Cultural tour around Kirtipur (city of glory)

Kathmandu , Nepal

Cultural tour around Kirtipur (city of glory)

Active

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a hiking tour through the historical city with live culture around. The tour starts from a beautiful Manjushree park and hike to Adinath temple which is located in a hillock. You you have a beautiful downtown view and river way from a hill. Kirtipur city is less polluted and less traffic. Visit to the inner alleys of the city and Bag Bhairab temple and Uma Maheshwor temple. Amazing downtown can be seen from the yard of both temple. Visit Kirti Vihar and its around. You may talk to very young monk and sit down while heaving puja. Before drive back to your hotel, visit Thai temple and drop to your hotel.

Available options

Cultural tour around Kirtipur (city of glory)

Pickup included

Special Nepali lunch

Nepali authentic lunch <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

City tour guide to escort you and explain about the site

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

The 3 stories giant temple was built in 16th century was built in 16th century. The yard of the temple offer a nice over looking view to downtown of Kathmandu.

This is one of the great Gumpa in the Kathmandu valley where monks can learn about Buddhism and others can come to take meditation courses and visitors to see the Buddhist culture life style.

Perched on the highest hill of the historic town of Kirtipur, the Uma Maheshwor Temple is not just a religious site but a symbol of resilience, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. It is a place where history, architecture, and spirituality converge.
The Uma Maheshwor Temple originally built in 1655 AD by the Malla King Raghava Deva, it was severely damaged by cannon fire during Prithvi Narayan Shah's 1767 siege of the town and later contributed to its repair. The current three-tiered pagoda is a 1950s reconstruction, though it houses a much older shrine containing the sacred Shiva Lingam. Architecturally, the temple showcases classic Newari style with intricate wood carvings on its struts and torana. Its approach is guarded by two magnificent, weathered stone lions, ranked among the valley's finest, while a distinctively styled Shikhar spire temple nearby adds to the site's architectural diversity.

Located in the historic village of Chovar, just southwest of Kirtipur, the Adinath Temple holds a strategic and spiritually significant position. It is majestically situated on a rocky hilltop overlooking the sacred Chovar Gorge, where the legendary figure Manjushri is said to have cut a passage with his sword to drain the primordial lake from the Kathmandu Valley.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Yogeshwor (Adinath), this temple is a vital pilgrimage site, especially during the festival of Maha Shivaratri. The pagoda-style architecture, is modest but powerful in its setting. The true highlight is the breathtaking panoramic view it commands of the gorge, the Bagmati River, and the southern rim of the valley.

The site is deeply intertwined with local Newari Buddhist traditions as well, embodying the religious syncretism of Nepal. The annual Kartik Naach festival is performed here, blending Hindu and Buddhist rituals.

What's not included

Breakfast

Alcoholic Beverages

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Pashupatinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.

Religious 2-3 hours Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.

Religious/Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kathmandu Durbar Square

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.

Historical/Architectural Half-day trip NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dal Bhat

A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)

Momo

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.

Snack/Appetizer Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan

Sel Roti

A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)

Gundruk

A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.

Side Dish Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free

Popular Activities

Trekking Mountain biking Paragliding Rafting Yoga and meditation retreats Spa treatments Café hopping Gardening

Best Time to Visit

October to November and March to April

These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

20-30°C (68-86°F) 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Nepali
Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Time Zone

Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
• Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Galkopul, Kalanki

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Thamel Boudha Patan (Lalitpur) Bhaktapur

Day trips

Nagarkot

32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.

Dhulikhel

30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.

Changunarayan

18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.

Festivals

Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year) Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year) Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn