Shopping in Nepal

Nepal is heaven for the shoppers. The product ranges from the locally made handicrafts to the cheap Chinese and Japanese electronic items. Among the handicraft items you can buy clothing such as Kashmiri Shawls and Wrap-around as well as Tibetan Robes and Kurtas. The ladies can go for beautifully embroidered and comfortable to wear Kaftans. These items are downright cheap but you have to learn the art of dickering and bargaining before you venture to Nepal. Kathmandu also offers you handicraft items such as miniature paintings, stone idols, bronze busts and junk jewelry.

Patan and Bhaktapur are famous for their bronze and copper works and has various items on offer. You can go for miniature bronze busts and idols. The bronze Buddha idol is a must buy. You can also buy tiny Khukri, as the real one is not allowed on airlines. At Pokhara, you can buy Gorkha insignias such as banners, flags and medals. Pokhara is also famous for Newari artifacts. These artifacts are very beautiful and reflect the cultural contribution of vibrant but otherwise marginalized Newar race.

In border cities such as Bir Gunj, Biratnagar and Janakpur you can go for cheap electronic items. Most of these electronics items are Chinese, Korean or Japanese make and are cheaper than their German clones. Nevertheless, the German makes are more durable and therefore trustworthier. Apart from that you can buy Buddhist paraphernalia in Buddhist sites of Kathmandu and Lumbini. Try for the Tibetan one, as they are the most authentic.

The normal tipping amount in Nepal, range between 10 to 15 % of the final billed amount. Tip generously in hotels and restaurants. The same stand true for guards at shops and showrooms. These small tips can save bigger problems at times.