Kathmandu is a beautiful city with tourist attractions, chaos, and people. If you think daytime is hectic, wait until you experience the city’s nightlife. The houses are decorated with twinkling lights, streets are full of vendors, bars/casinos are open, and many youngsters are roaming around.
Thamel, in particular, is a place that never sleeps. You will find everything here if you want to enjoy a drink at a bar or participate in local festivity. Aside from that, many options are available from dusk to the next day’s early dawn. If you are curious, check out these handpicked best things to do at night in Kathmandu, Nepal.
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Watch Pashupatinath Aarati
Kathmandu houses numerous temples, shrines, and pilgrimage sites, among which Pashupatinath Temple is a holy place for Hindus worldwide. If you visit this shrine in the daytime, you will see the magnificent temple, pilgrims lined up, yogis, and flower shops. You will also see priests sitting around to put tikas on people’s foreheads.
However, it’s the evening time that truly depicts the spiritual environment of the temple. Every evening, Pashupatinath’s three priests perform aarati at 6 pm. They swung burning oil lamps in a circular motion. Furthermore, priests perform this ritual from the next side of the Bagmati river, facing the Pashupatinath temple. Devotees are lined up behind and around them, watching this marvelous scene.
The aarati practice dates back to the year 200. It only became a regular tradition in 2006. This ritual is accompanied by religious songs (Bhajan) and music. It’s a sacred practice that holds a significant position among Hindus. Additionally, Tandav dance is often done on this occasion.
You don’t have to be spiritual to enjoy Pashupatinath aarati. Anyone can watch the ritual and take pleasure in the religious environment. Also, we recommend Mondays as the perfect day to visit the shrine. Maha Shivaratri and Teej festivals are the best time of the year to visit this Hindu temple.
Check These Handpicked Activities:
- Pashupatinath Aarati Trip from Kathmandu
- Pashupatinath Temple, Hindu Crematorium and Aarati in-depth Tour
- Tour of Pashupatinath Evening Aarati Event
- Pashupatinath and Doleshwor Mahadev Temple Darshan Tour From Kathmandu
Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square
If Pashupatinath is far from your hotel, you can visit Kathmandu Durbar Square. The place is a sight to behold in both day and nighttime. Moreover, you will have plenty of places to visit, as there are over fifty nearby temples. Each of these buildings looks marvelous when basked under evening lights.
The gigantic Nautalle Durbar looks enchanting at night time. The surrounding temples like Kumari Bahal, Taleju Bhawani, Shiva-Parvati Temple, and Jagannath Temple are also a treat to the eyes. You can explore Nasal Chowk and every beautiful historical monument this place offers.
Doesn’t a nice walk around the Kathmandu Durbar Square with a coffee in hand sound nice? You can also enjoy the evening scenery in cafes and restaurants. Many night food shops are available for your disposal.
Check These Handpicked Activities:
- Kathmandu Evening Tour by Rickshaw Including Durbar Square Visit
- Evening Photography Tour of Kathmandu
- Private Half-Day Tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Temple
Walk Around Thamel Streets
Everyone has their preference for activity during the night. For instance, some people like to take an evening stroll. If you are one of them, you must head to Thamel and enjoy a nice walk around the area.
As mentioned before, Thamel is a place that never sleeps. So, even in the evening or late at night, you will see people busy with work. There will be local vendors, open restaurants, open bars, and markets. Some might even be strolling around like you, enjoying the nightlife in Thamel.
Visitors can take a look around local shops and do shopping. Fitness and travel guide centers are open and accessible, even at night. Furthermore, tourists can relax in spa and sauna centers. They can also enjoy late-night dinners at various establishments.
Thamel streets are pretty crowded even at night, so visitors won’t have to be scared on their night trip. They can roam around for as long as they need. Overall, walking around Thamel streets will never be boring.
Check These Handpicked Activities:
- Kathmandu Rickshaw Tour Of Thamel And Durbar Square
- 3-Hour Thamel Sightseeing Tour by Rickshaw in Kathmandu
Engage in Religious Festivities
The Newari community primarily resides in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. This ethnic group is known for its many festivals, celebrations, and jatras. This is no exaggeration, as Newars celebrate over twenty yearly festivals. And each one of them is as grand as the other.
