Lokta Paper

Lokta paper, traditionally used for government documents and religious scripts, is now widely used in handicrafts. It is made from the bark of Lokta, botanically known as Daphne Bhoula or Daphne Papyracea. It is an indigenous plant of Nepal and is found at the altitude of 6500 feet to 9500 feet from the sea level. Lokta is harvested by cutting its stem at ground level without destroying the main root. Lokta regenerates naturally and normally takes 2 to 3 years of time. Hence, there is no adverse effect on the forest ecology.

Lokta Paper is unique in many ways. It can be preserved for very long period of time. The papers made from Lokta are non-perishable in the water; free from germs and highly resistant to insects. It is also excellent for wrapping precious stones, as its soft fibres do not scratch the stones.

There are three major steps in making Lokta paper, also known as Nepali paper.

• 1. Paper making process first begins by cleaning the bark of Lokta with sharp knife and chopped it into small pieces. Those small pieces are then soaked in plain water for 5-6 hours.
• 2. It is then, cooked in a soaking solution of hot water and soda for 1-2 hours and washed in cold water.
• 3. Finally, the pulp is poured on a tray and left out in sun for drying.