In the past months, we have been working hard to create a new website. The look of the site has been completely renewed, with different colors, sliders and content. There is also a responsive layout for a good display on all your devices. The products can be viewed in a larger format and product impressions with models have been added to the product pages. In short, a nice improvement compared to the previous version.

We hope you are as happy with it as we are.

As for the offerings: several new products have been added to our range of products. From (leather) laptop bags to new backpacks, wallets and women’s bags. You can check it out on our shop page. For updates follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter!

Het bericht New website is online! verscheen eerst op HIMALAYAN.

Processing process of allo (nettles)

Allo is extracted from the Allo Susni plant, but because the plant grows between 900 and 2500 meters above sea level, most areas are difficult to access for harvesting. It takes a few days to travel on foot to the forest, harvest Allo, and return with a load of Allo bark. The logs are left to dry for a few days after harvesting and then it is peeled off. Peeling removes the outer bark and leaves the inner bark intact for further processing.

Spinning is done either using a wooden hand spindle called Katuwa or a spinning wheel called “Charkha”.

The next step involves boiling the inner bark in a vessel with wooden ash to lighten and soften the fibers. This takes about 2-3 hours. After boiling, a repetitive process of beating the bark in water with a wooden mallet to loosen the fibers follows, this is usually done in a stream or river. The bundles of clean fibres are now laid out in the sun to dry. Once done, it is further soaked in water and mixed with ground corn (most common in western Nepal), or Kamero (locally available white clay with mica) to get a nice white sheen. Finally, the fibres are extracted using simple household items such as tongs and, once soft, it is spun into yarn.

Mainly women are involved in all stages of collecting and processing Allo. Spinning is done either with the help of a wooden hand spindle called Katuwa or a spinning wheel called “Charkha”. Charkha has two variants: The hand-operated “haate” or the foot-operated “khutte”. The process of spinning the fibres by hand is a monotonous activity and can take a very long time. Fortunately, more and more electric machines are being used in areas where electricity is available. The productivity of micro-enterprises can be greatly increased in this way.

Het bericht Video MEDEP: The production of allo (Himalayan nettles) verscheen eerst op HIMALAYAN.

In this post you will find a collection of photos that I took while hiking. You can also click on the photo, then you will be redirected to my flickr album.

Het bericht Annapurna Circuit (Backpacking through Nepal in 2015) verscheen eerst op HIMALAYAN.

https://kopanmonastery.org/courses/

Location

On a quiet hill just outside Kathmandu lies Kopan Monastery, a peaceful refuge for spiritual seekers and curious travelers. Overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this Tibetan Buddhist monastery is a popular destination not only for its scenic location, but also for its deep spiritual teachings and tranquil atmosphere.

A Brief History

Kopan Monastery was founded in the early 1970s by Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, two Tibetan lamas who fled Tibet after the Chinese invasion. Their aim was to make the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism accessible to a wider audience, particularly to Western students who were becoming increasingly interested in Eastern philosophies at the time.

Today the monastery is home to over 300 monks, mostly young boys from Nepal and the Himalayas. The monastery is affiliated with the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), a worldwide network of Buddhist centers.

A spiritual retreat in the clouds

Visitors come to Kopan not only to see, but mainly to learn and transform. The monastery offers various meditation retreats, from short introductory courses to the well-known November Course, an intensive month-long training in Buddhist philosophy, meditation and practice. These courses are taught in English and attract participants from all over the world.

Even if you are not taking a course, you are welcome as a day visitor. You can explore the monastery grounds, enjoy a vegetarian meal in the café, and admire the breathtaking views of the valley and the distant Himalayas.

The Teachings and Practice

What makes Kopan special is its emphasis on mind training and the Lamrim Path – the step-by-step path to enlightenment. Courses cover topics such as karma, rebirth, compassion, and the nature of mind. Daily programs typically consist of guided meditations, classes, and group discussions, all within a monastic setting that promotes concentration and inner peace.

Many visitors describe their experience at Kopan as life-changing—not because of grand rituals or miracles, but because of the deep sense of clarity and inner peace they experience there.

Architecture and atmosphere

The monastery’s architecture is a colorful mix of traditional Tibetan style and Nepalese influences. Prayer flags flutter in the mountain breeze, and gilded stupas glisten in the sun. The main temple (gompa) houses statues of Buddha and tantric deities, surrounded by thousands of small Buddha statues and flickering butter lamps.

Although it is a place of discipline and study, the atmosphere at Kopan is friendly and open. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or just looking for a moment of silence, there is room for everyone.

How to get there?

Kopan Monastery is about a 30-minute drive from the center of Kathmandu. The last part is done on foot, a symbolic climb that befits the inner journey you are embarking on. Check visiting hours in advance, especially during retreats when the monastery may have limited access.

Finally

In a world full of noise and distractions, Kopan Monastery</stro

Het bericht Kopan Monastery (Backpacking through Nepal in 2015) verscheen eerst op HIMALAYAN.

Why Hemp Is a Wise Investment

Before we dive into the tips, let’s first take a look at why hemp is worth taking good care of:

• Sustainable: Hemp fibers are stronger than cotton and resistant to stretching and fray.

• Environmentally Friendly: Hemp is often grown without harmful chemicals and is one of the most sustainable crops.

• Timeless Look: The natural texture and unique wear patterns ensure that hemp becomes more beautiful over time – when properly cared for.

1. Clean Gently and Not Too Often

Hemp is naturally resistant to mold, so it does not need to be washed often. When necessary, opt for a gentle, natural approach.

Cleaning Tips:

• Spot Clean First: For small stains, use a damp cloth and mild soap (such as Castile soap). Dab gently – do not rub.

• Hand Wash If Needed: For a thorough clean, hand wash in cold water with a gentle, natural detergent.

• Avoid Machine Washing: Spinning and shaking can weaken hemp fibers and damage its shape.

• Air Dry Only: Always dry the backpack in the shade. Sunlight can discolor and a dryer can shrink or warp.

2. Occasional Conditioning

Like leather, hemp can benefit from occasional light conditioning to prevent dryness, especially after exposure to sun or moisture.

Use natural conditioners, such as diluted linseed oil or wax-based fabric balms. Apply sparingly and test a small area first to ensure the fabric doesn’t become too dark.

3. Smart Storage

Even when you’re not using your backpack, it needs some attention.

Storage Tips:

• Keep it Dry: Store your bag in a well-ventilated place.

• Prevent Folds or Creases: Don’t put anything heavy on top – let the backpack rest in its natural shape.

• Use a Dust Bag: If you’re not using your backpack for a long time, store it in a breathable dust or hemp bag to keep out dust and sunlight.

4. Repair Instead of Replace

One ​​of the best things about hemp? It’s highly repairable. A loose thread or small tear certainly doesn’t mean the end.

• Reinforce Seams: Sew loose seams by hand or take them to a tailor.

• Patch with Style: Use leftover fabric or hemp patches to patch holes – this adds character and extends the lifespan.

Repairs are part of the story and make your backpack a unique and personal item.

5. Avoid Overloading

Although hemp is strong, constantly carrying too heavy loads can put a strain on the webbing and seams in the long run.

• Distribute Weight Evenly: Use the interior pockets to distribute items evenly.

• Don’t Overstuff: Keep the weight manageable to maintain shape and strength.

Conclusion: Invest in Sustainability, Not Just Style

Your hemp backpack is more than just a bag – it’s a conscious choice. With a little care and attention, it can last for years, age beautifully, and help you reduce waste. Treat it like the durable companion it is, and it will serve you faithfully for years to come.

Think long-term. Care consciously. Choose hemp.

Het bericht How do I make sure my hemp backpack lasts for years? verscheen eerst op HIMALAYAN.

Hemp is an exceptionally sustainable, strong and environmentally friendly super fiber.

Hemp

Wild hemp grows in the western hilly part of Nepal. It is obtained from plants of the Cannabis Sativa species and is considered an exceptionally sustainable, strong and environmentally friendly super fiber. Hemp crop has a very high yield that produces much more fiber per hectare than both cotton and flax. Applications vary from rope, textiles, oil, seeds to industrial materials. Hemp can also be used for clothing or bags, our products are an example of this. Today there is a modest hemp industry, but the benefits of hemp as a textile are becoming increasingly clear and the market is therefore growing.

