Walk through Thamel and you will pass a khukuri, the curved blade carried by Gurkha soldiers and Nepali households for generations, in nearly every souvenir shop window. Most of what's on those shelves was mass-produced and shipped in. This khukuri making experience puts you inside an actual working blacksmith's forge, hammer in hand, next to a smith who has been doing this since before you were born. You leave with a real object you made yourself, not just a photo.
The session runs around 3 to 3.5 hours and is priced at US$45 per person, covering materials, blacksmith guidance, and the finished knife with its scabbard to take home. Groups are kept small, capped at 6 people, so everyone gets real time at the anvil. Pair it with our hidden courtyards walking tour for a full artisan day in old Kathmandu, or browse our other unique local experiences.
Welcome and history briefing. The session opens over tea with a short introduction to the khukuri: its role with Gurkha regiments, its everyday use in the Nepali hills, and the symbolism of the notch near the handle, known as the cho.
At the anvil. The blacksmith heats a steel blank in the hearth until it glows orange, then guides you through hammering it into shape. The smith handles the highest-skill steps, achieving the correct curve and tempering the steel, while you do the hands-on hammering under direct guidance.
Grinding, polishing and the handle. Your blade is ground and polished, then fitted into a handcrafted wooden handle with a leather scabbard. Ask about adding your name or a short inscription for a genuinely personal souvenir.
Wrap-up. You leave with your finished khukuri, sheathed and ready to pack, plus photos of yourself at the anvil.
This package is fixed-price at US$45 per person, for groups of 2 or more. Solo travellers, please email us to confirm availability and pricing. Click the next tab (INQUIRY / BOOKING) to send us your preferred dates and group size; we reply with confirmed availability within 24 hours.
How much does the khukuri making experience cost?
US$45 per person, including materials, blacksmith guidance, and the finished khukuri with scabbard to take home.
Is it safe for beginners?
Yes. An experienced blacksmith handles the highest-risk steps, moving hot steel and tempering the blade, while guiding you through hammering, grinding and handle fitting. No prior experience is needed.
Can I take the finished knife home on a flight?
Yes, as checked baggage rather than carry-on, under standard international airline rules. The scabbard is provided so it packs safely. If you're continuing to other countries, check their knife import rules first.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Groups are capped at 6, so book a day or two ahead, earlier during the September to November and March to April high season.
Getaway Nepal Adventure (P.) Ltd.
Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: +977 98510 38 908
TripAdvisor