Daphne Bholua and Daphne Papyraceae commonly known as ‘Lokta’ are found throughout the foothills between the range of 1800 to 4000 meter height from east to far-west of Nepal. Following the century old tradition of paper making in Nepal, the Lokta paper attests to a proud heritage. Growing abundantly in the higher elevations of the Himalayan foothills. This kind of paper is made of the inner bark of Lokta bush which is a renewable resource as it has the ability of regenerating within three years. To support the green environment, the bark is stripped without having the whole bush cut off. The main ingredient of our hand- made paper, the 'Lokta' shrub provides the sole income for the countless village people involved in the growing, harvesting and manufacturing of all end products. Unique in texture and strength, the long fibers in lokta paper give it strength unmatched by any other paper. Lokta paper can be soaked in dye and even tie-dyed. Natural fibers prevent easy tearing. Resilient and versatile, this paper readily absorbs dyes thus resulting in an array of very vibrant colors.

b) Making Pulp

The shrubs are beaten with wooden hammer and then boiled for around two hours. When the pulp is ready, coloring elements and other materials for inclusion are added to the pulp.

c) Making the paper sheet

Rectangular frames made of wood or bamboo with plain cloth or galvanized net are floated in big tubs where the pulp is poured and spread over evenly.

d) Drying

The frames is dried in the sunlight. When the pulp is dry enough to extract form the frame, the paper sheet is ready. The whole process of paper making is manual and thus called handmade paper.

Lokta Shrub
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Making Pulp
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Drying
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Lokta Paper