So, Kathmandu visitors will encounter one or two festivals during their stay. Newari community holds jatras on the streets, accompanied by their traditional dance, singing, and music. They are primarily held during the evening and nighttime. And what better way to spend your night than by enjoying local cultures and traditions?
If you visit Kathmandu in September, you will see the Indra Jatra celebration. It is the biggest festival of the city’s Newar residents, who celebrate it with street jatras, dances, and grandeur. You will find Kathmandu Durbar Square full of people from early morning to late night.
Indra Jatra is celebrated for eight days and sees Kumari chariot procession, Lakhey dances, Bhairav mask showings, and Yosin (lingo or pole) erection. Visitors can partake in chariot pulling, dancing, and other festivities. It will be a new and surreal experience for sure.
Check These Handpicked Activities:
- Catch a sight of Kumari living goddess of Nepal and walk along local Asan Bazzar
- Kathmandu Heritage Tour
Watch Night Shows at Cinemas
You can watch movies if you want to do something relaxing at night in Kathmandu. I couldn’t think of anything more relaxing and satisfying than watching films in cinemas. The evening and nighttime are perfect for watching spooky horror movies.
In today’s Netflix and online-dominated age, it might be shocking to know that people still go to the cinemas. Well, watching movies at home and in the halls feels entirely different. Audiences will get a more cinematic experience, be immersed in the story with others, and thoroughly enjoy the moment.
Theater halls are best for watching thrillers and action films. But, hey, if you prefer watching movies at home, we are not judging. Many cinema halls in Kathmandu offer night shows. You can check them out in the following list:
- OFX Cinemas: Civil Mall, Chhaya Center, Official Website
- BIG Movies: NLIC City Center Mall, Kamalpokhari, Official Website
- FCUBE Cinemas: KL Tower, Chabahil, Official Website
- ONE Cinemas: Baneshwor, Kalimati, Official Website
- iNi Cinemas: NB Center, Baneshwor, Official Website
Enjoy Fine Dining at Restaurants
You will likely be tired and hungry after strolling around Thamel streets and participating in local festivities. So, why not fill your stomach in one of Kathmandu’s restaurants? However, finding an establishment that offers good food and ambiance is challenging. Guess what? You have plenty of options to choose from, which we will discuss further below:
Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant
Being in a new place, everyone will likely want to try its local cuisines and delicacies. Kathmandu has many eateries specializing in traditional and authentic cuisines. However, Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant is the only establishment where you will receive a customized menu with over 22-course Nepali meals.
This restaurant is only open after 6 PM till 11 PM. It is housed in the gorgeous ancestral building of the Dwarika’s Hotel in Battisputali. Visitors will enjoy the finest dining service with lots of food options. They are affordable and super delicious and will make you return for more.
Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant will be the perfect place to have dinner at night time. You might have to make a reservation as the place is often full of guests.
- Opening Hours: 6 PM – 11 PM
- Location: The Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website
Toran Restaurant
If you cannot make a reservation at Krisharpan Nepali Restaurant, you can head to Toran Restaurant at The Dwarika’s Hotel. Alongside enjoying a relaxed ambiance, you can try multi-cuisine in this establishment.
Toran Restaurant also has traditional Nepali dishes on its menu so that visitors won’t miss out on their desire for authentic food. It offers hearty breakfasts, delicious lunches, snacks, high teas, and satisfying dinners. You can enjoy dining inside or outside in the hotel’s courtyard.
This establishment is open from the early hours till late at night. The Dwarika Hotel’s guests can dine in this restaurant at any time of the day.
- Opening Hours: 24 Hours (for guests) and till 11 PM (for non-guests)
- Location: The Dwarika’s Hotel
- Social Media: Official Website
Nepali Chulo
Another traditional restaurant on our list, Nepali Chulo, is all about providing the finest authentic Nepali dishes to its guests. They offer Nepali and Newari cuisines that are tasty and healthy. For instance, their Nepali Thali is a must-try food.
