Madhyapur Thimi
In Nepali: मध्यपुर थिमी
Thimi lies on a ridge beside the Araniko Highway, halfway between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. Its potters still shape clay on wheels in the squares and dry pots in the sun, and families make papier-mâché masks of gods and demons for festivals.
The town is most famous for Sindoor Jatra (Bisket) at Nepali New Year in April, when dozens of palanquins of gods are carried to the Balkumari temple and the crowds are showered in red vermilion powder.
What to see and do
Visit the Balkumari temple and the old squares, watch potters at work in the lanes, and look for shops selling hand-painted masks and clay figures. Around New Year, Sindoor Jatra and the Bisket festival transform the town with processions, music and clouds of red powder.
Good to know
Thimi is easy to reach by bus or taxi from Kathmandu and combines well with Bhaktapur. Wear old clothes if you attend Sindoor Jatra.
Quick answers
- Where is Madhyapur Thimi?
- Madhyapur Thimi is in Bhaktapur district, Bagmati Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Madhyapur Thimi?
- About 1,330 m (4,364 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Madhyapur Thimi?
- Madhyapur Thimi 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 Madhyapur Thimi?
- 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 Madhyapur Thimi?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Madhyapur Thimi?
- Sindoor Jatra (April); October–March
- How do I get to Madhyapur Thimi?
- About 30 minutes east of Kathmandu on the Araniko Highway. It is about 7 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Madhyapur Thimi called in Nepali?
- मध्यपुर थिमी
Photo gallery
1 / 9
