KIRTIPUR

Visit Kirtipur for authentic experience of the Newari culture, the indigenous culture of the Kathmandu Valley. Walk along its narrow lanes to observe the life of the people who have lived for many generations per age-old traditions and beliefs. Try some Newari food. Enjoy.

Kirtipur is also the starting point for day hiking to nearby hills like Champa Devi from where you can get splendid view of the Himalayas on a clear day. Similarly, you could combine the trip to Kirtipur with visit to well-loved Ganesh temple Jal Vinayak in Chobar. Cycling to the little town and back is also an option, if you are a cycling enthusiast.

Kirtipur is situated on a ridge 8 km southwest of Kathmandu. The ancient Newar township – with its brick-paved streets lined with typical red brick houses and tiled roofs, and temple squares – is a natural fortress. The Chilamchu Stupa and the temple of Bagh Bhairav are major attractions here. Tribhuvan University, Nepal’s premier seat of education, is located at the foothills of Kirtpur.

The history of Kirtipur goes back to 1099 AD. It was earlier a part of Lalitpur till it was annexed into Kathmandu by Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1767.

Source: Nepal Tourism Board