The short answer
Newar craftsmen of the Kathmandu Valley are famous for intricate wood carving on struts, windows and doors, and for repoussé metalwork in gilt copper that decorates roofs and doorways. These crafts decorate temples, palaces and the old brick houses of Bhaktapur, Patan and Kathmandu.
Look at the peacock window in Bhaktapur, the carved struts of pagoda temples and the golden doorways. Workshops in Patan and Bhaktapur sell metal statues, masks and carved panels. Ask about materials and workmanship, and buy from reputable shops.
Key facts
- Wood
- Struts, windows, doors
- Metal
- Gilt copper, bronze statues
- Where
- Bhaktapur, Patan, Kathmandu
- Tip
- Visit workshops
How it works
- Walk the old streetsLook at windows.
- Visit a workshopPatan or Bhaktapur.
- Ask about materialsAnd making time.
- Buy with careCheck export rules.
Insider tip
Watch a craftsman at work to understand the effort behind each piece.
Avoid this
Do not buy genuine antiques without paperwork; export of antiques needs permission.
Related questions
Are antiques allowed to leave Nepal?
Export of antiques requires special permission; ask before buying.
Where are the best workshops?
Patan and Bhaktapur are well known.
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