The Bamboo Weaving Tradition of Badikhel Under Threat

Northern Badikhel has a dense Pahari settlement where bamboo weaving remains a primary livelihood alongside farming and traditional liquor production. But the tradition faces mounting pressure from modern alternatives.

According to Nepal Pahari Development Association leaders:

• Cheaper plastic products have displaced bamboo items in local markets.
• Raw bamboo material has become expensive to source.
• Many skilled women are choosing daily wage labourer jobs over weaving.

The Pahari Women Development Society, in collaboration with local governments and NGOs, runs awareness programmes to preserve the craft and teach skills to the next generation. The Badikhel Women's Union cooperative manages nearly NPR 2 million in bamboo product transactions.