13 Fantastic Tours & Experiences In Kirtipur

Kirtipur is a wonderful place to explore beyond the hustle of Kathmandu. Its medieval streets, historic temples, and local food scene make it a prime candidate for memorable tours. What sets Kirtipur apart is its authentic atmosphere—small enough to explore on foot, yet packed with spiritual sites and tasty surprises. We especially like the Kirtipur: Kritipur Tour, tasting local Cuisines and Drinks for its blend of culture, history, and food. Whether you’re interested in uncovering ancient temples or sampling traditional Newari fare, Kirtipur offers a genuine glimpse of Nepalese life away from the tourist crowds.

In this guide, you’ll find a variety of tours: from cultural walking adventures and UNESCO site visits to culinary tastings and spiritual explorations. Each experience is designed to give you a deeper understanding of Kirtipur and Kathmandu’s surrounding area. Below, we’ll walk through each tour to help you choose the best fit for your interests and travel style.

1. Kirtipur: Kritipur Tour, tasting local Cuisines and Drinks

For $90 per person, this private day tour offers an engaging mix of cultural exploration and culinary delights. You’ll wander through the ancient streets of Kirtipur, discovering its spiritual sites and historic alleys, all with an experienced guide who shares insights into Nepal’s rich heritage. The highlight is tasting authentic local foods and drinks, including regional specialties, in a setting that feels both lively and intimate. The tour also includes a visit to Dakshinkali and options to see playful monkeys around the temples.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local cuisine—a perfect choice for food lovers eager to sample the true flavors of Nepal. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience, as this is a private tour. The combination of history, local culture, and culinary tasting makes this a well-rounded choice for a full day in Kirtipur.

Bottom Line: A great pick if you’re looking for a comprehensive, personalized day that combines cultural sights with food.

2. Kathmandu: Group Tour to 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

At just $70 per person, this group tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Kathmandu’s most iconic sites in one day. The tour covers all seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites inside the valley, including ancient temples, palaces, and stupas. The guide will pick you up from your accommodation, making logistics easy.

What’s special here is the chance to understand Nepal’s religious and cultural history through sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, and Patan. The tour offers insights into Buddhism and Hinduism, making it ideal for those interested in Nepal’s spiritual traditions. Because it’s a group, it’s a good value for travelers on a budget who want a broad overview.

Bottom Line: An excellent way to see the essentials of Kathmandu’s cultural and religious landscape efficiently.

3. Kathmandu: Cultural Hiking around Kirtipur with Nepali Lunch

For $51 per person, this half-day hiking experience combines scenic views, spiritual sites, and authentic food. Starting from Thamel, you’ll hike through the peaceful Chovar Gorge and Manjushree Park, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection. The hike includes visits to Adinath Temple and Ume Maheshwor Temple, both offering breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley.

One of the tour’s highlights is enjoying homemade Nepali MOMO at a local restaurant—delicious and authentic. The tour balances physical activity with culture, making it suitable for those who enjoy light hiking and exploring on foot. The itinerary includes visits to temples, sacred sites, and panoramic viewpoints.

Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want to experience Kirtipur’s spiritual sites and scenic vistas while enjoying authentic Nepali cuisine.

4. Kathmandu: Newari Cuisine and Snack Culture Guided Tour

At $76 per person, this guided food tour dives into Kathmandu’s Old Market areas like Ason and Lahana, where history and food collide. You’ll taste traditional Newari snacks, visit a local women’s open kitchen, and enjoy a coffee at Karma. It’s a flavor-packed journey that reveals local culinary traditions and the stories behind the dishes.

What makes this tour special is the focus on street-level food and local markets, giving you an authentic taste of what Nepali people snack on daily. If you’re a foodie eager to learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques, this is a perfect fit. Plus, the guide shares insights into Kathmandu’s history and its food culture.

Bottom Line: Ideal if you want an immersive, culinary experience in Kathmandu’s historic food markets.

5. Kathmandu: Traditional Alcohol and Snacks Tasting Day Tour

For $90 per person, this tour offers a deep dive into Nepalese brewing traditions. You’ll sip local brews like Chyang, Raksi, and Tongba, learning about their cultural significance in traditional ceremonies. Tastings happen in various settings—hidden taverns, family courtyards, and temples—giving an authentic experience.

What makes this tour compelling is the storytelling about brewing myths, rituals, and secrets shared by local experts. It’s a rich experience for those interested in Nepal’s drinking culture and traditional crafts. Guests often enjoy the intimate setting of a 200-year-old courtyard or a tucked-away stall in Ason Market.

Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who want to explore Nepal’s brewing traditions and taste unique local beverages.

6. Kathmandu: 5-Day Cultural & Spiritual Tour

This comprehensive five-day tour is tailored for those wanting an in-depth experience. It includes visits to UNESCO sites like Swayambhunath and Patan, explorations of hidden local temples, and an authentic food tour. The tour also features a sound healing meditation at a monastery, adding a spiritual dimension.

It’s best suited for travelers with more time who want to enjoy Kathmandu’s culture and spirituality. The tour’s depth makes it a great value for those wanting a detailed understanding of Nepal’s traditions, art, and daily life.

