From the Hills of Sikkim: 10 Exquisite Handicrafts We Must Have

In the Himalayas, we have Sikkim, which is one of the pretty seven sister states. The place is well-known not just for its breathtaking scenery but also for its art and culture, especially its handicrafts. The  Sikkim art and craft  scene has a beautiful mixture of culture and artistic skill and this makes it so alluring. It is a must-explore for anyone interested in the crafts of India. While there exist a lot of various  handicrafts from Sikkim,  there are a few that stand at the top. These are a testament to the  art and culture of Sikkim.  

Picture Credit:- Pinterest/behance.net
Picture Credit:- Pinterest/behance.net

Beautiful Traditional Handicrafts of Sikkim

The  architecture and handicrafts of Sikkim  tell stories of a land where nature and spirituality come together to create something magical. Each piece, be it a colorful thangka painting or a woven carpet, is so full of the spirit of Sikkim and the dedication of its artisans.

Carpet Weaving

Carpet weaving is one of the most popular  handicrafts of Sikkim.  These carpets are known for their designs and colors which are fabulous. They usually have pictures of dragons, flowers, or sometimes even religious motifs. Carpets are just floor coverings for us but these gems have  Sikkim's art and culture  woven into them.

Picture Credit:- Pinterest/dsource.in
Picture Credit:- Pinterest/dsource.in

Wood Carving

Wood carving  is another art from SIkkim that gets attention from around the world. From religious statues to carefully detailed motifs on furniture, the wood carvings of Sikkim connect to both  Sikkim art  and Buddhist culture. This means that each piece is a unique artifact to cherish.

 

Thangka Paintings

Thangka paintings  is perhaps one of the most famous  art forms of Sikkim. These religious scroll paintings have so much detail and color. Some even see them as a guide to the divine. It becomes very evident that they are highly influenced by Buddhist philosophy as each painting is seen to tell a story of enlightenment and spiritual journey.

Picture Credit:- Pinterest/Tommy Beauty Pro
Picture Credit:- Pinterest/Tommy Beauty Pro

Lepcha Weavers

The Lepchas are a community indigenous to Sikkim and they have a tradition of weaving that goes long back. In fact, they contribute significantly to the  handicrafts of Sikkim.  Their handwoven textiles are very different from usual weaving due to the technique as well as their patterns and the use of natural dyes. Their craft is a good example of bringing together the harmony between human creativity and nature.

Picture Credit:- spaindustrialdesign.wordpress.com
Picture Credit:- spaindustrialdesign.wordpress.com

Cane and Bamboo

Making crafts with bamboo is a work that demands a lot of skill from the craftsmen and Sikkimese artisans are masters in this. The resourcefulness and creativity are seen from their baskets and furniture and these are both beautiful as well as functional. This craft highlights the sustainable living practices intrinsic to Sikkim's way of life.

Picture Credit:- Sikkim Tourism
Picture Credit:- Sikkim Tourism

Choktse Tables

Choktse tables are another of the unique pieces of  Sikkim craft  that blend utility with art. These are carved wooden tables that are collapsible which means that while being such a pretty addition to your space, it is also very practical. You don’t have to make a fuss while shifting. The designs are mostly themed around religion or nature just like the other crafts of Sikkim. It all adds up to the deep-rooted spirituality and love for nature in Sikkim.

Picture Credit:- India in Cameroon
Picture Credit:- India in Cameroon

Next time you go to Sikkim, make sure to visit the places from where these crafts originate. Sikkim's handicrafts are more than just souvenirs and they are a bridge to understanding the state's rich heritage. By choosing to bring these exquisite handicrafts into our homes we not only fill our spaces with beauty but also support the artisans and their ancient crafts. 

The good news is that you don’t have to go to Sikkim to get your hands on these crafts. iTokri brings to you the art and culture of Sikkim and they are ethically sourced with the artists getting their due credits. You can also find other  handmade products  like Tibetan flags, or tribal jewelry as well at iTokri so make sure to check them out. Each purchase of yours will help keep these traditional art forms alive. Let's cherish and preserve the art and craft of Sikkim, ensuring that these skills are passed on for generations to come.


 

FAQs

What is the famous handicraft of Sikkim?

Handloom weaving, thanka painting, wooden mask making, and wood carving are typical of Sikkim.

What is the famous handloom of Sikkim?

Lepcha durry is a traditional attire of the Sikkim and it is a thick cotton fabric woven on a loin loom. They use 2/20s cotton yarn for weaving it and have geometrical patterns on it. 

Which saree is famous in Sikkim?

The  Sikkim Silk sarees  are famous for their pallu and the border. The Sikkim Cotton & Silk Saree is primarily worn as festive and ceremonial wear and is a popular choice thanks to its lightweight nature. 

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