Walking Tour from Bazaar to Hippie Hub Ason and Freak Street

Kathmandu , Nepal

Walking Tour from Bazaar to Hippie Hub Ason and Freak Street

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About this experience

Explore Kathmandu’s Heart – Small Group Tour (Max 5 People)

Discover Kathmandu’s vibrant soul on a walking tour from Thamel to Asan Bazaar and Freak Street. Stroll through lively markets, visit the sacred Annapurna Temple, and uncover hidden histories like ancient quarantine houses. Experience Indra Chowk’s bustling lanes and Potey Bazaar’s artisan beads before stepping into Freak Street’s hippie-era legacy, once frequented by icons like Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles.

A journey through culture, history, and bohemian charm—book now and walk into Nepal’s unforgettable stories!

Available options

Small Group Tour

Private Tour

What's included

English speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

At Asan, the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Nepal comes alive. The square is a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents, bustling with vendors selling everything from fragrant spices and vibrant textiles to gleaming kitchenware and everyday essentials. Amidst this lively marketplace stands the revered Temple of Annapurna, the goddess of grain and prosperity. Learn about her significance to the local community and witness the spiritual rituals performed by devotees.
We’ll also dive into a lesser-known yet fascinating part of the square’s history—community quarantine houses used by ancient traders. These served as a space for merchants returning from long journeys, particularly from Tibet, to isolate themselves before reuniting with family and friends, ensuring the health and safety of the community. It’s a remarkable tradition that offers insights into the wisdom and values of Nepali society.

Indra Chowk, another vibrant market square teeming with life. As we navigate the bustling lanes, we’ll arrive at the famous Potey Bazaar, a place rich in cultural significance. Here, Newar Muslim artisans skillfully craft and sell stunning glass bead garlands, known locally as potey, which are traditionally worn by married women in Nepal. Beyond the beads, the bazaar offers a diverse array of goods, including cosmetics and small household items. It’s a place where every corner tells a story of Kathmandu’s multicultural heritage

Our journey continues through the lively streets of New Road, a melting pot of old traditions and modern influences. As we walk, the urban energy of Kathmandu paves the way to Jhochhen, widely known as Freak Street.

This iconic lane has a captivating history, especially from the 1960s and 70s, when it served as a central stop on the famed Hippie Trail.

Today, the echoes of that colorful past still resonate. As we explore Jhochhen, you’ll feel the spirit of its storied history through its quaint cafes, intriguing shops, and local charm. Discover how the government crackdown on drug use in the mid-1970s marked the decline of the hippie movement in Nepal, yet left a lasting legacy on Kathmandu’s cultural fabric.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will be available 15 minutes before each meeting time with a sign "Meeting Point".
Pumpernickel Bakery is centrally located in Thamel and has excellent offerings, including great coffee, all-day breakfasts, delicious cakes, gluten-free and vegan diets.

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Pashupatinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.

Religious 2-3 hours Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.

Religious/Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kathmandu Durbar Square

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.

Historical/Architectural Half-day trip NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dal Bhat

A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)

Momo

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.

Snack/Appetizer Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan

Sel Roti

A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)

Gundruk

A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.

Side Dish Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free

Popular Activities

Trekking Mountain biking Paragliding Rafting Yoga and meditation retreats Spa treatments Café hopping Gardening

Best Time to Visit

October to November and March to April

These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

20-30°C (68-86°F) 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Nepali
Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Time Zone

Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
• Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Galkopul, Kalanki

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Thamel Boudha Patan (Lalitpur) Bhaktapur

Day trips

Nagarkot

32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.

Dhulikhel

30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.

Changunarayan

18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.

Festivals

Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year) Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year) Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn