Kumari Ghar image

Kumari Ghar

Tourist attraction Hindu temple Buddhist temple Place of worship

Historical palace of the living goddess Kumari who is worshipped by Hindus & Buddhists. People often mention Kumari, goddess, living, Kathmandu, Nepal, Ghar, girl, Taleju, visit, Goddess,


Address

P834+FHQ, Layaku Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (403 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours
  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: (Labor Day), Open 24 hours, Hours might differ

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Kumari (76) goddess (23) living (17) Kathmandu (14) Nepal (12) Ghar (11) girl (11) Taleju (11) visit (11) Goddess (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 khagendra Prasad B. 1 year ago on Google
    Kumari Ghar (House of Kumari) is a residence of Kumari (Young girl). Nepalese worship a young girl as Kumari, the only living deity (goddess) in the world turning her into a Goddess of Power with sacred rituals. Living goddess Kumari wears a mark of third eye on her forehead, a special symbol of her divinity. According to the legend the famous and most believed tale is of Jay Prakash Malla, an ancient Malla king in Nepal. People say that the king used to play dice games with goddess Taleju in his chamber. Taleju was the clan deity of the Mallas. So, there was a condition from the goddess that neither anyone should know nor he could tell about her presence l in king's chamber. Unfortunately, one day, his queen found them playing dice in his chamber. Being caught by the queen, the goddess Taleju disappeared. Before leaving, the Taleju goddess told the king that she will incarnate herself as a little girl of the Newari (Shakya) community. After hearing her statements, the King left the palace in search of a young girl possessed by Taleju’s spirit. This way, the tradition of worshiping the young girl started around the 17th century in the Kathmandu valley. Selection of kumari :-Five senior Bajracharya priests conduct the selection process including the chief priest of Taleju Bhawani, the Caretaker of Kumari house, and head astrologer. They check on the various aspects of a child (4 to 5 yrs old) before declaring her a new Kumari (living goddess). After selection, she resides in her dedicated home (Kumari Ghar) in Kathmandu Durbar Square. People believe, just a glimpse of the living goddess will bring good fortune. It is also believed that Kumari holds a special power over the illness. Tenure of kymari:- They remain as a living goddess Kumar until commencement of her first menstrual cycle. After that the selection process for new Kumari will begin again.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amartya G. 5 months ago on Google
    One of the most sacred temple of Nepal. In Hinduism, it is believed that the Kumari Mata is the living incarnation of Taleju Bhawani Mata (Goddess Durga). One can easily search and read about all the divine legends, events and myths about this place in the internet. This reading will only increase your curiosity about this holly place. Apart from the religious angle, this temple is a living example of the craftsmanship of the highest standard. One can be easily mesmerized and blown away with the wooden crafting of the walls. One tip, please refrain from using mobile phone or camera in the presence of her holiness. Do not insult the local belief and spirit.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dr. YesJ J. 4 years ago on Google
    Kumari is a loving god blessed of Nepal, she is treated as Kaali avatar. To become a Kumari baby girl has to be born on Bhudda Poornima and she must not have cuts or wound in a body. She has to go through tough situations to become a Kumari at the age of 3 years. Once chosen as Kumari she will be Kumari till her first menstruation cycle or by bleeding through cut or any other form then immediately she becomes a normal girl. Then new Kumari has been chosen.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Ashwin G. 11 months ago on Google
    Very historically and traditionally important place for the people.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mohd yaqub K. 1 year ago on Google
