You are currently viewing 19. Thamel: The Heart of Kathmandu’s Tourism Boom
19. Thamel: The Heart of Kathmandu’s Tourism Boom

Thamel is a popular tourist area in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is known for its narrow streets lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels catering to travelers from around the world. The area is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs staying open late into the night.

Thamel has been a hub for travelers since the 1960s, when it first became a popular destination for backpackers and trekkers exploring the Himalayas. Today, it remains a vibrant and bustling area, with tourists from all over the world coming to experience the unique culture and stunning natural beauty of Nepal.

Despite its popularity, Thamel Kathmandu retains its traditional Nepali character. The streets are lined with colorful shops selling everything from traditional handicrafts and clothing to modern souvenirs and trekking gear. Visitors can also find a wide variety of restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine.

In recent years, Thamel has also become a hub for adventure sports, with many companies offering guided tours and equipment rentals for activities such as trekking, paragliding, and rafting. The district is also home to several art galleries and cultural centers, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Nepal.

Thamel is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kathmandu. With its unique blend of old and new, it offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Detailed map of Thamel Kathmandu

image of map of thamel, kathmandu

Map of Thamel, Kathmandu

Thamel has a vibrant nightlife

Thamel is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs staying open late into the night. The area is popular with both locals and tourists, and there is a wide variety of bars and clubs to choose from.

Some popular spots in Thamel for nightlife include Jazz Upstairs, a trendy bar with live music and a rooftop terrace; Rum Doodle, a lively bar with a fun atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks; and Fokal, a cozy bar with a great selection of beers and cocktails.

In addition to bars and clubs, Thamel is also home to several live music venues, where visitors can enjoy performances by local and international musicians. The district is also known for its many restaurants and cafes, which stay open late and offer a range of cuisines, from traditional Nepali dishes to international fare.

Whether you’re looking for a lively bar or a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll find something to suit your tastes in this vibrant district.

Nightlife in street of thamel

Nightlife in Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal

A list of popular hotels in Thamel Kathmandu

There are many popular hotels in the Thamel district of Kathmandu, Nepal. Some popular options include:

    • Hotel Tibet International: This hotel is located in the heart of Thamel and offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a spa.

    • Hotel Marshyangdi: This hotel is located near the embassy district and offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant and a fitness center.

    • Hotel Himalaya: This hotel is located in the heart of Thamel and offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city.

    • Hotel Shanker: This luxury hotel is located near the Royal Palace and offers a range of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, and multiple dining options.

    • Hotel Vajra: This hotel is located in the heart of Thamel and offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a spa.

With a wide range of hotels to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the perfect place to suit your needs and budget.

A image of popualr hotel in Kathmandu, Thamel

Hotel in Kathmandu, Thamel

Thamel’s popular restaurants

Thamel is known for its many restaurants and cafes, offering a range of cuisines to suit every taste. Some popular options in the area include:

    • OR2K: This restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.

    • Tavern Nepal: This restaurant serves traditional Nepali dishes, as well as international cuisine. It also has a rooftop terrace with great views of the city.

    • Roadhouse Cafe: This popular cafe is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious Western and Nepali dishes.

    • Fire and Ice Pizzeria: This restaurant serves delicious wood-fired pizzas and other Italian dishes, as well as a range of beers and cocktails.

    • Chianti Ristorante: This Italian restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes, as well as a selection of wines.

Newari Attire Couple dancing in one of the resturant in Nepal

Newari Attire Couple dancing in one of the restaurant in Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal

Thamel is a great place to experience the diverse culinary scene of Kathmandu. With so many restaurants to choose from, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your tastes.

These are 10 things you can do in Thamel Kathmandu

Thamel is a popular tourist spot in Kathmandu, Nepal, known for its vibrant atmosphere and many things to see and do. Some popular activities in the area include:

  • Visit the Thamel Shrestha Handicraft Centre: This center showcases the traditional arts and crafts of Nepal, with a wide range of handmade items for sale.
  • Explore the narrow streets and shop for souvenirs: Thamel is known for its narrow streets lined with shops, where you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to modern souvenirs.
  • Visit the Kathmandu Guest House Gallery: This art gallery features works by local and international artists, and also has a rooftop cafe with great views.
  • Try a traditional Nepali meal: Thamel is home to many restaurants and cafes serving delicious Nepali dishes, such as momos (dumplings) and daal bhat (lentil soup and rice).
  • Visit the Swayambhu Stupa: Located just outside of Thamel, this Buddhist temple offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
  • Visit the Garden of Dreams: Located near the center of Thamel, this peaceful garden is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Go on a trek or other adventure activity: Thamel is a hub for adventure sports, with many companies offering guided tours and equipment rentals for activities such as trekking, paragliding, and rafting.
  • Visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum: Located just outside of Thamel, this museum was once the home of Nepal’s royal family and offers a glimpse into the country’s history and culture.
  • Visit the Boudhanath Stupa: This Buddhist stupa is one of the largest in the world and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
  • Enjoy the nightlife: Thamel is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs offering live music, dancing, and a wide selection of drinks.

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Street of Thamel, Kathmandu Nepal

Street of Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal

Thamel is a vibrant and exciting destination with many things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in culture, adventure, or relaxation, you’ll find something to suit your tastes. In conclusion, Thamel has become increasingly popular in the past decade for a number of reasons. Some of these include its convenient location, wide range of accommodations and dining options, and vibrant nightlife.