Oldest Local Market Walking Tour With Living Goddess Kumari

Kathmandu’s Ason market has been a hub of local life for centuries. On this unique walking tour, visitors can enjoy the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas of this historic commercial center. As they navigate the bustling lanes, they’ll catch a glimpse of the revered Living Goddess Kumari and uncover the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu Durbar Square. For those seeking an authentic exploration of Nepal’s traditions, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the heart of the city.

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Key Points

Explore the historic Ason market, Kathmandu’s oldest market, offering a variety of local goods, spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts.
Witness the rare opportunity to see the Living Goddess Kumari, the embodiment of the goddess Taleju, at her residence.
Discover the cultural and architectural significance of Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its palaces, temples, and ornate shrines.
Immerse in the lively atmosphere and captivating sights, sounds, and smells of the local market scene during the 2-hour guided tour.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entry fees, and bottled water, with a cancellation policy offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Oldest Local Market Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant Ason market in Kathmandu’s Durbar Square.

The 2-hour guided tour takes guests through the historic area, highlighting iconic landmarks and cultural significance. Priced competitively from £32.32 to £30.70 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, entry fees, and a bottled water.

Travelers can reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. A pay later option is also available, making it convenient for those on a flexible schedule.

The walking tour promises an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Kathmandu.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The Oldest Local Market Walking Tour begins at the Chhaya Center in Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you will explore the vibrant Ason market. Known for its shops, stalls, spices, textiles, and souvenirs, Ason offers a glimpse into local culture and traditional architecture. The tour then visits the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, recognized for its cultural and architectural significance in the Kathmandu Valley. The highlight of the tour is the encounter with the Living Goddess Kumari, a prepubescent girl considered the embodiment of the goddess Taleju, residing in the Kumari Ghar.

| Itinerary | Highlights |

|———|———–|

| Chhaya Center | Ason: Oldest market in Kathmandu |

| Ason Market | Kathmandu Durbar Square: Historic square |

| Kathmandu Durbar Square | Living Goddess Kumari: Embodiment of the goddess Taleju |

Exploring Ason – Kathmandu’s Oldest Market

As participants begin the Oldest Local Market Walking Tour, they explore the vibrant Ason market, known as the oldest market in Kathmandu.

Bustling with activity, Ason is a hub for shops and stalls selling an array of goods – from spices and textiles to traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

The market’s historic architecture and lively atmosphere provide a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Wandering through the maze of vendors, visitors can enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells that make Ason a truly authentic experience.

It’s a captivating introduction to Kathmandu’s thriving local market scene.

The Living Goddess Kumari

After exploring the bustling Ason market, the walking tour continues to the Kumari Ghar, the residence of the Living Goddess Kumari.

This prepubescent girl is believed to be the embodiment of the goddess Taleju. Residing in the Kumari Ghar, she’s revered by Nepali Hindus and Buddhists alike.

Visitors have the rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Living Goddess as she appears at the window or balcony.

The tour guide provides insights into the cultural and religious significance of this unique Nepalese tradition, leaving participants in awe of this centuries-old custom.

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Discovering Kathmandu Durbar Square

Leaving the Kumari Ghar behind, visitors enter the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its wealth of palaces, temples, and courtyards that reflect the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.

This vibrant square offers a glimpse into Nepal’s history:

Towering over the square, the iconic Basantapur Palace showcases the intricate Newar architecture, adorned with ornate woodcarvings and gilded roofs.
The Taleju Temple, dedicated to the patron goddess of the Malla kings, stands as a testament to the region’s deep-rooted spirituality.
Ornate shrines and statues dot the square, each with its own captivating story.
Visitors can admire the craftsmanship of traditional Newari artisans, who’ve honed their skills over generations.

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Cultural Significance of the Tour

The Oldest Local Market Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of Kathmandu.

The tour showcases the vibrant Ason Market, a bustling hub that reflects the city’s traditional architecture and lively local culture.

Equally captivating is the visit to the Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical palaces, temples, and courtyards.

The highlight of the tour is the encounter with the Living Goddess Kumari, a prepubescent girl revered as the embodiment of the goddess Taleju, deeply rooted in Nepalese tradition and religious beliefs.

Inclusions and Customer Reviews

The tour package includes several valuable inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

The tour package includes several valuable inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

Key inclusions are:

An English-speaking tour guide who provides in-depth insights and cultural context throughout the tour.
Government taxes and VAT, ensuring a transparent and hassle-free booking process.
A refreshing bottle of mineral water to keep you hydrated during the walking portion of the tour.
Admission fees for the Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

With an overall 5/5 rating based on 7 reviews, customers have praised the tour’s informative guide and the opportunity to witness the living goddess Kumari.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs of the Living Goddess Kumari?

Photography of the Living Goddess Kumari is generally not allowed. However, visitors may be able to take photographs outside the Kumari Ghar residence if permitted by the caretakers. It’s best to check with the tour guide or local authorities for any updates on photography policies.

Is the Tour Accessible for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour’s accessibility for travelers with disabilities isn’t explicitly stated. It’s best to contact the tour operator to inquire about any accommodations or special arrangements they can make to ensure an inclusive experience.

What Are the Best Local Dishes to Try in Ason Market?

Ason Market is known for its wide variety of local Nepali dishes. Popular options include momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), sel roti (sweet ring-shaped bread), and gundruk (fermented leafy greens). Visitors can find delicious, authentic cuisine to sample throughout the bustling market.

How Do I Dress Appropriately for the Cultural Sites?

When visiting cultural sites, it’s best to dress conservatively. Wear long pants or skirts, and cover the shoulders and upper arms. This shows respect for the local customs and religious traditions.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Landmarks?

Yes, you can extend the tour to visit additional landmarks. Many tour providers offer customized options to expand the itinerary and explore more of the city’s cultural and historical sites based on your interests.

The Sum Up

The "Oldest Local Market Walking Tour With Living Goddess Kumari" offers an immersive experience in Kathmandu’s vibrant cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic Ason market, witness the revered Living Goddess Kumari, and discover the UNESCO-listed Kathmandu Durbar Square. This engaging tour provides a unique opportunity to dive into the rich traditions and daily life of Nepal’s ancient capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: