Where to Buy: If you plan an Upper Mustang trekking adventure or an Upper Mustang Jeep or Bike tour, buy apple cider and brandy from local stores or orchards while visiting Marpha and surrounding farms. They are excellent souvenirs that offer a taste of Mustang's tradition.
• How much does it cost: The prices for Mustang's apple cider and brandy depend on the quality of the drink and the volume of the drink you choose to buy. A bottle generally costs between 500-1500 Nepali Rupees (approximately USD 4 – 12). Premium selections will be more expensive.

Yak Cheese

Yak cheese is a unique delicacy that embodies the essence of Nepal's Himalayan culture. Crafted from the milk of yaks, domesticated by high-altitude ethnic groups like Sherpas and Bhotias, this cheese represents centuries of tradition and adaptation to challenging environments. Its popularity has grown beyond local communities, with artisanal producers like Himalayan French Cheese creating award-winning varieties.

The Yak Blue Cheese from Ramechhap even garnered international acclaim, winning a gold medal in a prestigious French competition. Visitors can purchase yak cheese from various outlets in Kathmandu, including DDC dairy shops, Himalayan French Cheese stores, and local farmer's markets. For an authentic experience, trekkers can visit the historic yak cheese factory in Kyanjin Gompa, Langtang Valley, established in the 1950s.

As a souvenir, yak cheese offers a tangible and delicious reminder of Nepal's rich culinary heritage and stunning Himalayan landscapes.

• Where to Buy: For the most authentic yak cheese experience, head to the Kyanjin Gompa cheese factory on the Langtang Valley trek route. However, yak cheese is more widely available in Kathmandu's dairy shops (including Thamel) and even supermarkets.
• How Much Does it Cost: Expect a range of $10 to $100 depending on size, age, and where you buy it.

Madhubani / Mithila Art

Madhubani/Mithila art is probably one of the most fascinating things you could take home from Nepal. It is a live piece of cultural heritage dating to the 7th century, originating in the Mithila region in Terai. This ancient art has a rich history of how it all began centuries ago with local women decorating their homes.

The origins of the art lie embedded in mythology; it is said that King Janak of Mithila had asked his subjects to paint their homes for the wedding and procession of Lord Rama. Since then, this simple artwork has taken shape from simple wall decorations to intricate forms that are popular worldwide. 

It was traditionally made using natural dyes and pigments from flour, twigs, leaves, or cow dung on mud walls. Today, Madhubani has branched out into paper and canvas, featuring gods and goddesses, nature and social motifs in vibrant colors and patterns so unique that each tells a story characteristic of Mithila's culture and mythology.

Far more than just a beautiful object, Mithila art is the legacy of a tradition that generations of Maithili women have strived to keep alive. Small souvenir-size paintings are inexpensive and easily found, while much larger and more elaborate works can also be purchased. You take this art differently – big, small, or between. It's an unusual souvenir of Nepal's traditional arts that won't fail to spark conversation. G

reat for anyone who loves all things creative or likes their souvenirs handmade with rich culture – you'll be taking home a bit of Nepal's most colorful artistic tradition.

Where to Buy

Mithila paintings in souvenir shops in Kathmandu at Thamel. It is worth remembering they might not be authentic. The Madhubani art is from Janakpur, and its surroundings near the Madhubani are situated at the Indian border across this Nepali region.

How Much Does It Cost

Madhubani art prices vary based upon the size, complexity, and artist's skill, where small, simple pieces start from 500 Nepali Rupees (USD 4), and intricate works by renowned artists can exceed 10,000 Rupees (USD 100) or more.

Thangka Paintings

Thangka paintings are fine and detailed Tibetan Buddhist scrolls from the Nepalese ‘pauba’. Their detailed representations portray the Buddhist gods, the mandalas, and the biography of Shakyamuni. These are effective tools for teaching, prayer and meditation. Developed from the Newari arts of Kathmandu and Lhasa, thangkas are painted in a layer of cotton or silk and are surrounded by brocaded fabric. The creation process is very long; depending on what is being created, the painting of the picture may take days, weeks, or even months.