Another interesting aspect of this restaurant is its seating arrangement. It has three seating options: sitting on the floor, on the high chair, and in the pavilion. You can dine in whichever option fits you the best. Overall, visitors will only leave this place satisfied.
- Opening Hours: 10 AM -10 PM
- Location: Lazimpat
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Marco Polo Restaurant
(Source: Marco Polo Restaurant Facebook)
Say you suddenly crave pizzas during your night walk around Thamel Streets. I recommend Marco Polo Restaurant on the 1st Floor of Chhaya Center Bhagwanbahal, among many pizzeria options. Their pizzas are cheesy heaven that will melt in your mouth.
Italian chef Rubiolo Battista opened the establishment in 1987 and has been running it since. You can already imagine the atmosphere and food quality, as the place has been open for several decades. They have many appetizers, salads, main courses, and side dish options.
The restaurant also offers Nepali dishes, their signature item being Bada Khana. Try pizzas and enjoy a heart Nepal meal at Marco Polo Restaurant.
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
If you want to explore more restaurant options, head here for details.
Head Over To Casinos
When we talk about night activities, we can’t miss going to casinos. They are all about betting and trying your luck. The thrill of the unknown and the anticipation make gambling fun, which is the highlight of every casino.
Generally, gambling and betting are illegal in Nepal. However, many registered casinos operate in Thamel and other parts of Kathmandu, where you can try your luck. Don’t worry, folks; they are not illegal and have amazing packages you will love.
Casino Royale
If there is any casino that Kathmandu can boast about, it has to be Hotel Yak and Yeti’s Casino Royale. It has 12,000 sq. ft. gaming space, with thirty-four gaming machines and twenty table games. This establishment offers 5-star services to its clients.
Visitors can play games like Flush, Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat. You don’t have to pay an entrance fee but must compulsorily bring your ID. Furthermore, the casino offers guests free snacks and cocktails. They will also receive complimentary drinks and cigarettes.
Finally, if you are tired from gambling and want to retire early, you can book a room at the Hotel Yak & Yeti. You can do that on Booking.com and Agoda.
- Opening Hour: 24/7
- Location: Hotel Yak & Yeti, Durbar Marg
- Social Media: Official Website
Casino Mahjong Nepal
Another renowned casino on our list is The Soaltee Kathmandu’s Casino Mahjong Nepal. It is sprawled over a large space of 60,000 square feet with 60 gaming machines and 10 table games. Furthermore, it allows gambling like Roulette, Flush, Marriage, Blackjack, and slot machines. You can have your pick as you please.
Casino Mahjong doesn’t require an entry fee, but you must have your passport for entry. You can also enjoy a fine dining experience at its restaurant. There are multiple food and drink options. Also, let’s not forget you can spend the night at The Soaltee Kathmandu. You can check the prices on Agoda and Booking.com.
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Location: The Soaltee Kathmandu, Soaltee Mode
- Social Media: Official Facebook, Official Instagram
The Millionaire’s Club & Casino
One of the top Kathmandu hotels, Hotel Shangri-La, houses a famous casino, The Millionaire’s Club & Casino. It has a 5,000 sq. ft. gaming space with 22 tables and 40 gaming machines. Additionally, the establishment has a separate poker room for poker lovers.
The casino’s major gambling attractions are Indian Flush, Baccarat, Roulette, Texas Hold’em Poker, and 3 Card Poker. You must put on your best poker face to win their games. Additionally, visitors can participate in ongoing tournaments and competitions. They can enter the casino without paying an entrance fee and enjoy the night.
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Location: Hotel Shangri-La, Lazimpat
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Casino Pride Nepal
Considering our list, you won’t be surprised that Casino Pride Nepal is located in Hyatt Regency Kathmandu. It is a 5-star hotel known for its high-quality services. Likewise, the hotel’s casino offers a luxury and praiseworthy gaming environment.
This casino has 21,000 square feet of gaming space, eleven table games, and twenty gaming machines. It offers gambling services like Blackjack, Kitty, Roulette, and more. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy their whole night gambling and having fun, as this place is open twenty-four hours.
