Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu, is a bustling metropolis full of life – day and night. While during the daytime visitors can explore the city’s temples, markets and ancient buildings, at night the city really comes alive, with a vibrant nightlife that has something for everyone.

Nightlife in Kathmandu

Pubs, bars and nightclubs line the streets, offering up a range of local and international drinks, while live music venues showcase the best of Nepal’s talented musicians. There are also plenty of places to dance the night away, whether you want to try traditional Nepali dance or simply let loose to the latest Western hits.

If you’re looking for a more low-key night out, there are plenty of options too, from cosy cafes serving up delicious Nepali cuisine, to rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Kathmandu’s exciting nightlife scene.

Being the largest and most advanced city of Nepal, Kathmandu catches up to the word trends the fastest. It is one of the few cities where people come in search of tranquillity in nature or de-stress through loud parties.  

Thamel, sometimes gets a bad rep, is where the most parties are held. Since the place is built to cater the needs of travelers and tourists, it’s where the most activities happen at night. You will find clubs, pubs, live music, karaoke rooms, and restaurants. Most tourists head straight to Thamel upon landing as the place accommodates and caters to newcomers the most.

Most of the activities occur at these three locations at night in Kathmandu; Lazimpat, Durbarmarg, and Thamel.

Related: 5 Best Dating Places and Ideas in Kathmandu

Table of Contents

Lazimpat

Just a few hundred metres from Thamel, there is Lazimpat. Those who prefer a smaller crowd usually end up at Lazimpat. The place has the same aura however it’s known for restaurants with live music rather than bass boosted clubs.

Durbarmarg

If you’re into shopping, Durbarmarg is a must-visit. Separated by the extending road from the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Durbarmarg is where the rich people are at (at least in Nepal).

Durbarmarg has outlets of some of the big brands such as The North Face, Adidas, and more. However, the locals are not a big fan of the place as counterfeit costs one-third of the original. So why bother purchasing costly branded goods while similar alternatives are readily available.

Thamel

Kathmandu’s nightlife is incredible, with a multitude of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out or a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll find it in Kathmandu.

Related: Thamel: Best Nightlife in Nepal

The city comes alive at night, and there’s always something to do bars and clubs stay open until the early hours of the morning, and there’s always a party going on somewhere. If you’re looking to experience the true nightlife of Kathmandu, be sure to check out some of the city’s most popular hotspots.