Discovering Hidden Chowks in the Heart of Kathmandu City

Published On : 12th May, 2024 By Himalayan Dream Team

Kathmandu is a city steeped in history and culture, bustling with life and bursting with color. While popular landmarks like Thamel and Kathmandu Durbar Square often dominate tourist itineraries, the city also harbors several hidden gems known as "chowks," or courtyards. These traditional squares, nestled within the core of the city, offer a deeper insight into the rich cultural tapestry and history of Kathmandu. Let's delve into these captivating chowks, including some lesser-known yet equally enchanting ones, that many visitors often miss.

1. Thahiti Chowk

Just a stone's throw away from the vibrant streets of Thamel, Thahiti Chowk offers a serene retreat with its traditional Newari architecture and the quietly imposing Thahiti Stupa. Thahiti Stupa dates back to the 15th century. This chowk is not only a spiritual center but also serves as a gathering place for local artisans. The blend of daily life with cultural depth makes Thahiti Chowk a charming spot for those looking to experience the local Kathmandu beyond the usual tourist paths.

2. Naradevi Chowk

Hidden away in the alleys off the main roads, Naradevi Chowk is named after the Naradevi Temple, which is dedicated to the fierce form of Goddess Durga. Naradevi Chowk is a beautiful showcase of spiritual life dissolving into the daily routines of the locals. The courtyard is lined with traditional homes featuring intricately carved wooden windows, offering a glimpse into the architectural beauty that Kathmandu is known for.

3. Bangemudha Chowk

Tucked in the old mercantile part of Kathmandu, Bangemudha Chowk is renowned for its narrow alleys and traditional Newari buildings. This chowk is famously known for its shops selling traditional Newari hats ("topi"). Though often overlooked by tourists, Bangemudha is a vital part of Kathmandu's cultural and economic landscape, offering visitors a slice of local life and history.

4. Ason Chowk

Ason Chowk, one of Kathmandu’s oldest marketplaces, pulsates with the energy of vendors selling a myriad of goods, from spices to handmade crafts. The Annapurna Temple, lying at the center of the chowk, is a spiritual beacon during festivals, when the chowk transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration and religious devotion. This bazaar offers a colorful tapestry of Kathmandu’s commercial and cultural life at a glance.

5. Indra Chowk

Situated along the ancient trade routes to Tibet and India, Indra Chowk is a bustling market area featuring the Akash Bhairav Temple. The chowk is especially lively during the Indra Jatra festival, when it becomes a focal point for celebrations. Known for its array of shops selling glass beads and traditional fabrics, Indra Chowk offers a vibrant mix of commerce and culture.

6. Jana Bahal (Seto Machhendranath Temple Chowk)

A short walk from the crowded streets leads to Jana Bahal, a peaceful courtyard home to the Seto Machhendranath Temple, dedicated to the god of rain. This less-frequented chowk is an oasis of tranquility, with its stunning Newari architecture and wood carvings that tell tales of Kathmandu’s rich artisanal heritage.

7. Hanuman Dhoka Chowk

Within the Kathmandu Durbar Square complex, Hanuman Dhoka Chowk stands out for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. Hanuman Dhoka is named after a statue of Hanuman placed at the entrance of Hanuman Dhoka.

Hanuman has great significance in Hindu culture and is considered one of the eight immortals. He is also known as Bal Brahmachari, which means he is forever ascetic. According to the famous Hindu religious text Ramayana, he served Bhagawan Rama during the war against Ravana. He is also popularly known as the sankat mochan, which means one who solves all the problems. He is believed to protect humans in Kali yuga.

Hanuman Dhoka, once a royal palace, has its origins dating back to the 4th to 8th centuries AD during the Lichhavi period, which was further expanded by the King of the Malla dynasty, King Pratap Malla, in the 17th century. This royal palace courtyard hosts several museums, temples, and courtyards (chowks) that narrate the legacy of Nepal’s monarchs and the historical events that shaped the nation.

8. Bheda Singh Chowk

Bheda Singh Chowk, located closer to the heart of the city, offers visitors a vivid snapshot of the daily hustle and bustle. Known for its array of local shops and eateries, this chowk is where the past meets the present in a lively marketplace setting, making it a perfect spot for those looking to dive deeper into Kathmandu’s urban culture.

9. Chhetrapati Chowk

Chhetrapati Chowk serves as a key junction point in Kathmandu. This Chowk is famous for Dhobi Chaur (the washing square) and a host of local cafes and shops. It's a lively area where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, offering visitors a genuine feel of Kathmandu’s dynamic urban rhythm.

10. Tyouda Chowk

Known for its historical significance and communal atmosphere, Tyouda Chowk is a hub for local gatherings and cultural exchanges. This chowk provides a quieter yet equally enriching cultural experience with its traditional architecture and the daily interactions of its residents.

Exploring these chowks in Kathmandu provides a unique perspective, revealing layers of history, culture, and daily life that are often overshadowed by the city’s more famous landmarks. Each chowk tells a story of the past, plays a role in the present, and holds a spirit that is quintessentially Kathmandu.