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The Pub Crawl Culture in Kathmandu: A Comprehensive Guide
Kathmandu, the cultural capital of Nepal, is popular for its ancient temples, rich history, and stunning mountains. However, the city’s nightlife scene is also something that attracts many tourists every year. Visitors seek enjoyment in trying out different bars, lounges, and nightclubs off the beaten track, and that’s where the concept of pub-crawling originated in Nepal.This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about the pub crawl culture in Kathmandu, including its history, the best pub crawl routes, tips to keep in mind, and more.
The History of Pub Crawls in Kathmandu
The concept of pub crawling traces its roots back to Europe, where groups of people tour multiple bars or pubs in a single night. The art of pub-crawling in Nepal, however, is not precisely the same as its European counterparts. Pub crawl culture started in Kathmandu after the Nepalese government lifted a ban on alcohol in the early 1950s. Since then, Kathmandu has become a hotspot for tourists seeking to discover local bars and lounges.The casual pub crawl culture in Nepal is only a few decades old, and although it is still being developed, it has become increasingly popular.
The Best Pub Crawl Routes in Kathmandu
Kathmandu has many bars, lounges, and nightclubs, all offering various experiences. To discover them all, you may need a few nights out. Here are a few pub crawl routes worth exploring:
Thamel Pub Crawl
Thamel is the most popular tourist district in Kathmandu, making it a great place to start your pub crawl. The area is well-known for its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife scene, and live music venues. Start at one of the bars or lounges on the Thamel main strip and branch out to local coffee bars, craft beer bars, and rooftop lounges for a diverse experience of Kathmandu’s nightlife. Don’t forget to check out the hidden alleyways as they have the most authentic local bars.
Basantapur Pub Crawl
Basantapur is a historic part of Kathmandu famous for its ancient temples and palaces. Start at the Gaddi Baithak or Patan Durbar Square, and stroll through the brick-paved streets to discover unique pubs with fascinating histories. Some hidden gems include Newa Chhe’n, Prive, and the Bhojan Griha.
Jhamsikhel Pub Crawl
Jhamsikhel is an upcoming locality in Lalitpur, with many modern bars and lounges. Unlike Thamel and Basantapur, this area offers a unique mix of local and Western-oriented bars. Starting close to the Jhamel Chowk, try out the popular bars like The Lazy Gringo, El Mediterraneo, and Beats by KM.
Tips for a Successful Pub Crawl
The pub crawl culture in Kathmandu is similar to those in other cities, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have a great time.
Plan Ahead
Before you head out, plan your route and make sure that everyone in your group is familiar with the areas you’ll be covering. You might also want to take a map of Kathmandu, or download a navigation application to avoid getting lost.
Stay Safe
Be mindful of your surroundings and stay in well-lit areas. Always keep an eye on your drinks, and never accept drinks from strangers to avoid falling victim to drink-spiking. If you’re planning to go on a pub crawl, it’s better to do so earlier in the evening and avoid staying out too late.
Budget Wisely
The costs of drinks can vary depending on the location and establishment. You may want to get a rough idea of the prices before you plan your night out. Creating a budget and sticking to it is also essential.
In Conclusion
Kathmandu’s eclectic nightlife scene is an exciting experience for tourists visiting Nepal. The culture of Pub-crawling has added another dimension to the city’s nightlife, creating opportunities to mingle with locals and other tourists. By keeping in mind the tips shared in this article, you’ll be sure to have a great time exploring Kathmandu’s pub crawl culture.
The Insider’s Guide to Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and history. The city is a hub of ancient temples, bustling markets, and delectable street food. Whether it’s your first time in Kathmandu or you’ve been here before, this insider’s guide will ensure a memorable experience that goes beyond the usual tourist spots.
Discover Hidden Gems
While the city has a plethora of famous temples and landmarks, don’t miss some of the hidden gems that offer a glimpse into the local lifestyle. One such spot is the peaceful Garden of Dreams, which houses stunning gardens, fountains, and pavilions that transport visitors to a tranquil oasis amidst the chaos of the city. If you’re a book lover, then the stunning Bookshop Café, nestled in the Thamel district, is a must-visit and even offers live music on weekend evenings.
Savor the Local Cuisine
Nepalese cuisine is distinct and delicious, and Kathmandu is the best place to try it out. Newa Lahana in Jhochhen is a great first stop to experience a traditional Newari kitchen. The restaurant is where you can try out the spicy buffalo chili, barbecued goat meat, or a classic Newari platter. Also, make sure to indulge in the momos (dumplings) found in tiny street stalls all around the city.
However, to satisfy your sweet tooth, try out two classic dessert spots in the city: Jyoti Snacks and Sweets and Ananda Cafe. Jyoti Snacks and Sweets offers delectable laddus (ball-shaped sweets made of gram flour and sugar), while the Ananda Cafe will make it taste out of the world with a scoop of ice cream.
Experience the Local Culture
To experience the local culture, you must attend some of the traditional festivals. One such festival is the Kathmandu Valley Site Festival, where locals perform a variety of cultural shows and travelers can enjoy local food and drinks. Another fantastic experience is the Nepal Tourism Board’s Living Heritage Festival, which is held during the full moon of Bishaka (April to May). This festival showcases cultural performances, street art, and food, giving visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the city’s rich culture.
Uncover Local History
Kathmandu has a rich and fascinating history, but some of the stories are lesser-known and not widely talked about. One such story is the sacred Kumari, a young girl believed to be the incarnation of a goddess who selects her representative every few years. An alarming series of earthquakes in the 17th century led the Royal Kumari to leave her palace to be sheltered with a family cum temple of her devotees on Tutepani Street.
Another captivating story is the tale of the Hidden Paradise, a garden once known for its beauty, sadly got destroyed during the Rana dynasty. However, its ruins are still there, and it remains a hidden treasure in the heart of the city, tucked away from the rush of life.
Off-the-beaten-path suggestions
To make your trip unforgettable, explore beyond the common paths. Take a hike up the nearby Nagarkot or Dhulikhel, and watch the sunrise over the Himalayan mountain range. Also, experience the thrill of paragliding in the beautiful Pokhara Valley. You can pick up some bargains at the Friday market held weekly in the village of Sankhu or make a day trip to Bhaktapur, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In conclusion, beyond the Pub Crawl Culture, Kathmandu offers a world of hidden gems to explore, delicious food to savor, unique festivals to experience, captivating stories to uncover, and unforgettable experiences to have. With this insider’s guide, you are equipped with all the knowledge to make your trip one to remember.
