Trip Facts
- Total Duration 1 day
- Trip Grade Easy
- Max Altitude 1500m.
- Start From Kathmandu
- End From Kathmandu
- Min Size 2 Pax
- Trip Mode Day Tour
- Best Season: All round the Year
Trip Highlights
- Pharping Pilgrimage Site: Explore the sacred town of Pharping, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche meditated here in the 8th century.
- Chobhar Gorge and Taudaha Pond: Visit the legendary Chobhar Gorge, said to have been created by Lord Manjushree. Enjoy the tranquility of the nearby Taudaha Pond.
- Historic Kirtipur City: Discover the ancient hilltop town of Kirtipur, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and Kathmandu Valley. Rich in historical heritage, it features the iconic Bagh Bhairab Temple.
- Uma Maheshwar Temple: Ascend to the highest point in Kirtipur to visit the Uma Maheshwar Temple, a three-story pagoda-style temple with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
The Pharping Kritipur Day Tour begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel, setting the stage for a day filled with history and spirituality. Our journey takes us first to Pharping, a renowned pilgrimage site and historic town, celebrated by Buddhists and Hindus alike. Situated approximately 22 kilometers south of Kathmandu, Pharping is a culturally rich Newar town deeply associated with sacred sites of both Hinduism and Buddhism.
In Buddhist tradition, it is believed that Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, visited Pharping in the 8th century. During his time here, he meditated and acquired his tantric weapon, crucial in his efforts to combat the Bon religion in Tibet. Today, Pharping continues to attract pilgrims, with a growing number of monasteries surrounding the area. You can also take a short hike up the hill for breathtaking views of the valley.
As we head towards Kirtipur, we make a brief stop at Chobhar, a famous gorge located just 8 kilometers south of Kathmandu. According to legend, the gorge was created by Lord Manjushree, who cut through the hills to drain a lake that once submerged the entire valley. Nearby, you’ll find the serene Taudaha pond, and just 2 kilometers away, the head of the Chobhar gorge.
Kirtipur, meaning “City of Glory,” is perched atop a hill about 5 kilometers south of Kathmandu city. This historic town offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the majestic Himalayas. Kirtipur is one of the medieval kingdoms of the valley and also serves as an important educational hub, home to Nepal’s largest and oldest institution, Tribhuvan University.
This ancient town is filled with fascinating sights, including the Bagh Bhairab Temple, dedicated to the deity Bhairab depicted in the form of a tiger. Another notable heritage site is the Uma Maheshwar Temple (locally known as Kwacho Dega), a three-storied pagoda-style temple located at Kirtipur’s highest point, 1414 meters above sea level.
Near the entrance to Kirtipur, you will find a Theravada Buddhist monastery built in traditional Thai architectural style. Here, you can explore various shrines, temples, and old houses, and observe locals in traditional dress working on ancient looms—a truly captivating experience. In the late afternoon, we will return to Kathmandu, concluding our enriching Pharping Kritipur Day Tour.
Enhance your journey through history and culture with this immersive day tour to Pharping and Kirtipur. Join Blossom Expeditions to explore the sacred sites, ancient traditions, and breathtaking views.
Trip Itinerary
Departure from your hotel at 7:30 AM. A drive-by car, van, or bus takes approximately 1.5 hours to Pharping. Your tour begins at the oldest dam built by Chandra Shamsher for Nepal’s first hydro plant. You will see caves, beautiful Hindu temples, and Buddhist monasteries. Hike up to Kali Temple and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and Snowy Mountains. From there, you will drive back to Taudaha to feed the fish and explore the area. Then, drive to Chobhar Gorge. After exploring the gorge and Hindu temple, you will drive to Kirtipur. Visit historical and religious sites in the old town before returning to your hotel. Total duration: 7-8 hours.
Trip Cost
Per Person (2-3 person) | U.S. $95 |
Per Person (above 4 person) | U.S. $90 |
What's Included
- Transfer throughout the tour
- Guide
- Lunch
- Entrance fee
Trip Highlights
- Pharping Pilgrimage Site: Explore the sacred town of Pharping, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche meditated here in the 8th century.
- Chobhar Gorge and Taudaha Pond: Visit the legendary Chobhar Gorge, said to have been created by Lord Manjushree. Enjoy the tranquility of the nearby Taudaha Pond.
- Historic Kirtipur City: Discover the ancient hilltop town of Kirtipur, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and Kathmandu Valley. Rich in historical heritage, it features the iconic Bagh Bhairab Temple.
- Uma Maheshwar Temple: Ascend to the highest point in Kirtipur to visit the Uma Maheshwar Temple, a three-story pagoda-style temple with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.