The short answer
Asan is one of the oldest markets in Kathmandu, once a stopping point for traders on the Tibet route. The streets are packed with stalls for spices, vegetables, cloth, utensils and incense. At the junction stands a pagoda-style temple to Annapurna, the goddess of food, with a small Ganesh shrine nearby.
It is a sensory walk, noisy and crowded, so go early and keep valuables close. Walking is easier than driving. Try tea or a snack from a small stall, and look at spices if you want gifts.
Key facts
- Area
- Old Kathmandu, near Indra Chowk
- Best time
- Morning
- Highlight
- Annapurna temple, spice stalls
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
How it works
- Walk from ThamelAbout 20 minutes.
- Find the Annapurna templeAt the main junction.
- Browse the stallsSpices and cloth.
- Stop for teaSmall local stalls.
What the walk offers
Asan is one of the old trading hearts of the city, where stalls spill into the lanes with spices, vegetables, cloth, brass, incense and household goods. The Annapurna temple at the junction is a busy shrine, and small niches and courtyards hide among the shops.
The sounds, smells and colours make it a lively, sometimes crowded walk. Go in the morning, when the market is at its freshest and the light is soft, and walk rather than ride, because vehicles struggle in the lanes.
Walking it well
Keep your bag zipped and in front of you, carry little cash and watch for motorbikes squeezing through. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time at the shrines, which are active places of worship.
Buy a small bag of spice or sweets from a stall that looks busy, and ask before photographing people. Pair the walk with Indra Chowk and Durbar Square for a morning of old Kathmandu.
Insider tip
Go early and go on foot; vehicles slow to a crawl.
Avoid this
Do not carry loose cash or a wallet in a back pocket.
Related questions
Is it safe?
Yes, but crowded; watch pockets.
Is it good for souvenirs?
Yes for spices; compare prices.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- Patan and BhaktapurTime needed, which to pick, and how to reach them.
- Dhulikhel, Namobuddha and PanautiDhulikhel sunrise, Namobuddha, Panauti and how to link them.
- Kathmandu Valley Temples and MonasteriesPashupatinath, Patan, Changu, Kopan and the rest, ranked.
- Daman and the Rajpath HillsDaman view tower, the old Rajpath, Chitlang and Hetauda.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
