Freak Street Jhochhen
Historic Kathmandu street, once a hippie haven, now a vibrant hub for unique souvenirs, cafes, and street food.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere
Freak Street Jhochhen
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Kathmandu street, once a hippie haven, now a vibrant hub for unique souvenirs, cafes, and street food.
"Amazing street for walking & roaming, a must-visit for unique arts & handicrafts."
🎯 Ask Locals for Directions
Google Maps can be inaccurate; locals know the best way to Freak Street.
🛍️ Hunt for Unique Souvenirs
This street is a treasure trove for arts, handicrafts, and unique gifts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nostalgic Hippie Hangouts
Relive the 60s and 70s vibe with unique cafes and shops that echo Freak Street's bohemian past.

Souvenir Shopping Paradise
Discover unique arts, handicrafts, and souvenirs perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.

Local Culinary Delights
Savor popular street food rolls and other local delicacies from vibrant food stalls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hippie History
Navigating Freak Street's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ask Locals for Directions
Google Maps can be inaccurate; locals know the best way to Freak Street.
🛍️ Hunt for Unique Souvenirs
This street is a treasure trove for arts, handicrafts, and unique gifts.
🍜 Try the Viral Daiko Roll
Don't miss the popular Daiko Roll, a viral street food sensation.
💍 Browse Silver Jewelry
Find custom silver rings and jewelry at affordable prices.
Hey guys. I'm a small photographer here in the valley. I need help locating best big graffiti walls here. If you know places, please help.(Name and the coordinates of those locations would be much appreciated)😄
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ask Locals for Directions
Google Maps can be inaccurate; locals know the best way to Freak Street.
🛍️ Hunt for Unique Souvenirs
This street is a treasure trove for arts, handicrafts, and unique gifts.
🍜 Try the Viral Daiko Roll
Don't miss the popular Daiko Roll, a viral street food sensation.
💍 Browse Silver Jewelry
Find custom silver rings and jewelry at affordable prices.
🍦 Cool Down with Stickhouse
Grab a refreshing treat from Stickhouse, conveniently located here.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Freak Street is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, unique souvenir shops, and delicious street food, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the hippie era. While some find it just another shopping street, many appreciate its laid-back vibe and cultural richness, especially its proximity to Kathmandu Durbar Square.
"Great area where you can see remnants of the hippies times in the 60s"
Jean Carlier
"Freak Street in Thamel is a vibrant and lively part of Kathmandu! It's full of quirky shops, cafes, and restaurants with a laid-back vibe. The street has a rich history and was once a popular hangout for hippies in the 60s and 70s, giving it a unique, nostalgic charm. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, local delicacies, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Freak Street has something for everyone. It's a great place to wander, relax, and explore Kathmandu’s vibrant culture!"
Neel Niloy (YASIN)
"Just another shopping street. Nothing special. Apparently in the past it was. Google maps is wrong about the location! It's actually the next street."
Dorus van Ooij
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Freak Street, also known as Jhochhen Tole, is located near Kathmandu Durbar Square. While Google Maps might be a bit off, locals are your best guide. Taxis and rickshaws are readily available to take you to the Basantapur area, from where you can easily walk to Freak Street.
Yes, Freak Street is within walking distance from Thamel, especially if you enjoy a stroll through the city. It's a pleasant walk that allows you to see more of Kathmandu's vibrant streets.
From Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you can hire a taxi directly to Freak Street or the Basantapur area. The ride typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
Local buses operate in Kathmandu, and you can take one towards the Basantapur area. However, for convenience, especially with luggage, taxis or ride-sharing apps are often preferred by tourists.
Once you are in the Basantapur area, look for signs pointing to Jhochhen Tole or ask locals. The street is well-known and easily accessible once you're close.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Freak Street itself is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. However, if you plan to visit the nearby Kathmandu Durbar Square, there is an admission fee for that UNESCO World Heritage site.
Freak Street is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening. Shops and cafes have their own operating hours, but the street itself is always open for exploration.
There are no entrance fees for the shops on Freak Street. You only pay for the items you purchase.
Crowd levels can vary, but it's generally a lively area, especially in the afternoons and evenings. It's not typically overwhelming, offering a good balance of activity and space to explore.
Yes, Freak Street remains active in the evenings with many cafes and shops open, offering a different, vibrant atmosphere after dark.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Freak Street is renowned for its unique arts, handicrafts, traditional Nepali crafts, jewelry, clothing, and other memorabilia that reflect the area's bohemian history.
Bargaining is common in many shops on Freak Street, especially for handicrafts and souvenirs. It's advisable to have a general idea of prices and negotiate respectfully.
Bajra Gems and Jewellery is a store located on Freak Street that offers custom silver rings and other jewelry.
While not formal galleries, many shops display and sell unique artwork and handicrafts, offering a great opportunity to find local art.
Wander through the street and explore the various shops; many offer a wide selection of traditional Nepali crafts, from wood carvings to thangka paintings.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
Freak Street is known for its street food, particularly the viral 'Daikko Roll,' which has gained significant popularity. You can also find various cafes and restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
The Daikko Roll is available at a popular spot located in Basantapur, Jhochhen Tol, Nhusa Marg, which is part of the Freak Street area.
Yes, many cafes and restaurants on Freak Street offer vegetarian options. You can find momos, vegetable curries, and other dishes catering to vegetarians.
Food prices on Freak Street are generally affordable, especially for street food. You can expect to pay reasonable prices for meals at cafes and restaurants.
Absolutely! Freak Street is lined with numerous cafes, many offering a relaxed ambiance perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street life, colorful shops, unique architecture, and the lingering hippie vibe. The street art and bustling markets offer great photographic subjects.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially shopkeepers or vendors. Street photography capturing the general atmosphere is usually fine.
Late afternoons and early evenings offer beautiful lighting as the street comes alive with activity and neon signs begin to glow.
The entire street is a landmark in itself, but the colorful shop fronts, the entrance to the Durbar Square nearby, and the general street scenes are excellent photo spots.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and near heritage sites in Nepal. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hippie Legacy of Freak Street
Today, while the original hippie crowd has largely moved on, Freak Street continues to attract tourists looking for a different pace than the bustling Thamel. It offers a more relaxed environment with numerous cafes, guesthouses, and shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. The street's charm lies in its ability to blend its historical significance with contemporary tourist needs, making it a fascinating place to wander and discover.
Navigating Freak Street: Tips from Travelers
The street is a vibrant marketplace, perfect for souvenir hunting. Visitors rave about finding unique arts and handicrafts, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic Nepali crafts. Beyond shopping, the culinary scene is a major draw. The viral 'Daikko Roll' is a highly recommended street food experience, and the area also boasts numerous cafes for a relaxed break.
For those interested in specific items, Freak Street also offers opportunities to find custom jewelry, such as silver rings. The overall vibe is described as amazing for walking and roaming, enabling a pleasant staycation experience, especially when combined with visits to nearby attractions like Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit