Tibet Nepal

It is a long flight from Kathmandu, Nepal to Davis, California. Thirty-three years ago, Hera Shakya made that journey and found that perfect place to open his business, Tibet Nepal, in downtown Davis.

“It took a bit of time, but I was able to open my first location on Third Street,” shared Hera. “I was at that first location for about three years. Then was able to move to a larger location at the corner of Third and G Streets.”

Moving only a few doors down the street made a big difference for his business. “It was my ‘lucky’ location,” he said. It certainly was a lucky spot for him. Tibet Nepal was at that location for nearly 22 years.

In 2014, Tibet Nepal moved locations again due to the redevelopment of his building. He was fortunate to find a new home on F Street.

In September of 2023, after his lease expired, Hera and Tibet Nepal were on the move again. Still wanting to be in downtown Davis, he moved his store to its current location at 231 G Street.

Tibet Nepal has a variety of imported goods to offer. In addition to his collection of jewelry, you will find Nepalese art, scarves, clothing, statuettes, figurines, stones and crystals, along with an amazing selection of incense.

Although Tibet Nepal has been at multiple locations in the downtown, Hera has been able to grow his business while developing a dedicated customer base.

Many of his customers are return customers who have been shopping at Tibet Nepal for many years. Each time Tibet Nepal has moved, his loyal customers have moved with him. Even customers who have moved away from Davis return to shop at Tibet Nepal during their brief return visits.

Hera also appreciates connecting with the UC Davis community. Students and their parents are quick to find Tibet Nepal as they explore downtown Davis. Both students and parents enjoy the items available there.

His customers enjoy the quality of imported goods that he sells. “It makes me happy when customers tell me that the quality of my goods is better than those found elsewhere,” notes Hera.

The fact that his customers enjoy the quality of his goods is important to Hera. This is a family business for him. Much of the jewelry in the store is made by his family back in Nepal. Working with them, he has the merchandise shipped to Davis for people to buy.

Tibet Nepal is the perfect place for a treasure hunt. “I like them to come and spend a little time, so they’ll find something,” shares Hera. While there is quite a bit of product on display, there are items that have yet to make it on display. So, if you don’t find exactly what you are looking for, ask to see what else may be available.

Hera enjoys owning a business in downtown Davis and supporting other downtown businesses. As an avid gardener, he spends time shopping for supplies at Ace Hardware. There, he can find most everything he needs to support his hobby.

Hera’s favorite event in downtown Davis is Picnic Day. “It is not a big business day for me, but I enjoy being downtown and watching the parade and seeing the people who come downtown.”

Although Tibet Nepal has moved several times over the past 33 years, Hera’s store is easy to find. Follow the sweet aroma of Nepalese incense to 231 G Street, Suite 8. Tibet Nepal is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.