Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is known as the cultural and artistic hub and offers many choices to explore for all shopping enthusiasts. We at Mountain Rock Treks have a specially customized package of the Kathmandu Shopping Tour for you, where you can enjoy shopping while simultaneously exploring Kathandu's rich culture, arts, and tradition.
We've got everything from stunning jewelry and trendy clothes to authentic Nepalese crafts, antiques, electronics, and mind-blowing paintings called "thanka," luxurious pashmina garments, beautiful carpets, and so much more to explore and shop on Kathmandu Shopping Tour.
But here's the best part, we'll take you off the beaten path to small shops run by talented villagers. These hidden gems are where you'll find the most fantastic pottery pieces begging to be taken home. So take advantage of the chance to add unforgettable souvenirs to your Nepal holidays. Join us on the Kathmandu Shopping Tour journey and get ready to be amazed.
What to Buy In Kathmandu Shopping Tour?
You are on a Kathmandu Shopping tour but do not know where to start your shopping and What to buy in this beautiful capital city of Nepal? Here are some famous things you can consider buying in Kathmandu.
Mountain Clothing and Gears
Nepal is a hotspot for hiking and trekking. The Himalayas are right there, so many adventure-loving tourists flock to the country yearly. And guess what? The mountain clothing business has boomed like crazy lately.
So, if you're heading to Nepal, you must buy some affordable mountain gear. Just be careful, though, because there are some fakes out there. Find a reliable place to get the quality stuff you need for your snowy mountain adventure.
Precious and semi-precious stones
If you're into buying turquoise by weight, Nepal is where it's at. They've got all sorts of cool gems like amethyst, jade, amber, and lapis lazuli for your bling needs. Remember choral – a hot item in Nepal for making snazzy decorations and accessories. So, if you're looking to score some unique rocks and fancy stuff, the Kathmandu shopping tour is the thing to start for.
Hippie clothing
Renowned for its textile production, Nepal dominates the supply of such apparel across Spanish street markets. Vibrant wool or cotton garments, some dyed naturally, adorn stalls and shops.
This clothing style remains relatively affordable despite being sold at a higher price in Spanish markets and tourist destinations. Remember to negotiate, as vendors often attempt to sell at inflated rates.
Nepalese jewelry
Nepal boasts a rich heritage of jewelry deeply rooted in its cultural fabric—skilled Nepalese artisans intricately craft pieces using copper, gold, and silver. Many designs incorporate Sanskrit symbols, reflecting the country's Buddhist traditions.
Nepal offers a vast array of jewelry, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, perfect for gifting. These exquisite pieces are painstakingly hand-carved, honoring age-old traditions, and often feature stunning combinations of turquoise and amber.
Antiques
In Nepal, antique treasures hold a special allure for shoppers. Exquisite antique furniture adorned with vibrant hues, ornate boxes, musical instruments, jewelry, sculptures, and paintings all grace the market.
For authentic and valuable finds, head to certified antique stores in Thamel. However, bargaining is off-limits at these reputable establishments. To indulge in haggling, venture to street stalls cautiously, as replicas and counterfeits may abound there.
Tea and spices
Nepal, a diverse nation with a multi-ethnic population strongly influenced by Hindu traditions, embraces spices in its culinary delights. As a result, the local stalls and markets offer a vast selection of aromatic herbs, making them an ideal souvenir for visiting this country.
Moreover, tea holds excellent significance in Nepal, making it a must-have item. The available tea options range from black, chai, cardamom, green, and peppermint. Additionally, you can find herbal tea blends renowned for their medicinal properties and profound cleansing effects.
Tips: How to Get the Best Deals in Kathmandu
Know the Difference between Fake and Real products
In Nepal, many gears sold are fake or pirated, but surprisingly, they often work well for a long trek. Some Nepalis proudly wear counterfeit North Face jackets, claiming they are waterproof with Gore-Tex.
However, if you're interested, there is a genuine North Face store in Thamel, although it's a bit pricier than in the West. It's essential to tell the difference between fake and real products in Nepal, especially in Thamel, where most stores sell counterfeit items.