Bottom Line: Ideal if you’re seeking a deep, multi-day culture that balances sightseeing, spiritual practice, and local cuisine.

7. Kathmandu: Buddhist Monasteries Tour with Lunch

This four-hour tour includes visits to Kopan Monastery, Seto Gumba, and Chilancho Stupa, giving you a peaceful insight into Buddhist practice. The guide offers stories about each site, with opportunities for reflection and pictures. A traditional Nepalese or Tibetan-style lunch is included.

Perfect for spirituality seekers or those interested in Buddhist architecture and meditation, this tour emphasizes the serene atmosphere of Kathmandu’s monasteries. The visit to Chilancho, one of the oldest stupas, adds historical weight. The tour is flexible, with pickup from central locations.

Bottom Line: Great for a calm, spiritual break from busy sightseeing, especially if you want to learn about Buddhist traditions.

8. Kathmandu Cultural Day Tour with Travel Photography

This eight-hour tour is tailored for photo enthusiasts eager to capture Nepal’s vibrant scenes. It includes stops at Ganba Jewelry, Kirtipur Village, Swayambhunath, and Durbar Square, with a guide providing photography tips along the way.

The highlight is the complimentary travel photography, which ensures you leave with high-quality images of Kathmandu’s most photogenic sites. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to combine cultural exploration with photography skills.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want to capture the essence of Kathmandu visually while exploring its landmarks.

9. Kathmandu: Dakshinkali Temple and Kirtipur Day Tour

This full-day tour, priced for private groups, combines spiritual visits and culture. It includes time at Dakshinkali Temple to experience local rituals, as well as Kirtipur’s ancient streets and temples. The inclusion of a local lunch with mountain views enhances the experience.

It’s perfect for travelers interested in religious traditions and local town life. The 12-hour itinerary offers a rich, full-day experience with flexible pickup options from your hotel.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for those who want a combination of spiritual and cultural sights in one day.

10. Kathmandu: Everest Flight, Village Walk, and Lunch

For a not-so-typical experience, this single-day tour combines a mount Everest scenic flight with a walk through a traditional Newari village and local lunch. It’s ideal for adventure-minded travelers eager for spectacular mountain views complemented by cultural insights.

During your flight, you’ll see Everest and the Himalayan range, while the village walk reveals local architecture and daily life. The tour provides a unique perspective on Nepal’s geography and culture.

Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking an aerial adventure with cultural flavor in one memorable day.

11. Kathmandu: Patan and Kirtipur Private Day Tour

This six-hour private tour offers a rich exploration of Patan’s ancient squares and Kirtipur’s hilltop temples. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a personalized experience. The tour includes Patan Durbar Square’s palaces and temples and Kirtipur’s traditional streets and shrines.

A highlight is walking through Kirtipur’s historic alleys and enjoying authentic Newari cuisine. The guide emphasizes cultural nuances and local traditions, making it a rewarding experience for those who want a detailed, flexible itinerary.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who value a private, in-depth cultural tour with tailored stops.

12. Street Food Tour in Kathmandu

At just $37, this six-hour guided food adventure takes you through the bustling streets of Kathmandu, tasting traditional snacks and exploring the historic architecture along the way. You’ll visit iconic sites like Durbar Square and Kirtipur, sampling local delicacies.

The tour offers a real taste of Nepalese street food culture, with insights into local ingredients and cooking traditions. It’s perfect for foodies who want to experience the city through its flavors, and it includes a walk through lively alleyways filled with history and flavor.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly way to combine sightseeing with culinary discovery.

13. Kathmandu: Kirtipur, Baishdhara, Swayambhu, Boudha Stupa

This four-hour tour, rated 4.8/5, covers five of Kathmandu’s most famous landmarks, including Boudha Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Kirtipur. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a rundown with minimal time investment. The tour includes guided visits and stunning views of the city.

It’s a balanced mix of cultural landmarks and scenic spots, providing a good introduction to the city’s most iconic sites. The tour is flexible with pickup and drop-off options, making it convenient for various schedules.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, well-rounded introduction to Kathmandu’s top sights.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Kirtipur

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and time available. If your main goal is food and local culture, the Kirtipur food tour or street food tour are great. For a deeper religious or historical experience, the UNESCO heritage tour or Patan & Kirtipur private tour stand out.

If you prefer active exploration combined with scenic views, the cultural hiking offers a nice balance. Budget travelers might enjoy the group UNESCO tour, while those seeking a luxury or private experience should consider the 5-day cultural tour.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, and check for available discounts for multi-day or private options.

Final Thoughts

Kirtipur and Kathmandu offer a wide range of tours and experiences that cater to history buffs, food lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure travelers alike. Whether you want to taste traditional Newari delicacies, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or learn about local brewing traditions, there’s something here for you.

For a balance of culture and cuisine, start with the Kirtipur: Kritipur Tour. If your time is limited but you want a broad overview, the 7 UNESCO sites tour is an excellent pick. And for those with a passion for photography, the Cultural Day Tour will leave you with unforgettable images.

Remember, booking early and tailoring your experience to your interests will ensure you get the most out of your time in this historic corner of Nepal.