Perched above Kathmandu, the historic town of Kirtipur showcases authentic Newari culture without the big-city crowds. The best tours here focus on local life, traditional architecture, and stunning valley views. I especially love the Day Tour of Monkey Temple & Kirtipur – it smartly combines two must-see spots, letting you experience both the spiritual energy of Swayambhunath and the quiet backstreets of old Kirtipur. For food lovers, the Newari Food Tour stands out, offering chances to taste local specialties like sel roti and creamy juju dhau yogurt in family-run spots. The Photography Tour and Private City Tour are perfect for exploring both famous landmarks and hidden corners at your own pace. Take a look at our favorite Kirtipur tours below.
Key Points
- The Newari Food Tour in Kirtipur offers an immersive culinary experience showcasing the rich Newari culinary heritage and traditional dishes like sel roti and juju dhau.
- The Day Tour of Monkey Temple & Kirtipur combines visits to the serene Swayambhunath and the historic Newari town of Kirtipur, providing insights into the local culture and architecture.
- The Kathmandu Private City Tour includes a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Boudhanath Stupa and a visit to the intricate carvings and rituals at Pashupatinath.
- The Photography Tour Around Hidden Kathmandu offers an immersive experience in capturing the vibrant colors, textures, and candid moments of Kathmandu, including lesser-known city corners and iconic landmarks.
- The Food Tour in Kathmandu highlights the diverse culinary scene of the city, with a focus on discovering Nepali cuisine, especially the specialty Newari dishes in Kirtipur.
Photography Tour Around Hidden Kathmandu
For those seeking an immersive photography experience, the “Photography Tour Around Hidden Kathmandu” offers a unique opportunity to capture the vibrant, lesser-known corners of the city.
Led by experienced local guides, this tour takes participants off the beaten path, exploring the quaint alleyways, bustling markets, and hidden temples that are often overlooked by travelers.
Participants will have the chance to practice their photography skills, learning techniques for capturing the rich textures, vibrant colors, and candid moments that define Kathmandu’s urban landscape.
The tour includes stops at iconic landmarks, such as the Boudhanath Stupa and the Durbar Square, as well as lesser-known gems like the charming Newari settlements and the lively Asan Tole market.
Throughout the journey, the guides provide valuable insights into the city’s history, culture, and daily life, enabling participants to not only capture stunning images but also gain a deeper understanding of the local community.
The “Photography Tour Around Hidden Kathmandu” is a must-do activity for anyone seeking to enjoy the heart of Kathmandu.
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Kathmandu Private City Tour
Travelers seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Kathmandu’s highlights will find the Kathmandu Private City Tour an ideal choice. This personalized tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering a deeper understanding of its rich cultural heritage.
The tour typically begins with a visit to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist shrines in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests then explore the historic Durbar Square, a captivating ensemble of temples, palaces, and courtyards that showcases Nepalese architectural prowess.
Next, the tour ventures to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, which provides panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. The final stop is Pashupatinath, a Hindu temple complex along the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, known for its intricate carvings and rituals.
Throughout the tour, travelers have the opportunity to interact with local guides, who share insights into the city’s history, traditions, and daily life, creating a truly immersive experience.
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Day Tour of Monkey Temple & Kritipur, Tasting Local Cuisines
This comprehensive day tour offers travelers an immersive experience, combining visits to the iconic Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and the historic Kirtipur town. Priced from $70 per person, the 6-hour private tour includes a knowledgeable English-speaking guide and pickup/drop-off from Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, or Lalitpur.
At the UNESCO-listed Swayambhunath, you’ll explore the ancient stupa, take in panoramic views, and observe the serene ambiance and playful monkeys.
Then, venture to the medieval town of Kirtipur, known for its Newari culture and history. Wander the narrow streets, admire traditional brick houses, and visit the Bagh Bhairab Temple and Chilancho Stupa.
The tour also features a culinary experience, with lunch at a local café showcasing Nepali cuisine. Savor the opportunity to taste authentic local dishes and discover the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Bottled water is provided throughout the tour, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Day Tour of Monkey Temple & Kritipur, Tasting Local Cuisines Review
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Newari Food Tour
Immersing oneself in Kirtipur’s vibrant Newari culture wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its renowned local cuisine. A Newari food tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich gastronomic heritage of this ancient city.
Participants can expect to indulge in a tantalizing array of traditional dishes, from the savory sel roti to the sweet juju dhau. The tour typically begins at a local Newari bakery, where visitors can witness the skilled preparation of these iconic delicacies.
From there, the journey continues to family-run eateries, where Newari home-cooked meals are served in an authentic setting. Guests will have the chance to learn about the cultural significance and preparation methods of each dish, gaining a deeper appreciation for Newari culinary traditions.
Whether it’s the smoky flavor of gundruk or the creamy texture of the famous kachila, this immersive food tour promises to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression on any visitor to Kirtipur.
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Food Tour in Kathmandu
Exploring Kathmandu’s vibrant culinary scene is made easy with a street food tour that takes visitors on a delightful journey through the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Priced from €35.28 per person, this 6-hour private guided tour offers an immersive experience in English, Japanese, Chinese, French, and Hindi.
Highlights include ancient Chabahil, the arts hub of Patan, the authentic Newari culture of Kirtipur, and the historic Basantapur Durbar Square.
The focus is on discovering Nepali cuisine, with a focus on specialty Newari dishes tailored to dietary preferences. Travelers will traverse alleyways to find generations-old traditional eateries, accompanied by a professional guide.
Included are mineral water, government taxes, and service charges, though transfers, food, and beverages are excluded. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides an excellent way to explore Kathmandu’s vibrant food scene.
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Historic South Kathmandu Valley Tour
Situated just south of Kathmandu’s bustling city center, the historic South Kathmandu Valley offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage.
This guided tour takes travelers to some of the area’s most significant historical sites, including the ancient Bungamati village, the iconic Kirtipur fortress, and the revered Dakshin Kali temple.
Along the way, visitors will learn about the area’s intricate architecture, religious traditions, and daily life. Highlights include exploring the narrow alleyways of Bungamati, admiring the impressive Newari-style buildings in Kirtipur, and witnessing the rituals and ceremonies at Dakshin Kali.
The tour also provides insight into the local community’s resilience and preservation of their cultural identity.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply experiencing the authentic charm of the region, the Historic South Kathmandu Valley Tour is a must-do activity for any visitor to the area.
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Sum Up
Kirtipur offers a diverse range of tour options for visitors. From photography tours to food tours, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re looking to explore hidden gems or savor local cuisines, these tours provide an engaging and immersive experience. With experienced guides and well-planned itineraries, visitors can discover the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this charming Nepalese city.