Where Can I Buy Hiking Gear in Nepal?

A Himalayan trek requires careful planning, and selecting the right gear is one of the most important steps. From warm clothing and sturdy boots to sleeping bags and trekking poles, each item plays a key role in ensuring your safety and comfort. For many travelers, it can be difficult to decide what to pack in advance and what to buy after arrival.

The good news is that Nepal makes the process much easier. Once you’re on the ground, you’ll find plenty of gear shops in the country’s main trekking hubs.

In Kathmandu’s Thamel district and Pokhara’s Lakeside area, numerous stores offer both rentals and items for purchase at affordable prices. These shops serve everyone from first-time trekkers to experienced climbers, with a wide range of gear to match different needs and budgets.

Nepal is a convenient place to get fully equipped, offering everything from international brands to reliable local products for your adventure in the mountains.

Should I Bring All My Gear From Home?

You don’t need to carry everything from home. A smarter strategy is to bring essential personal items and get the rest in Nepal. This saves you money, reduces baggage weight, and gives you the flexibility to adapt to local weather conditions and trail needs.

Many trekkers arrive in Nepal with their broken-in hiking boots, reliable base layers, and personal essentials. These are items where comfort, fit, and performance matter. Everything else, like down jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles, or gloves, can be easily rented or bought in Nepal. This is especially true in major trekking hubs like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Renting or buying in Nepal is cheaper and tailored for Himalayan conditions, with both branded and quality local options.

Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide what to bring and what to get locally:

Bringing Gear From Home	Buying or Renting in Nepal
Pros: Familiar quality, guaranteed fit, no need to shop on arrival.	Pros: Saves luggage space, more affordable, supports local shops.
Cons: Heavier luggage, risk of excess baggage fees, and less flexibility.	Cons: Mixed quality, may take time to find the right fit or brand.

Starting with the gear you trust and adding the rest after you arrive helps you pack smart without compromising on quality or comfort.

Where Do Most Trekkers Buy Their Gear in Kathmandu?

Most trekkers shop in Kathmandu’s Thamel district, the city’s main hub for outdoor gear. Packed with hundreds of stores, it offers everything from global brands to affordable local gear and rentals.

Thamel’s central location, wide selection, and competitive pricing make it the top choice for last-minute shopping. Budget travelers can also check New Road and Asan Bazaar for cheaper basics, though quality varies.

Thamel – The Heart of Trekking Shops

Thamel is Kathmandu’s vibrant trekking hub. Its narrow alleys are packed with gear shops, rental outlets, and outdoor clothing stores. From budget finds to high-quality items, this area offers everything trekkers need before heading into the mountains. The sheer variety makes it easy to compare prices and find gear that suits your needs and budget.

Here are some popular and trusted trekking gear shops in Thamel:

Shona’s Alpine

A long-standing favorite among trekkers, Shona’s is known for reliable and affordable gear. They offer quality down jackets, sleeping bags, and other essentials. Their items are handmade in Nepal and often recommended on traveler forums like Reddit and Tripadvisor.

Kalapatthar Trekking Store

Located on Saat Ghumti Marg, this store provides a wide selection of gear for sale and rent. You’ll find jackets, backpacks, trekking poles, and more. The staff is friendly and known for giving honest advice to travelers.

Everest Hardwear / Mountain Hardwear

Situated on Tridevi Sadak, this is a go-to spot for genuine branded outdoor gear. It’s a good place to buy high-end jackets, backpacks, and other technical equipment if you prefer internationally certified quality.

Gears Nepal Outdoor Shop

A budget-friendly local shop that offers basic yet reliable trekking gear. Great for travelers looking for affordable equipment without sacrificing too much on quality.

Goreto Gear Traders

This shop has earned a strong reputation for its owner’s honest advice and fair prices. It is a trusted spot known for good quality local products, ideal for both buying and renting without feeling pressured.

New Road and Local Markets

If you’re after a more local shopping experience, explore areas beyond Thamel. New Road, Asan Market, and Indra Chowk offer a different kind of adventure. These traditional marketplaces are lively, crowded, and full of small vendors selling trekking items at lower prices.

Sports Plaza Nepal (New Road)

Located on one of Kathmandu’s busiest shopping streets, this store focuses on sportswear and footwear. It’s known for fixed pricing, making it an easier shopping experience for those who prefer not to haggle.

Indra Chowk and Asan Market

These historic market areas near Kathmandu Durbar Square are great for bargain shopping. You’ll find woolen hats, fleece jackets, gloves, socks, ponchos, and even unique souvenirs like prayer flags. Quality can vary, so inspect products carefully before buying.

Can I Get Good Gear in Pokhara Too?

