Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal!
After arriving in Nepal and adjusting to the jet lag, you'll likely find yourself in the bustling Thamel neighbourhood. This vibrant area is a great base to explore Kathmandu, offering a mix of local culture, international cuisine, and plenty of shopping options.
This guide will help you explore three iconic sites within walking distance of Thamel: the lively Thamel neighbourhood, the historic Durbar Square, and the serene Garden of Dreams. Depending upon your arrival time, it is possible to visit all three sites in a single day.
The included interactive map makes it simple to find your route.
For a more personalized experience, I've included tips for
🏨hotels
🍽️restaurants
🎭unique activities
Remember to save this guide to your Thatch library for easy access while navigating Thamel.
One of the best ways to experience Thamel is to simply wander through its narrow streets.
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Admire the traditional Newari houses with their intricately carved windows and doors. Look for the numerous temples tucked away in the corners of the streets.
Shop 'Til You Drop
Thamel is a shopper's paradise, offering a wide variety of shops selling everything from colourful clothing and souvenirs to handcrafted items. If you're a bookworm, be sure to visit Pilgrims Book Store, which offers a great selection of books and maps about Nepal and the Himalayas. And don't forget to explore the outdoor market, a gear lover's playground filled with knock-off finds for every adventure.
This shop specializes in women's handwoven and handmade products. Woven Shop is committed to ensuring fair wages and a fair production process, aiming to empower women.
This shop features outdoor and climbing equipment of slightly higher quality than other trekking stores. It also offers gear rental services.
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Fuel Up with Local Cuisine
Thamel is home to a diverse range of restaurants and cafes, offering everything from traditional Nepalese cuisine to international flavours. Don't miss the opportunity to try local delicacies like momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup).
What can I say, I love momo. And it always tastes good at the hut.
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Experience the Nightlife
Thamel's nightlife is vibrant and attracts tourists from all over the world. Enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar, dance the night away at a nightclub, or simply people-watch at a local cafe.
I have visited Durbar Square several times. It's an easy walk from Thamel and while you are hiking towards the square you get an impression of the local city life in Nepal. Worth the city walk.
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Just a short walk from Thamel lies Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic square is filled with temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage.
This site was once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah dynasties and remains a significant religious and cultural centre.
The 20215 earthquake caused significant damage to many of the temples and buildings within the square. However, extensive restoration efforts have been underway to rebuild these historic structures, While some have been completely restored, others are still under construction. Despite the damage caused by the earthquake, Kathmandu Durbar Square remains a captivating destination.
There is an entrance fee of 1,000 Nepalese Rupees (2024) to enter Durbar Square.
The House of the living Goddess was a place I often yearned for. Though I never saw her myself, many others claimed to have witnessed her peering out the legendary window.
You can only gaze at this beautiful temple with 12 miniature temples in front of it. Even Hindus can only visit once a year during the Dasain festival.
If I need to withdraw from Thamel's chaos and noise, this is my place to go.
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Nestled amidst the bustling city, the Garden of Dreams offers a serene oasis. This beautifully landscaped garden once served as a private retreat for the Rana dynasty. Stroll through manicured lawns, admire ornate pavilions, and relax in the tranquil ambiance.
For a complete experience, visit the charming cafe within the garden. Enjoy a refreshing drink or light snack while taking in the serene surroundings.
I stayed at the cottage resort several times. I love this place because it is in Thamel but in the evenings it is very quiet. They have a small garden and the rooms are comfy.
Friends of mine stayed at the Barahi and they loved it. The Barahi is a bit more luxurious than the other hotels I recommended but the price is worth it.
🇳🇵 As a seasoned Nepal trekking specialist with over two decades of experience, I've explored the country's diverse landscapes from the towering Himalayas to the serene valleys.
👣 My most recent accomplishment was completing the Upper Great Himalaya Trail (GHT), a challenging thru-hike that traversed Nepal's entire breadth. This journey and countless other treks have solidified my position as a leading expert in Nepal trekking.
✅ Unlike many registered Nepali guides who are often limited to popular trails, my extensive knowledge allows me to curate personalized itineraries that cater to every adventurer's unique desires.
🌿 I am committed to responsible tourism and have over 15 years of experience in the travel and outdoor industry.
♻️Additionally, I hold a sustainable Travelife manager certificate, an official sustainability certification recognized in the travel industry. This ensures that your Nepal adventure leaves a positive impact on the local environment and communities.
🤝🏽By working directly with a Sherpa Trekking company in Nepal, I ensure that your trip benefits the local economy.
🏔 Whether you're seeking a classic Everest Base Camp trek or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, I'm here to guide you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas.
🌄Ready to explore Nepal? Let’s plan your Nepal adventure together.