Learn to Negotiate
When you go shopping in Kathmandu or anywhere in Nepal, negotiating is super essential. There's no fixed price for anything, so you must discuss it with the seller and agree on a fair price. Don't be fooled because many travelers have been ripped off because they didn't know the deal. Negotiating is like an art form; you should be an expert at it.
Different countries have their styles of negotiation. So here are some tips: First, don't be shy to walk into a store and ask about the stuff you're interested in. The seller might start with some crazy high price but don't sweat it. Start by slashing that initial offer to like 60% or even half.
They'll probably say no, but that's all part of the game. From there, you can work your way up and find a more reasonable price, usually around 75% of the first quote.
It might feel awkward to reject their offer and walk out, but remember; it's your call, so say, "I'll come back later," instead of just walking out without saying anything.
Survey the Price and Compare
You can figure out the usual price if you check out different stores. It's cool that most of these stores have similar things, although some might be newer or fancier.
What's funny is that you might find a big price difference for the same items. A trekking pole could be priced at Rs900 in one store and Rs1800 in another.
You will notice that the stores recommended in travel guidebooks tend to be more expensive. But that doesn't mean they're necessarily better. They sell the same stuff as regular stores. So it's a good idea to treat them like any other store and compare prices.
Once you determine the average price, you'll know which store to return to for future purchases.
A Shopper's Paradise: Exploring the Markets of Kathmandu
If you're in Nepal, you'll find tons of street vendors and specialty stores selling all sorts of stuff. It's like a shopper's paradise; you can glimpse Nepal's culture and way of life through its handicraft items. They've mountain herbs for medicine, food, and even religious rituals. Moreover, you'll find handwoven and locally made clothes that reflect the people's needs and cultural traditions.
Kathmandu is where the real shopping adventure begins. It's so exciting and fulfilling. You can buy various handicraft goods, from clothing and jewelry to incense and Tibetan items like singing bowls and mane (prayer beads).
Beautiful decorative things like Thangkas (traditional Buddhist paintings), statues, pottery, antiques, and other typical Nepalese crafts exist. And don't miss out on the exquisite Pashmina shawls and clothing, all handcrafted in Nepal.
Nepal has some super popular stuff that they send to other countries as exports. You must check out the knitted mittens, socks, and caps when shopping there. They also have these Tibetan dresses, colorful jackets, and shirts that are a hit.
Remember the Pashmina blankets made from goat's wool? They're the very popular ones here. The khukuri knives are popular ones, too, because they're like the national knife.
If you're into music, you can get yourself a Sarangi, a small viola thingy played with a horsehair bow. And there are all these other things like Tibetan tea bowls, paper mache masks, Buddhist statues, bamboo flutes, and more.
Patan and Bhaktapur they're known for their excellent bronze and copper works. You can pick up some miniature bronze busts and idols and grab a bronze Buddha idol; it's a must-have.
Basantapur Durbar Square: Historic Palace, Temples and Shopping
If you're a fan of beautiful artifacts, you're in for a treat. Durbar Square is famous for its intricate handicrafts, offering many stunning items that will leave you spoilt for choice and enhance your Kathmandu Shopping Tour More. From delicate little bells that sing enchanting melodies to exquisitely crafted handbags, there's no shortage of ornamental wonders to capture your attention.
When you stroll through Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Nepal, you can't help but feel like you've stepped into a living history book. Sure, earthquakes have taken their toll on this place, but the locals have done a fantastic job preserving its essence.
As you approach the square, you'll be greeted by a pair of tall, proud stone lions at the entrance. These majestic beasts are a symbolic sight in Nepalese culture, signaling that you're about to enter a place of great importance.
"Durbar" means "palace" in the local tongue, and that's precisely what this square represents. Back in the Day, this was where the kings of Kathmandu were crowned and ruled their kingdom. Today, it remains the beating heart of the old town, proudly displaying the architectural heritage of Nepal.
One of the most intriguing spots in Basantapur Durbar Square is the Kumari House. Legend has it that the young girl residing here is the living embodiment of the goddess Taleju, who once ruled over the Kathmandu Valley. Witnessing the morning ritual when the Kumari is invoked is a mystical experience.
