Tibetan Rug History and Karnor Carpets

Karnor Carpets was founded in 1991 by Tashi and Sangpo. Prior to this, Tashi was a traditional Tibetan thangka painter, bringing with him extensive knowledge of traditional Tibetan arts and crafts, while Sangpo was a skilled businessman with great expertise in the Himalayan landscape and the qualities of sheep wool. Recognizing an opportunity to collaborate, Tashi’s wife Dawa suggested they partner to establish Karnor.  

Today, Karnor operates as a leading Nepalese Tibetan rug maker and exporter, upholding the highest standards in handknotted rugs and fair trade practices. The artisans and employees at Karnor are among the best-paid in the industry, receiving benefits such as life insurance and medical care, as Karnor believes in investing in the people who contribute to the creation of their exceptional products and the company’s success.

Karnor Carpets has relocated its office and manufacturing facilities to Jorpati, where the new space offers a larger area for producing handknotted rugs. This facility also enhances our dyeing and washing capabilities, ensuring that our Tibetan rugs meet the highest standards of quality.

Karnor initiates 'Karnor Kiddy's Nursery', providing free Pre-K education to the children of weavers and artisans who craft beautiful handknotted rugs and Tibetan rugs, up to Grade 2.

Karnor Carpets staff have initiated the 'GAVA' project, which provides free medical aid to street animals such as dogs and cats, as well as other domestic animals in need. This initiative aligns with Karnor's commitment to community welfare, much like the craftsmanship seen in their exquisite handknotted rugs and Tibetan rugs.

Karnor, known for its exquisite Karnor Carpets, has partnered with EPSA Nepal to establish the 'Karuna Universal Weaving Facility.' This initiative focuses on empowering persons with disabilities, successfully training and employing over 50 individuals in the art of carpet weaving, including handknotted rugs. Additionally, Karnor hosts the first-ever 'Open Studio' program, offering a comprehensive two-week session in rug design and production for architects, interior designers, rug designers, and retailers from Europe and North America interested in Tibetan rugs.

Karnor Carpets initiates our new 'Research and Development' sector, aimed at fast-tracking innovative new techniques to diversify our line of handknotted rugs, including exquisite Tibetan rugs.

Karnor Carpets introduces new vegetable dye options for our clients' handknotted rugs, along with our new 'Undyed Wonders' yarn selection, crafted entirely from materials and yarns native to the Himalayan regions of Nepal and Tibet, perfect for creating exquisite Tibetan rugs.