Experience the spiritual heritage, ancient history, living culture, and traditional cuisine of Kathmandu Valley on the Monkey Temple & Kirtipur Cultural Food Tour from Kathmandu.
This private cultural experience combines the famous Swayambhunath Stupa, popularly known as the Monkey Temple, with the historic Newari settlement of Kirtipur.
Tour at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Tour Name | Monkey Temple & Kirtipur Cultural Food Tour |
| Duration | Full Day |
| Starting Point | Kathmandu |
| Tour Type | Private Cultural & Food Tour |
| Main Destinations | Swayambhunath & Kirtipur |
| Main Experiences | Buddhist Heritage, Newari Culture & Food |
| Transportation | Private Vehicle |
| Guide | Professional Local Guide |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Walking | Easy |
| Best Season | Year-Round |
| Food | Traditional Newari Food Experience |
| Drinks | Optional Traditional Beverages |
| Suitable For | Food Lovers, Couples, Families & Culture Seekers |
Begin at Swayambhunath, one of Kathmandu's most important Buddhist heritage sites. Explore its hilltop stupa, shrines, temples, prayer wheels, prayer flags, religious sculptures, and panoramic views across Kathmandu Valley.
Continue to historic Kirtipur, where the experience becomes more immersive. Walk through traditional Newari streets, courtyards, temples, and neighborhoods while discovering the history and traditions of one of the Kathmandu Valley's oldest settlements.
A highlight of the Kirtipur experience is Chilancho Stupa, an ancient Buddhist heritage site traditionally associated with the time of Emperor Ashoka. The site adds an important historical and spiritual dimension to the tour.
The experience then continues with authentic Newari food and traditional beverages. Depending on availability and the selected arrangement, you can taste Newari specialties such as bara, chatamari, yomari and other local dishes, and experience traditional beverages such as chhyang/thon and aila.
This is much more than a sightseeing tour. It is an opportunity to see, walk, taste, and experience living Newari culture.
Swayambhunath – The Monkey Temple
Your tour begins at Swayambhunath, one of Nepal's most iconic Buddhist heritage sites.
The hilltop complex is centered around the famous stupa and includes numerous shrines, temples, statues, prayer wheels, monasteries, and other religious structures.
Your guide can explain the significance of:
- The main Buddhist stupa
- Buddha's eyes
- Prayer wheels
- Prayer flags
- Buddhist shrines
- Hindu temples
- Religious sculptures
- Local religious traditions
The hilltop setting also provides impressive views across Kathmandu Valley when weather conditions are favorable.
Why Is It Called the Monkey Temple?
The area around Swayambhunath is home to a large population of monkeys, which gave rise to its popular name, Monkey Temple.
Visitors should avoid feeding the monkeys and should keep food, bags, cameras, and other belongings secure.
Kirtipur – A Living Newari Heritage Town
After Swayambhunath, continue to Kirtipur, one of the Kathmandu Valley's historic Newari settlements.
Unlike a conventional museum-style heritage attraction, Kirtipur remains a living community where traditional architecture, religious practices, local food, festivals, and everyday life continue alongside modern Nepal.
During your walking tour, explore:
- Traditional Newari houses
- Brick-paved streets
- Historic courtyards
- Ancient temples
- Buddhist shrines
- Local markets
- Traditional community spaces
- Historic squares
- Religious monuments
Your guide will introduce you to the history and traditions that make Kirtipur different from the larger tourist centers of Kathmandu Valley.
Chilancho Stupa – Ancient Buddhist Heritage
One of the most interesting stops during your Kirtipur heritage walk is Chilancho Stupa.
The ancient Buddhist site is traditionally associated with Emperor Ashoka, who is believed to have visited the Kathmandu Valley during the 3rd century BCE.
We recommend using the wording "traditionally associated with the time of Emperor Ashoka" rather than claiming that the existing structure was definitively built by Ashoka.
The present stupa complex has developed over many centuries and remains connected with the Buddhist and Newari traditions of Kirtipur.
For travelers interested in Buddhism, ancient history, archaeology, Newari culture, and lesser-known heritage sites, Chilancho provides an especially meaningful experience.
Why Visit Chilancho?
- Ancient Buddhist heritage
- Traditionally associated with the Ashokan period
- Located within historic Kirtipur
- Connected with local Newari Buddhist traditions
- Quieter than Kathmandu's major tourist attractions
- Interesting for history and photography enthusiasts
Bagh Bhairab Temple
Continue your Kirtipur heritage walk with a visit to Bagh Bhairab Temple, an important religious landmark dedicated to Bhairab, a manifestation of Lord Shiva.
