Kirtipur: Journey Through History and Heritage
Highlights
Kathmandu
Group Tour
3 Hours
EASY
English
Description
Tripadvisor Reviews This is a small group tour of max 5 people.
Step into the historic city of Kirtipur, a treasure trove of culture, spirituality, and tradition.Our tour begins at the Kirtipur Gate, where the stories of this ancient Newar city start to unfold.
Our first destination is Shree Kriti Bihar, a magnificent Buddhist monastery built in Thai architectural style.Here, we will explore the significance of the Four Auspicious Places in Buddhism: Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha; Bodh Gaya, where he attained enlightenment; Sarnath, where he delivered his first teachings; and Kushinagar, where he achieved final liberation.
From there, we’ll visit the Chilancho Stupa, a sacred Buddhist relic site with a deep spiritual aura.Next, we’ll walk to the Bagh Bhairav Temple, an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Bhairav, Shiva’s fierce manifestation, and hear the gripping tale of Nepal’s unification by King Prithvi Narayan Shah.
Our journey then leads us to the stunning Uma Maheshwar Temple, a hilltop marvel with intricate carvings.Here, you’ll learn the symbolic meaning behind the erotic strut carvings, connected to the balance between spirituality and earthly life.
We’ll conclude our tour by wandering through the lively streets and alleys of Kirtipur, immersing ourselves in its historical charm and Newar glory.After the tour ends, you can enjoy the flavors of authentic Newar cuisine, indulging in traditional dishes and local delicacies for a perfect finale to the day.
This enriching tour blends Buddhist and Hindu heritage with local gastronomy, offering an unforgettable cultural experience.
Itinerary
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Meeting Point | Kritipur Nayabazar Gate
We will meet at Kritipur Nayabazar Gate
Your guide will be available 15 minutes before each meeting time with a sign "Meeting Point - Amazing Kathmandu".
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Shree Kriti Bihar
Shree Kriti Bihar is a Theravada Buddhist monastery located in Kirtipur, known for its unique Thai architectural style.Built in 1975, it offers a serene environment for worship, meditation, and learning about Buddhist teachings.The monastery stands as a beautiful example of cultural exchange, having been constructed with the support of Thai Buddhists.
One of the monastery's most distinctive features is its replicas of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites: Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha), Bodhgaya (where Buddha attained enlightenment), Sarnath (where Buddha first taught), and Kushinagar (where Buddha passed into parinirvana).These replicas, along with the monastery’s shrine and pagoda, are adorned with unique Nepali art, making it a blend of both Nepali and Thai
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Chilancho
Chilancho Stupa, located on a hilltop, is a significant Buddhist monastery in the Kathmandu Valley, known for its unique architecture.Renovated in 1533 AD by Jagat Pal Verma, it features traditional Buddhist stupa/chaitya style with multiple chaityas surrounding a raised brick platform.The stupa’s top portion mirrors Swayambhu’s domical shape, with symbolic eyes and a 13-layer tapered circular form.
The site, also known as Chilancho Baha or Kyapu Baha, holds cultural importance with daily worship, occasional pujas, and festivals like Buddha Purnima and Ashwin Purnima.The peaceful complex offers a serene atmosphere and a scenic viewpoint of the Kathmandu Valley.
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Baghbhairav
Bagh Bhairab Temple, is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Bagh Bhairab, an incarnation of Lord Shiva depicted as a tiger.Dating back to the 16th century, the temple is believed by locals to protect the town of Kirtipur.
The temple is notable for featuring the swords used by Prithvi Narayan Shah's army during the Battle of Kirtipur, a significant event in Nepal's history.The Bagh Bhairab Temple stands as an important cultural and spiritual site for the community.
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Uma Maheshwor Temple
Uma Maheshwor Temple
Located atop Kirtipur hill near the Malla-period palace, Uma Maheshwor Temple is a three-storey temple dedicated to Shiva and Parvati, built around 1655.Local Newars refer to it as Kwa: Cho Dega.The temple was constructed by Vishow Nath of Ta: Bahal, as recorded in a copper inscription.It was restored after earthquake damage in 1993 and renovated further in 1982 by the local community.
The temple is known for its two stone elephant statues at the eastern entrance, and the figures of Bhimsen and Kuver, guardians of Shiva-Parvati.Notable is its bell, originally from Kathmandu’s Clock Tower, which was gifted by Prime Minister Judda Shamsher after the tower's damage in the 1934 earthquake.
Surrounding the temple is a serene atmosphere and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, making it a popular spot for both spiritual and scenic tourism.It’s believed that worshipping here can bless childless couples with children.
What's Included
What's Excluded
Know Before You Go
What To Bring
Please Note
Meeting Point
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.