1. Bagh Bhairav Temple
Bagh Bhairav Temple is 600 meters from the Kirtipur Nayabazar gate. It takes approximately 12-15 minutes to walk there, but if you have a personal vehicle, you can get there in about 5 minutes.
Bagh Bhairav Temple is located in Ward Number 1 of Kirtipur Municipality and is one of the oldest temples in the area. It is dedicated to Bhairav, who is worshipped in the form of a tiger (Bagh). Every year, the temple hosts the Bagh Bhairab Jatra festival, where people come to pray for health and prosperity. The locals consider Bagh Bhairav their protector god, Ajudyo, and offer prayers to him before important events like weddings and rice-feeding ceremonies.
On the western side of the temple, there is a small space dedicated to Nasa Dyo, the god of music and dance. Nearby, there is another shrine called Hi-pha-dyo, where people perform sacrifices.
The temple is a beautiful example of Newah architecture with three tiers resting on raised brick platforms. A stone stairway, guarded by stone elephants, leads to a verandah on the ground floor. The upper structure is supported by 20 carved columns, and the roofs are covered with tiles and decorated with images of gods. Topped with a metal gajur, the temple also offers great views of Kathmandu due to its high location.
Reasons to Visit Bagh Bhairav Temple
Visiting this temple offers a unique experience for its stunning Newah architecture, with its intricately carved columns, tiled roofs, and peaceful surroundings. The temple also provides cultural and spiritual significance, making it a great spot for those interested in history and local traditions. Plus, its elevated location offers breathtaking views of Kathmandu and the surrounding valley, adding to the serene and scenic atmosphere.
2. Uma-Maheshwor temple
The Uma Maheshwor Temple is situated close to Bagh Bhairav Temple. If you’re at Bagh Bhairav Temple, you can easily walk to Uma Maheshwor Temple in just a few minutes, or you can also reach it by bike or car. It takes about 3-5 minutes to walk from Bagh Bhairav Temple to Uma Maheshwor Temple.
Legend has it that Bishwo Nath from Patan funded the construction of this temple and installed the idols of Bhawani Shankar, now revered as Bhawani Shankar Uma Maheshwor. This installation honors Shiva and his consort Parvati, who are both highly venerated in Hinduism.
Inside the temple, you can find inscriptions dating back to 1662 AD, 1678 AD, 1679 AD, 1687 AD, and 1715 AD (782 NS, 798 NS, 779 NS, 807 NS, and 835 NS). The temple also houses idols of Saraswati, Maheshmardini, and Ganesh.
3. Chilancho Stupa
The name “Chilancho” combines two Newah words: “Chilan,” meaning eternal, and “Cho,” meaning hilltop, translating to “eternal stupa on the hilltop.” Located at Singhaduwal Tole, Ward No. 10 in Kirtipur, the stupa is part of a Buddhist monastery complex known locally as Chilancho Baha and historically as Jagatpal Maha Vihar. Residents of Patan and Kathmandu also refer to it as Kyapu Baha.
Archaeologists find the Chaityas here unique and significant. The site hosts regular worship and various cultural activities, including the Buddha Purnima Jatra procession, Ashwin Purnima celebrations, and rituals like ‘Ihi’ and ‘Bratabandha’ (Ketapuja). The ample open space also accommodates occasional cultural events such as Mha Puja and exhibitions.
4. Nagar Mandap Sri Kirti Vihar – Buddhist Monastery
The monastery is commonly known as Kirtipur Nayabazar Gumba but is also referred to by several other names, including Nagar Mandap Sri Kirti Vihar, Thai Gumba, Bauddha Gumba, and Sumangal Park.
Nagar Mandap Sri Kirti Vihar is a Theravada Buddhist monastery located in Kirtipur. Constructed in 1975, it showcases traditional Thai architectural style. Although relatively new, the monastery is notable for its inclusion of models representing the four sacred sites of Buddhism. The head monk of the monastery also serves at Tribhuvan University in Kirtipur.
Visitors to Nagar Mandap Sri Kirti Vihar can enjoy its beautiful architecture and vibrant spiritual and cultural activities. The temple’s calm atmosphere and rich history make it a great spot for those interested in Hindu traditions and Kathmandu’s cultural heritage.
