Free tour
The Tantric Matriarchal Trail to discover ancient Kathmandu
Excellent(1)
Guru: Yadab
Registered on 14 July 2025
Involved in tourism since 2006. Master degree in Cultural History. MPhil in Tantra Culture. PhD scholar in Matriarchal history of Nepal. Writer, intangible cultural heritage scholar.
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free
Tour description
This is a three-hour heritage walk offered every day, beginning at 08:00 and 15:00 near Hotel Aloft in Thamel. We start from the Thamel Bhagwati Temple and make our way through Basantapur and the surrounding bazaar lanes, exploring hidden corners of the old city. Along the way, we provide insights into tantric sculptures, temples, and the historical transformation of Kathmandu Valley’s matriarchal foundations as they were gradually replaced by patriarchal traditions.
The tour concludes back in Thamel, followed by a two-hour interactive Tantric lunch, where we continue the conversation and dive deeper into the themes discovered during the walk.
A central focus of the experience is the Grandmother Goddess, or Ajima, whose presence is woven into the cultural and spiritual landscape of the Valley. The Ajima tradition is deeply interconnected with Tantric practices, viewing these grandmother goddesses as powerful protectors of the city. During the walk, we explore how these beliefs manifest in rituals such as the Luti Ajima Jatra, which incorporates fire rituals, symbolic offerings, and elements inherited from Newar ancestral worship.
We also discuss the matriarchal roots of the Valley:
- How the Ajima tradition reflects an era when female ancestral deities were central to community life.
- The meaning of the name “Ajima,” formed from Newari words for “grandmother” and “mother.”
- The Tantric symbolism that views the body as a sacred temple and celebrates feminine energy and sexuality—often in contrast with later patriarchal norms that sought to suppress them.
Throughout the tour, we trace how the forms of the Ajima deities evolved over centuries, blending local traditions with Vedic and Tantric influences, eventually giving rise to the worship of powerful goddesses such as Chamunda and Kali.
By the end of the experience, travelers gain not only a deeper understanding of the city’s sacred spaces but also an appreciation of the spiritual, social, and historical forces that have shaped Kathmandu into the place it is today.
*Entrance fee to Durbar Square - 1000 NPR
Highlights
What will we see on this tour?
Meeting point:
Chhaya Centre
Meet me at the entrance of Chhaya Centre Complex
1
Free entry
Chhaya Centre
We meet at ground of Aloft hotel which is located in Chhaya centre, Thamel.
2
Free entry
Bhagwati Bahal Temple ( भगवती बाहल मन्दिर )
On of the earliest Tantra goddess temple
3
Free entry
नरदेवी मन्दिर
Symbol of matriarchy and Tantra tradition
How much does this tour cost?
Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.
Tour reviews
Excellent(1)
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By category
Professionalism
5.00
Fun
5.00
Communication
5.00
Quality
5.00
Route
5.00
Who is this tour for?
Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Not suitable for bringing pets.
What should I know?
Minimum attendees
Requires a minimum of 2 people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour requires payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Cash payment only.
The Tantric Matriarchal Trail to discover ancient Kathmandu
