About Kumari Ghar


Two white lion guardian statues stand outside the entrance to Kumari Ghar (Kumari Chowk). The building is located to your left just passed the main souvenir stands in the southern area of Kathmandu Durbar square.

Kumari Ghar in Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kumari Ghar in Kathmandu Durbar Square

Built in 1756, the interior of this three-story building, also known as Kumari Chowk, is off-limits to all but the Kumari’s assistants and designated guests. The inner courtyard is the only exception. Inside here, you will see ornate wooden windows and paneling that’s of a high standard but in need of a little touch-up.

It is said that good luck will befall you should you catch a glimpse of her.

Do take your time in the Kumari Ghar examining the unique woodwork that makes up the outer walls of the buildings. It's unique and very old.

Did you know?

There are three main Kumari's in Nepal, all based in The Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu city hosts the royal Kumari while Bhaktapur and Patan host the other two Kumari's.

Read more about the Kumaris of Nepal.

Highlights of the Kumari Ghar


Inside the main doorway leads to a small inner courtyard.

The entrance to Kumari Ghar
The entrance to Kumari Ghar"

This and the building surrounding it are known as Kumari Ghar. You can go no further. The very top center window is, if you are lucky, where the Kumari may appear. Though some have said you might see a peak through the other windows occasionally.

You are free to photograph the inner courtyard but not the Kumari should she appear at a window. If you are here during the Indra Jaya festival, you can see her bless the King. Something that still happens to this day, though in recent years, an occasional Prime Minister has tried to arrive for a blessing beforehand.


When does the Kumari come out?


There is no fixed time despite what the tour guides tell you. However, common averages work out that the best time is between 4-5pm. Other than that, the Kumari comes out during festivals, though there will be huge crowds there.


Entrance fee


Kumari Ghar is included in the main Kathmandu Durbar Square entrance fee.

There is no entrance allowed into the actual building itself, only the outer courtyard.


Directions to Kumari Ghar


From Thamel head straight south to Kathmandu Durbar Square. You can walk along a Kathmandu city heritage walk to make the most of the journey there. In Kathmandu Durbar Square, the exterior of Kumari Ghar is located in the southern section of Durbar Square.


Map to the Kumari Ghar

Heritage walk guide:

» Kathmandu Heritage Walks
  - Thamel Heritage Walk
  - Thahiti Chowk
  - Ason Chowk
  - Jana Bahal / Seto Machchhendranath
  -
Indra Chowk
  - Kathmandu Durbar Square


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