From pashmina shawls to handmade paper journals, singing bowls to trekking gear, Thamel is one of the best shopping districts in South Asia for travelers — as long as you know where to look and how to bargain.
Prices are rarely fixed, so a friendly negotiation is expected and part of the experience. Head slightly off the main tourist strip for better prices on the same goods, and always check gear quality carefully if you’re buying trekking equipment for an upcoming climb.
Staying at Tulsi Kathmandu Hotel puts you within a five-minute walk of most of Thamel’s shopping lanes, so you can drop off purchases in your room between rounds instead of carrying everything all day.
