Women Empowerment Project(Nepali cooking class & jewelry workshop

Looking for a meaningful way to spend a couple of days in Kathmandu? The Women Empowerment Project offers a chance to learn authentic Nepali cooking and jewelry-making while supporting local women’s voices. Priced at $50 per person for roughly two days, this private tour is a chance to step into the heart of Nepali culture, meet local women, and take home skills you’ll want to replicate back home.

What makes this experience special? First, the hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to make momos—Nepal’s beloved dumplings—alongside other local snacks like pakoda. Second, the jewelry workshop offers a chance to unleash your creativity, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. We particularly love the warmth and friendliness of the guides, and how the entire experience feels like a genuine cultural exchange.

That said, keep in mind that this tour is quite intimate—only your group participates—so it’s best if you enjoy smaller, personalized experiences. Also, as it is a volunteer-supported project, it leans toward authentic community engagement rather than polished, commercial tourism. If you’re seeking a tour that combines meaningful social impact with authentic local experiences, this tour fits the bill.

This tour suits travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to contribute to a good cause while learning a new skill, or perhaps those curious about Nepali culture beyond the usual temples and markets. It’s perfect for food lovers, crafters, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to Kathmandu’s local communities.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Learn to make Nepali dishes and jewelry from local women.
• Community Impact: Supports women’s voices and local welfare projects.
• Personalized & Intimate: Small group/private tours ensure a more meaningful connection.
• Value for Money: At $50, you gain a memorable, skill-based experience with impact.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for warmth, friendliness, and delicious food.
• Flexible & Convenient: Located near public transportation with good hours for visitors.

A Close Look at the Experience

How the Tour Begins: A Warm Welcome in Kathmandu

The adventure kicks off in Paknajol, Kathmandu, where the local Human Welfare Committee hosts you. The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour is designed to be accessible—most travelers can join, and it’s a private activity, so you won’t be sharing space with strangers outside your group. The confirmation is instant, and you’ll get a mobile ticket that makes entry easy.

Day 1: Cooking Nepali Comfort Food

The first day centers around Nepali cuisine, with a focus on homemade, authentic dishes. You start by making Masala Chai, the warming, spiced tea that’s a Nepali staple. The guide (likely Aastha or Syanbi, both highly praised for their clarity and friendliness) will walk you through the process, sharing stories behind the ingredients and techniques.

Next, you’ll prepare Pakoda—a tasty snack—learning how to mix spices and batter just right. After that, the main event: Moments of making Nepali dumplings—buff momo and veg momo. The momo is Nepal’s version of a dumpling, but here, it’s more than food; it’s a symbol of community and tradition.

Several reviews mention how easy the process appears thanks to knowledgeable guides, yet it’s engaging enough to make you feel like a momo master by the end. One reviewer raves, “We learned to make momos with Aastha and the Momo Queen, followed by a delicious lunch with volunteers and project members.” Expect to cook in a friendly, relaxed environment, with plenty of opportunity to chat and ask questions.

Day 2: Crafting Jewelry with Purpose

The second day shifts gears to a jewelry workshop. Here, you get to unleash your creativity by designing and creating your own jewelry piece. Whether you’re just starting out or have some experience, the guides will help you learn new skills and techniques.

The reviews highlight how friendly and encouraging the staff are, making it easy for even complete beginners to feel comfortable. One comment from a traveler notes that they “got to know each other” during the jewelry workshop, emphasizing the social, community-building aspect. You’ll leave with a handcrafted piece and a sense of achievement.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Several reviewers mention the warm atmosphere and how delicious and authentic the food turned out to be. The experience is described as more than just a cooking class—it’s a way to support women’s voices and learn about Nepali culture firsthand. The small group setting fosters genuine interaction, making it feel more like a shared family activity than a tourist spectacle.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 2 days, with each activity lasting approximately 3 hours.
• Cost: $50 per person, including all supplies and food.
• Location: Starts at Paknajol, Kathmandu, near public transportation.
• Timing: Open Monday through Wednesday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Booking: Confirmation is immediate, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before.

Why Travelers Love It

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the delicious, homemade Nepali dishes. One reviewer said, “The entire team made our experience very nice, and the momos we made were very good.” Another highlighted how “learning to make momo made me feel confident I could try it at home,” showing that the skills are practical and lasting.

Many mention how the experience feels meaningful—not just a cooking class, but a supportive activity that empowers women. As one reviewer put it, “It was a wonderful activity, full of fun, and I love the idea of supporting women’s voices through this cooking class.”

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers may find the schedule a bit tight or the experience more focused on community than luxury. Since it’s designed to be authentic and meaningful, don’t expect a polished commercial experience with fancy facilities. It’s a working community project, which is part of its charm but might not suit those seeking a more touristy or luxurious activity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, crafters, and supporters of social causes. If you’re looking for a way to engage with local culture beyond sightseeing, this tour offers a genuine window into Nepali life. It’s perfect if you want to learn new skills and contribute to women’s empowerment in Kathmandu. Travelers who appreciate small-group, personalized experiences will find this especially rewarding.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the jewelry workshop and cooking class are designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners.

Can I participate if I don’t have much time in Kathmandu?
This tour takes about two days, so it’s best suited for those with a couple of free days. It’s a focused, meaningful experience rather than a quick visit.

Are food ingredients provided?
Yes, everything necessary for cooking and jewelry-making is included in the price.

Is transportation arranged?
The meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to access, but extra transportation arrangements are not specified.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Will I get to eat the food I make?
Absolutely—after the cooking session, you’ll enjoy a shared meal of the dishes you prepared.

Final Thoughts

The Women Empowerment Project in Kathmandu offers a beautiful blend of culture, community, and skill-building. For a modest fee, you gain not only authentic Nepali dishes and craft skills, but also the chance to support local women and understand their stories. The reviews highlight warm guides, delicious food, and a genuine sense of connection—ingredients that make this a memorable part of any trip to Kathmandu.

If you’re after a meaningful activity that combines learning, cultural exchange, and social impact, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for small groups or solo travelers looking for authentic, heartfelt experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail.

Whether you leave with a new skill, a handcrafted jewelry piece, or just a warm heart, this tour promises a rewarding journey into Nepali life you’ll want to tell your friends about.