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Kirtipur

Kirtipur, Nepal

Step Back in Time in Kirtipur, Nepal Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, Kirtipur is a living museum steeped in history and culture. More than just a pretty view, this ancient Newari town offers visitor…

#Historic#Cultural#Mountainous#Temples#Traditional

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kirtipur.

Top Hotels in Kirtipur

Top Flights to Kirtipur

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kirtipur.

Tours

Explore Kirtipur's Historical Sites

Discover the cultural and historical heritage of Kirtipur by visiting its ancient temples and monuments.

Shopping

Kirtipur Shopping Tour

Delight in a shopping tour through local markets and shops, experiencing the vibrant culture and craftsmanship.

Outdoor

Hilltop Hiking Adventure

Enjoy a refreshing hike to the hills surrounding Kirtipur with beautiful views of the valley.

Location videos

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kirtipur.

Currency

₨ | NPR | Nepalese Rupee

Population

Not Available

Languages

Nepali, Nepal Bhasa

Average weather

Kirtipur

Jan

17°3°

Feb

18°5°

Mar

22°8°

Apr

25°12°

May

26°16°

Jun

25°19°

Jul

24°20°

Aug

24°20°

Sep

24°19°

Oct

23°15°

Nov

20°9°

Dec

18°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kirtipur.

What people love

Kirtipur is a historic town located just a few kilometers southwest of Kathmandu, Nepal. Traveling to Kirtipur can offer several unique experiences and benefits for visitors. Some of the pros of traveling to Kirtipur include:

Historical and Cultural Significance: Kirtipur is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The town has several ancient temples, shrines, and traditional Newari architecture that offer insights into Nepal's cultural past. Visitors can explore the narrow lanes, old buildings, and ancient monuments that reflect the town's historical importance.
Scenic Views: Kirtipur is situated on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Kathmandu Valley. Visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of the valley, with the Himalayan mountains in the backdrop on a clear day. The town's elevated location provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.
Authentic Newari Cuisine: Kirtipur is known for its authentic Newari cuisine, which is a unique culinary experience for visitors. Newari dishes like bara, chatamari, and yomari are popular in Kirtipur and can be enjoyed in local eateries and restaurants.
Charming Local Markets: Kirtipur has bustling local markets where visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products. The markets offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the local residents and are great places to interact with the friendly locals.
Easy Access to Kathmandu: Kirtipur is located just a short drive away from Kathmandu, making it a convenient day trip destination for visitors staying in the capital city. Traveling to Kirtipur allows tourists to explore a different aspect of Nepalese culture and history without straying too far from Kathmandu.

Overall, traveling to Kirtipur can be a rewarding experience for visitors interested in history, culture, and authentic local experiences in Nepal.

What to know

Kirtipur, located in Nepal, is a historic town known for its cultural heritage and ancient architecture. However, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Kirtipur:

Limited accommodation options: Kirtipur is a small town, and as such, there may be limited choices for accommodation compared to larger cities. Visitors may find it challenging to find high-end hotels or modern amenities in the area.
Limited dining options: While Kirtipur offers some local eateries and street food stalls, the variety of dining options may be limited. Visitors with specific dietary requirements or preferences may find it challenging to find suitable dining choices.
Lack of tourist infrastructure: Kirtipur is not as popular as other tourist destinations in Nepal, such as Kathmandu or Pokhara. As a result, the town may lack some essential tourist infrastructure, such as tourist information centers, guided tours, or English-speaking locals.
Transportation issues: Kirtipur's narrow, winding streets and hilly terrain can make transportation challenging. Public transportation options may be limited, and navigating the town on foot may be difficult for visitors with mobility issues.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Kirtipur is a quiet town known for its historical sites and cultural attractions. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or a wide range of entertainment options may find Kirtipur lacking in this regard.

Overall, while Kirtipur offers a unique cultural experience and a glimpse into Nepal's rich history, visitors should be prepared for the town's limitations in terms of accommodation, dining, tourist infrastructure, transportation, and entertainment options.

Kirtipur is a historic town located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Here's a detailed history of Kirtipur:

Early History

Kirtipur, meaning "Glorious Town," was founded in the 12th century. It is one of the oldest settlements in the Kathmandu Valley and was initially part of the kingdom of Lalitpur. The town has a predominantly Newar population, an ethnic group known for their rich culture and history in the region.

Malla Period

During the Malla period, Kirtipur was a significant cultural and political center. The Malla kings, who ruled the Kathmandu Valley from the 12th to the 18th century, were instrumental in developing Kirtipur's architecture, art, and culture. The town was known for its well-planned streets, traditional Newar houses, and numerous temples and shrines.

Gorkha Conquest

One of the most significant events in Kirtipur's history was its conquest by King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the ruler of the Gorkha Kingdom, in the 18th century. Kirtipur was a strategic location for Shah’s campaign to unify Nepal. The town resisted his initial attempts at conquest, leading to a prolonged and bloody siege.

Siege of Kirtipur (1767): The battle for Kirtipur was fierce, and it took Shah several attempts before he could capture it. The resistance was so strong that the Gorkhali forces suffered heavy casualties. Eventually, in 1767, Kirtipur fell to Prithvi Narayan Shah after a strategic maneuver and betrayal from within its walls. As a punitive measure, Shah ordered the noses and lips of captured Kirtipur warriors to be cut off, a brutal and famous event in Nepali history.

Post-Unification

After its conquest, Kirtipur became part of the unified Kingdom of Nepal. The town retained much of its cultural heritage despite political changes and remained an essential part of the Kathmandu Valley's socio-cultural fabric.

Modern Era

In contemporary times, Kirtipur is known for its educational institutions, including Tribhuvan University, Nepal's largest and oldest university, which is located there. The town has managed to preserve its traditional Newar culture and architecture, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in history and culture.

Important Landmarks

Bagh Bhairab Temple: One of the most revered temples in Kirtipur, dedicated to the god Bhairab in his tiger form. It is an excellent example of traditional Newar architecture and is known for its intricate wood carvings and metalwork.
Uma Maheshwar Temple: Another significant temple located on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Chilancho Stupa: An ancient Buddhist stupa believed to date back to the 15th century, showcasing the harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions in Kirtipur.
Kirtipur Durbar Square: Although smaller than its counterparts in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, the Durbar Square in Kirtipur is rich with temples, shrines, and traditional Newar buildings.

Cultural Significance

Kirtipur is known for its vibrant festivals and traditional Newar celebrations, including Indra Jatra and Gai Jatra, which are celebrated with much zeal and enthusiasm. The town’s residents have maintained their traditional lifestyle and continue to speak Nepal Bhasa, the language of the Newar people.

Kirtipur's history is a testament to the resilience and cultural richness of its people, making it a significant part of Nepal's heritage.