Among the most visited places in Kathmandu, Thamel is the most significant one. It is the most happening spot for tourists where you can enjoy the nightlife when you are in Kathmandu. It is in the heart of Kathmandu. Thamel is the obvious place to sort out your affairs: it has all the airline offices, hundreds of hotels, restaurants, book stalls, shops, trekking and travel agencies.
Where is Thamel?
Thamel is a popular place and any taxi driver will easily drop you there with a few dollars. When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, it’s about a 20-minute drive.
Places to visit in Thamel
Thamel is a busy and colorful area in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is a popular place for tourists to visit. In Thamel, you can see many small shops that sell clothes, handmade crafts, jewelry, and trekking gear. There are also many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy Nepali and international food. You can visit the beautiful Garden of Dreams, a peaceful place with flowers and old buildings. There are also small temples and stupas to see. Thamel is a great place to walk around, shop, eat, and learn about Nepali culture.
Garden of Dreams
Garden of Dreams is a beautiful park inside the city where you can relax in an open area. It is located in Kaiser Mahal near to Narayan hiti museum (old Royal palace). It is also known as the Garden of Six Seasons. It is different than other parks in Nepal as it has beautiful pavilions, fountains and architecture. Here you can lay on the ground in a mat which you’ll get there and read books. There is small entrance fees.
Wall climbing (rock climbing)
Astrek Wall Climbing is Nepal’s tallest indoor climbing wall located at Thamel near Chhaya Center. It is 50 meters high climbing wall. The wall is complete for Speed Climbing, Lead Climbing Bouldering, and Dyno, with over 20 different routes. It is inside Thamel and popular among foreigners.
LOD – Lord of the Drinks
Lord of the Drinks is a popular nightclub and bar located in the vibrant district of Thamel, Kathmandu. As one of the premier nightlife destinations in the area, Lord of Drinks offers an exhilarating experience for locals and tourists alike.
The venue boasts stylish interiors, lighting, and comfortable seating arrangements, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests to unwind and socialize. True to its name, Lord of the Drinks takes pride in its extensive selection of beverages.
Overall, Lord of Drinks stands out as a premier destination for nightlife enthusiasts in Thamel. With its enticing ambiance, impressive beverage selection, live entertainment, delectable cuisine, and VIP offerings, it’s no wonder that Lord of Drinks continues to attract visitors looking for an unforgettable night on the town.
Religious, cultural and historical places
Bikramshila Mahavihar
Bikramshila Mahavihar is an important Buddhist monastery located in Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance. The monastery is dedicated to preserving and promoting Buddhist culture and traditions. This place is also known as Bhagawan bahal.
Tridevi Temple
Tridevi Temple is a beautiful and peaceful temple located in Thamel, Kathmandu. It is dedicated to three Hindu goddesses. The temple is built in traditional Nepali style with lovely wooden carvings and small shrines. Even though Thamel is a busy area full of shops and tourists, the temple offers a quiet place for people to pray and relax. Tridevi Temple is an important religious place and a special spot to experience local culture in the middle of the city.
Ashok chaitya
Ashok Chaitya is an old and peaceful Buddhist stupa located in Thamel, Kathmandu. It is also known as Ashoka Stupa and is believed to have been built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The stupa is small but very important for Buddhists, as it is one of the oldest religious sites in the area. It is made of white stone and has a dome shape with prayer flags around it. People come here to walk around the stupa and spin prayer wheels while praying. Even though it is in the busy Thamel area, Ashok Chaitya gives a calm and spiritual feeling to visitors and shows the deep history of Buddhism in Nepal.
Gaa Hiti – traditional stone water tap
Gaa Hiti is an old traditional stone water tap located in Thamel, Kathmandu, near the Malla Hotel, behind the Amrit Science Campus. It was built hundreds of years ago to provide clean water to the local people. The tap is made from stone and has beautiful carvings. In the past, people used to come here every day to collect water for drinking, cooking, and washing. Even today, some locals still use it, and it remains an important part of the community. Gaa Hiti is not only useful but also shows the smart and artistic way Nepali people managed water in the old days. It is a hidden historical treasure in the busy streets of Thamel.
Things to do in Thamel
Free walking tour
Free walking tour from Thamel to Swayambhunath stupa. It is a tip-based tour offered by guides from Nepal.
Indoor activities
You can indulge in various indoor activities like wall climbing, archery, playing football, etc.
Food
You can find the best restaurants here which are also listed in Tripadvisor. Thamel is an excellent place to taste numerous cuisines from local Nepali taste to Indian, Chinese, Korean, Italian, continental, and many more. You can also try typical Nepali food like dal-bhat, gundruk, dhido, spicy choila, juju dhau(king curd), rice beer, tongba(good in winter), and other delicious items.
Newari Food
Newari food is a spicy food that comes from the Newar people in Nepal. It’s delicious and special because it has lots of unique flavors and ingredients. Some popular Newari dishes include bara, which is like a thick pancake made from lentils. There’s also kwati, a soup made with nine different types of beans, and yomari, a sweet dumpling filled with molasses or sugar. If you ever get the chance to try Newari food, you should give it a taste!