Earlier, the thangkas were designated for use in rituals and ceremonies. Still, at present, they are available in art shops for sale and at various places in Kathmandu, including Thamel and Boudha. Some local studios can be visited where one can observe the process of creating traditional frescoes, which will provide a better understanding of this type of art. 

Therefore, thangka can be a unique memento that gives more than just an item to hang on the wall. It is a genuine part of history, with the oldest examples coming from Nepal, dating back to the 14th century AD. Taking home a thangka is a nice way of taking home an art form that is very spiritual and which will always be cherished and make you feel closer to Nepal.

Where to buy

You can buy Thangkas in Patan and Bhaktapur, where traditional arts still prevail. In Thamel (Kathmandu tourist hub), many shops offer "genuine" thangka, but only visit specialized galleries at this location for the real thing.

How Much Does it Cost

Thangka painting prices fall between US$100 to US$1000. Smaller and simpler works start around $100, while a well-reputed artist's large and more intricate qualities can reach up to $1000. Size, detail, and the artist's reputation determine the price.

Organic Honey (Mad Honey)

Organic honey from Nepal, particularly the famed ‘mad honey’, is a special treat that offers both taste and benefits. Collected from the nectar of wild blooming Himalayan flora, Nepali organic honey is famous for its medicinal and culinary values.

The most intriguing kind is the cliff bees’ hive product – mad honey, which Gurung and Magar men gather on open ledges high above the ground in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. It contains grayanotoxin as it is collected from the local wildflowers and rhododendron nectars by the Himalayan bees (Apis Dorsata Laboriosa). It stings back with mild psychoactive properties.

This honey can be taken home as a souvenir of the trip. But it should be taken in moderation since it can make people tipsy, which leads to various illnesses. It may be strange and odd, but it is new and tasty, and they can offer one of the more exotic types of Nepalese food.

Where to Buy

Organic honey can be bought in stores near Chitwan & Bardia parks, on Annapurna region treks like Annapurna Base Camp trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, or in specialty stores in towns with a larger selection.

How Much Does it Cost

Nepal's Organic honey prices vary massively. Mad honey is particularly pricey due to its rarity and the danger of collecting. Organic honey typically costs 500-1500 Nepali Rupees (roughly USD 4 – 12) per kilo. Mad honey will set you back anything from 5000-15000 Nepali Rupees ($40 – USD120) for a small jar based on quality and source.

Carved Wooden Items

Carved wooden items from Nepal can bring the country's rich artistic heritage right into your hands. The Kathmandu Valley, in particular, boasts skilled carvers whose work has decorated temples, houses and public buildings for generations.

These artisans make everything from the complex architectural elements like windows and doors to beautiful little boxes, statues and frames. All are covered with intricate detail and cultural motifs you'd expect from Nepalese wood carving. Postcards can't do justice to what some of these carvings look like close-ups. Some popular choices for souvenirs include: 

• Miniature window frames with traditional Newari designs
• Masks made of carved wood depicting Gods and other mythical characters
• Decorative boxes with elaborate designs
• Small statues of Buddha or other religious figures

These are beautiful showpieces and a souvenir directly reflecting Nepal's ancient art. They are ideal gifts that bring cultural and aesthetic significance with them.

Where to Buy

Such wooden items are found in Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square. In Bhaktapur, you will also see old men who are still busy carving statues and windows.

How Much Does it Cost

Carved wooden items vary widely in price, depending on size, complexity, and artisan skill. Small sizes may cost $10-$50, while large intricate pieces can range from $100 to thousands of dollars.

Bedding & Linens and brass Items

Bedding and linens make surprisingly charming souvenirs from Nepal. Brightly coloured pillow covers and sheets can double up as unique wall hangings, adding color and culture to your home. The other options are quilted pillowcases made from recycled sarees (often featuring traditional designs like elephants), which can be framed as artwork or used as decorative throw pillows. Most of the bedding items in Kathmandu are lightweight, so it’s perfect for travelers who may not have too much space in their luggage.

