What Is a Newari Dress?

A Newari dress is the traditional outfit worn by the Newar community of Nepal. It reflects the rich culture, identity, and craftsmanship of the Newars, who are one of the oldest ethnic groups in the Kathmandu Valley. These traditional garments symbolize Nepal’s living heritage and are deeply rooted in ritual, festivals, and daily life.

There are different types of Newari dresses for men, women, and children, and they are commonly worn during festivals, weddings, jatras (parades), and cultural events.

Note: If you’re looking to explore or purchase authentic Newari attire, Swodeshi offers a beautiful selection of handmade Newari dresses that celebrate this timeless tradition with elegance and detail.

Types of Traditional Newari Dress

Newari Dress For Women (Haku Patasi)

• Haku Patasi (Black sari with red border)

• Cholo (Blouse)

• Tanki (Inner layer)

• Sinha or Gaa (Waistband)

• Patuka (Sash around the waist)

• Gunyu (Shawl)

• Traditional jewelry like tikka, bulaki (nose ring), and pote (beaded necklace)

Newari Dress For Men (Tapālan and Suruwā)

• Tapālan (Long shirt-like robe)

• Suruwā (Tight trousers)

• Bhangra (Vest)

• Topi (Nepali cap)

• Patuka (Waist cloth)

How to Wear Newari Dress (Step-by-Step Guide)

To wear a Newari dress, start by putting on the inner garments, then wrap the main cloth like the Haku Patasi or Tapālan depending on gender. Secure it with a waist sash (Patuka), add a blouse or vest, and complete the outfit with traditional jewelry and a Nepali topi.

For Women – How to Wear a Newari Dress (Haku Patasi)

Step 1: Wear the Tanki
Start by wearing a basic inner blouse called the tanki, similar to a camisole.

Step 2: Wrap the Haku Patasi

• Take the black sari with the red border.

• Wrap it from left to right around the waist.

• Secure the top edge with safety pins.

• The end (pallu) can either be tucked or kept over the shoulder.

Step 3: Tie the Patuka

• Tie the red sash (patuka) tightly around your waist to hold the sari in place.

• It also highlights your waistline beautifully.

Step 4: Put on the Cholo (Blouse)

• Wear the front-tied blouse (Cholo).

• It is traditionally a short-sleeved or long-sleeved tight blouse.

Step 5: Add the Gunyu or Shawl

• A matching shawl is worn over the shoulder or used as a head wrap.

Step 6: Wear Traditional Jewelry

• Add pieces like Bulaki (gold nose ring), Tika (forehead ornament), and Pote (glass beads necklace).

For Men – How to Wear Newari Dress (Tapālan)

Step 1: Wear a white inner shirt
Optional, but helps with comfort.

Step 2: Put on the Suruwā

• These are tight-fitting trousers tied at the waist.

• They usually taper at the ankle.

Step 3: Wear the Tapālan

• Put on the long robe-like shirt and button it across the chest.

• It’s similar to a kurta but with side buttoning.

Step 4: Add the Bhangra (Vest)

• A sleeveless jacket or vest is worn over the Tapālan.

Step 5: Tie the Patuka

• A wide belt or sash tied tightly around the waist.

Step 6: Wear the Traditional Topi

• The iconic Nepali cap (usually black or Dhaka fabric).

Why Do People Wear Newari Dress?

• To preserve culture

• During special occasions like Yenya Punhi (Indra Jatra), Gai Jatra, and weddings

• As a symbol of pride and identity

Can Anyone Wear a Newari Dress?

Yes, anyone can wear a Newari dress to appreciate Nepali culture. But it’s respectful to understand its cultural significance before wearing it casually.

Tips to Wear Newari Dress Comfortably

• Choose breathable cotton fabric if wearing in summer.

• Practice wrapping the Haku Patasi before big events.

• Use pins or clips to secure the dress for easier movement.

• For men, wearing a belt under the Patuka helps with comfort.

Where Can I Buy Newari Dress in Nepal?

You can find traditional Newari dresses in:

• Asan Bazaar (Kathmandu)

• Patan (Lalitpur)

• Bhaktapur shops

• Online platforms like Swodeshi, Daraz or local Newar boutique stores

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Haku Patasi?

Haku Patasi is a traditional black sari with a red border worn by Newari women.

What is Tapālan?

Tapālan is a robe-like traditional shirt worn by Newari men.

What is Patuka used for?

Patuka is a sash tied around the waist to hold the dress and complete the traditional look.

Is Newari dress only worn during festivals?

Mostly yes, but it’s also worn during weddings, photoshoots, and cultural shows.

What is the traditional Newari dress for women?

Women wear Haku Patasi, a black sari with red borders, along with a Cholo, Patuka, Gunyu, and traditional jewelry.

How do men wear Newari dress?

Men wear a Tapālan robe over Suruwā pants, with a Bhangra vest, a waist cloth (Patuka), and a Nepali Topi.

Is it hard to wear a Newari dress?

Not at all! With practice, wrapping the Haku Patasi and tying the Tapālan becomes easy. Using a mirror and pins helps.

When do people wear Newari dresses?

Newari dresses are mostly worn during festivals, weddings, cultural events, and photoshoots to honor Newar heritage.

Final Thoughts: Wear It with Pride

Wearing a Newari dress is not just about fashion — it’s about celebrating a rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re wearing it for a wedding or a cultural event, now you know exactly how to wear Newari dress step by step.