Kathmandu has much to offer shoppers with its many open markets and shops.  Westerners will find that they can get great bargains on a number items there including many types of hand crafted goods such as wooden carvings, carpets, paintings and hand-made paper items.  The tourist board suggests that shoppers who are looking for expensive or custom-made items hire a Nepali shopper's assistant to go to the markets with them.  Their services are available at most hotels, and their knowledge of the native language and bargaining process can be invaluable. 

Shoppers should also be aware that Nepal does have some laws and regulations regarding what can be taken out of the country by visitors--visitors' home countries may also have guidelines as to what can be brought in, and shoppers should be aware of these before they buy.  One significant regulation of Nepal's is that no antiques are allowed to leave the country.  People who purchase them (even unknowingly) will have them confiscated at customs without a refund.  Have any purchase examined by an expert before buying if there is any question as to its age.