    It is one of the sacred places in Darbar Square and is usually crowded on weekends. It is one of the centers for rituals and culture in the city. It is the residence of the Kumari (Goddess) according to Buddhists and Hinduism belief. The best time to visit is 9 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 6 pm. The residence is clean and historical. Taking pictures of the goddess is prohibited but you can take blessing from her upon her appearance.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Purshottam s. 2 years ago on Google
    Very nice place, the structure is.preserved and maintained very well. The architecture of the place is amazing. Must visit place
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 WrackAce M. 6 years ago on Google
    Kumari baha is a baha (Newari Buddhist monastery), a dyochen (a god house), a chowk and a cross between a newar townhouse and a baha. The shrine is a strange hybrid. The Kumari baha is distinctive within Nepal’s architectural tradition. The Kumari ghar is a traditional style 3 storey building. The architecture of the building showcases magnificent wooden work in the balconies and wooden screens. The temple and the holy quadrangular with a Buddhist stupa at the centre form the residential quarters of the chaste virgin Living Goddess called Kumari. It is a distinctive building because of its many intricately carved windows and terracotta art on the outer façade. The temple is tiered golden roof and silver door. In Kathmandu Durbar square, the main entrance to Kumari Baha and the Malla Palace are aligned perpendicular axes, with the baha facing north and the palace facing west. A triple gilt metal gajuras (bell- shaped finial) surmounted by three umbrellas and surrounded by a foliate motif are located at the top centre of Baha's north wall. As the sculpture display is more on the monuments north side, the visitors meant to enter through the north doorway. Its east façade has a simple wooden doorframe and small, largely unadorned windows. Kumari Baha's exterior north façade contains a total of six doorways and fourteen windows which are arranged in symmetrical fashion. The façade's three levels are further divided into six vertical sections, defined by alternating recessed and protruding sections of brick. The second level has a single bay window that show Surya and Chandra superimposed on the wooden lattice screens that cover the window openings. Triple bay windows are located on the third level. The third and fifth vertical sections have carved windows in the form of two stunning peacocks, a trademark motif in Newar architecture. The third level of the third and fifth section has carved single bay windows with nagas. A four armed mage of the goddess kumari seated on her peacock vahana, appears on the torana and a yantra is superimposed on the lattice screen. Visitors enter Kumar Baha's courtyard through the central door, which is decorated with skull, floral and geometrical motifs. The door surface includes a series of small teardrop-shaped motifs on the doors upper portion and a more angular crisscross pattern on the doors lower portion. These surface carvings give the door a textile appearance that is suggestive of the clothing worn by kumari. As we moved through the main door, there is a lobby then the second door to the vestibule for view looking. After the structure's intimate courtyard and the main (south) shrine wall become visible. Like the exterior north façade, a total of nine doorways are located on the first level and 24windows adorn the second and third levels. As Kumari Baha has three proper entrances, one each on the west, north and east sides, which each lead immediately in the vestibule. The vestibule has a wooden post and lintel frame and two carved wooden pillars. Toranas surmount the 12 single bay windows on the north, east, and west courtyard walls' second level. As seen on the exterior, each courtyard walls third level has a five bay window at the centre, which is flanked by two single bay windows. Kumari Baha main shrine is located on the courtyard's south. The kvahpah dyah is located on 1st level in the centre of the south. Kvahpah dyah at Kumari baha contains 5 stone sculptures of the Jina (victory) Buddhas as the central objects of worship. At Kumari baha, the agam is located on the south wall’s 2nd level, directly above the kvahpah dyah.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Max as Nabin k. 2 years ago on Google
    The Kumari Ghar is located near the south entrance of Durbar Square in Kathmandu. The best time to see the living goddess is between 9-11 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. No photography or video is allowed of Kumari. There's a small entrance fee to visit Durbar Square, but no additional fee to visit Kumari Ghar
