Must-Try Foods In Bagh Bhairab Temple (Kirtipur) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Bagh Bhairab Temple, Kirtipur, Nepal

Kirtipur, an ancient city in Nepal, is home to the revered Bagh Bhairab Temple, dedicated to the God Bhairab in the form of a tiger. This historic place not only signifies religious importance but also reflects the rich culinary traditions of Kirtipur. The Newars, the indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley, including Kirtipur, are known for their unique and diverse cuisine. Their food culture involves an assortment of flavors, commonly consisting of a plethora of dishes, made primarily from rice, lentils, grains, and vegetables, reflected in their offerings to deities and celebrations.

Traditionally, the food associated with the temple and the city is vegetarian due to religious beliefs regarding the sanctity of the cow and prohibition of cow slaughtering, since the cow is considered sacred in Hinduism, which is prevalent in Nepal. Dishes offered at the temple are therefore often vegetarian, carrying the essence of Newar culture and heritage.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes at Bagh Bhairab Temple, Kirtipur, Nepal

1. Bara or Wo (Veg) - A traditional Newari lentil pancake served with spicy achar.
2. Momos (Veg/Non-Veg) - Tibetan-style dumplings that can be stuffed with vegetables or meat (excluding cow) and served with a tomato-based chutney.
3. Yomari (Veg) - A delicacy made from rice flour dough, filled with sweet substances like chaku (molasses) or khuwa (milk solids).
4. Ju Ju Dhau (Veg) - The famous sweet yogurt of Bhaktapur, known for its creamy texture and taste.
5. Chatamari (Veg/Non-Veg) - Often referred to as 'Newari Pizza,' it’s a rice crepe with toppings that can be vegetarian or include meats (other than cow).
6. Sel Roti (Veg) - A sweet, ring-shaped rice flour doughnut, deep-fried to perfection.
7. Newari Khaja Set (Veg/Non-Veg) - A traditional spread that can include a variety of dishes including beans, choila (spiced grilled meat, excluding cow meat), and beaten rice.
8. Alu Tama (Veg) - A curry made of potatoes and bamboo shoots, flavored with spices typical of Newar cuisine.
9. Laphing (Veg) - A spicy and savory cold noodle dish of Tibetan origin with a unique jelly-like texture, served with a tangy sauce.
10. Samay Baji (Veg/Non-Veg) - An authentic celebratory dish which is a combination platter of beaten rice, smoked meat (non-cow), lentil patties, and more.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Bagh Bhairab Temple, Kirtipur, Nepal

Newa Lahana

- Location: Panga, Kirtipur, Nepal

- Famous For: Their Newari Khaja Set (Both Veg and Non-Veg)

Kirtipur Newa Restaurant

- Location: Lachhi, Kirtipur, Nepal

- Famous For: Authentic Newari dishes including Bara and Alu Tama (Veg)

180 Degree Restaurant

- Location: Chilanko, Kirtipur, Nepal

- Famous For: Panoramic views and a variety of traditional dishes like Chatamari (Veg/Non-Veg)

Note that while visiting, it is respectful to be aware of local customs and religious sentiments, particularly about food and offerings in places of worship, such as the Bagh Bhairab Temple.