Cultural StudyKathmandu Valley
Day 1: Thangka Iconography & Canvas Preparation
Morning introduction to thangka symbolism, colors, and sacred proportions at a studio in Patan or Bhaktapur. Learn to prepare cotton canvas with gesso, sketch a simple mandala or White Tara using traditional grid lines, and understand how each deity embodies specific tantric principles. Afternoon museum visit to see historical paubha masterpieces.
Kathmandu Valley As per plan
Day 2: Pigments, Brushwork & Meditation
Grind natural mineral pigments (lapis lazuli, malachite, cinnabar) and learn brush techniques with squirrel-hair brushes. Practice laying down base colors and fine linework on your thangka under the guidance of a master artist. Midday meditation session to understand how creating sacred art is itself a tantric sadhana.
Kathmandu Valley As per plan
Day 3: Patan Metalwork & Lost-Wax Casting
Visit the traditional metalworking neighborhood (Okubahal) in Patan to observe artisans sculpting wax models, encasing them in clay molds, and casting gilt-copper deity statues. Learn about the ritual consecration (prana-pratishtha) that transforms a metal image into a living deity. Optional: try your hand at repoussé or small wax sculpting.
Kathmandu Valley As per plan
Day 4: Consecration, Markets & Departure
Attend a brief blessing ceremony for completed artworks at a local monastery. Visit Patan’s antique and craft markets to understand the economics of sacred art. Closing discussion on how Newar artists balance commercial demand with religious integrity, and how tantric iconography travels from Kathmandu to the Tibetan plateau and beyond.
Kathmandu Valley As per plan
Everything apart from the trip itself is an upsell — tick what you want.
Kathmandu Valley • 4 days • 1 traveller(s) • incl. fees
Rs 47,000