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 8848 T. 2 years ago on Google
    Well , the place seems to good from outside!🐣✌🏻
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deuba S. 5 months ago on Google
    Kumari, Kumari Devi, or the Living Goddess is the tradition of worshipping a chosen virgin as manifestations of the divine female energy or Shakti in Dharmic Nepali religious traditions. It is believed that the girl is possessed by the goddess Taleju or Durga. The word Kumari is derived from Sanskrit meaning princess. The procession is akin to Indra or Sakra, taking Indrani to his celestial abode as his bride. The festival is celebrated during Kumari Jantra, which follows the Indra Jatri religious ceremony.In Nepal, a Kumari is a prepubescent girl selected from the Shakya clan of the Nepalese Newari Buddhist community. The Kumari is also revered and worshiped by some of the country's Hindus. While there are several Kumaris throughout Nepal, with some cities having several, the best known is the Royal Kumari of Kathmandu, and she lives in the Kumari Ghar, a palace in the center of the city. The selection process for her is especially rigorous. As of 2023, the Royal Kumari of Kathmandu is Trishna Shakya, aged five, installed in September 2017. Unika Bajracharya, selected in April 2014 as the Kumari of Patan, is the second most important living goddess. In Kathmandu Valley, this is a particularly prevalent practice. It is believed to be the incarnation of Taleju, a manifestation of the goddess Durga. When her first menstruation begins, it is believed that the deity vacates her body. Serious illness or a major loss of blood from an injury also causes loss of deity. The Kumari tradition is only followed in a few cities in Nepal, which are Kathmandu, Lalitpur (also called Patan), Bhaktapur, Sankhu, and Bungamati. The selection process and roles of the Kumari vary between the different towns.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 sarmila p. 1 year ago on Google
    Historical palace of the living goddess Kumari who is worshipped by Hindus & Buddhists. It was most peaceful place i have ever visited .
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Traveller N. 1 year ago on Google
    This house looks very pathetic and literally supported by wooden logs. Instead of anything else, restoration should start in these houses where actual people live.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 aman k. 5 years ago on Google
    Palace of living goddess of nepal the kumari,it is sacred for Nepalese community.u should read about kumari of nepal before visiting here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Vidal F. 1 year ago on Google
    Mixed feelings about his place. Love holding on to traditions, but this one is a hard one to swallow. The young lady (Kumari) was visibly uncomfortable being shown off. Not sure I. It doesn’t seem right.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aritro R. 1 year ago on Google
    Kumari Ghar is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. Also known as the "House of the Living Goddess," it is a three-story building that has been home to the Kumari, a young girl revered as the living embodiment of the goddess Taleju, for centuries. The building's exterior is beautifully crafted with traditional Nepalese architecture and intricate wooden carvings. Inside, the rooms are adorned with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and ancient artifacts that transport visitors to another time and place. The Kumari herself can sometimes be seen peering out of the window on the top floor, but visitors are not allowed to enter her quarters. Instead, guests can explore the museum on the ground floor, which showcases the history and cultural significance of the Kumari and the building itself. Overall, Kumari Ghar is a must-visit for anyone interested in Nepal's rich history and culture. Its stunning architecture and spiritual significance make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Prashant N. 1 year ago on Google
    It is widely believed, for example, that serving as a Kumari can make a woman ineligible for marriage, as there is a popular tradition that the spouses of former Kumaris meet an early demise. The tradition of worshipping a chosen virgin as manifestations of the divine female energy.

