As the monsoon skies hang low over the Valley, Kathmandu’s cultural calendar is heating up with a stellar line-up of live performances. From folk-rock to acoustic serenades and even theatre, the final week of July brings something for everyone. Here’s our pick of the top five events you won’t want to miss.

23 July – Kuma Sagar & The Khwopaa at Purple Haze

• Purple Haze Rock Bar, Thamel
• 7 PM onwards
• Entry: NPR 1,000
Known for his fusion of traditional Newa sounds with modern rock influences, Kuma Sagar (Siddhi Sagar Prajapati) will be lighting up the stage at Purple Haze alongside The Khwopaa Band. With support from the ever-energetic act, The Square, this night promises powerful performances and cultural flair in one of the city’s most iconic rock venues.

25 July – Serenade Session 3 with Prabesh Kumar Shrestha at Eden Amphitheatre

• Eden Amphitheatre, Sanepa
• 6 PM onwards
• Entry: NPR 1,000 (Phase 1)
The third edition of Serenade Sessions features the soulful vocals of Prabesh Kumar Shrestha, accompanied by sarangi maestro Salil Maharjan. Billed as “Prabesh and the Band” and “Salil and the Space Monsters”, this unplugged open-air gig brings depth and intimacy in equal measure. Expect poetic ballads, haunting melodies, and a truly atmospheric setting under the evening sky.

25 July – Hippie Night with The Heartbreakers at Hard Rock Cafe

• Hard Rock Cafe, Sherpa Mall, Durbarmarg
• 7 PM – 10 PM
• Free entry
Hard Rock Cafe’s beloved weekly “Hippie Night” is back, this time with The Heartbreakers Band taking centre stage. Dive into the nostalgic grooves of the ’60s and ’70s in a space famed for its international menu, music memorabilia, and family-friendly environment. Whether you’re a flower child at heart or just love classic rock, this night hits all the right notes.

25 July – Phatcowlee Live at Beers N’ Cheers

• Beers N’ Cheers (BNC), Jhamsikhel
• Evening show
• Entry: NPR 500 (Pre-sale)
Rapper, poet, and all-round sonic innovator Phatcowlee returns to the stage with his signature blend of raw lyricism and experimental beats. Performing live at BNC with support from Rajiv & Rudiments, this is one for indie heads and hip-hop lovers alike. Expect bold soundscapes, clever wordplay, and an underground vibe in one of Jhamsikhel’s favourite live music bars.

30 July – The List: A One-Woman Play at Moksh Bar

• Moksh Bar, Jhamsikhel, Patan
• Doors at 5:30 PM | Show at 6:30 PM
• Entry: NPR 850
Stepping outside the musical realm, The List offers a compelling theatrical experience. This one-woman act, originally written by French playwright Jennifer Tremblay, explores themes of memory, guilt, and rural isolation. Translated and adapted for Kathmandu audiences, the play is a rare opportunity to experience intimate storytelling in the vibrant setting of Moksh Bar.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss These Events

• Kuma Sagar at Purple Haze – A blend of culture and rock with live folk fusion
• Serenade Session 3 at Eden – Acoustic evening under the stars with live sarangi
• Hippie Night at Hard Rock – Groovy retro night with free entry and iconic covers
• Phatcowlee at BNC – Genre-bending rap meets indie flair in a bold live set
• The List at Moksh Bar – Intimate theatre showcasing emotional solo performance

Whether you’re seeking rhythm, reflection or rock, Kathmandu’s live scene this July offers something to uplift every spirit. Plan ahead, grab your tickets early, and immerse yourself in the city’s eclectic creative pulse.

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