Kirtipur
In Nepali: कीर्तिपुर
Kirtipur sits on a ridge south-west of Kathmandu, beside Tribhuvan University. It held out against the Gorkhali army in several sieges before falling in 1767, a turning point in the conquest of the valley.
Its brick lanes lead up to the Bagh Bhairav temple, hung with swords and shields, the Uma Maheshwar temple with its views, and the Chilancho stupa. Newar restaurants serve excellent local food, and the town feels far from the city though it is only a few kilometres away.
What to see and do
Climb to the Bagh Bhairav temple, decorated with swords, shields and buffalo horns, visit the Uma Maheshwar temple at the top of the town for its view over the valley, and see the Chilancho stupa and old Newar houses. Try Newar dishes such as samay baji, choila and yomari in local eateries.
Good to know
Kirtipur is an easy half-day trip, often combined with Chobhar gorge. The Kirtipur Nepali Newari restaurants on the ridge have views towards the city and the Himalaya on clear days.
Quick answers
- Where is Kirtipur?
- Kirtipur is in Kathmandu district, Bagmati Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Kirtipur?
- About 1,400 m (4,593 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Kirtipur?
- Kirtipur is in or right next to Kathmandu, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Kathmandu, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Kirtipur?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Kathmandu.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Kirtipur?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Kirtipur?
- Year-round
- How do I get to Kirtipur?
- About 30 minutes from central Kathmandu. It is about 7 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Kirtipur called in Nepali?
- कीर्तिपुर
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