The short answer
Thamel is Kathmandu's busiest tourist quarter: shops sell trekking gear, souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, books, singing bowls, prayer flags, thangka paintings and more. Prices are not fixed in most small shops, so compare two or three shops before buying.
Gear in Thamel ranges from branded to local copies, so check the quality of seams, zips and fabric. Keep receipts for bigger items and ask about shipping.
Key facts
- What
- Gear, souvenirs, books, bowls
- Prices
- Compare, then bargain
- Gear
- Check quality
- Tip
- Keep receipts
How it works
- Walk firstSee what is on offer.
- CompareTwo or three shops.
- Check qualitySeams and zips.
- Bargain politelyFriendly.
- Keep receiptsFor big items.
Insider tip
Walk the lanes once before buying anything.
Avoid this
Do not buy expensive items from the first shop you see.
Related questions
Is Thamel good for trek gear?
For basics, yes; check quality.
Can I use cards?
Many shops take cards; carry some cash.
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