Thamel is a popular tourist destination in Kathmandu, Nepal. Thamel has been the centre of the tourist industry in Kathmandu for over two decades, growing up between two of the original hotels. Even though Thamel has been referred to as the "ghetto" by some, most low-budget travelers consider it a tourist heaven.

Its concentration of narrow streets are lined with small shops selling everything from food and provisions to clothes, walking gear, cakes, pastries, music, DVDs (mostly pirated), handicrafts, travel agents and budget hotels.

The area has some very good restaurants. Although prices tend to be significantly higher th

an non-tourist areas, food hygiene is generally a lot better too. Ason Bazar, Durbar Square, Samakhusi and Swayambhunath are a mere 10 to 30 minutes walk from Thamel. Thamel has a vibrant ethnic culture practised by its core population of the Newar people.

Hashish sellers openly approach people in the streets, whispering invitations to buy as they pass you. In recent years, a number of adult shows/bars have appeared, which has made Thamel more seedy.

Thamel also acts as the pre-base camp for mountaineers. It boasts a wide range of mountaineering gear shops, foreign money exchange booths, pubs, clubs and nightlife along with the numerous travel lodges and guest houses. Gang crimes and teenage violence-crazed incidents take place quite often in some regions of greater Thamel. All in all, Thamel is home to a wide range of audience of the nepalese population for entertainment and employment purposes.