Things To Do
in Kirtipur
Kirtipur is a hilltop town just southwest of Kathmandu, known for its well-preserved Newar heritage and panoramic valley views. Its ancient temples, courtyards, and traditional houses give a glimpse into a slower-paced, culturally rich side of Nepal. The town sits on elevated ground, offering cooler temperatures and commanding sunsets over Kathmandu Valley.
A short ride from Kathmandu makes it a peaceful base for exploring history, culture, and nearby hikes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Kirtipur, absorbing the traditional Newari architecture that lines the streets. Visit the ancient temples, such as the Bagh Bhairab Temple, where you can witness local worshippers engaging in their morning rituals. Take your time to explore the intricacies of wood carvings and stone sculptures that tell the story of Kirtipur's rich cultural heritage.
After a traditional Nepali lunch at a local eatery, continue your exploration by visiting the Kirtipur Museum, which showcases the history and art of the town. Wander through the narrow alleys, discovering hidden gems like small shops selling handicrafts and textiles made by local artisans. Capture the vibrant atmosphere as you interact with friendly locals and learn about their way of life.
As the sun begins to set, head to the vantage point at Chobhar Hill for panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Enjoy a peaceful moment as the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink, providing a perfect backdrop for photography. Finish your day with a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant, savoring traditional dishes while soaking in the serene ambiance.
Immerse yourself in Kirtipur's rich Newar culture by participating in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes like 'dal bhat' and 'momo'. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local cuisine and its significance in daily life. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share the meal with fellow participants and your host family.
Post-lunch, embark on a guided walking tour of Kirtipur’s ancient pathways, learning about the significance of various temples and shrines. Visit the iconic Uma Maheshwor Temple, where you can observe the intricate rituals performed by the priests. Engage with local artisans and perhaps try your hand at pottery or weaving, gaining insight into these age-old crafts.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional Newari music and dance, held at a local community center. Witness the vibrant costumes and rhythmic movements that reflect the rich heritage of Kirtipur. After the performance, enjoy a casual conversation with the performers, who share their stories and the significance of the dances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🫖Tea or coffee | $0.5-2 |
| 💧Bottled water (1L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.2-0.5 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/hostel per night | $7-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Newar culture and historic sights
- Close proximity to Kathmandu with easy access to major sights
- Walkable town with charming streets and courtyards
- Great base for short hikes and day trips in the valley
- Limited nightlife compared with Thamel/Lalitpur
- Some services outside main streets can be basic
- Steep and uneven streets in the old town may be challenging for some travelers
- Crowding during festivals and peak seasons
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Tapaiko ke ho?" - How are you?
- "Ma sanchai chhu" - I am fine
- "Kripaya madat garnuhos" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Kirtipur
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic stupa and temple complex with intricate wood carvings; best in the early morning light for clear details.
Ancient temple perched on a hillside offering sweeping city views and a sense of timeless devotion.
Narrow lanes framed by traditional Newari houses, perfect for candid street photography and portrait shots.
Temple area with elevated vantage points overlooking the valley, ideal for sunset silhouettes.
Food in Kirtipur
Kirtipur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin rice crepe topped with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices; crispy edges and a savory center are common. Best tried at traditional town eateries.
Must-Try!
A savory chickpea or black-eyed pea patty, often served with chutney or as part of a thali; a popular street and home snack.
Steamed dumplings with meat or vegetable fillings, widely available and perfect with a dipping sauce.
Fermented leafy greens soup that embodies Nepal’s preserve-and-flavor approach; commonly enjoyed with rice and other sides.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Street stalls offering momo, chaat, fried snacks, and fresh produce; great for a casual bite and people-watching.
Concentration of small stalls where you can sample fried breads, seasonal snacks, and beverages while mingling with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before temple entry, and ask before photographing religious scenes.
Use polite greetings like Namaste; speak softly in sacred spaces and respect local customs and personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Kirtipur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% in nicer restaurants; guides and drivers often expect a small gratuity.
Cash is widely used; some establishments in Kirtipur may not accept cards. ATMs are common in the Kathmandu area; plan ahead.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August are hot and humid with afternoon monsoon showers; mornings tend to be clearer, though occasional downpours can occur.
September–November brings cool, dry air and excellent visibility; ideal for photography and temple visits.
December–February can be chilly, especially at night, but generally dry and sunny during the day.
March–May features mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making walks and hikes particularly pleasant.
Kirtipur at Night
Hiking in Kirtipur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and viewpoints offering city panoramas; a popular short hike from the southern edge of the valley.
Longer hike with cable car access to a high vantage point overlooking the valley; popular for a full-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Kirtipur by plane.
Kathmandu’s main international airport; a short drive from central Kathmandu and a quick ride to Kirtipur depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley with deep cultural and culinary traditions; many artisans and traders in Kirtipur.
Smaller presence; residents from surrounding hills and rural areas with diverse customs.
Nearby universities and proximity to Kathmandu attract students and temporary residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common in Nepal; local games and school-level matches are often played in towns and fields.
Popular among youths; informal matches in open spaces and school grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirtipur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Newari dishes can be prepared vegetarian; request no meat and emphasize dal bhat, vegetables, and lentil dishes.