The temple reflects the close relationship between religion, community life, and Newari culture.
Your guide can explain the temple's significance and the traditions associated with it.
Uma-Maheshwar Temple
The historic Uma-Maheshwar Temple is another important cultural landmark in Kirtipur.
Dedicated to Shiva and Parvati, the temple reflects the rich Hindu architectural and religious traditions of the Kathmandu Valley.
Its elevated location also provides an opportunity to appreciate the surrounding landscape.
Traditional Newari Food Experience
Food is one of the defining features of this tour.
Newari cuisine is one of Nepal's most distinctive culinary traditions, and Kirtipur provides an excellent setting to experience local dishes.
Depending on the restaurant and selected food experience, you may sample:
Bara
A savory lentil pancake traditionally prepared from black lentils or other pulses.
Chatamari
A thin rice-flour dish often prepared with different toppings and sometimes described as a Newari-style savory pancake.
Yomari
A traditional steamed rice-flour sweet commonly filled with ingredients such as molasses and sesame.
Newari Khaja
A selection of traditional Newari dishes and snacks, which may vary according to the restaurant and season.
Other Local Specialties
Depending on availability, you may also have the opportunity to taste other traditional Newari dishes.
Traditional Newari Drinks
The food experience can also introduce travelers to traditional beverages associated with Newari culture.
Chhyang / Thon
Chhyang, known as thon or thwon in Newari contexts, is a traditional fermented grain beverage. It is sometimes described to international visitors as a traditional Himalayan fermented grain beer.
It has historically been associated with festivals, hospitality, celebrations, and social gatherings.
Aila
Aila is a traditional distilled spirit strongly associated with Newari culture in the Kathmandu Valley.
It is traditionally made from fermented grains and is commonly associated with Newari feasts, festivals, rituals, and hospitality.
Aila is considerably stronger than fermented chhyang/thon and is traditionally served in small quantities.
Note: Traditional alcoholic beverages are optional, subject to availability and applicable regulations, and should be consumed responsibly.
For guests who do not drink alcohol, a completely non-alcoholic Newari food experience can be arranged.
Why Food Makes This Tour Special
Food allows travelers to understand Newari culture in a different way.
Newari cuisine is closely connected with:
- Festivals
- Religious ceremonies
- Family gatherings
- Community celebrations
- Hospitality
- Traditional customs
- Local agriculture
- Social traditions
Instead of simply looking at historic buildings, you get to experience part of the culture through taste, hospitality, and local culinary traditions.
Who Is This Tour For?
This tour is particularly suitable for:
- Food lovers
- Cultural travelers
- History enthusiasts
- Architecture enthusiasts
- Photographers
- Couples
- Families
- Solo travelers
- Repeat visitors to Kathmandu
- Travelers interested in Buddhism and Hinduism
- Travelers looking for authentic local experiences
It is especially attractive for visitors who have already explored Kathmandu's main attractions and want to experience a more local side of the Kathmandu Valley.
Best Time to Visit
The tour operates throughout the year.
Spring - March to May
Pleasant weather for walking through Kirtipur and exploring the heritage sites.
Monsoon - June to August
Rain showers are possible. Bring rain protection and suitable footwear.
Autumn - September to November
One of the best periods for comfortable sightseeing and generally good visibility.
Winter - December to February
Cool mornings and evenings are common, while daytime sightseeing remains comfortable.
Festivals
Kirtipur becomes particularly interesting during Newari festivals and religious celebrations. However, festivals can bring larger crowds, traffic changes, restricted access, and changes in restaurant availability.
What to Wear & Bring
Recommended Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Modest clothing for temples
- Light layers
- Sun protection
- Rain jacket or umbrella during monsoon
Food & Dietary Requirements
Newari cuisine includes both vegetarian and meat-based dishes.
Vegetarian options can be arranged.
If you have:
- Food allergies
- Dietary restrictions
- Vegetarian or vegan requirements
- Religious food restrictions
please inform Shepherd Holidays before the tour so suitable arrangements can be made.
Guests who do not consume alcohol can enjoy a fully non-alcoholic food experience.
Why Experience Kirtipur with Shepherd Holidays?
Discover a different side of Kathmandu Valley with Shepherd Holidays. Our private cultural tour combines famous Buddhist heritage with lesser-known history, living Newari traditions, and authentic local cuisine.
- Experienced local guides who understand Kathmandu Valley's history, religion, architecture, and Newari culture.
- Private transportation with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Authentic cultural experience beyond the usual sightseeing route.
