Thamel is where most travellers stay in Kathmandu: a maze of narrow lanes filled with guesthouses, cafés, gear shops, bookshops and bars.
Quick answer: Thamel is convenient and lively: you'll find everything for a trek, food from around the world and live music at night. It's within walking distance of the Garden of Dreams and Kathmandu Durbar Square. For quieter nights, stay on its edges, such as Paknajol, Jyatha or Lainchaur.
Things to do
- Shop for trekking gear, pashmina, singing bowls and souvenirs.
- Relax in the Garden of Dreams.
- Walk to Asan and Durbar Square; see our old-town walk.
- Take a cooking class.
- Enjoy live music; see our Thamel nightlife guide.
Where to stay
From five-star Aloft to simple guesthouses. See hotels in Thamel.
Tips
- Bargain politely in shops; see bargaining in Nepal.
- Watch for motorbikes in the narrow lanes.
- Be wary of touts and unlicensed guides; see common scams.
- Rent gear instead of buying; see rent or buy.