Kathmandu is the economic engine of Nepal. Its economy is deeply rooted in tourism, trade, textiles, and traditional handicrafts, though it is rapidly diversifying into IT and services.
**Key Business Districts:** - **New Road & Asan:** The traditional, bustling commercial heart of the city, known for wholesale trade, gold, and textiles. - **Durbarmarg (King's Way):** A high-end retail and corporate thoroughfare featuring luxury brands, hotels, and corporate offices. - **Thamel:** The epicenter of tourism-related businesses, packed with hotels, trekking agencies, gear shops, and restaurants.
The city is experiencing a steady rise in technology startups, e-commerce platforms (like Daraz Nepal), and digital payment gateways (like eSewa). Major employers include the civil service, commercial banks, tourism operators, and telecommunications companies.
