Grocery shopping in a new country can feel like a puzzle
New brands
New prices
And sometimes, milk in a plastic pouch
Whether you’re staying for a few weeks or a few months
This guide will help you navigate supermarkets, kirana pasal/shops, and fresh markets for grocery shopping in Kathmandu and Lalitpur – all with local tips that work
Supermarkets in Lalitpur and Kathmandu
For a full grocery haul, supermarkets are your best starting point.
Here are a few within easy reach of Shaligram Apartment Hotel, located in the heart of Jawalakhel.
Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket – Pulchowk
Bhat-Bhateni is a major chain across Nepal.
It offers a wide range of items including fresh produce, grains, spices, packaged snacks, frozen goods, toiletries, and even kitchen appliances.
📍 View on Google Maps
🔗 Visit Official Website
Big Mart at Jhamsikhel & Sanepa
Big Mart is smaller than Bhat-Bhateni but well stocked for everyday needs.
Ideal for quick grocery runs or topping up your pantry.
📍 Closest branch: Big Mart Jhamel on Google Maps
Salesway Department Store at Pulchowk
Expats like this store for its clean layout and good selection of imported goods
Think cereals, pasta, olive oil, sauces, cheeses, and wine
📍 Salesway Pulchowk – Google Map
What You’ll Find at These Stores
You can expect:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Lentils, rice, flour
- Local and imported snacks
- Frozen and dairy products
- Baby food, cleaning supplies, toiletries
- Packaged goods in English and Nepali
Tip: Many supermarkets also sell cookware, utensils, and basic appliances perfect for setting up your long-stay apartment
Local Kirana Pasal (Corner Stores)
In every Kathmandu neighbourhood, including around Shaligram Apartment Hotel, you’ll find small family-run shops called kirana pasals.
These are your go-to for daily essentials:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Tea
- Instant noodles
- Soft drinks
- Biscuits
- Sugar and spices
- Soap, shampoo, detergent
They’re open long hours and friendly with regulars
Don’t expect digital payments, but cash always works
Ask hotel staff for directions to the nearest shop. There’s probably one within 1-2 minutes of your apartment
Local Vegetable Vendors & Fresh Markets
Want fresh, seasonal produce the way locals buy it?
You’ll often see street vendors walking or parked with carts full of:
- Leafy greens
- Tomatoes
- Carrots
- Garlic
- Bananas and apples (in season)
- Coriander and green chilli
They usually come through Jawalakhel, Pulchowk, Sanepa, and Jhamel in the mornings and evenings
Don’t worry if your Nepali is limited pointing and smiling works fine
Organic & Farmers Markets
Looking for something more curated?
🧺 Yellow House Farmers Market – Sanepa
Runs every Saturday
Great for fresh organic produce, sourdough bread, kombucha, and artisanal products
🧺 Le Sherpa Farmers Market – Lazimpat
Popular for gourmet produce and weekend brunch browsing
Also open Saturdays
Tips for In-Person Grocery Shopping in Nepal
- Bring your own reusable bag (plastic bags are banned)
- Always carry small cash notes (Rs. 100s and 500s)
- Ask for a bill if you need one for expense reporting
- Best time to shop? Morning before 10 AM
- Fresh produce is restocked daily
- Local brands are often cheaper than imports, but quality can vary
Staying in Lalitpur? You’re in a Great Spot
If you’re staying at Shaligram Apartment Hotel in Jawalakhel, you’re surrounded by everything you need:
✅ Supermarkets within walking distance
✅ Kirana shops just around the corner
✅ Fresh produce vendors pass by daily
✅ A fully equipped kitchen to cook and store your food
✅ Helpful staff to guide delivery riders or suggest nearby stores
Whether you’re relocating for work, on an gov assignment, or just living the remote life
Shopping locally in Nepal isn’t just possible it’s part of the experience
Final Thoughts
In Kathmandu, you don’t need to stress about groceries
You’ve got options — from big supermarkets to tiny corner shops
And if you like to cook, or just want reliable access to food and supplies
Lalitpur is one of the easiest, most foreigner-friendly places to be
About the Author:
Grace is a travel blog writer with a soft spot for rooftop views, warm breakfasts, and WiFi that actually works. She covers travel tips, expat living, and digital nomad hacks with one suitcase and zero fluff. If it’s comfy, cosy, and comes with great coffee she’s writing about it.