Where to eat in Thamel?
Some popular places to eat in Thamel are Roadhouse Cafe, Rosemary Kitchen, Fire and Ice (traditional Italian-style stone-baked pizzas), Electric Pagoda (Mexican cuisine), Purple Haze, Buddha Bar, Sam’s Bar, Himalayan Java (coffee) etc.
Shopping – Thamel market
There are so many handicrafts, antique stuff, trekking and expedition stuff, t-shirts, hemp products(bags, trousers), luxury cashmere pashmina etc to see and buy.
Book Shops
If you like reading then Thamel has a nice collection of bookshops. There are some bookshops where you can also buy second-hand books or sell the books you have. There are old and popular book shops like Paradise Book Seller, Pilgrim Book House, Himalayan Map House, and Tibet Book Store etc.
Mandala street
Mandala Street is a lively road in the city where lots of things happen. It’s like the heart of the neighborhood, with shops, restaurants, and people bustling around. You can find all sorts of things on Mandala Street, from clothes and shoes to snacks and souvenirs. Sometimes, events or performances are happening on Mandala Street, making it even more exciting. It’s a great place to walk around and explore, with something new to discover around every corner.
Spa and Natural Therapy
The Spa and Natural Therapy in Thamel is a wonderful place where you can relax and feel good. You can get different kinds of treatments there, like Thai massage, Ayurvedic massage, and facials, that use natural things to help your body and make you feel calm and happy. If you’re feeling tired after a trek, going to the Spa and Natural Therapy in Thamel is a great idea to feel better and take care of yourself.
There are many spas and massage parlors in Thamel but be careful before selecting one because you might step into the wrong one. We suggest you check Tripadvisor’s review before you step in.
Rickshaw ride
A rickshaw ride through the streets of Thamel might be a new experience for you. You can enjoy taking videos, pictures, and selfies along the tourist market in Thamel.
Thamel Nightlife
Kathmandu nightlife is majorly concentrated in the Thamel. It is a place in Kathmandu, Nepal, where lots of fun things happen at night. The streets come alive with colorful lights, music, and people. People from all over the world come to Thamel to experience its lively nightlife. It’s a vibrant and exciting place to be after the sun goes down.
Things to do in Thamel at night
- Enjoy live music at bars and pubs
- Dine at rooftop restaurants with city views
- Try traditional Nepali food or international cuisine
- Relax in cozy cafes with tea or coffee
- Shop for souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts
- Take a peaceful night walk through lively streets
- Watch a cultural dance or music performance
- Get a relaxing massage or spa treatment
- Take night photos of colorful lights and street scenes
- Join an evening meditation or yoga session
- Rent a scooter, bike or bicycle for a short night ride around the city
- Attend a candlelight dinner or themed event at boutique restaurants
History
Thamel has a rich and evolving history that dates back several decades, the name comes from Tha Bahi (थ: बहि). Originally a quiet residential area, Thamel began transforming in the 1960s and 70s when Nepal opened its doors to foreign tourists. With its growing popularity, Thamel gradually developed into a vibrant tourist spot, filled with guesthouses, restaurants, shops, and clubs. Over the years, it has retained its charm as the go-to destination for travelers seeking nightlife in Nepal. Despite modernization, Thamel still reflects a blend of traditional Newari architecture and contemporary influences, making it a unique and dynamic part of Kathmandu’s history.
Accommodation
Accommodation options in Thamel cater to a diverse range of travelers, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury seekers. Thamel offers affordable accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers. Boutique hotels in Thamel exude charm and character, offering a more intimate and personalized lodging experience. These boutique establishments boast stylish decor, cozy ambiance, and attentive service, creating a home-away-from-home atmosphere for guests.
Many mid-range hotels in Thamel are centrally located, offering easy access to the district’s bustling streets, restaurants, shops, and attractions. For travelers seeking a touch of luxury, Thamel boasts a selection of upscale hotels that offer lavish accommodations and top-notch amenities. These luxury establishments cater to discerning guests who demand nothing but the best during their stay.
Business Complex
A-one complex
The A-One Complex is a place with lots of different shops and offices inside. The A-One Complex is a busy and lively place, with lots of people coming and going every day. It’s a great place to visit if you want to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, or just see what’s happening in the city.
Chhaya center
The Chhaya Center is a big building in the city with many different things to do inside. It’s like a fun place where people can go to have a good time. There are also restaurants where you can eat delicious food and enjoy time with friends or family. Some people go to the Chhaya Center to watch movies at the cinema, while others might go bowling or play games in the arcade. It’s always busy and exciting at the Chhaya Center, with lots of people having fun and enjoying themselves. Aloft Kathmandu Thamel is also located in this building.
Travel Agencies
B Trekking in Nepal Pvt. Ltd.
Himalayan Idol Travel & Tours (P.) Ltd.
Nepal Temple Tour Guide
Places to eat in Thamel
Best restaurants in Thamel
OR2K – Popular for its Middle Eastern and vegetarian dishes.
Yangling Tibetan Restaurant – Famous for momos and authentic Tibetan food at affordable prices.