Benefits & properties of Hemp

• Hemp requires no pesticides, displaces weeds without herbicides, controls topsoil erosion and produces oxygen
• Hemp is renewable and can be cultivated in less than 100 days
• Hemp’s tensile strength is eight times stronger than cotton
• Hemp is hypoallergenic and therefore does not irritate the skin
• Hemp is breathable, absorbs moisture and is very suitable for warm weather
• Hemp will soften with age and washing, keeping the backpack beautiful for a long time

Allo (nettles)

Allo is a type of nettle and is widely used in Nepal for clothing and household purposes. The Allo plant is particularly well-known in the middle and hilly regions of Nepal. The fiber extracted from the Allo plant is the strongest of all other natural Himalayan fibers. As a result, clothing and other products made from Allo fibers are extremely durable and have been used for centuries by communities such as the Magars, Gurungs, Rais and Limbus.

The production of allo creates work and income for many Nepalese

The indigenous communities, who often live in remote mountain villages, use allo for all kinds of practical and religious purposes. They use it to produce durable jackets, headbands for porters, fishing nets, ropes, bags, sacks and blankets. But also as a source of vitamin C. Today, the 115-year-old local Charkha (spinning wheel) is still in use and Allo provides work for many Nepalese.

The Allo plant is a perennial plant that grows in the wild between 1200 and 3000 meters above sea level. Allo is usually harvested from August to December. If the plant is harvested during this time, it provides good quality fibers. The plant’s annoying stinging properties discourage locals from harvesting it, as they only use a thick piece of cloth to protect their hand from the stinging. Therefore, the Allo plant is preferably harvested in winter when the stinging power of the Allo diminishes. After the plant is cut, the bark is removed and peeled. The bark of the Allo stem contains fibers of unique strength, smoothness and lightness. Watch a video on harvesting allo here..

Benefits & properties of Allo

• Allo has the longest fibers known so far
• The production of allo creates work and income for many Nepalese
• Allo grows in the forest under small trees in the humus and is a sustainable material
• No chemical fertilizers are used to grow allo
• Allo has anti-allergic elements and does not irritate the skin

Het bericht Benefits of Hemp and Allo (Nettles) in Backpacks verscheen eerst op HIMALAYAN.

In a world dominated by fast fashion and disposable products, it’s tempting to throw something away as soon as a zipper breaks or a seam comes loose. But what if a small damage becomes the beginning of a new story, instead of the end?

In our webshop, where we offer handmade hemp backpacks from the mountains of Nepal, we believe that every product deserves a second chance — especially when it is made with care, craftsmanship and sustainable materials.

Enter: the Repair Café.

What is a Repair Café?

A Repair Café is a local event where people bring their broken items — from toasters to backpacks — and work with volunteers to repair them. Think of a temporary workshop full of knowledge, tools and collaboration. It’s usually free to access, and runs entirely on volunteers who are happy to share their skills.

Why repair instead of replace?

Repairing doesn’t just save you money — it reduces waste, conserves resources, and honors the work that went into the product. For our hemp backpacks, that means respecting the artisans in Nepal who made the bags by hand, often using techniques passed down through generations.

Repairing a backpack instead of throwing it away is a small but powerful gesture against the throwaway society. It’s a way to live your values, reduce your carbon footprint, and keep something beautiful in use for longer.

Hemp & the art of sustainability

Hemp is known as one of the strongest natural fibers in the world. It’s breathable, biodegradable, and strong enough to withstand everyday use. But even the best materials can wear out. A loose seam, a broken buckle, a stuck zipper — these are all things you can have fixed.

Take your backpack to a Repair Café, and you’ll not only extend the life of your bag, but you’ll also connect with your local community. Many cafés will even teach you how to make small repairs yourself. This is how you go from being a consumer to a maker.

Find a Repair Café near you

Repair Cafés are popping up all over the world. Visit https://repaircafe.org/nl to see if there’s one near you, or to start one yourself! Many cities now host monthly gatherings where volunteers are happy to help you fix your stuff.

Repairing is the new cool

A repaired backpack tells a story. That patch on the corner? A memory of a hike. That new buckle? A sign of resilience. In a world of mass production, choosing to repair something is a small but powerful statement — and it aligns perfectly with the values ​​of craftsmanship, sustainability, and care for our planet.

Let’s change the culture together — one stitch at a time

When you shop with us, you’re not just buying a hemp backpack — you’re investing in something that’s built to last. And if your backpack ever needs some love, we highly recommend visiting a Repair Café.

Because the most sustainable product isn’t the newest one. It’s the product you’ve cherished, repaired, and carried with you for years.

Het bericht Repair cafe verscheen eerst op HIMALAYAN.