Is there anywhere else in the world that can rival Thamel for its addictive kaleidoscope of sensory bombardment? The moment you enter its hallowed boundaries you are assaulted from all sides in ways that either want to make you run for your hotel to take stock on what you just entered into. Or, as happens to many a traveler, bask in its frenzy. Thamel is a cacophony of souvenir stalls, trekking shops, restaurants and heritage Love it or hate it Kathmandu’s quintessential hub of guesthouses, trekking agents, souvenir stores, restaurants and cafes is near on impossible to avoid and neither should you try to avoid it. Thamel is one of those “once in a lifetime” experiences everyone should try at least once. At the center of Thamel sits one of its most iconic buildings, Kathmandu Guest House. Credited for being the first guesthouse to open in Thamel and the one that kick started tourism in this area of Kathmandu. In 2018 Kathmandu Guest House celebrated its 50th anniversary. As part of the celebration they published a book “Thamel Through Time” which takes a historic look at Thamel from its ancient origins all the way to its modern status. Along the way Thamel Through Time shows us how Kathmandu Guest House entered into history within Thamel, how it got started, the troubles, the celebrations, the devastating earthquake and the future.