Indra Chowk
Bāgmatī
Indra Chowk, also known locally as Wongha, is a key ceremonial and market square situated in the historic heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. It serves as a crucial junction where six streets converge, connecting major localities and forming part of the ancient India-Tibet trade route. The square is named after Indra, the Hindu god of heaven, reflecting its cultural and religious significance. Dominating the western side is the Akash Bhairav temple, famous for its large mask symbolizing the god of the sky, with shops occupying its ground floor. On the northern side stands a Shiva temple, which was rebuilt as a small domed shrine after the original pagoda was destroyed in the 1934 earthquake. The eastern side features Raki Bazaar, a narrow alley known for its glass bead shops, whose merchants are believed to descend from medieval Iraqi traders. To the south, Shukra Path leads to New Road, lined with white-washed stucco houses and named after martyr Shukra Raj Shastri, serving as a prominent shopping street. Additionally, a small Ganesh temple marks the southwestern corner, guiding visitors towards Makhan and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Indra Chowk is not only a commercial hub but also a vibrant cultural venue, hosting major festival pageants and chariot processions such as Indra Jatra and Jana Baha Dyah Jatra, which draw numerous pilgrims and locals alike.
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Tip: Visit Indra Chowk during the Indra Jatra festival to experience the vibrant chariot processions of Kumari, Ganesh, and Bhairav. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal to explore the bustling bazaars with fewer crowds. Purchasing tickets for guided tours or cultural events in advance is recommended during festival seasons. Visitors can enjoy shopping along Shukra Path for local crafts and souvenirs. Be prepared for narrow alleys and crowded streets, and wear comfortable footwear.
Interesting facts
- •Indra Chowk is part of the ancient India-Tibet trade route, linking Kathmandu to major localities.
- •The Akash Bhairav temple houses a large mask representing the god of the sky, a unique religious artifact.
- •Raki Bazaar's merchants are believed to descend from medieval Iraqi traders, giving the bazaar its name.
- •Shukra Path was constructed after the 1934 earthquake and named after martyr Shukra Raj Shastri.
- •Indra Chowk is a central venue for major festival chariot processions including Indra Jatra and Jana Baha Dyah Jatra.
History
Indra Chowk has historically been a vital market and ceremonial square in Kathmandu, marking a key point on the old India-Tibet trade route.
The square's temples and bazaars have evolved over centuries, with the Akash Bhairav temple symbolizing its religious importance.
The 1934 earthquake significantly impacted the area, destroying original structures such as the Shiva temple, which was replaced by a smaller domed shrine.
Post-earthquake reconstruction included the creation of Shukra Path, a wide road lined with stucco houses, adding to the square's architectural character.
Over time, Indra Chowk has maintained its role as a cultural and commercial hub, hosting important festivals like Indra Jatra and Jana Baha Dyah Jatra.
Place Guide
Akash Bhairav Temple
Located on the western side of Indra Chowk, this temple is the square's symbol. It features a large mask of Akash Bhairav, the god of the sky, accessible by a flight of stairs. The ground floor hosts various shops, blending commerce with spirituality.
Shiva Temple1934 (reconstruction)
Situated on the northern side, this temple was originally a pagoda structure but was destroyed in the 1934 earthquake. It has since been rebuilt as a small domed shrine, continuing its religious significance in the square.
Raki Bazaar
This twisting alley on the eastern side of Indra Chowk is lined with small shops selling glass beads and other items. Its name derives from the term 'Iraqi,' reflecting the medieval origins of its merchants.
Shukra PathPost-1934
A wide road leading south from Indra Chowk to New Road, lined with identical white-washed stucco houses. Built after the 1934 earthquake, it is named after martyr Shukra Raj Shastri and serves as a prominent shopping street and Kathmandu landmark.
Ganesh Temple
A small temple located at the southwestern corner of the square, this shrine is dedicated to Ganesh (Ganedya). It serves as a gateway to Makhan and Kathmandu Durbar Square, linking important cultural sites.