But Basantapur Durbar Square is not just about history and palaces; it's also a bustling hub of commerce and craftsmanship. The shops lining the square are a treasure trove of Nepalese handicrafts, and you'll be captivated by the vivid Yamantaka masks peering at you from their displays.
Thamel Market: Where to Find Handcrafted Treasures
If you're looking for handcrafted treasures in Kathmandu, the Thamel Market is the place to be. Thamel is a vibrant and bustling district in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. It has gained fame as a popular tourist destination and a hub for shopping enthusiasts. The market is known for its diverse range of products, including exquisite, handcrafted items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.
One of the standout items you can find in Thamel is the captivating pashmina shawls. These luxurious shawls are made from the fine wool of Himalayan goats and are renowned for their softness and warmth. You can find various designs and colors, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Additionally, Thamel is home to many shops offering artistic rugs known for their intricate patterns and vibrant hues.
Thangka paintings are another specialty of Thamel. These religious scroll paintings depict Buddhist deities and scenes and are considered sacred by many. You can also explore the Freak Street of Kathmandu Durbar Square, where numerous outlets offer high-quality Thangka paintings.
Thamel presents an array of options for those interested in unique Nepalese craftsmanship. The traditional Nepalese knife, known as the kukri, is popular among visitors. These handcrafted knives are functional tools and symbols of Nepalese culture.
In Thamel, you can find a range of kukris, each reflecting the skill and expertise of the local artisans. If you have an eye for silverware, Thamel won't disappoint. Many shops in the market offer exquisite silver jewelry and utensils crafted by skilled Nepalese artisans. These pieces often feature intricate designs inspired by traditional motifs and are perfect for those seeking a blend of elegance and cultural authenticity.
To add a touch of Tibetan influence to your collection, explore the Nepalese and Tibetan-style jewelry in Thamel. Pendants, bracelets, rings, earrings, and bangles adorned with semi-precious stones like tourmaline, garnet, aquamarine, coral, turquoise, or lapis lazuli can be found in the local souvenir shops. These jewelry items are fashionable accessories and have a more profound cultural significance.
As you embark on your Kathmandu shopping tour, remember to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Thamel. The narrow streets and alleyways are filled with various shops. These all create a truly unique shopping experience, further improving your Kathmandu Shopping Tour With us. While exploring the market, remember that some deals may seem too good to be true, particularly regarding the pricing of pashminas. Exercise caution and ensure the authenticity of the products you purchase.
Thamel Market in Kathmandu is a treasure trove for handcrafted items encapsulating Nepal's beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you're looking for stunning textiles, intricate paintings, or unique jewelry, you'll find it all within the bustling streets of Thamel. So, wear your walking shoes, get ready to bargain, and embark on a memorable shopping adventure in Kathmandu's Thamel Market.
Asan Tole Market: Fresh Produce and Local Life
Asan Tole Market is another place where you get the blend of history and shopping experience in the Kathmandu shopping tour.
It is a popular shopping spot known for its vibrant glass beads called 'potes,' which Nepali married women wear. You'll find the Pote Bazaar and Raki Bazaar in Asan Tole. Apart from beads, you can score some cool clothes, shoes, and warm stuff like woolen and blankets.
And guess what? You can even grab textiles, food items, spices, electronics, gold, and silver bars. These markets have been around since ancient times, part of the trade route between India and Tibet passing through Kathmandu.
But hold on, when you're shopping in these places, you better sharpen your bargaining skills or prepare to get ripped off by shopkeepers who love targeting clueless tourists with inflated prices.
In Asan Tole, things may seem a bit chaotic at first, with buildings scattered all over, but that's where you'll find traders, business folks, customers, visitors, and skilled artisans. It may look unorganized, but each street has its specialty, specific crafts, and businesses. The confusion arises because of the recent boom in the curio trade, with every shop competing for a prime location.
Moreover, in the heart of Asan, you can still discover the hub where locals trade rice, green groceries, and the staple diet of Nepali folks. This place attracts people from all over the Kathmandu valley and beyond who come to buy or sell their crops like rice, Dal, and Tarkari. It's a bustling center for all your food needs.
