Meet artisans: papier-mâché & walnut wood carving
Hands-on cultural visit to family-run workshops in Srinagar's Old City to watch and learn traditional Kashmiri papier-mâché painting and walnut wood carving. Meet master artisans, see the full craft process from raw material to finished product, try basic techniques under guidance, and buy authentic souvenirs directly from makers.
Location
Old City workshops (near Lal Chowk & local bazaars), Srinagar, India
Duration
Approximately 3 hours (half-day). Can be extended into a full-day visit if including additional workshops or a deeper hands-on session.
Best Time to Visit
April to October (spring and summer for pleasant weather and active workshops). Avoid the coldest months (Dec–Feb) if you prefer easier access and more open workshops.
Pricing
INR 800–1,500 per person (approx. USD 10–20) for the guided visit and demonstrations. Optional hands-on session or purchase of finished goods priced separately (small items INR 200–600; larger carved furniture or elaborate papier-mâché pieces vary widely, INR 2,000+). Group discounts often available for 4+ people.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Meet multi-generational artisans and hear stories of craft lineage
Live demonstrations of papier-mâché shaping, gessoing, tempera painting, and lacquering
Walnut wood carving demonstrations: sketching motifs, chiseling, inlay (if available), and finishing with natural oils/varnish
Try simple painting or carving techniques under artisan guidance
Buy authentic, locally made souvenirs directly from makers (no middlemen)
Learn about traditional Kashmiri motifs (paisleys, chinar leaves, floral arabesques) and materials (walnut wood, mulberry paste, natural pigments)
Itinerary
Arrival & short orientation
Meet at a central point (guesthouse or Lal Chowk). Brief introduction to the area, safety, and the day's schedule.
Visit first workshop — Papier-mâché
Observe the papier-mâché process: molding, layering, drying, gessoing, painting, and lacquering. Opportunity to try basic brush strokes or paint a small item.
Tea & artisan conversation
Sit down for Kashmiri noon/late-morning tea, ask artisans about training, tools, and market challenges. Great time for respectful photography (ask first).
Visit second workshop — Walnut wood carving
Watch carvers at work on bowls, trays, boxes, and furniture. Demonstrations typically include sketching, chiseling, filing, and polishing. Short supervised carving/filing exercise if arranged.
Shopping & close
Browse finished pieces; discuss prices and commission potential for custom items. Learn about shipping options if you want larger pieces sent home.
Safety Requirements
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes — workshops can have uneven floors and scattered tools
Be cautious around sharp carving tools and hot lacquer; follow artisan instructions during hands-on activities
Respect personal and workspace boundaries; always ask before taking photographs
Carry necessary meds if you have respiratory sensitivities (some workshops use natural pigments, dust, or fumes from varnish)
Bring valid ID if requested for purchases or shipping arrangements
Tips
Carry small change (INR) — many artisans prefer cash for small purchases; confirm card/shipping availability beforehand
Politely bargain for fair prices — start slightly lower but remember many are small family businesses
Ask for a simple authenticity note or maker’s name for higher-value items
If you want a hands-on session, request this when booking; some workshops charge an extra fee and need advance notice
Take photos only with permission; offer to tag or credit artisans if sharing on social media
Pack a small tote or protective soft bag for fragile purchases and consider bubble wrap for delicate items
Support ethical buying: ask about materials and prefer naturally finished or certified wood where possible