Yes, Pokhara offers great options for hiking gear. As the gateway to the Annapurna region, Pokhara’s Lakeside district is filled with trekking stores that cater to last-minute shoppers. 

While Kathmandu has more variety, Pokhara stands out for its convenience and relaxed atmosphere, especially for those heading to popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Poon Hill.

Lakeside Area Overview

Lakeside is the heart of Pokhara’s trekking scene. Set along the shores of Phewa Lake, it provides a more peaceful and scenic alternative to Kathmandu’s busy Thamel area. Dozens of shops line the main road, offering both gear for sale and rental.

The Lakeside district hosts key trekking stores:

• Yak & Yeti Trekking Shop: Offers both rental and retail gear. Visitors say you can get reasonable quality gear here.
• Himalayan Sherpa Trekking Gears Store: Owner “Yogi” provides personalized advice and budget gear. The shop is praised for its friendly and honest service.
• Sunrise Trekking Shop: Located right by the lake. Carries quality clothing, boots, and sleeping bags, and offers rentals. Staff give local trail and trail safety tips.
• High Spirit Trekking Store: Another highly recommended option, this shop is known for its quality gear for both rent and sale at fair prices. Visitors often praise the owner for being helpful and providing a no-pressure shopping experience.
• Ganga Purna View Trekking Shop
  A reliable store in Lakeside, popular for both buying and renting quality trekking gear.
• Trek Equipment Solution (Street No. 13)
  Offers good options for gear rental and last-minute essentials for Annapurna treks.

Kathmandu vs. Pokhara Gear Shopping

Deciding where to shop depends on your itinerary and preference. Both Kathmandu and Pokhara offer excellent options for trekking equipment.

Kathmandu boasts more variety and competition, which can lead to better prices. Pokhara offers unmatched convenience for Annapurna-bound trekkers. A smart plan is to buy core items in Kathmandu and grab any last-minute rentals or essentials in Pokhara.

Shopping in Kathmandu	Shopping in Pokhara
Best For: Widest selection, competitive pricing, main shopping before any trek.	Best For: Convenience for Annapurna treks, last-minute needs, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Selection: Vast. You can find almost anything.	Selection: Good, but smaller than Kathmandu.
Vibe: Bustling, energetic, and can be overwhelming.	Vibe: Relaxed, scenic, and laid-back.

What Gear Should I Buy Locally, and What Should I Bring?

Knowing what to get in Nepal saves you time, money, and stress. A well-planned list makes shopping easy and efficient.

The general rule is simple. Buy or rent bulky items that are widely available in Nepal. Bring personal items from home where fit and proven quality are critical. This ensures you are comfortable and safe on the trail without overpacking.

Essential Gear to Buy in Nepal

These items are affordable and easy to find in Thamel or Lakeside. Buying them locally is a smart choice for most trekkers.

• Down Jacket: A warm down jacket is a must-have. You can buy a good one for $30-$50 or rent one for about $1-$2 per day.
• Sleeping Bag: Essential for cold nights in teahouses. Rent a clean -20°C (-4°F) bag for around $1-$2 per day.
• Trekking Poles: Save your knees on steep trails. A good pair costs only $10-$15.
• Duffel Bag: A large, sturdy duffel for your porter is easy to find for about $15-$20.
• Fleece Layers: Fleece jackets and pants are available everywhere at low prices.
• Accessories: Warm hats, gloves, and neck gaiters are cheap and plentiful.
• Water Purification: Tablets or filters like Lifestraw are sold in many shops.

Must-Have Gear to Bring From Home

Do not compromise on these items. Their fit and reliability are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trek.

• Hiking Boots: This is your most important piece of gear. Make sure your boots are well broken-in and comfortable.
• Backpack: A well-fitting daypack is essential. Bring one you know fits your back perfectly.
• Base Layers: High-quality merino wool or synthetic base layers are worth bringing from home.
• Rain Gear: A reliable waterproof jacket and pants are critical. The quality of local copies can be inconsistent.
• Personal First-Aid Kit: Pack any prescription medications and your preferred blister care.
• Electronics: Bring your specific power bank, camera, and adapters.

Are There Any Genuine Brand Stores?

Yes, you can find official stores for genuine international and local brands. These are great options if you want guaranteed quality.

These stores offer authentic products with fixed prices. They are perfect if you have a gear failure or prefer trusted brand names. You can find both world-renowned labels and excellent Nepali brands.