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Location: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, Taragaon, Buddha
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Casino Rad
Radisson Hotel’s Casino Rad must be your destination for high-end gambling services. It is famous among locals and foreigners alike. Furthermore, the casino has various gaming options, including Roulette, Poker, Kitty, Marriage, Maag Patta, and Caribbean Stud Poker.
The environment is vibrant, with live music and dance performances. Guests can also enjoy the finest dining service at its in-house restaurant. They offer international and multi-cuisines. Additionally, visitors can retire at Radisson Hotel by booking at Agoda or Booking.com.
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Location: Radisson Hotel, Lazimpat
- Social Media: Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Enjoy Nightlife at Bars and Clubs
What is nightlife if you are not clubbing or going to bars? Kathmandu has many nightclubs and bars just waiting for visitors to come and enjoy. These establishments will surely make your night trip enjoyable and memorable.
Sam’s Bar
A fine establishment in Thamel, Sam’s Bar is one of the oldest bars in the area. It is known for its ambiance atmosphere and excellent customer service. Many former visitors have rated it pretty high and provided positive reviews.
Visitors can relax with a drink in their hand. They can also socialize with other guests and enjoy a nice conversation. Moreover, the bar’s drinks are cheaper than in other places. Hence, you can enjoy good service at affordable prices.
- Opening Hours: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Location: Chaksibari Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Purple Haze Rock Bar
(Source: Purple Haze Rock Bar Facebook)
Doesn’t this establishment’s name sound cool? Their environment is even more vibrant, with Metallica and Rock music blasting from speakers. Local and famous bands often perform at this place, attracting the attention of many people. Hence, it is crowded almost every day.
Purple Haze also offers nice and high-quality drinks. You can headbang on rock music while enjoying liquors and Hookah. You can also groove to the beats on the stage. Overall, this bar will surely make you experience the rich nightlife.
- Opening Hours: 7 PM – 2 AM
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Club Deja Vu
Clubbing is among the best things to do at night in Kathmandu. Club Deja Vu is a perfect destination for visitors who enjoy dancing and experiencing nightlife. It sprawls over 20,000 sq ft in space and has two floors.
Here, the night is always young, so you better prepare for a night of enjoyment. Visitors can vibe on Nepali and International songs and show their dance moves on the dancefloor. Clubbing is not complete without drinks, and this place offers many options to quench your thirst.
- Opening Hours: Opens Till 5 AM
- Location: Durbar Marg, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Club OMG
Clubs often charge entrance fees; however, Club OMG is an exception as it allows women free entry. So, if our female readers want to enjoy clubbing in Kathmandu, they should hit Club OMG. There are many ladies present in the establishment.
Club OMG is known for its musical and vibrant environment. The house DJ is amazing, and you will be attracted to the dance floor for most of your stay. Moreover, drinks and food are pretty good and worth their prices. You won’t find any club better than this.
- Opening Hours: 7 PM – 2 AM
- Location: Paryatan Marg, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Lord Of The Drinks
(Source: LOD Facebook)
If you want to enjoy clubbing in a large venue, you won’t find any place better than Lord Of The Drinks. It has a large concert-style stage, where you won’t have to worry about bumping into strangers. You can dance wildly and enjoy the atmosphere to the fullest.
The establishment is listed in DJ Mag’s Top 100 Clubs’ 52nd position. Talk about popularity, huh? Furthermore, the club hosts performances every night and often invites world-famous DJs. Visitors can vibe on Nepali, Bollywood, electronic, and rock music.
Also, as its name suggests, the establishment offers multiple alcohol and beverage options. You have to try their signature drinks and the drink of the day. It’s better to head over there now to experience the nightlife.
- Opening Hours: 6 PM – 4 AM
- Location: Thamel, Bhagwatisthan, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Kathmandu does have many night activities. Even if you are tired from your daily activities, you have to get out at least and enjoy the nightlife in this city. It will be a surreal experience and one you will never forget.
Overall, the night activities in Kathmandu will never leave you bored and dull. Even if you don’t like clubbing, you can enjoy evening walks, nice dinners, and window shopping. Thamel is the best place for the latter.
