Durbar Marg, also known as King’s Way, is a prominent and upscale commercial street in the heart of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. It’s one of the city’s most popular and vibrant shopping and dining districts. Here’s more information about Durbar Marg:
Location:
Durbar Marg is located in the central part of Kathmandu, near the Kathmandu Durbar Square and Thamel. It runs east to west and is easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Brief History of Durbar Marg Street
Durbar Marg street is a major commercial and cultural center in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is located in the heart of the city and is home to many government offices, businesses, and hotels. The street is also a popular tourist destination, and is lined with shops selling traditional Nepali handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry.
The history of Durbar Marg street dates back to the 18th century, when it was built by the Shah dynasty. The street was originally called “Chhatrapati Marg” after Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of the Shah dynasty. However, it was renamed “Durbar Marg” in the early 20th century.
Durbar Marg street was severely damaged in the 1934 earthquake, but it was rebuilt in the following years. The street was again damaged in the 2015 earthquake but has since been restored.
Today, Durbar Marg street is a vibrant and exciting place to visit. It is a place where history, culture, and commerce come together.
Shopping Experience
Here are some of the things you can buy at Durbar Marg Street:
- Traditional Nepali handicrafts: This includes items such as pashmina scarves, woolen sweaters, jewelry, and wood carvings.
- Souvenirs: This includes items such as magnets, t-shirts, and hats with the Nepali flag or other symbols.
- Clothing: You can find a variety of clothing at Durbar Marg Street, from traditional Nepali clothing to Western-style clothes.
- Jewelry: There are many jewelry shops on Durbar Marg Street, selling a variety of items from traditional Nepali jewelry to modern designs.
- Handbags: You can find a variety of handbags at Durbar Marg Street, from traditional Nepali bags to Western-style bags.
- Shoes: There are many shoe shops on Durbar Marg Street, selling a variety of shoes from traditional Nepali shoes to Western-style shoes.
- Electronics: There are also a few electronics shops on Durbar Marg Street, selling items such as cameras, laptops, and mobile phones.
Here are some of the popular shopping places on Durbar Marg Street:
- Nepal Handicrafts Emporium: This is a government-run shop that sells a wide variety of traditional Nepali handicrafts.
- Pashmina World: This shop sells a variety of pashmina products, including scarves, shawls, and sweaters.
- Nepal Artmart: This shop sells a variety of Nepali art and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.
- Treks and Explore: This shop sells a variety of trekking gear and equipment.
- The Himalayan Emporium: This shop sells a variety of Nepali and Tibetan products, including clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Dining and Culinary Delights
Here are some of the dining and culinary delights you can find at Durbar Marg Street:
- Hard Rock Cafe Kathmandu: This is a popular chain restaurant that serves American cuisine
- Moti Mahal Delux: This restaurant serves Indian cuisine, including tandoori chicken and butter chicken.
- Alice: This restaurant serves Nepali, Indian, and Continental cuisine.
- Octave: This restaurant has a rooftop terrace with stunning city views. They serve Nepali, Indian, and Continental cuisine.
- Sam’s One Tree Cafe: This cafe is popular for breakfast and brunch. They serve a variety of Western and Nepali dishes.
- Koto Restaurant: This restaurant serves Japanese cuisine, including sushi and sashimi.
- Baan Thai: This restaurant serves Thai cuisine, including pad thai and tom yum soup.
- Rosemary Kitchen and Coffee Shop: This restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including European and Asian flavors.
- Kaffeine: This cafe is a popular spot for coffee and pastries. They also have a variety of light meals.
These are just a few of the many dining options available on Durbar Marg Street. You will surely find something to your taste, whether looking for traditional Nepali cuisine, international fare, or a cup of coffee.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Durbar Marg Street is known for its nightlife less than Thamel, but there are still a few places to enjoy a drink or two after dark. Here are a few options:
- Kings Lounge: This bar is located on Durbar Marg Street and is a popular spot for locals and tourists. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks.
- Magnum Lounge Bar & Club: This club is located on Durbar Marg Street and is known for its live music and dancing. It is a popular spot for young people.
- London Pub: This pub is located on Durbar Marg Street and is a popular spot for watching sports and playing pool. It has a friendly atmosphere and a good selection of beers.
- Deja Vu: This is one of the most popular nightclubs in Kathmandu, known for its loud music and dancing.
- Barabar: This bar is located in a courtyard in Thamel and is a popular spot for live music and socializing
If you want something more lively, you can head to Thamel, just a short walk from Durbar Marg Street. Thamel is known for its vibrant nightlife and has various bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Accommodations and Stay Options
Here are some of the accommodations and stay options near Durbar Marg Street, Kathmandu:
- Hotel Pleasure Home
- Hotel Yala Peak
- Hotel Mustang Holiday Inn
- Hotel Backpackers Inn
- Yak & Yeti Hotel
- The Himalayan Hotel
Financial and Business Hub
Many banks, financial institutions, and corporate offices are located in and around Durbar Marg, making it a significant business hub in the city.
Festivals and Events
Durbar Marg hosts events, exhibitions, and festivals, particularly during major Nepali celebrations.
Cultural Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Narayanhiti Royal Palace (now a museum) and the Garden of Dreams, adding to the cultural and historical significance of the area.
Accessibility
Durbar Marg is easily accessible by taxi, public transportation, or even on foot from various parts of Kathmandu.
It’s important to note that Durbar Marg is a vibrant and dynamic area with a blend of modernity and tradition. It’s a favorite destination for locals and visitors looking to taste the city’s contemporary lifestyle, shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.