TraditionalCrafts
Discover the rich artisanal heritage of Ladakh. From world-famous Pashmina to sacred Thangka paintings, each craft tells a story of centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.
Living Heritage
Ladakh's crafts are more than decorative arts—they are expressions of spiritual devotion, cultural identity, and practical wisdom developed over centuries. Each piece carries the soul of its maker and the traditions of a resilient mountain community.
Traditional Art Forms
Explore the diverse crafts that define Ladakhi culture
Pashmina Weaving
The world-famous Pashmina wool comes from the Changpa nomads' goats. Skilled artisans weave this incredibly soft fiber into shawls, scarves, and blankets using traditional techniques.
The Process:
Buying Tips:
Look for GI-tagged products. Authentic Pashmina is lightweight, warm, and passes through a ring.
Thangka Painting
Sacred Buddhist scroll paintings depicting deities, mandalas, and religious scenes. Created using natural pigments and following strict iconographic rules passed down through generations.
The Process:
Buying Tips:
Quality Thangkas take months to complete. Look for fine details, natural pigments, and proper proportions.
Silver Jewelry
Traditional Ladakhi jewelry featuring turquoise, coral, and amber set in silver. Designs include the famous Perak headdress worn by Ladakhi women.
The Process:
Buying Tips:
Look for hallmarked silver. Traditional pieces feature turquoise (good fortune) and coral (protection).
More Traditional Crafts
Wood Carving (Shingskos)
Intricate wood carvings adorning doors, windows, and furniture. Traditional motifs include dragons, lotus flowers, and Buddhist symbols.
Tip: Authentic pieces use local wood like willow or poplar. Look for hand-carved details and traditional motifs.
Pottery
Traditional clay pottery created using local clay and fired in traditional kilns. Items include storage vessels, tea pots, and decorative pieces.
Tip: Handmade pieces have slight irregularities. Look for traditional shapes and local clay colors.
Carpet Weaving
Hand-knotted carpets featuring traditional Tibetan and Ladakhi designs. Made using local wool and natural dyes.
Tip: Check knot density (higher is better). Natural dyes create subtle, lasting colors.
Hands-On Workshops
Learn traditional crafts from local artisans
Pashmina Weaving Workshop
Learn the basics of Pashmina spinning and weaving from local artisans.
Thangka Painting Introduction
Introduction to Thangka painting techniques and Buddhist iconography.
Pottery Making
Hands-on experience creating traditional pottery pieces.
Jewelry Making
Create your own piece of traditional Ladakhi jewelry.
Where to Shop
Authentic sources for traditional crafts
Ladakh Arts & Media Organisation (LAMO)
Old Town, Leh
Curated traditional arts and crafts
Non-profit supporting local artisans
Women's Alliance of Ladakh
Leh
Pashmina, handicrafts
Supports women artisans
Ecology Centre
Leh
Eco-friendly crafts
Sustainable products
Main Bazaar Shops
Main Bazaar, Leh
Various crafts
Compare prices, bargain respectfully
Tibetan Refugee Market
Near Main Bazaar
Tibetan crafts, jewelry
Supports refugee community
Village Cooperatives
Various villages
Direct from artisans
Best prices, authentic products
Shopping Tips
Get the best authentic products
Check for GI Tags
Geographical Indication tags ensure authenticity
Examine Quality
Look for hand-made details and natural materials
Ask About Origin
Genuine sellers explain the craft's history
Support Artisans
Buy directly from makers when possible
Get Certificates
For expensive items, ask for authenticity certificates
Fair Pricing
Quality crafts take time; extremely cheap items may not be authentic
Careful Packing
Ask for proper packaging for delicate items
Avoid Antiques
Exporting genuine antiques is illegal
Discover Ladakh's Artisan Heritage
Support local artisans and take home a piece of Ladakhi culture.