Henna, or mehndi, is a living art in India, applied for weddings, festivals and celebrations, and a henna session is a lovely way to join in. A skilled local artist draws floral and geometric patterns on your hands or forearms with a fine cone of henna paste, and you sit and chat while the design takes shape. The paste then dries and darkens on the skin over the next day, leaving a rich reddish-brown pattern that lasts for a week or two. The experience is combined with a dinner, so the evening has a natural rhythm: first the creative part, then food and conversation. It suits couples, friends and solo travellers, and it makes a memorable souvenir that you literally wear home. Designs can usually be adapted to your taste, from delicate and minimal to bold and traditional.
How the session works
The artist begins by asking what style you prefer, then draws freehand, filling the skin with vines, flowers, peacocks and paisley. A hand takes around twenty to thirty minutes, depending on the intricacy. You should sit still and avoid using your hands until the paste has dried, which is why the meal is usually served after the application, with help from the host if needed.
Aftercare
Leave the paste on for several hours if you can, and avoid water during that time. Once it flakes off, rub gently with a little oil rather than washing straight away, because the colour continues to deepen. The stain usually reaches its darkest tone after a day or so and fades gradually as the skin renews itself. Keep in mind that the final colour depends on skin type, how long the paste stays on and the quality of the henna.
Safety
Natural henna is a brown-green paste and is generally safe, but "black henna" products can contain harmful chemicals and should be avoided. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, ask about the ingredients and test a small area first. Let the artist know if you are pregnant or have a skin condition, and do not hesitate to ask questions about what is in the paste.
Making the most of it
Schedule the session for the early part of your stay if you want the henna to be at its best for photographs, or leave it until the evening before a special occasion. It is a good complement to a visit to the marble inlay workshops, since both showcase hand-crafted patterns. Dress comfortably in sleeves that you can roll back, and enjoy the slower pace of the evening.
Choosing and wearing your design
If you are short of time, ask for a simple design on one hand, which leaves the other free to eat. If you want something for a special occasion, ask the artist for a more intricate pattern and allow longer. After the session, sleep with the paste on if it is comfortable, covering it loosely with a cloth to protect bedding, and apply a little lemon and sugar mixture if the artist recommends it.
Remember that the colour deepens over a day, so the best photographs are usually taken the following day. Keep your hands out of hot water for as long as possible.
What to expect
The experience
A henna application session by a local artist followed by a home-style dinner, with designs chosen to suit your taste.
Best time
Evening, which leaves time for the paste to dry before bed.
How long
Two to three hours including the dinner.
Tips
Choose natural henna, avoid water for several hours, wear sleeves you can roll back and tell the artist about any skin sensitivities.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a creative, hands-on cultural evening.
- Families
- A fun choice for teenagers and adults, with simple designs for younger guests.
- Couples
- A relaxed, shared activity with a good story to take home.
- Pair with
- A visit to a marble inlay workshop to see another hand-made art.
- Time needed
- An evening.
Good questions
How long does henna last?+
It usually lasts one to two weeks, fading gradually as the skin renews itself.
Is henna safe?+
Natural henna is generally safe. Avoid so-called black henna, which can contain harmful chemicals, and ask about ingredients if you have sensitive skin.
How long does the application take?+
A hand or forearm design takes roughly twenty to thirty minutes depending on how detailed it is.
Can I choose the design?+
Yes. Tell the artist whether you prefer a delicate, minimal pattern or a bold, traditional one.
Is dinner included?+
The experience is offered as a henna session with dinner, but check the details when you book.
