Thamel is a commercial district in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Thamel has been the center of Kathmandu's tourism industry for over four decades, starting from the hippie days when many artists came to Nepal and spent weeks in Thamel. While this neighborhood has been called a "ghetto" by some, many travelers consider it a hotspot for tourism.
Thamel is distinguished by its narrow alleyways crowded with various shops and vendors. Commonly sold goods include food, fresh fruits and vegetables, pastries, hiking gear, walking gear, music, DVDs, handicrafts, souvenirs, wool, and clothes.