What to Buy in Kathmandu: 10 Souvenirs Worth Taking Home

The Kathmandu Valley has been a centre of craft for centuries. These are the souvenirs our guests are happiest to take home.

1. Singing bowls — try several and listen for a long, even tone.
2. Pashmina and wool shawls — soft, warm and light to carry.
3. Thangka paintings — detailed Buddhist scroll paintings.
4. Metal statues from Patan's workshops.
5. Pottery from Bhaktapur's Pottery Square.
6. Handmade lokta paper notebooks and cards.
7. Nepali tea from the eastern hills.
8. Prayer flags to hang at home.
9. A dhaka topi, the traditional Nepali cap.
10. Wood carvings inspired by Newar windows and doors.

Shopping tips

• Bargain politely in markets — fixed-price shops are clearly marked.
• Patan and Bhaktapur are best for crafts made on the spot.
• Genuine antiques need export permission; buy from shops that give receipts.
• Check your airline's rules before packing knives such as a khukuri.

We're happy to suggest where to go for what you're looking for, and to help you pack fragile pieces before you fly.