Indra Chowk Market: A Historic Hub for Traders
Indra Chowk is another popular place for starting your Kathmandu Shopping tour in Nepal. This place is super old and constantly buzzing with activity. You can find all types of stuff there, from spices and traditional grub to cool crafts, souvenirs, clothes, and leather goods. Bargaining is expected, so don't be shy about haggling. Plus, it's the perfect spot for people-watching.
You won't find genuine antiques for sale because they're prohibited from leaving Nepal. But no worries, their replicas are top-notch and made using this ancient casting method called "lost wax." If you're more into regular shopping, there are also some malls in Kathmandu to check out.
Now, let's talk about Makhan Tole. It's just as busy as Ason tole that leads right into Indra Chowk. The square got its name from Indra, an old Hindu god. It's all traditional vibes and market stalls in this historic part of Kathmandu.
Locals come here to buy and sell groceries and other daily essentials. But it's also a favorite spot for foreigners who want a taste of authentic Nepali life. You can spend a whole day just exploring and taking in the sights. Take advantage of the beautiful Annapurna Ajima temple, dedicated to the goddess of abundant food. It was built way back in the 19th century. Asan also has cool courtyards like Takse Baha, Kwathu Baha, Haku Baha, Dhalasikwa Baha, Dagu Baha, Asan Baha, and Hwakha Baha. They're located around the outskirts of the Asan Tole square. Plenty to see and do here!
New Road: Local to Modern Everything at Best Prices
You may have heard about the new road in Kathmandu. This place is like a marketplace dedicated to budget travelers and the best place to start your Kathmandu Shopping Tour. You can find almost anything you can imagine there. The locals love it for its clothing and accessory stores, and there are also some great places to grab a bite to eat.
If you're up for a fantastic Kathmandu Shopping tour here, check out New Road. They've got all sorts of shops selling unique stuff you won't find anywhere else. And the best part? The prices are super reasonable, perfect for travelers on a budget. You can score some awesome ethnic wear, footwear, handicrafts, and personalized gifts. Don't forget to negotiate with the shopkeepers to get the best deals.
Now, let's talk about food. If you're an adventurous foodie who loves trying new things, you've got to give these a shot. Lapsi, a tangy fruit native to Nepal, is used to make all sorts of delicious treats like titaura, which can be sweet, sour, or spicy. They also make pickles, candies, and tarts out of Lapsi. And then there's chhurpi, a traditional cheese made from cow or yak milk. It comes in both hard and soft varieties. If you enjoy the taste, grab some to take home with you.
You'll find this fantastic place on Sundhara Marg in Kathmandu, Nepal. They're open from Wednesday to Tuesday, starting at 8:00 am and closing at 8:00 pm. Enjoy your visit!
Bouddha Market: Curated Collections in a Serene Setting
Boudha is the ultimate tourist shopping spot around the famous Boudha Stupa and can be the best place that enhances your Kathmandu Shopping Tour. You'll find everything to bring home as souvenirs from your Nepal adventure. Thangka paintings, prayer flags, herbal products, and singing bowls are some awesome things you can get your hands on. And here's a tip: don't forget to haggle with the shopkeepers to score the best deals!
If you're in Kathmandu, swing by the area near Kathesimbhu Stupa, just south of Thamel. You won't believe the shops' fantastic selection of Tibetan prayer flags, brocade fabrics, and embroidered silks. And guess what? You can get a custom set of traditional Tibetan or Sherpa clothes from one of the tailors.
Boudha is another excellent place to check out for these goodies since many Tibetans and Sherpas live there. And speaking of awesome finds, don't miss out on the cluster of shops at Kel Tole, where you can grab yourself a traditional Nepali topi hat. It's the perfect finishing touch to your Nepali ensemble. Oh, and make sure to wake up early and take a stroll through the vibrant local market at Asan Tole. It's a feast for the senses with all the colorful spices, and it's a fantastic place to take some seriously Instagrammable photos.
Did you know that Buddha is also famous for its incredible Thangka paintings? These religious symbols of Hinduism and Buddhism are made from a blend of cotton and silk, giving them a unique textile-like quality. The paintings are stunning, usually featuring Buddha as the main subject. They're not your ordinary flat artwork on fabric but intricately embroidered masterpieces covered with silk. Getting one of these as a traditional Nepali gift will impress your fellow travelers.
So, mark Boudha Stupa, Boudhanath Sadak, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal, on your must-visit list for Kathmandu Shopping Tour.
Patan Market: Traditional Arts and Crafts in Patan Durbar Square
Kathmandu is famous for its excellent Tibetan-style wool carpets that are thick, colorful, and hand-knotted. You can shop these in your Kathmandu Shopping tour from the Tibetan refugee workshops in Jawalakhel, in southern Patan.
Patan is not only the best place to buy Buddhist statues, but you'll also find tons of metal workshops in the backstreets.
Nepalese handicrafts are something else. They've got unique items like prayer wheels, vibrant traditional masks, rare puppets, gorgeously carved wooden sculptures, and pottery items. When you need help deciding what to buy in Nepal, those wooden carved handicrafts are the way to go. You can find them in the local markets or popular attractions while sightseeing. Make sure to swing by the Traditional Craftsman's Colony in Patan to get your hands on these goodies.
Speaking of Patan, they've got some Patola sarees there. These sarees are stunning, with intricate threadwork and natural colors. But that's not all. Patan has many other shops, like jewelry, handicraft, ready-made clothes, and souvenirs. But let me tell you, the Patola sarees steal the show. They've even got Patola woven stoles, kerchiefs, and scarves if you're into that.
Nepal is famous for its incredible variety of handicrafts, like beautifully carved wooden sculptures, pottery items, brass wares, and more! And the best part? The prices are super affordable, so go ahead and shop your heart out. Bring these fantastic works of art back home and spruce up your place.
Le Sherpa Farmer’s Market, Maharajgunj
Le Sherpa Farmer's Market is another best place for the Kathmandu shopping tour. This may sound like a new name to you, but recently this market which is only open on Saturday has gained much popularity here.
It all started back in 2010, and at first, they only had vendors selling veggies, fruits, and food. But guess what? This year they've added non-food items like jewelry, handicrafts, and local products.
The market is fantastic, with around 70 vendors showcasing their stuff in the restaurant's outdoor garden. And it's only Rs 800 per day to set up a table as a vendor. It's the perfect spot to shop for fresh and healthy food weekly. Plus, you can hang out with your friends, bring your kids, and relax in the garden.
You can get a variety of organic food they have there, from veggies and fruits to cheese, bread, meat products, honey, fish, and much more. It's a fantastic place to grab breakfast with friends while you do your shopping. So, mark your calendar for Saturday and join us at the market with our Kathmandu Shopping Tour.
Bhaktapur Pottery Square: Watch Pottery Come Alive
Bhaktapur is just awesome, and there is no fact to deny this statement here. You can buy many things here, starting from Pottery to Handicrafts. Bhaktapur can be another best place to start your Kathmandu shopping tour if you are into pots, Handicrafts, sculptures, etc.
Many beautiful pots and other clay art made here might be fragile to transfer, but they are also one of the most beautiful. Mainly the squares made out of clay that change the whole look of the room.
Besides clay pots and handicrafts, you can shop for many other Things like Hakupatas. Haku Patasi is this fabulous black sari with a classic red border that's handmade, and it's very popular among the Newri people in Nepal. People don't wear them as they did back then, but they still make a killer gift for your friends and families.
Another popular thing to buy from Bhakapture is Bhadgaule, Topi, another symbol of Newari culture. It's got that excellent black color going on, making it a classy yet traditional cap.
In addition, you'll find wooden art pieces throughout the Kathmandu Valley, especially in touristy spots. Bhaktapur is no different; plenty of souvenir shops also sell wooden goodies there. But let me tell you, the crafts you'll see in Bhaktapur are next-level beautiful and grand. The Aakhijhyals are very beautiful pieces of artwork too but a gift, especially if you're into wooden art.
You will also find many sculptures here, from gods and goddesses to animals, big and small.
Back then, people bought bronze statues of gods and goddesses solely for worship. But now, those sculptures are sold as souvenirs.
Jhochhen Tole: Shop for Masks, Singing Bowls, and Knives
Jhochhen Tole, also known as Freak Street, is a vibrant and culturally rich area from Basantapur Square's corner to the south. In the 1960s, the term "Freak" was used to describe individuals who rejected societal norms, and this street attracted many free-spirited hippie-style travelers who sought an alternative lifestyle. While the street has transformed over the years, it retains its unique charm and remains a popular tourist destination.
Along Jhochhen Tole, you will find a variety of small shops catering to the needs of the hippie-style traveler. These shops offer an array of goods, including traditional masks, intricate singing bowls, and finely crafted knives. These items reflect Nepal's rich cultural heritage and allow visitors to take home a piece of its unique artistry.
In addition to the handicraft shops, Jhochhen Tole is also home to several local restaurants where you can savor authentic Newari cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try Juju Dhau, a famous Nepalese yogurt, and other delectable local delicacies.
Although the street has become more tourist-oriented, with the best hotels and restaurants, Jhochhen Tole retains its historic charm and serves as a hub for those seeking a taste of Nepal's traditional crafts, culinary delights, and a glimpse into its countercultural past.
Durbar Marg: Trendy Clothes
If you're into fancy stuff and want to go shopping, Durbar Marg in Kathmandu is the place to be. This vibrant district has designer boutiques, big-name brands, and cool Nepalese handicrafts.
One spot you can't miss in Durbar Marg is Sherpa Mall. It's the best place in the middle of Kathmandu and draws a diverse crowd, especially young adults. The best part? You can shop until you drop and grab a tasty bite to eat in one place. Sherpa Mall has everything from trendy clothes, shoes, accessories, gadgets, and sports gear. It's like a shopaholic's dream come true! And to top it off, it's a popular spot to chill out and hang with friends.
Durbar Marg is like the heartbeat of Kathmandu Valley. It's loaded with fancy hotels, cafes, bars, and clothing shops that'll make you feel like a VIP. The main street, Dubamag Street or Durbar Marg Street, leads you straight to the bustling shopping area of the city. The stores here offer great value, although some things might be a bit pricier compared to places like Thamel, another happening district in Kathmandu. European travelers have fallen head over heels for Durbar Marg and its market. You can find all sorts of high-end goodies and local crafts to satisfy your shopping cravings.
But wait, there's more! Durbar Marg isn't just about shopping. It's got a lively vibe with awesome hotels, restaurants, and coffee joints nearby. So while browsing the shops, take a breather and soak up the vibrant culture of Kathmandu. Grab a cup of joe or treat yourself to a delicious meal. Durbar Marg has got you covered!
Kalimati Fruit and Vegetable Market
The bustling Kalimati market, operating between the early morning hours of 2 am and 8.30 pm, often goes unnoticed by tourists, lending it an understated ambiance. This expansive wholesale market offers many goods, ranging from vibrant marigold garlands to fragrant dried chilies.
For those with a keen interest in gastronomy and the allure of fresh produce, a stroll through this dynamic marketplace is an absolute must. Here, you can explore an array of raw ingredients that form the foundation of numerous delectable dishes served in the city's esteemed restaurants.
The market's unassuming nature and diverse offerings make it a hidden gem awaiting discovery by intrepid individuals seeking an authentic culinary experience.
Religious objects in Places Like Pashupatinath Boudhanath
Religious artifacts are significant among the diverse range of souvenirs available in Nepal. The market is adorned with Hindu deities' figurines, Buddha statues, Tibetan malas (rosaries), prayer wheels, prayer flags, and various other articles related to Buddhism.
However, Nepal's distinctive offerings extend beyond religious trinkets, including Tibetan bowls as a symbolic product. Crafted from a blend of seven metal alloys, these bowls possess a unique resonance that holds immense value among music therapists and New Age enthusiasts.
Revered for their harmonics, these bowls are believed to harmonize the body's energy centers, known as chakras, and promote holistic mind and spirit healing by dissolving energetic obstacles.
Final Say
So you're good to go; now you've got the inside information on what to buy from Nepal, where to go up for a Kathmandu shopping tour, and why it's worth buying. And hey, to all travelers who've already bought some Nepal goodies, what was the absolute favorite item you scored while shopping there? We bet there are plenty more awesome things we might've missed, so give us knowledge on what else is a must-buy in Nepal.
