The Journey of Authentic Pashmina: From High Altitude to Your Shoulders
Follow the incredible journey of Pashmina wool, from the Changi goat in the high Himalayas to the master weavers of Kathmandu.
Aisha Gurung
July 28, 2026
True Pashmina is one of the most luxurious and sought-after fibers in the world, but its journey begins in one of the harshest environments on Earth.
High in the Himalayas, at altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters, lives the Changi goat (Capra hircus). To survive temperatures dropping to -40°C, these mountain goats develop an exceptionally fine, hollow undercoat measuring between 12 and 15 microns in diameter.
Comparing Authentic Pashmina to Commercial Cashmere
| Attribute | Authentic Himalayan Pashmina | Standard Commercial Cashmere |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Micron Diameter | 12 – 14.5 microns (Ultra fine) | 16 – 19 microns |
| Harvesting Technique | Hand-combed spring shedding (zero harm) | Machine clipped or sheared |
| Weaving Method | Traditional wooden handlooms in Patan | High-speed industrial power looms |
| Weight to Warmth Ratio | Extreme warmth with featherlight drape | Moderate warmth, heavier bulk |
Ethical Harvesting & Hand Weaving
Local Changpa nomadic herders comb the fibers during spring moult. A single shawl requires combing from 3 to 4 goats, followed by meticulous hand-spinning on wooden charkhas and weeks of handloom weaving in historical Kathmandu workshops.
