kirtipur: located around 12 km from kathmandu and 45 mins drive at an altitude: 1,437m, this city is one of five municipalities that make kathmandu valley. this city which is famous for ancient newari craftsmanship is one of the oldest human settlements in the kathmandu valley. ancient temples, buddhist monasteries and traditional houses are features of this historical town. locals here are famous for skill in constructing building and weaving. some of key attractions here include:

• bagh bhairav temple: this three storied temple built in 16^th century is dedicated to bhairav, a warthful form of lord shiva. the temple contains some intricate carvings of hindu gods and goddesses and murals depicting stories of ramayana.
• chilancho stupa: a medieval period buddhist shrine built in 16^th century which git damaged during last earthquake and is under repairs.
• uma maheshwar: pagoda styled three storey temple built in 17^th century dedicated to lord shiva and his wife, goddess parvati. being located on top of hill, beautiful views of kathmandu valley and himalayan ranges on clear sunny day can be seen from here. on doors, pillars and beams, there are carvings of gods and goddesses.
• shri kirti bihar: built in traditional thai architectural style, a buddhist monastery.
• chovar or chobar: just one km away from kirtipur, it is famous for its gorge. as per legend, it was through this gorge all the water of kathmandu valley was drained by lord manjushree. there is also a small temple of adinath and jal vinayak temple.