5. Pushpa Lal Park
Pushpa Lal Park is a well-known public park located in Kirtipur, Nepal. Named after Pushpa Lal Shrestha, a prominent political leader and the founding member of the Communist Party of Nepal, the park is a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.
The park is a popular destination for relaxation and recreation, offering a lush, green environment with well-maintained lawns, trees, and pathways. It’s an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities.
The park holds historical significance, honoring Pushpa Lal Shrestha’s contributions to Nepal’s political landscape. Facilities at the park include benches, walking paths, and open spaces that cater to various recreational activities.
6. Bishnu Devi Temple Bhajangal
In the Newar language, ‘Bhajan’ means a dry-cooking pot. According to tradition, when a body is taken to be cremated, a large dry-cooking pot filled with burning coal is also brought. After the cremation, the pot is thrown into the pit. Over time, many such pots may have accumulated, leading to the place being called ‘Bhajangala.’ Locals refer to the village as ‘Bhajanga,’ where ‘Ga’ means a small hill without a settlement.
7. Kirtipur – Chandragiri Suspension Bridge
The Kirtipur Suspension Bridge, located in the scenic northwest of Kirtipur, connects Tinthana and Chandragiri. Hanging 50 meters above the Balkhu Khola River, it offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley.
The bridge is a great spot for photos and relaxation, with park benches nearby and local food stalls offering tasty snacks. It’s a popular place for both locals and tourists, providing a peaceful break from city life and a chance to enjoy Nepal’s natural beauty.
8. Machhenarayan Temple – Chandragiri
Machchhe Narayan Temple, located on the Chandragiri Municipality near Kirtipur, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Machchhe Narayan, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
The name “Machchhe Narayan” is derived from a story about an avatar of the god Vishnu. According to the tale, Manu discovered a small fish struggling to survive while bathing in a river. He took the fish home and placed it in a small pot of water. The next day, the fish had grown so large that it no longer fit in the pot.
Manu then transferred it to a pond, but the fish soon outgrew that as well. Realizing the fish was extraordinary, Manu respectfully asked it to reveal its true nature. The fish then transformed, and Vishnu appeared from its mouth. To commemorate this divine event, Manu built the Machchhe Narayan Temple at the center of the pond.
The area provides ample opportunities for scenic walks and reflection. The temple’s elevated position allows for breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding landscape, making it a memorable experience for those interested in combining spirituality with nature.
9. Bishnu Devi Temple
Bishnu Devi Temple Located in Tinthana, Chandragiri 15, Kathmandu District, Nepal, this site is renowned for its cultural heritage and serves as the main venue for the Saatgaule Jatra. This festival is one of the most significant and popular celebrations in the western part of the Kathmandu Valley and is held at the Bishnu Devi Temple.
The term ‘Saatgaule’ translates to ‘Seven Villages,’ referring to Naikap, Satungal, Boshigaun, Nunkot, Tinthana, Machhegaun, and Kirtipur. According to local legend, the festival’s name originates from an ancient event where seven pigeons unexpectedly fell into the fire during a priestly homage, leading to the festival being named Saatgaule Jatra.
Bishnu Devi Temple is an active center for Hindu rituals and festivals. Major celebrations include the goddess’s annual festival, where devotees gather for special prayers, offerings, and ceremonies. The temple’s vibrant atmosphere during these events reflects the rich cultural heritage of the local community.
10. Chovar
Nepalese mythology tells that the Kathmandu Valley was once a vast lake. Legend has it that Manjushree, a revered Bodhisattva in Buddhism, recognized the valley’s potential and sliced through the hill at Chovar with his sword, draining the lake’s waters and making the land suitable for habitation. The Chovar Gorge marks the site of this legendary event, giving the area its deep mythological significance.
Things to do in Chovar
- A significant geological feature steeped in local legend. You can enjoy scenic views of the gorge and the surrounding landscape.
- You can enjoy a ziplining adventure at the Chobhar Gorge Canopy Zipline.
- You can also explore Whoopee Land’s Park for activities like ziplining, the Happy Swing Car, VR motion games, the train ride, bumper cars, Bhoot Ghar, along with thrilling rides, family rides, adventure rides, kiddie rides, and the Jurassic Safari.
