Before you travel: contact the studio
Send a message before you arrive with your idea, references and the dates you will be in Kathmandu. Studios get booked up, and a session that takes several hours is easier to plan in advance than on the day.
Visitor guide
Getting a tattoo in Kathmandu
If you are visiting Nepal and thinking about getting tattooed while you are here, this guide covers the practical side — finding a studio, planning around your trip and looking after a new tattoo on the move.
Finding a studio you can trust
Look at real work, including healed photographs. Read how a studio discusses hygiene and aftercare. A studio should be willing to explain how equipment is sterilised and what happens if you have questions during healing.
References and communication
Bring references and, if you can, describe the meaning. A short conversation about what you actually want is worth more than a folder of images. If there is a language gap, images and simple descriptions help — and a good artist will ask until they understand.
Consultation and booking
Most studios will want a consultation before tattooing, especially for custom or larger work. Ask how long the session is likely to take, whether it may need more than one visit, and what the studio needs from you.
Scheduling around your trip
Leave more time than you think you need. Fresh tattoos should not be soaked, and travel can make aftercare harder — sun, dust, sweat and long journeys all affect a healing tattoo. Plan the session so you have time to care for it afterwards.
The session itself
Eat properly beforehand, stay hydrated and get some sleep. Tell the artist if you feel unwell at any point. Sessions can be paused — it is better to say something than to push through.
Aftercare while travelling
Keep the tattoo clean and lightly moisturised, avoid soaking it, keep it out of direct sun and do not pick at it. If you are flying or moving on soon after, ask the studio how to manage the first few days of healing on the road.
Honest limits
If a studio tells you your idea needs more time, a different size or an extra session, that is usually a good sign, not a bad one. Be cautious of anyone who promises a perfect result with no discussion.
Where we are
Visiting Papa's Inks
Papa's Inks is on Jogin Pakha Marg in Kathmandu. If you are planning a tattoo during your stay, contact us before you arrive so we can find a time that fits your trip.
Please note. This guide covers general tattooing and travel considerations only. It is not medical or travel advice, and it is not a substitute for guidance from the studio or a qualified professional. If you have a health condition that may affect tattooing or healing, speak to a medical professional first.