  • 5/5 Ryo K. 1 year ago on Google
    met Kumari there twice. The first time, however, we had to abruptly stop in the middle of our visit because an elderly man was holding a camera. If you visit there, please be respectful to her and never put your smart phone or camera in your bag.

  • 5/5 HIRDAY K. 1 year ago on Google
    Kumari Ghar is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional architecture and the cultural heritage of Nepal. The palace is a true gem in the heart of Kathmandu and is well worth a visit.

  • 5/5 manjula ramesh manjula r. 1 year ago on Google
    In Nepal, a Kumari is a prepubescent girl selected from the Shakya clan of the Nepalese Newari Buddhist community. The Kumari is revered and worshiped by some of the country's Hindus too. While there are several Kumaris throughout Nepal, with some cities having several, the best known is the Royal Kumari of Kathmandu, and she lives in the Kumari Ghar, a palace in the center of the city. The selection process for her is especially rigorous. As of 2017, the Royal Kumari of Kathmandu is Trishna Shakya, aged three, installed in September 2017. Unika Bajracharya, selected in April 2014 as the Kumari of Patan,

  • 5/5 Mamata Thapa M. 7 months ago on Google
    Living goddess Kumari lives here and you can visit her. I have never been inside but I always admire everything from outside 🫶🏻🙏🏻

  • 5/5 Anna-Maria-Amina T. 1 year ago on Google
    Really beautiful place.. it is so worth it to go and sit there in silence. I saw Kumari 2 times, in 2 weeks. Loved it there. The guides are also a bit too intrusive, but I met a great one there, and became friends :)

  • 3/5 Samir R. 2 years ago on Google
    You will experience peace and you can see living god at worship time

  • 5/5 Chiya C. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the holy place where Goddess Kumari lives . The Kumari is the only living goddess worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists. The literal meaning of Kumari is Virgin. The Kumaris are young pre-pubescent girls who receive the power of Goddess Kali and Taleju.

  • 4/5 Mark V. 6 years ago on Google
    The house of the the living goddess, the Kathmandu Kumari, is a queer site. The building has been damaged by the 2015 earthquake but it is not so much damaged as the other buildings on the Durbar Square and is supported by beams to stop further damage. The wood carving is fabulous but as a tourist you are only allowed to visit the inner court, not the inside of the building.

  • 5/5 Kapil S. K. 2 years ago on Google
    Kumari Ghar is the holy palace of Living Goddess Kumari worshipped by Hindus & Buddhist. There are several Kumari throughout Nepal & the roles of the Kumari vary between the selection process by priest community in different towns; the best known is the Royal Kumari of Kathmandu in Durbar Square Palace at Basantapur lives in the Kumari Ghar, a palace in the center of the city. You can feel positive vibes and relaxation when you visit this historical, sacred and divine power place. #LivingGoddessOfNepal #HistoricalPlace #TouristAttraction #ReligiousPlace #WorshipPlace #HeritageOfNepal #UniscoMonuments

  • 5/5 Amrit S. 2 years ago on Google
    Place where living goddes lives , which is a proud to all of Neplease.

  • 5/5 Rajesh Kumar C. 4 years ago on Google
    I love this place because there is own important fact about kamari

  • 4/5 Nazar L. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice view on inner yard. I saw young Kumari for a while. It is forbidden to make any photos or video.

  • 4/5 शीजल �. 2 years ago on Google
    Loving living godesss and her house ,people can see her on request ,her family will allow few people to visit her now .People have believe and faith on Kumari godesss

  • 5/5 Shekhar Bhakta M. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the holy place of Hindu. Living Goddess Kumari lives here. She is the only living goddess.

  • 4/5 Wajiha M. 3 years ago on Google
    This place is really quite. And u will really peace here. Only Hindus are allowed to enter and meet with Kumari. And pictures are not allowed to be taken of Kumari the goddess.


Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Tourist attractions nearby

Kathmandu Durbar Square image
1
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Plaza
Landmark, ancient royal complex with various palaces, temples & courtyards, plus a museum.
4.50 (33.4K reviews)
Swoyambhu Mahachaitya image
2
Swoyambhu Mahachaitya
Buddhist temple
A very old religious site, this Buddhist complex has an iconic stupa, temples & many shrines.
4.60 (17K reviews)
Buddha Stupa image
3
Buddha Stupa
Buddhist temple
Buddhist place of worship featuring a sizable white dome topped with a towering, golden spire.
4.70 (16.1K reviews)
Ratna Park image
4
Ratna Park
Park
Green urban landscaped gardens with lawns, flowerbeds, seating areas & restrooms.
3.90 (15.4K reviews)
Garden of Dreams image
5
Garden of Dreams
Tourist attraction
Elegant garden created in 1920, with 6 pavilions, fountains, landscaped grounds, urns & birdhouses.
4.20 (11.7K reviews)
Last updated:
()