The local economy in Thamel and Durbar Marg has been revitalized following the decision to keep these areas open 24 hours a day. The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane during an event organized by the Thamel Tourism Development Council and Durbar Marg Tourism Board on New Year 2081.
The Kathmandu District Administration Office has implemented a code of conduct to manage the 24-hour operation in these areas. Since the implementation, hotels, restaurants, clubs, dohori, coffee shops, burger houses, marts, grocery stores, liquor stores, and fruit shops in Thamel have started operating around the clock.
Raj Jaiswal, who runs a fruit shop in Thamel, mentioned that his business thrives during nighttime. “Sales at night are double compared to daytime,” he said. Similarly, Rajendra Shrestha, who runs a liquor store, reported that his income has doubled since the area began operating 24/7. Business owners in Thamel and Durbar Marg note that it is now easy to satisfy hunger or cravings for tea and coffee at any hour.
Bhabishwar Sharma, Chairman of the Thamel Tourism Development Council, observed that nighttime businesses in Thamel are gradually gaining momentum. “Initially, there were set hours for businesses in Thamel, but now, with 24-hour operations, entrepreneurs can work with confidence,” he said.
Chairman Sharma also noted that more night shopping centers in Thamel are expected to open next season, and the area could become a bustling business hub until 2 AM. Thamel hosts over 10,000 business owners and landlords, providing direct employment to nearly 100,000 people.
Sangharsha Bista, President of the Restaurant and Bar Association Nepal (REWAN), praised the move to keep Thamel and Durbar Marg open 24 hours, stating, “Such activities will help to stimulate the local economy.” According to Bista, REWAN-affiliated restaurants and bars will also begin 24-hour operations from the next tourist season. The district administration has strengthened security in Thamel and Durbar Marg for nighttime operations.
A special security plan has been put in place, ensuring that tourist police are well-organized and effective. Provisions have been made to ensure that residents are not disturbed. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Basant Rajoure, head of the Kathmandu District Police Office, confirmed that security measures have been fortified. “We have deployed plainclothes officers to prevent any criminal activities that might occur during nighttime business operations,” he stated.
