Visiting Asan Dabu Temple: Experiencing Kathmandu's Vibrant Market Square Shrine - Nepal Purple Travel Guide

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Nestled in the vibrant, chaotic, and colorful intersection of Asan Bazaar, the Asan Dabu Temple is a spiritual anchor in one of Kathmandu’s oldest and busiest marketplaces.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we typically promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the Viator tours below.

What does Asan Dabu Temple mean?

• Asan (or Ason) refers to the name of the ancient crossroads market square where six streets converge—one of the most important traditional trading hubs in the Kathmandu Valley.

• Dabu is a Newar word meaning raised stone platform, typically used for public rituals, performances, and religious ceremonies.

So, the name Asan Dabu essentially translates to ‘the ritual platform of Asan’, indicating its function as a sacred space used for worship and communal gatherings.

Religious and Cultural Importance of Asan Dabu Temple

The Asan Dabu Temple is dedicated to Annapurna Ajima, the goddess of nourishment and abundance. She is believed to ensure that no one goes hungry in the bustling Asan market.
Throughout the year, Tantric rituals, Buddhist pujas, and Hindu ceremonies take place here. The Dabu also hosts parts of important local festivals like Indra Jatra and Asan Pāhān Charhe, making it a dynamic focal point for both sacred and social life.

What to See and Experience at Asan Dabu Temple

• The open-air stone platform, often adorned with oil lamps and offerings, serves as a performance stage for spiritual dances during festivals.

• Around the Dabu, you’ll find small shrines, including images of Ganesh, Bhairab, and Annapurna, surrounded by vibrant daily market life.

• Watch as local devotees light incense, leave fresh marigolds, and spin prayer wheels - all while vendors call out prices and bicycles weave through the square.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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