Kathmandu, Nepal — Things to Do
Shopping in Kathmandu
Shopping in Kathmandu offers a variety of goods ranging from authentic local handicrafts to religious souvenirs. In Kathmandu, there are shops in the Patan and Bhaktapur areas that trade in bronze and copper goods such as Buddha idols, while Pokhara is good for Gorkha insignia banners, flags and medals, as well as Newari artifacts such as wooden statues and figurines. There are also many shops in Kathmandu selling hand-woven cotton fabric and clothing. Nepalese souvenirs include Tibetan carpets, thangkas and paubhas (scroll paintings), Terai baskets and traditional rice paper. Kashmiri shawls, Tibetan robes and embroidered kaftans are also very popular, and there is a lot of religious paraphernalia for sale at Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. However, the most sought-after treasures are the rare lime-green tourmaline gems.
Kathmandu Nightlife
Most of the nightlife in Kathmandu is based in Thamel and on Freak Street, and there are also quite a few bars to be found near Pulchowk in Patan. Music is not allowed to be played after 10pm but many bars and clubs stay open till later than this. There is nightlife information in the Kathmandu Post and The Himalayan Times. Popular bars in Kathmandu include Tom & Jerry's Bar and the Tamas Spa Lounge in Thamel, and the Absolute Bar in Patan. Tongue and Tales as well as Celtic Menang also have glowing reputations. Underground Bar in Thamel, and the Galaxy Discotheque in Hotel Everest, are Kathmandu's most trendy club venues. Nightclubs in Kathmandu generally have a cover charge. Live music can be heard at the Reggae Bar and G's Terrace, while New Orleans Café is good for jazz. Popular casinos include Casino Nepal at the Soaltee Crowne Plaza Hotel, as well as casinos at Yak & Yeti, Hotel de l'Annapurna and Everest Hotel. For movies, try the Kathmandu Mini Vision in the Kathmandu Plaza.
