The short answer
Buy metalwork and statues in Patan, woodcarving, pottery and thangka in Bhaktapur, singing bowls, prayer flags and Tibetan items around Boudhanath, trekking gear and general gifts in Thamel, tea in Ilam or Kathmandu tea shops, apple products in Marpha, Mithila art in Janakpur and handmade paper in Kathmandu craft shops. Pokhara has lakeside shops with shawls and Tibetan crafts.
Concentrate your shopping in one or two places to avoid a rushed trip.
Key facts
- Patan
- Metalwork, statues
- Bhaktapur
- Pottery, thangka, wood
- Boudhanath
- Bowls, flags
- Thamel
- Gear, general gifts
How it works
- Pick two shopping areasFit your route.
- Go in the morningFresh and quiet.
- Compare shopsPrices and quality.
- Ask for receiptsFor valuables.
- Pack at the hotelSafe wrapping.
Insider tip
Plan one shopping morning, not one every day.
Avoid this
Do not buy expensive items at the first shop you see.
Related questions
Where is cheapest?
Old lanes are cheaper than tourist streets.
Where is best for variety?
Thamel and Patan.
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