Overview
Kirtipur is one of the oldest settlements in the Kathmandu Valley, perched on a rocky hill between 1,300-1,500 m elevation. Once the ancient capital of Nepal, it preserves a more authentic Newari character than tourist-saturated Kathmandu or Patan.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History
Before you go
Accommodation
Kirtipur Hillside Hotel offers rooms from US$15-20. Staying overnight provides cleaner air and quiet compared to Kathmandu.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi available at most hotels, lodges, restaurants, and cafes. Mobile phone coverage is good throughout the valley.
Culture
Kirtipur is one of the oldest Newari settlements in the valley, once the ancient capital of Nepal, preserving temples from the 17th-18th centuries.
Food
Traditional Newari restaurants serve local specialties like chatamari, yomari, and samay baji. Dishes start around ₨. 100 at casual spots.
Transport
Buses from Kathmandu's Ratna Park cost under ₨. 50 and take 30 minutes. Taxis run ₨. 500-1,000. Everything in town is walkable.
