Kathmandu
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Kumari Gar, the house of the Living Goddess, built in 1757 but pretty clearly renovated since then.
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The Kumari is a young girl who is believed to be the incarnation of the demon-slaying Hindu goddess Durga. Dating back at least to the Middle Ages, the cult of the Kumari is popular among both Hindus and Nepalese Buddhists.
During the selection process for the Kumari Devi, Buddhist girls aged from three to five are gathered and Elders approve those with signs of divinity.
The small group are then left in a darkened room with severed buffalo heads and dancing men wearing demon masks. The girl who shows no fear is likely to be the incarnation of Durga. In the final test, the girl must be able to pick out the clothing of her predecessor.
Once discovered, the Kumari moves into the Kumari Ghar beside Durbar Square in Kathmandu and is worshipped as a living goddess. Her needs and those of her caretakers are paid in full by the Nepalese government and she spends most of her time studying and performing religious rituals. She only leaves the temple a few times a year during festivals and her feet must never touch the ground. More
A beautiful old fountain in Patan region of Kathmandu.
A gold Shiva gnawing on a human leg bone.
The Old Palace in central Kathmandu.
Souvenir shops at night.
A 500 year old shop selling spices.
Gold plate ornament on a pagoda.
A funky old bag shop.
Ancient erotic woodcarving on Jagganath temple struts in central Kathmandu, possibly designed to stimulate a flagging birthrate. Yes, it does pay to look up occasionally!
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Photos: Pokhara | Bhaktapur | Pashupatinah
Attractions | Weather | Nepal Travel Guide | Transport to/from Pokhara | Nepal Map | Nepal Tours
