# Traditional Nepali Clothing: Dhaka Topi, Daura Suruwal and Gunyu Cholo

_Published 14 June 2026_

Traditional dress in Nepal changes from region to region and community to community. Some pieces have become symbols of the nation.

**Quick answer:** The national dress for men is the **daura suruwal** (a tied tunic with fitted trousers) with a **dhaka topi** cap. Women wear the **gunyu cholo** (a blouse with a draped skirt and shawl) or a **sari**, especially on festivals. Newar women wear the black **haku patasi** with a red border; Sherpa and Tibetan women wear the long **chuba** with a striped apron when married.

## Dhaka

Dhaka is a colourful, patterned hand-woven cloth. It is used for topi caps and shawls. The town of [Palpa (Tansen)](/blog/tansen-palpa-travel-guide) is famous for it, and Tehrathum and other hill districts weave it too. Dhaka topis make great souvenirs.

## When people wear it

In cities, most people wear modern clothes day to day. Traditional dress comes out for festivals, weddings and official events. See [Nepali weddings](/blog/nepali-wedding-traditions).

## Regional dress

- **Newar:** haku patasi, worn at [Indra Jatra](/blog/indra-jatra-festival) and other festivals.
- **Sherpa and Tibetan:** chuba and apron (pangden).
- **Tharu:** bright skirts, blouses and silver jewellery.
- **Gurung:** the bhangra cloth and velvet blouses.

## Buying

Look for dhaka in Asan, Kathmandu, or in Tansen. See [shopping guide](/blog/shopping-in-nepal-souvenir-guide) and [what to wear in Nepal](/blog/what-to-wear-in-nepal).

## Frequently asked questions
### What is the national dress of Nepal?
Daura suruwal with a dhaka topi for men; gunyu cholo or sari for women.

### What is dhaka?
A colourful hand-woven Nepali fabric.

### Where is dhaka made?
Famously in Palpa (Tansen) and other hill districts.

### What is haku patasi?
The traditional black sari-like dress of Newar women, with a red border.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/traditional-nepali-clothing