Getting around · Kirtipur
How to Get to Kirtipur
Reach Kirtipur from Kathmandu by taxi, local bus or microbus — just 8km southwest of the capital.
The short answer: Kirtipur sits about 8km southwest of central Kathmandu, and a taxi gets you there in roughly 30 to 45 minutes; cheaper local buses and microbuses run the same route, many serving the Tribhuvan University area. Its closeness to the capital makes it one of the easiest half-day trips in the Kathmandu Valley. Here are your options.
By taxi
A taxi is the simplest way to reach Kirtipur, taking around 30 to 45 minutes from central Kathmandu depending on traffic, less from Patan (Lalitpur). Agree the fare or insist on the meter before setting off. Taxis can drop you at the town gate or near the Tribhuvan University campus, from where you walk up into the old town.
By local bus or microbus
Local buses and microbuses run between Kathmandu and Kirtipur, with many routes serving the university on the lower slopes. They are very cheap but can be crowded and slow with frequent stops. Tell the conductor you're going to Kirtipur, and from the drop-off climb on foot to the temples and alleys.
By bike or on foot
Kirtipur is a popular short cycling trip from the city, with the final climb up the hill a fun challenge. Walking the whole way from central Kathmandu is long and not recommended, but within town everything is on foot — the stepped, largely car-free alleys can't be driven.
Getting around once there
Kirtipur is compact and best explored entirely on foot. From the central Bagh Bhairab Temple it's a short climb to the Uma Maheshwar Temple and a crossing to the Chilancho Stupa. Wear grippy shoes for the cobbled lanes and steps.
Plan your visit
Pair this with the best time to visit Kirtipur and where to stay, and for the bigger picture see our guides to getting around Nepal and the Nepal visa.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get from Kathmandu to Kirtipur?+
Kirtipur is about 8km southwest of central Kathmandu. The easiest option is a taxi, taking roughly 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Local buses and microbuses also run from the city toward Kirtipur and the Tribhuvan University area for a fraction of the cost.
How long does it take to reach Kirtipur?+
By taxi it's typically 30 to 45 minutes from central Kathmandu, though valley traffic can stretch this. Public buses take longer with stops. From Patan (Lalitpur) it's a shorter hop, often around 20 to 30 minutes.
Is there public transport to Kirtipur?+
Yes. Local buses and microbuses run between Kathmandu and Kirtipur, many serving the Tribhuvan University campus on the lower slopes. They are cheap but can be crowded and slow; from the campus or town gate you walk up into the old town.
Can you walk or cycle to Kirtipur?+
Cycling is popular with valley riders, as Kirtipur makes a satisfying short ride from the city. Walking the whole way from central Kathmandu is long, but once in town everything is explored on foot up the hill's stepped, car-free alleys.