- Chilancho Stupa included to introduce travelers to Kirtipur's ancient Buddhist heritage.
- Traditional Newari food experience with opportunities to taste local specialties.
- Flexible itinerary that can be adapted to your interests and available time.
- Private experience suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, and small groups.
- Local cultural interpretation so you understand the stories behind the places you visit.
- Responsible tourism approach that respects religious sites, local communities, and cultural traditions.
With Shepherd Holidays, you don't simply visit Kirtipur; you walk through its heritage, learn about its traditions, and experience its culture through food and local hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Monkey Temple & Kirtipur Cultural Food Tour?
It is a private full-day cultural experience from Kathmandu combining Swayambhunath, historic Kirtipur, Chilancho Stupa, Newari heritage, traditional food, and optional traditional beverages.
Why is Swayambhunath called the Monkey Temple?
The hill around Swayambhunath is home to many monkeys, which led to the site's popular nickname, Monkey Temple.
What is Chilancho Stupa?
Chilancho is an ancient Buddhist heritage site in Kirtipur. It is traditionally associated with the period of Emperor Ashoka and forms an important part of Kirtipur's Buddhist and Newari heritage.
Was Chilancho Stupa built by Emperor Ashoka?
The site is traditionally associated with the time of Emperor Ashoka, but we recommend avoiding the stronger claim that the present stupa was definitively built by Ashoka. Its current form has developed over many centuries.
What is Kirtipur famous for?
Kirtipur is known for its historic Newari architecture, temples, Buddhist heritage, traditional streets, courtyards, festivals, local food, and living cultural traditions.
What Newari food can I try?
Depending on the restaurant and availability, you may taste dishes such as bara, chatamari, yomari, Newari khaja, and other local specialties.
Can I try traditional Newari drinks?
Traditional beverages such as chhyang/thon and aila may be available as part of the cultural food experience, depending on the restaurant, package, availability, and applicable regulations.
Is alcohol compulsory?
No. Traditional alcoholic beverages are optional. Guests can enjoy the tour with a completely non-alcoholic Newari food experience.
What is chhyang?
Chhyang is a traditional fermented grain beverage. In Newari contexts, it is also commonly referred to as thon or thwon.
What is aila?
Aila is a traditional distilled spirit associated with Newari culture in the Kathmandu Valley. It is considerably stronger than fermented chhyang/thon and is traditionally consumed in small quantities.
Is this a drinking tour?
No. The main focus is Newari culture, heritage, food, history, and local life. Traditional beverages are an optional part of the culinary experience.
Is Newari food vegetarian?
Newari cuisine includes both vegetarian and meat-based dishes. Vegetarian options can be arranged with advance notice.
Can vegan food be arranged?
Yes, suitable options can be discussed in advance with the restaurant.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. Families can enjoy Swayambhunath, Kirtipur's heritage streets, temples, architecture, and food experience. Alcoholic beverages are not necessary and are optional for adults.
How much walking is involved?
There is moderate walking through Swayambhunath and Kirtipur, including steps, historic lanes, courtyards, and uneven surfaces.
Is this a hiking tour?
No. It is a cultural sightseeing and walking tour rather than a hiking experience.
Can senior travelers join?
Yes, provided they are comfortable with moderate walking and steps. Inform us in advance about mobility limitations so the itinerary can be adjusted where practical.
Can I take photographs?
Photography is generally possible in outdoor heritage areas, but restrictions may apply inside religious sites or during ceremonies. Please follow local instructions.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing are recommended because the itinerary includes Buddhist and Hindu religious sites.
Can I customize the tour?
Yes. Since this is a private tour, the itinerary can generally be adjusted according to your interests, available time, and local conditions.
Is lunch included?
The selected package determines whether the Newari food experience is included. The booking page should clearly state what food and beverages are included.
Is the tour available throughout the year?
Yes. The tour can generally operate year-round, although weather, festivals, traffic, and local events can affect the itinerary.
Experience the Living Culture of Kirtipur
Go beyond the usual Kathmandu sightseeing route and discover a fascinating combination of Buddhist heritage, ancient history, Newari culture, traditional architecture, and local cuisine.
Visit Swayambhunath, explore the historic streets of Kirtipur, discover the ancient Chilancho Stupa, and enjoy an authentic Newari food experience with the opportunity to taste traditional local beverages.
Ready to see, taste, and experience another side of Kathmandu Valley?
Book your private Monkey Temple & Kirtipur Cultural Food Tour with Shepherd Holidays and experience the living heritage of Nepal through its history, people, food, and traditions.
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