Khayer Plant (Senegalia catechu) Dye on Authentic Nepali Cashmere from Lomanthang, Upper Mustang
Nepal is home to some of the finest cashmere in the world, sourced from the Himalayan Chyangra (Pashmina) goats that thrive in the cold, high-altitude regions. But what makes Lomanthang Cashmere from Upper Mustang truly unique is its connection to nature and traditional dyeing methods. One of the most special techniques used is natural dyeing with the Khayer plant (Senegalia catechu)—a process that creates beautiful, chemical-free, and eco-friendly textiles.
What is the Khayer Plant?
The Khayer plant (Senegalia catechu), also known as the cutch tree, is found in Nepal and across South Asia. It has been used for centuries for natural dyeing, medicine, and tanning leather. The heartwood of the tree contains rich tannins, which, when boiled, produce a deep brown dye extract called cutch. This dye creates warm earthy tones, from light beige to deep brown, that beautifully complement cashmere’s soft texture.
Why Use Khayer Dye on Lomanthang Cashmere?
Khayer dyeing is not just about color—it represents a philosophy of sustainability, tradition, and mindfulness. Here’s why it is special:
100% Natural & Chemical-Free – Free from synthetic dyes and harmful chemicals, making it safe for the environment and the skin.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Uses fewer resources compared to artificial dyeing, making it a low-impact, sustainable process.
Long-Lasting Colors – The Khayer dye naturally bonds with cashmere fibers, ensuring vibrant and fade-resistant hues.
Soft & Skin-Friendly – Unlike synthetic dyes, Khayer dye is gentle on the skin and enhances the natural softness of cashmere.
Inspired by Nature – The warm, earthy tones of Khayer dye reflect the natural beauty of Nepal’s landscapes, from the desert-like terrain of Mustang to the snow-capped Himalayas.
How Lomanthang Cashmere is Dyed with Khayer
The process of dyeing authentic Nepali cashmere with Khayer dye is an art form passed down through generations. Each step is done with care, preserving both the quality of the fiber and the richness of the color.
Extracting the Khayer Dye – The heartwood of the Khayer tree is chopped into small pieces and boiled for several hours. The water turns into a thick, dark brown liquid containing natural tannins. This extract, known as cutch, is then dried into powder or paste form for use in dyeing.
Preparing the Cashmere – The cashmere used in Lomanthang comes from Chyangra goats, which produce a soft undercoat during the harsh Himalayan winters. This fiber is carefully collected, cleaned, and spun into fine yarns, maintaining its natural warmth and softness.
Mordanting (Fixing the Dye) – Before dyeing, the cashmere fibers are treated with a natural mordant, such as alum (potassium aluminum sulfate), which helps the dye bind to the fibers and increases colorfastness.
Dyeing the Cashmere – The prepared cashmere is immersed in the Khayer dye bath. The longer it soaks, the deeper the color becomes. This step requires patience, as artisans carefully control the temperature and duration to achieve the perfect shade.
Rinsing & Drying – Once dyed, the fabric is washed in clean water to remove excess dye. It is then air-dried under the sun, keeping the process natural and sustainable.
Lomanthang Cashmere: The Art & Philosophy of Khayer Plant (Senegalia catechu) Dye
The local artisans do not just dye fabric—they engage in a meditative process, treating each piece of cashmere with respect and mindfulness.
Each hand-dyed cashmere piece from Lomanthang is unique, reflecting the heritage, nature, and craftsmanship of the region. When you wear Lomanthang Cashmere, you are not just wearing a fabric—you are carrying a story of tradition, sustainability, and the beauty of Nepal.
Why Choose Lomanthang Cashmere?
100% Natural & Handmade in Nepal
Dyes from Sustainable Plant Sources
Supports Local Artisans & Ethical Practices
Chemical-Free & Skin-Friendly
Timeless, Eco-Conscious Luxury