Modern Kirtipur

Kirtipur Booklet

Modern Kirtipur

Tribhuvan University

Kirtipur, once an ancient town predominantly inhabited by the Newar community, has undergone significant transformation over time. In its early days, the Newars lived a content and simple life, relying on farming, animal grazing, and artisanal crafts. The community was self-sufficient, and its cultural and social fabric revolved around traditional practices.

As technology and infrastructure advanced, Kirtipur began to attract people from various communities, contributing to its diversity and development. Modern amenities like banks, hospitals, schools, public sanitation systems, and improved architecture gradually became part of everyday life. These developments brought convenience and significantly improved the quality of life for residents.

A major milestone in Kirtipur’s modernisation was the expansion of Tribhuvan University (TU), Nepal’s largest and oldest university. TU’s presence turned Kirtipur into an educational hub. As the university grew, students and academic professionals from all over Nepal, and even from other countries, came to Kirtipur. This created new opportunities for the local people, many of whom started renting out rooms in their houses to accommodate students and university staff.

With the establishment of schools and hospitals, the people of Kirtipur gained better access to education and healthcare. Literacy rates improved, and the city began to modernise rapidly. This shift brought new jobs, such as teaching, banking, and construction, diversifying the economic activities of its residents. Traditional occupations like farming and woodcarving still hold significance, but they now coexist with modern professions.

In recent years, Kirtipur has become a city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. The ancient architecture, including temples like Bagh Bhairav Temple and Uma Maheshwor Temple, stands alongside modern buildings, creating a unique landscape that reflects its historical roots and contemporary growth.

Kirtipur’s vibrant culture, combined with its educational importance and accessibility, has made it a desirable destination for people from all walks of life. The city’s reputation has grown internationally, attracting tourists, researchers, and students. Today, Kirtipur is admired not just for its historical significance but also for its progressive and inclusive community. 

This balance of tradition and modernisation makes Kirtipur a shining example of how ancient towns can evolve while preserving their heritage.