Not only mustard is a vital ingredient for the oil production in Nepal as well as in many other Asian countries, its bloom is so beautifully yellow that it seems not real at all. It is one of the most admired bloom in the country.
The village of Khokana, located in the Kathmandu Valley, is one of Nepal's most famous mustard oil production centers. It's been nominated to the UNESCO heritage list for its authentic appearance and culture. The village is surrounded by mustard fields and most locals work in the industry. Mustard oil from Khokana is famous all over Nepal. It's being produced by hand on an old-fashioned mill. Visitors can see how the locals harvest mustard and extract oil in a traditional way. The mustard oil industry in Nepal is vanishing due to an abundance of machine-produced soybean oil. There are also many fields in Chitwan, Bardia, and Nawalparasi districts.
Practical info
When is the best time to see the mustard fields in bloom in Nepal?
April is the month when the mustard fields in Nepal are covered in yellow flowers, which makes a breathtaking sight. Visitors planning to witness this stunning view must plan accordingly since the blooming season can vary slightly every year, and it is a short-lived phenomenon. Show more
Where is the best place to witness the traditional mustard oil production in Nepal?
Khokana village, nestled in the Kathmandu Valley, is an ideal place to witness the traditional manual production of mustard oil. The village is distinct for its authentic appearance and culture and has been nominated for the UNESCO Heritage list. Khokana is an epicenter for mustard oil production, and visitors can witness the process in an old-fashioned mill. Visitors can also enjoy the village's scenic and cultural beauty. Other districts of Nepal like Bardia, Chitwan, and Nawalparasi also offer beautiful mustard fields worth traveling. Show more
How important is mustard oil production to the Nepalese economy?
Mustard oil is an integral part of Nepali cuisine and also has medicinal properties. It is used for cooking and massage oil. Although mustard oil production is decreasing in Nepal due to the availability of machine-produced soybean oil, it remains a vital aspect of Nepali culture and a significant contributor to the country's economy. Show more
What is the significance of Khokana being nominated for the UNESCO heritage list?
The UNESCO heritage nomination highlights Khokana's cultural and architectural heritage that has been well-preserved in the village. The manual production of mustard oil is at the crux of the village's existence, and it has remained unchanged for centuries. The UNESCO heritage status of Khokana entices more visitors to explore the village and supports the preservation of Nepal's rich cultural heritage. Show more
Are there any other destinations in Nepal that offer stunning views of mustard fields?
Apart from Khokana, other districts of Nepal like Chitwan, Bardia, and Nawalparasi are also popular destinations to witness breathtaking mustard fields views. The natural beauty of the mustard fields in conjunction with the age-old manual production of the oil is the highlight of the trip. These destinations also offer a glimpse into rural Nepal and its unique culture and way of life. Show more
