An Evening in Basantapur

Time flies when you know how to spend it

by TEXT & PICTURES BY PRAVAT J GURUNG

FROM ISSUE # 167 (November 2009) | IN THIS ISSUE
	REFER TO FRIEND		PRINT THIS ARTICLE

Killing time in Kathmandu is not hard. There's so much to see and so much to do. All you need is good company. Or you could go solo. Pick up your camera and tour Kathmandu. I was born in this vibrant city but I admit I've never spent time in Basantapur, one of the hotspots of the city. Great views of medieval buildings along with a lively night market. What else could anyone wish for?

Sitting on top of a wall, drinking tea while you chat with a friend, or just walking and shopping at the night market with shades, scarves and cheap food on offer, it's really up to you how you want to spend your time. We started with a strong, sweet cup of tea. The traffic increased as we sat by the roadside on the benches. People from all walks of life could be seen in the street walking, chatting, window shopping and clicking pictures along the way. This place is truly a youngster's hangout, and restaurants are sprouting all over. One of the seven heritage sites of Nepal, the Kathmandu Darbar Square is a magnificent piece of art and now it's also the coolest place to spend time.

As the evening flows, it's amazing to see people flock to the night market, be it for eating the delicious thela food or shopping. The wonderful vibrancy of the place can't be matched. The stalls offer sausages, burgers, momos, chicken legs, mushroom fry and what not. Don't go by the looks and don't worry too much about the hygiene, just place your order and enjoy the food, it's bound to be delicious and the best part – its CHEAP! If you're a Kathmanduite looking to kill some time or if you're visiting Kathmandu soon, Basantapur is a must-see.

FIVE Must Dos:
Evenings are fun in Kathmandu with no sun, cool breezes and high energy. Check out what the city has to offer at night.
1. Enjoy the thela food or eat a sandwich sitting by the road at midnight at Sandwich Point in Thamel.
2. Check out live performances by musicians, aspiring and celebrated, around Thamel and Lazimpat.
3. Spend time in Basantapur, obviously.
4. Call friends up and arrange a dinner party at home. Neighbours are super cool and patient in Kathmandu and don't mind the noise.
5. Head over to the Garden of Dreams in Thamel for good food and a good time, if you want a bit of quiet.