Pashmina Weaving with Nomadic Women in Changthang

Overview

Pashmina weaving with nomadic women in the Changthang Plateau offers a rare, intimate glimpse into one of Ladakh’s most revered and luxurious traditional crafts—the making of Pashmina wool. The term “Pashmina” evokes elegance and softness, but behind every scarf or shawl lies a centuries-old story of pastoral life, seasonal migration, and the skilled hands of Changpa nomads. This immersive experience connects visitors to the grassroots origins of Himalayan Pashmina, from raw goat wool to handwoven magic. As globalization threatens this slow, soulful process, participating in such an activity becomes an act of preservation and respect.

Location & Community

This experience unfolds in Changthang, a remote high-altitude region east of Leh, stretching towards the Indo-Tibetan border. The activity is typically hosted by Changpa women, members of the semi-nomadic pastoralist community known for rearing the rare Changra goats, whose undercoat yields the softest Pashmina in the world. Visits usually take place in seasonal settlements near Korzok (near Tso Moriri Lake), Puga Valley, or Sumdo, depending on migratory patterns.

Skills or Knowledge Gained

Participants will:

• Understand the entire Pashmina process from goat to garment

• Learn traditional manual spinning and weaving techniques

• Gain insight into nomadic lifestyle and migration cycles

• Discover traditional uses of Pashmina beyond fashion, such as in marriage trousseaus or winter rituals

• Deepen their respect for slow, handmade textiles and the women who preserve this heritage

Cultural Relevance

For the Changpa, Pashmina is not just a livelihood—it’s an embodiment of identity, resilience, and community survival. Their skill supports both domestic use and trade that sustains their high-altitude life. With climate change and market competition pressing in, these workshops help validate the traditional knowledge of women, bringing global attention to their quiet mastery. The activity becomes a bridge between ancient practices and modern appreciation.

Best Time to Visit

• May to September: Ideal for visiting seasonal nomadic settlements, with clear weather and ongoing wool production

• June–July: Prime time for shearing and spinning, especially before the monsoonal chill

• Mornings (10 AM – 2 PM) are best for hands-on learning with optimal light and energy levels

Local Impact

• Direct economic benefit to Changpa women and local cooperatives

• Recognition and dignity for nomadic craftsmanship, often undervalued

• Revives interest among younger Changpas in continuing the weaving tradition

• Encourages ethical consumerism and sustainable tourism in Ladakh

• Preserves and documents intangible cultural heritage through meaningful interaction

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Dress warmly and modestly; temperatures remain cool even in summer

• Ask before photographing people, especially elders

• Be patient—traditional methods are slow and sacred

• Show curiosity and ask questions; the women enjoy sharing their stories

• Purchase items directly from community-run co-ops, if available

Don’ts:

• Don’t treat the activity as a luxury shopping stop

• Avoid touching looms or yarn without permission

• Don’t expect electricity, Wi-Fi, or touristy amenities—this is real nomadic life

• Refrain from comparing handmade prices to mass-market products

Photographic Moments

• Goat herding scenes: Changra goats grazing against high-altitude backdrops

• Weaving hands: Close-ups of fingers tying knots, feeding yarn through looms

• Portraits: With permission, capture the strength and grace of Changpa women at work

• Daily life: Children playing near yak tents, drying wool under the sun

• Pashmina in progress: From raw wool piles to finished scarves

Pashmina Weaving with Nomadic Women in Changthang is not just a workshop—it’s a silent pilgrimage into a world where time slows down, and every thread carries the voice of the mountains. It’s an invitation to witness how tradition endures in the face of wind, wilderness, and time.