Things To Do
in Kirtipur
Kirtipur is a historic town located just southwest of Kathmandu, Nepal. Known for its ancient architecture and Newari culture, Kirtipur offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley. The town is home to several temples, including the iconic Bagh Bhairab Temple and Chilancho Stupa.
Visitors can explore narrow alleys, traditional houses, and vibrant local markets in this charming and picturesque town.
- "Timi lai kasto chha?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Ma sanchai chhu" - I am fine
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "Tapaiko naam ke ho?" - What is your name?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $25
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $7
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $20
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the historic Bagh Bhairab Temple, an important cultural site. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and observe local rituals.
Visit the Kirtipur Museum to delve into the rich history of the area. Explore the various artifacts that showcase the local heritage.
Stroll through the old streets of Kirtipur and admire the traditional Newari architecture. End the day with a delicious dinner at a local eatery.
Begin your culinary adventure by taking a cooking class focused on traditional Newari dishes. Learn how to prepare local favorites like Yomari and Kwati.
Enjoy the meal you prepared for lunch, savoring the authentic flavors. Explore local markets for fresh ingredients and spices.
Join a food tour in Kirtipur to sample various street foods. Relish the vibrant tastes and aromas unique to this region.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with ancient temples and monuments.
- Pleasant climate, making it an enjoyable place to live and visit.
- Proximity to Kathmandu, providing easy access to city amenities while retaining a quieter environment.
- Strong community spirit and friendly locals.
- Opportunities for local handicrafts and traditional industries.
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to larger urban areas.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours due to proximity to Kathmandu.
- Occasional issues with pollution and waste management.
- Access to modern healthcare facilities may be limited.
- Economic opportunities may be less compared to more developed urban centers.
Best Activities in Kirtipur
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a walking tour to explore the historical sites, temples, and narrow lanes of Kirtipur while enjoying the beautiful views of the Kathmandu Valley.
Embark on a hike to Champa Devi Hill for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, Kathmandu Valley, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Visit the ancient Bagh Bhairav Temple, dedicated to the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, and take in the architectural and cultural significance of the site.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kirtipur with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kirtipur
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Kirtipur and the surrounding area.
Provides stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley.
Known for its scenic location and beautiful views.
Food in Kirtipur
Kirtipur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A steamed dumpling filled with a mixture of molasses and sesame seeds, often enjoyed during the Yomari Punhi festival. Can be found at local bakeries and sweet shops like Byanjankar Sweets.
Must-Try!
A spicy minced raw meat dish, seasoned with traditional spices. An authentic version can be savored at Newa Momo Corner.
Often referred to as the Newari pizza, a rice flour crepe topped with minced meat, eggs, and vegetables. Best experienced at local eateries such as Mahalaxmi Chatamari Pasal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kirtipur better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Kirtipur Bazaar where you can savor local street food delights like Bara (a crispy lentil pancake), and various chaats and snacks from the bustling food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kirtipur, it is respectful to greet others with the traditional 'Namaste' gesture, pressing your palms together with a slight bow.
When entering someone's home or a religious site, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
Modest attire is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites. Women are advised to dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kirtipur with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kirtipur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kirtipur, Nepal. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Kirtipur, Nepal. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's important to carry enough cash when visiting local markets, small shops, and street vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kirtipur.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with warm weather, blooming flowers, and clear skies.
Another good time to visit with clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and festive celebrations.
Expect heavy rainfall, lush greenery, and occasional travel disruptions due to rain.
Cool temperatures with occasional fog, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Kirtipur at Night
Hiking in Kirtipur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hill station near Kirtipur, Nagarkot offers stunning views of the Himalayas and numerous hiking trails through lush forests.
Located just a short drive from Kirtipur, Chandragiri Hill is known for its panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the option to hike or take a cable car to the summit.
The highest hill surrounding the Kathmandu Valley, Phulchowki offers diverse flora and fauna, and several trails suitable for different skill levels.
This hiking route takes you through beautiful countryside and traditional villages, culminating in scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
A popular trekking route near Kirtipur that leads through forests and offers breathtaking views, perfect for a day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kirtipur through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kirtipur by plane.
The main airport serving Kathmandu and surrounding areas, located approximately 7 km from Kirtipur.
International airport located in Lumbini, around 250 km from Kirtipur, serving as a secondary major gateway.
An international airport situated in Pokhara, approximately 200 km from Kirtipur, facilitating travel to and from the western region of Nepal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Newars are the indigenous ethnolinguistic group of the Kathmandu Valley, known for their rich cultural heritage, festivals, and unique dialect.
Brahmins are a prominent Hindu caste in Nepal, traditionally priests and scholars. In Kirtipur, they play a significant role in local governance and cultural practices.
Chhetris are an important ethnic group in Nepal, primarily associated with the warrior class and agriculture. They are commonly engaged in various professions in Kirtipur.
Tamangs are an ethnic group in Nepal, known for their Tibetan Buddhist culture and customs. They contribute to the diverse cultural landscape of Kirtipur.
The Magars are an indigenous ethnic group known for their history of military service. They are part of the diverse demographic fabric of Kirtipur.
This category includes various smaller ethnic and demographic groups residing in Kirtipur, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity.
The Soul of Kirtipur
Discover the essence of Kirtipur through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kirtipur, passionately followed by many, with local teams and community participation.
Basketball enjoys a rising popularity among the youth in Kirtipur, with several courts and school teams participating in local leagues.
Cricket is also widely played, with various local clubs and schools engaging in friendly matches and tournaments.
Volleyball is a popular sport, especially among women, with many local competitions and community involvement.
Traditional sports, such as Dhido and local wrestling, are celebrated in community events, highlighting cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirtipur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as Yomari, bara, and vegetable chatamari. Newa Momo Corner and Kirtipur Hill Restaurant also provide ample vegetarian and vegan choices.
While some dishes may contain gluten, it's possible to find gluten-free options at certain establishments by communicating your dietary needs to the staff. Kirtipur Hill Restaurant is known for its accommodating approach to dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kirtipur with these cultural adventures.
