Ason Bazar

Asan Bazar is one of my favorite places in Kathmandu because of its vibrant energy and cultural richness. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a bustling marketplace where tradition and modern life meet. Every time I visit, I’m amazed by the variety of goods available, from fresh produce and spices to traditional Nepali items and household essentials. What I love most about Asan is its atmosphere. The narrow, winding streets are always lively, filled with the sounds of vendors calling out and people bargaining. The market has a unique charm, with ancient temples and shrines scattered among the shops, reminding me of its deep historical and cultural significance. For me, Asan Bazar is not just a shopping destination; it’s an experience. I enjoy exploring the stalls, discovering unique items, and tasting local snacks from street vendors. The market feels like a living museum, showcasing Kathmandu’s traditional Newari culture and way of life. That said, navigating the crowded streets can be challenging, especially during festivals or busy hours. Traffic and congestion are also common issues, but I think these are part of the market’s character. Overall, Asan Bazar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Kathmandu. It’s a place I always recommend to friends, whether they’re shopping or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

A short walk from Thamel is Asan Bazaar - a vibrant and crowded area where the locals shop. Here you can find a variety of products from food, spice, clothing to electronics. Like most part of Kathmandu, the traffic in the area is crazy especially at the intersection where 5 different roads meet. It’s important to note that vendors here only take cash and often they do not have small change for big notes. Another thing - beware of friendly locals who will try to scam you by asking you to buy food for their family then lead you to a grocery store with inflated prices. When you encounter them, just walk away and don’t engage further.

A small market categorised in all goods and services. The way can be quite confusing due to same designing of the shops. The quality of the goods depends on the shops and price range you offer in this place but it is most commonly known for clothes items. Crowdy due to smaller area and many infrastructure but worth it for shopping.

An interesting local bazaar in Kathmandu where there are many shops selling all sorts of local products, handicraft, food, tea, coffee, spices. One can experience the local vibes and atmosphere of a busy Nepalese city here. Worth a visit. Be careful of the bikes and cars mostly with impatient drivers as all the streets are rather narrow.

What a great experience! This is the place where Kathmandu resident go to shop and it is really busy. People, cars and mopeds/motorcycles fill the streets, somehow all getting to where they want to go without hitting each other. Shops selling similar stuff are grouped together in the same general area. Definitely somewhere to go if you want to experience Kathmandu as the Nepalis do.

Even though it is raining when we are roaming around the bazaar, we still enjoy it! The place are so colourful and vibrant. We bought a lot of beautiful souvenirs to support locals. It is our last day when we went and I feel so happy that we walk through out until we arrive at our hotel.

If you want to get a glimpse of one of the places the locals get their sundry supplies as well as for tourists that are bargain savvy may get a good deal then you may want to check this place out. Like a web Azan Bazar spreads out from its epicentre into many sidestreets & a myriad of alleys with every nook & cranny crammed with shops to tiny stalls. From spices to sarees, meat & fish to all manner of dried beans & lentils to vegetables to metalwork cookery sets too even the odd mousetrap maker enough to delight even the most hardcore of market fans. Sprinkled throughout are a healthy dose of small temples & shrines. As some reviewers noted its best to go during early morning as it is relatively less bustle.

Asan Bazar is the oldest market in Kathumandu. It was interesting that each path has its own category to present. I liked grains, cereal, puja supplies, women' garment, and fruit juice. I also could find a few temples around the market. The mood is very lively and you can find what you want, definitely.