Brass is another popular purchase. You will see some on sale in tourist areas such as Thamel in Kathmandu or Lakeside in Pokhara, but the best selection is generally at specialized shops in places such as Bhaktapur. You can find brass vessels, baubles, and trinkets at such shops — some small, decorative items and other large, intricate creations.

Common brass purchases include prayer wheels, singing bowls, statues of deities (particularly Ganesh), jewelry boxes, and other trinkets.

Where to Buy

Bedding and linens can be found in Thamel or New Road area. For Brass, you might want to visit Basantapur, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, or even Ason Market, where many authentic Nepali souvenirs are found.

How Much Does it Cost

Bedding & linens start from $5 for simple pillow covers to over $100. Brass items start at around $5 for small trinkets and can go well over $200 for larger, detailed pieces.

Local Handmade products

Traditional Handmade Marionettes

Collectors of puppets might want to take home traditional Nepalese marionettes. Called "Putali '' in Nepal, these tiny string puppets represent Hindu and Buddhist deities. They are wrought by Newari craftsmen from the Bhaktapur or Lalitpur areas, each featuring two masks and long, colorful skirts that almost reach the floor.

The dual mask functions make it easy for performers to change characters during a performance. Though Bhaktapur is the main center for their production, you'll find Putali for sale at tourist sites all over the Ktm Valley. In one sense, they're an ideal souvenir: easily portable containers of cultural and religious heritage.

Where to Buy: Finding marionettes shouldn't be hard as long as you know where to look - visit shops in Thamel, Patan and Bhaktapur heritage area, Basantapur Chowk, Indra Chowk market, or Ason.

How Much Does it Cost:  Small puppets cost around $10-$20. Larger, more elaborate ones can reach $30-$50.

Dhaka 

Dhaka, the traditional Nepalese textile Dhaka, is a favored souvenir. This colorful cloth is hand-woven on looms with cotton or woolen yarns. It originated in the eastern hills among Limbu and Rai communities. Terathum and Palpa are famous production centers of this textile that forms part of Nepal's national dress.

You'll see it used in Topis (caps), Chaubandi cholos, and saris. Colorful Dhaka Topis, shawls, stoles or mufflers, or handwoven saris make excellent souvenirs for visitors to this country who want to take home something wearable while here.

Where to Buy:  Dhaka textiles can be found in Ason Market and Indra Chowk Market in Kathmandu, where you can access various authentic products, from fabric to ready-made items.

How Much Does it Cost: Dhaka prices vary: fabric costs $5-20 per meter, topis (caps) range from $3-15, shawls and stoles $10-40, mufflers $5-20. Handwoven Saris can be $50-$200, depending on quality and intricacy.

FInal Say 

What is the best souvenir to take home from Nepal? Well, it depends on what you are interested in, how much money you want to spend and whether it is carry-able. And as for what to buy in Nepal, there are thousands of items that could capture every bit of the country’s cultural, natural and artistic wealth. Kathmandu shopping has a mix of the local and the luxury; anything from street-side stalls to flashy shopping malls exists here.

Make sure you leave a little packing space reserved for your Nepal holiday. If you’d like some help with your shopping, consider joining the half-day Kathmandu Shopping Delights tour before or after your tour and treks in Nepal. 

Most of the best things to buy as souvenirs are handmade products. Pashmina shawl, singing bowl and thangka painting are examples of what you can get for yourself that depict the artistic culture of Nepal. People who like religious souvenirs could get prayer flags, Rudraksha beads, or small Buddha statues as souvenirs of Nepal's spirituality.

Those who are adventurous might go for Nepali tea, spices or gourmet delights, including yak cheese. Therefore, tourists choose trekking equipment or Khukuri knives as souvenirs because they have practical uses. In conclusion, the best souvenirs are those souvenirs that relate to your own experiences in Nepal, whether it's a hand-woven textile reflecting the allurement of the markets in Kathmandu, a piece of traditional jewelry evoking reminiscences of the craftsmanship of Nepal or even something small and simple to remind you on your trip.