Kumari Ghar
Home of the Kumari, Nepal's revered living goddess, offering a glimpse into a unique divine tradition.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance to see the Kumari.
Kumari Ghar
Best Time
Best chance to see the Kumari.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home of the Kumari, Nepal's revered living goddess, offering a glimpse into a unique divine tradition.
"A beautiful and sacred place; feeling blessed to see Kumari in person."
🤫 Be Silent & Respectful
Absolute silence is required during the Kumari's appearance. No photography allowed.
⏰ Arrive Early for a Spot
Appearances can be brief; arrive early to secure a good viewing position.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Living Goddess Appearance
Upper window of the Kumari Ghar
Witness the divine Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a living goddess. A truly unique cultural spectacle.

Kumari Ghar Architecture
Patan Durbar Square
Admire the intricate Newari architecture of the Kumari Ghar, a sacred and beautiful building.

Understanding the Tradition
Learn about the fascinating centuries-old tradition of the Kumari, from selection to daily life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to See the Kumari
Respectful Observation is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Be Silent & Respectful
Absolute silence is required during the Kumari's appearance. No photography allowed.
⏰ Arrive Early for a Spot
Appearances can be brief; arrive early to secure a good viewing position.
💰 Offerings to Caretakers
Consider donating to caretakers instead of directly to the Kumari.
📍 Visit Jawalakhel, Lalitpur
Some suggest Patan's Kumari is more accessible for viewing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Be Silent & Respectful
Absolute silence is required during the Kumari's appearance. No photography allowed.
⏰ Arrive Early for a Spot
Appearances can be brief; arrive early to secure a good viewing position.
💰 Offerings to Caretakers
Consider donating to caretakers instead of directly to the Kumari.
📍 Visit Jawalakhel, Lalitpur
Some suggest Patan's Kumari is more accessible for viewing.
🧐 Inquire About Times
Ask at information desks for the exact schedule of the Kumari's appearances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Kumari Ghar a sacred and beautiful place, with seeing the living goddess being a highlight. While the experience is unique and moving, some note the strict rules, brief appearances, and the need for quiet observation. The architectural beauty of the building is also appreciated.
"The Missus wanted to see the “living goddess “ so we went. We had to pay for the pass to the complete area even though we had already been there and seen everything except for the young goddess. We arrived as she was giving an appearance. They don’t let anyone in during this time so we had to wait about 40 minutes before she made her next appearance. There’s absolutely no pictures of her allowed to be taken. She looks like a young preteen who is bored with the routine. She looked around at us for a couple of minutes with no expression on her face then left the upper window. There were very many people in attendance to see her. Everyone has to be absolutely quiet. There was a class of students that came in while we were there, and they were very well behaved."
Paul Donovan
"kumari house, living godness here... come here around after 15:30 to see kumari. It was unique experience. note: not allowed take picture inside"
Mert Güleç
"20/04/2025 Once in your life, if you visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square around 10.30 am - 11.30 am you have a chance to see and blessing from Kumari the living goddess of Nepal but you not allow to take her photos please respect their culture and rules 🙏"
Boy Anupong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kumari Ghar is located within Patan Durbar Square. You can reach Patan Durbar Square by taxi, local bus, or ride-sharing services from Kathmandu. The square itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site and easily walkable once you're there.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Patan Durbar Square, which includes access to the entire complex where Kumari Ghar is located. This fee is often required even if you've visited before.
Taxis can take you to the entrance of Patan Durbar Square. From there, you will need to walk to Kumari Ghar within the complex.
Yes, local buses are available from various points in Kathmandu to Patan. It's a more budget-friendly option but can be crowded.
Once inside Patan Durbar Square, follow signs or ask locals for directions to Kumari Ghar. It's a prominent building within the complex.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need a ticket to enter Patan Durbar Square, which houses the Kumari Ghar. There isn't a separate ticket specifically for seeing the Kumari, but her appearances are within the ticketed area.
Kumari Ghar itself is a residence, but the Kumari makes public appearances at specific times, usually in the afternoon. It's best to inquire locally for the exact schedule.
Tickets for Patan Durbar Square are typically purchased on-site at the entrance. It's advisable to check for any online booking options if available, though on-site purchase is common.
Yes, the Kumari typically makes appearances in the afternoon, often around 3:30 PM, and sometimes in the late morning (10:30 AM - 11:30 AM). These times can vary, so confirm locally.
The entrance fee for Patan Durbar Square can vary for foreigners and locals. It's best to check the current rates at the ticket counter upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography & Etiquette
Absolutely not. Photography of the Kumari is strictly prohibited out of respect for the tradition and the living goddess.
Visitors must remain absolutely silent and still during the Kumari's appearance. Avoid any sudden movements or loud noises.
You can generally take photos of the Kumari Ghar building from the outside, but always be mindful of the sacred nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography.
Dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, as you would when visiting any religious or cultural site in Nepal.
Direct interaction with the Kumari is not permitted for visitors. Observe respectfully from a distance during her scheduled appearances.
🎫 🌟 The Kumari Tradition
The Kumari is a young girl chosen from a specific caste who is worshipped as a living goddess, an incarnation of Taleju, the Hindu goddess Durga.
The selection process is rigorous, involving ancient rituals and tests to identify a girl with specific divine qualities.
Once a Kumari reaches puberty or experiences her first menstruation, she reverts to being a mortal and returns to her family, often facing challenges reintegrating into normal life.
Yes, the tradition of the Kumari is still very much alive in Nepal, particularly in Kathmandu Valley, with several Kumaris residing in different cities.
The Kumari holds immense religious and cultural significance, embodying divine power and acting as a protector for the nation. Kings would traditionally seek her blessing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key advice for families: Prepare children beforehand about the quiet observation required and the no-photo rule. Inquire about the best times to see the Kumari to minimize waiting times. Consider focusing on the architectural wonders of the square as a broader cultural lesson, with the Kumari's appearance as a special, albeit brief, highlight.
✈️ Culture Enthusiasts & Spiritual Seekers
Recommendations: Engage with local guides to understand the historical and religious context. Be prepared for a deeply respectful and quiet observation. Consider visiting other significant temples and cultural sites in Patan Durbar Square to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the region's rich heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Role of the Kumari
During her time as Kumari, the girl is believed to possess divine powers and is consulted by devotees and even royalty for blessings and guidance. Her appearances are rare and highly anticipated, marked by an atmosphere of profound reverence and silence. Visitors are permitted to observe her during these specific times, but photography is strictly forbidden, and absolute quiet must be maintained. This practice highlights the deep spiritual beliefs and unique cultural heritage of Nepal.
The transition back to normal life after her tenure as Kumari can be challenging for the young girl, as she must readjust to a world she has been shielded from for years. Despite these complexities, the tradition continues to be a vital part of Nepalese identity and spirituality, offering a glimpse into a world where the divine is believed to walk among mortals.
Navigating Patan Durbar Square
When visiting, it's essential to be aware of the entrance fees, which contribute to the preservation of these invaluable heritage sites. While the Kumari's appearance is a major draw, the architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance of the entire square are equally captivating. Take your time to wander through the courtyards, admire the craftsmanship, and soak in the historical significance of this vibrant cultural hub.
Tips for exploration include wearing comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking, and dressing modestly out of respect for the religious sites. Inquiring at the information desks can provide valuable insights into the history of the square and the specific timings for any cultural performances or deity appearances.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit