Step into one of Nepal’s most sacred and mysterious traditions with this exclusive cultural experience — an interaction session with the Living Goddess (Kumari) in Kathmandu. Unlike any typical city tour, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with a former Kumari — a girl revered as a living goddess during her formative years.
In this rare, private session, you’ll sit face-to-face with the former Kumari and engage in a heartfelt conversation. Learn about the ancient Kumari selection process, the rituals and responsibilities she carried during her time as a goddess, her life behind the temple walls, and the transition back to a normal life after her sacred role concluded.
This experience offers a deep cultural exchange, giving you a firsthand insight into one of the most unique spiritual practices still alive in the world today. You'll also gain understanding of the family's role in this centuries-old tradition, how it has evolved in modern times, and what it means to live as a symbol of divine power in a human form.
Perfect for curious travelers, culture enthusiasts, anthropologists, spiritual seekers, and anyone looking for an authentic, meaningful travel experience in Nepal, this session goes far beyond sightseeing. It’s a bridge into Nepal’s mystical heritage and living traditions.
Spaces for this unique experience are limited, and advance booking is highly recommended.
Nepal is home to one of the world’s most fascinating living traditions — the Kumari, or Living Goddess, revered as the human incarnation of the goddess Taleju Bhawani. This ancient and deeply spiritual practice blends both Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, making it a unique cultural and religious phenomenon in the Kathmandu Valley.
According to legend, the goddess Taleju used to visit Nepal’s royal palace to play dice with the Malla kings. When King Jayaprakash Malla displeased her, she vanished — only to later appear in a dream, instructing the king to choose a young girl from the Shakya clan, a Buddhist lineage, as a vessel for her divine spirit. Thus began the tradition of the Living Goddess.
A Kumari is chosen through a highly selective and sacred process that resembles the search for Tibetan Lamas. Once enthroned, she is worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists, and even Nepal’s Shah Kings once sought her blessings. The Kumari resides in a beautifully carved temple and appears publicly only on select ceremonial occasions, such as the Indra Jatra festival.
When the Kumari reaches puberty, she returns to normal life, and a new Living Goddess is chosen to carry on this extraordinary tradition. Kumaris are not only found in Kathmandu but also in Patan, Bhaktapur, Bungamati, and Thimi — key Newar heritage towns in Nepal.
The Living Goddess tradition in Nepal is a rare, powerful symbol of faith, femininity, and divinity. It continues to inspire both locals and visitors from around the world.
All of our holidays are completely tailor-made and prices will vary based on things like when in the year you will be travelling (High season, Low season), how far in advance you book, the number of people travelling in your group, the level of accommodation you choose etc. Please click on the next tab (INQUIRY/ BOOKING) and send us your inquiry. We will reply you with cost and other necessary details within 24 hours.
Getaway Nepal Adventure (P.) Ltd.
Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: +977 98510 38 908
TripAdvisor