The traditional attire of the Gurung people is a vivid reflection of their rich cultural heritage, closely connected to their history, way of life, natural surroundings, social values, and adaptability. More than just clothing, these garments serve as powerful symbols of identity and play an important role in festivals, life-cycle ceremonies, and daily life.

 

History, Evolution, and Significance

Like every indigenous community, the Gurungs have preserved a unique style of dress that tells the story of their ancestry and way of life. Over the generations, their attire has evolved in response to changing lifestyles, materials, and influences from modernization. Originally crafted from hand-woven wool and nettle fabric [Nepali: l;:g"], today’s garments incorporate modern textiles while retaining their cultural essence.

 

Despite these adaptations, the traditional Gurung dress remains deeply symbolic. It is worn with pride during festivals like Tamu Lhosar, Dashain, and Tihar, as well as life events such as weddings and funerals. 

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Gurung Men’s Traditional Dress

Designed for both practicality and symbolism, the traditional male attire suits the rugged terrain and lifestyle of the Gurung community:

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• Kachhad / Kaas (Skirt): A typically white, wrap-around skirt, reaching the thighs or knees. It offers ease of movement and comfort. Modern-day kachhads are made of plain white cotton textile. [Gurung: sf;, Nepali: s%f*]

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• Bhoto (Shirt): Typically short-sleeved shirt with front string ties, traditionally buttonless. [Gurung/Nepali: ef]^f]]

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• Patuka (Sash/Belt): A long cloth belt traditionally used to secure the kachhad. Though once an essential part of the attire, it has now become almost obsolete. In its place, broader, army-style belts are more commonly used today for convenience and ease. [Nepali: k^"sf ]

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• Bhangra / Nhigi: A traditional hand-woven wrap made of nettle fiber or other materials, worn across the chest with an open back, serving as a pouch for carrying items. Modern Bhangras come in various fabrics, patterns, and colors. [Nepali: ef+u\/f ]

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• Kule / Dhaka Topi (Cap): A traditional black or multi-colored cap often embroidered with typical patterns. The Dhaka topi, made from Nepal’s signature Dhaka fabric, is especially popular. [Gurung: s"n], Nepali: ^f]kL]

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• Askot (Waistcoat/Jacket): Worn over the bhoto for warmth or formal appearance. [Gurung: cf;\sf]^]

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• Bhakkhu: A woolen blanket carried over the shoulder as an accessory. It is a square piece of a woolen garment folded in half and stitched on one side, leaving two open sides. It serves multiple functions, from winter wear to a makeshift mattress. [Nepali: aSv" ]

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• Galbandi (Muffler): Wrapped once or twice around the neck. Used as a fashionable accessory for warmth or formal appearance.[Nepali: unaGbL]

 

Gurung Women’s Traditional Dress

Gurung women’s attire is known for its graceful drape, vibrant colors, and elegant details:

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• Phariya (Skirt): A full-length wrap-around skirt secured with a sash (phagi or patuka), often woven with bold, multicolored patterns. Some women wear lungis as an alternative. [Nepali: kml/of ]

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• Cholo (Blouse): A fitted blouse with front ties. Commonly embroidered and typically in maroon, black, or dark blue. [Gurung/Nepali: rf]nf]]

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• Kramu (Shawl/Headscarf): Adds both modesty and grace, commonly draped over the head or shoulders. Used as an accessory for warmth and fashion. [Gurung: qmd"]

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• Ghalek: A diagonally slung decorative cloth worn from the left shoulder to the waist. Ghaleks now appear in printed or velvet forms, often with embroidery. [Gurung/Nepali: #n]s]

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• Phagi / Patuka (Sash): Typically blue in color, longer than the male version, used to fasten the phariya. It also provides back support, especially for women engaged in heavy work. [Gurung: kmuL, Nepali: k^"sf]

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• Tikis: Typically black in color, the tikis is worn between the phariya and the patuka, with one corner hanging slightly below the back of the knees. It is originally a square piece of cloth folded diagonally to form a triangle. For added convenience, modern versions are often pre-attached to the patuka. [Gurung: l^ls;\]

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• Ornaments: Jewelry is central to Gurung women's dress. Generations of Gurung women have adorned themselves with gold, silver, gemstones, coral, and beads. Older women often wear Peehru [Gurung: kL?] necklaces crafted from gemstones and gold, while other common pieces include Tilhari, bangles, earrings, nose rings, and sirbandi (head ornaments).

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Traditional Dress and the New Generation

The relationship between younger Gurungs and traditional attire is evolving. While Western fashion is prevalent in daily life, many young Gurungs—especially those in the diaspora—are rediscovering and embracing their heritage. Events like Tamu Lhosar, community celebrations, and cultural performances often see younger members proudly donning traditional outfits.

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An exciting trend is the emergence of fusion fashion, where modern garments incorporate traditional fabrics or design elements. This creative blend allows the new generation to express cultural pride in a way that resonates with contemporary style and visual appeal. Organizations like Tamu Pariwar New York, Inc. are instrumental in nurturing this cultural continuity, helping ensure that the beauty and symbolism of Gurung dress remains a source of identity, pride, and connection for generations to come.