International Brands Available in Nepal

These are ideal for trekkers who prioritize performance, brand trust, and product longevity

• The North Face – Offers premium down jackets, backpacks, sleeping bags, and technical layers. Their Thamel store provides the latest models at international prices.
• Mountain Hardwear – Located on Tridevi Sadak, this official outlet stocks outerwear, tents, and alpine-ready gear.
• Black Yak – A Korean brand known for its high-performance gear used by elite mountaineers. Look for high-altitude apparel and technical climbing clothing.

Trusted Local Brands and Manufacturers

Nepal has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality trekking gear tailored specifically for the Himalayas. These local brands combine functionality, affordability, and cultural value, making them excellent alternatives to international labels.

• Sherpa Adventure Gear – Founded by Tashi Sherpa, this brand blends traditional Sherpa designs with modern technical performance. A portion of every purchase supports education in remote Himalayan communities.
• Sonam Gear Nepal – Trusted by local guides and climbers, Sonam Gear offers reliable jackets, sleeping bags, and accessories designed for Himalayan expeditions.

Other notable Nepali gear producers include Everest Outfit, Doplo Gears, Wild Yak Gear, and Nims Outdoors. These brands often deliver excellent value and are widely available in Thamel and Pokhara.

Can I Rent Trekking Gear in Nepal Instead of Buying?

Renting gear is an excellent choice for many trekkers. It is affordable, convenient, and environmentally friendly.

You can save a lot of money by renting bulky items. This is especially true for short treks or if you don’t plan to trek often. 

What You Can Rent

You can rent all the major big-ticket items for your trek. The daily rates are very low, making it a great budget option.

• Down Jacket: ~$1-2 USD per day
• Sleeping Bag (-20°C): ~$1-2 USD per day
• Trekking Poles: <$1 USD per day
• Crampons/Microspikes: Available for treks with icy passes.

Where to Find Reliable Rentals

Most shops that sell gear also offer rentals. Stick to the more established and reputable stores for the best experience.

Before you rent, always inspect the equipment carefully. Check that all zippers on the jacket work smoothly. Ask to see the sleeping bag unrolled to check its fluffiness and look for any damage. You will usually leave a cash deposit, which is returned when you bring the gear back.

• In Kathmandu: Thamel’s rental shops (Namche Trekking Shop, Up to Date, Setapathar, Kalapatthar) offer daily and weekly rates. 

• In Pokhara, Most Lakeside shops like Sunrise Trekking and Himalaya Sherpa provide rentals with friendly advice and fair pricing

How Do I Know It’s Real Gear?

You can spot good quality gear by checking a few important details. While most affordable gear is a “copy,” quality can vary greatly.

1. Check the Zippers. Look for the “YKK” logo on the zipper. This brand is a global standard for durability. Flimsy, unbranded zippers are a major weak point.
2. Inspect the Stitching. Look at the seams around the shoulders and pockets. They should be straight and tight, with no loose threads.
3. Feel the Fabric. The material should feel reasonably strong. For down jackets, pinch the fabric to feel the soft down fill inside, not just lumpy material.
4. Consider the Price. A $15 jacket is not the same as a $40 one. The higher price for a copy item usually means better materials and construction.

Any Last Tips Before I Go Shopping?

A little preparation makes shopping for hiking gear in Nepal easy. Keep these final tips in mind to get the best value.

• Shop Around. Visit at least three shops before you buy anything. Compare the quality and prices.
• Bargain with a Smile. Haggling is expected and part of the fun. Start by offering 50-60% of the asking price and negotiate respectfully.
• Cash is King. Shops often give better discounts for cash payments in Nepali Rupees.
• Know Your Trek. The gear you need for Poon Hill is different from the gear for the Three Passes Trek.
• Check Everything. Test all zippers, clips, and straps before you pay.
• Talk to Other Trekkers. Ask people returning from the trail for shop recommendations.

Being well-equipped is the first step to an unforgettable Himalayan adventure. With the right gear, you can focus on the stunning landscapes and rich culture around you. At Mountain Routes, we ensure every part of your journey, from preparation to the final farewell, is seamless and memorable.

FAQs

Is gear cheaper in Nepal than abroad?

Yes, for locally made or copied gear, it is much cheaper. For genuine international brands, prices are similar or even higher than at home.

Can I trust local rental shops?

Generally, yes. However, always inspect gear carefully for damage. Check zippers, seams, and the condition of sleeping bags before you rent.

Do shops have gear for women or kids?

Yes, but with some limitations. You can find women-specific items like jackets and trousers, but the selection is smaller and may require visiting a few different stores. Gear for kids is very limited and much harder to find, so it is strongly recommended to bring children’s trekking gear from home.

Should I buy or rent for a short trek?

For treks of 3–7 days, renting is ideal. For multiple treks or a long journey, investing in quality gear makes sense.