Roadhouse Cafe – Stylish pizzeria with delicious wood-fired pizzas and a modern interior.
Thamel House Restaurant – Serves traditional Nepali set meals in a beautiful heritage building.
Third Eye Restaurant – Offers fine Indian and Nepali cuisine, popular for its curries and tandoori.
La Casita De Boudhanath – Spanish and Mexican food lovers will enjoy this little gem (also has branches near Thamel).
Himalayan Java – Great for coffee, snacks, and desserts, with a relaxed cafe vibe.
Yin Yang Restaurant – Serves tasty Thai and Asian fusion dishes in a quiet courtyard setting.
Sarangi Vegetarian Cafe – A social enterprise offering creative vegetarian meals and good vibes.
Rooftop restaurants in Thamel
Forest & Plate – Rooftop restaurant with organic and fresh meals, plus great views of Thamel.
Purple Haze Rock Bar (with rooftop) – Known for live rock music and drinks, with a rooftop area for chilling. Great for drinks, bar snacks, and nightlife lovers.
Roadhouse Cafe (Thamel branch) – Features a stylish rooftop area with wood-fired pizzas and pasta. Italian food with a trendy ambiance.
Shisha Terrace Cafe & Bar – A popular rooftop place to enjoy hookah, drinks, and food. Evening hangouts and casual bites.
Gilingche Tibetan Restaurant – Simple rooftop with tasty Tibetan food and a local vibe. Momos, thukpa, and a peaceful meal.
Revolution Cafe & Restaurant – Cozy rooftop spot with friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere. Local and international comfort food.
Fire & Ice Pizzeria (Top floor seating) – While not a full rooftop, their upper-floor seating offers a nice street view. Authentic Italian pizzas and desserts.
Korean Restaurant in Thamel
Hankook Sarang – One of Nepal’s oldest Korean spots, located in Thamel.
Dae Jang Geum Korean Restaurant – Highly rated on TripAdvisor for authentic flavors.
Picnic Korean Restaurant – Known for great pork & chicken BBQ, ramen, kimbap.
Villa Everest Korean Restaurant – One of Thamel’s first Korean BBQ places, spacious seating with tabletop grills
Chinese restaurant in Thamel
Zhonghua Restaurant – Serves authentic Szechuan, Cantonese, and Shanghai dishes; vegetarian & vegan-friendly.
New Chong Qing Wei Restaurant – Specializes in Sichuan-style cuisine and hot pot serving spicy and bold flavors.
Sichuan Town Restaurant – Popular for seafood (prawns, squid, crab), hot pot, and Sichuan dishes.
FAQ
What is Thamel famous for?
Thamel is one of the most famous and vibrant neighborhoods in Kathmandu, Nepal, and it is well-known for several reasons:
Tourist Shopping Hub – Thamel is packed with shops selling souvenirs, pashmina shawls, handicrafts, singing bowls, prayer flags, thanka paintings, and trekking gear.
Food and Restaurants – It’s famous for its wide variety of food — from traditional Nepali dishes to international cuisines like Indian, Italian, Korean, and Tibetan.
Nightlife and Live Music – Thamel is known for its vibrant nightlife with bars, pubs, and cafes offering live music, happy hours, and dance floors.
Hotels and Budget Stays – From budget hostels to luxury hotels, Thamel has accommodation options for every kind of traveler.
Trekking and Tour Services – It’s a hub for trekkers and adventure lovers. Travel agencies offer trekking packages, guides, gear rentals, and permits for Everest, Annapurna, and other popular routes.
Cultural and Religious Sites – Thamel is home to old temples like Tridevi Temple and Ashok Chaitya, showing a mix of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Spa, Yoga, and Wellness Centers – Visitors can relax with massages, spa treatments, and even attend yoga or meditation classes.
Traveler’s Starting Point – Most tourists begin their Nepal journey from Thamel due to its central location and traveler-friendly environment.
Is Thamel safe at night for tourists?
Yes, Thamel is generally safe at night for tourists, especially compared to many other busy tourist areas in the world. Many travelers walk around comfortably in the evening to enjoy food, music, and shopping.
However, like any tourist area, it’s important to stay aware and follow basic safety tips:
Safety Tips for Tourists in Thamel at Night:
- Stick to well-lit and busy streets.
- Avoid isolated alleys, especially if you are alone.
- Keep your wallet, phone, and passport safe – pick-pocketing can happen in crowded places.
- Be cautious if offered cheap deals or private tours by strangers.
- Don’t accept drinks or substances from people you don’t know.
- Use reliable taxis or ride apps if going far from Thamel at night.
In summary, Thamel is safe for most tourists, especially in groups or couples. Just stay aware, and you’ll likely have a fun.
Where to park in Thamel?
Parking in Thamel can be difficult because the roads are narrow and busy. However, there are a few parking areas where you can leave your car or bike. You may find paid parking spaces near Tridevi Marg, near the Garden of Dreams, and some hotels and shopping centers also offer parking for their customers. It is best to ask locals or security guards for the nearest parking spot. If possible, using a taxi or walking is easier in Thamel, as traffic can be heavy and parking spaces are limited.
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