The short answer
Thamel is the tourist shopping district, full of trekking gear, clothing, books, souvenirs and cafes. Asan and Indra Chowk are the old trading lanes for spices, cloth, copper pots and daily goods. Boudhanath has shops for thangka, singing bowls and Tibetan items, and Patan Durbar Square lanes carry metalwork.
Thamel is convenient but you pay more. Old-city lanes are better value and show real life, but are crowded. Go in the morning and carry small notes.
Key facts
- Tourist
- Thamel
- Old trade lanes
- Asan, Indra Chowk
- Tibetan goods
- Boudhanath
- Metalwork
- Patan
How it works
- Start at AsanMorning, when stalls open.
- Walk to Indra ChowkCloth and beads.
- Lunch nearbyLocal snack stalls.
- Move to ThamelGear and gifts.
- Finish at BoudhanathThangka and bowls.
Insider tip
Pair Asan with a morning at Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Avoid this
Do not carry open bags in crowded lanes.
Related questions
Is Thamel safe at night?
Generally, with normal care; see nightlife safety.
Are card payments common?
In larger shops yes; markets prefer cash.
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