Situated in the historic town of Kirtipur in the southwestern Kathmandu Valley, Kirtipur Monastery is a distinguished Tibetan Buddhist nunnery. Its location offers a serene and spiritual escape within a town rich in cultural and historical heritage.
- Proximity: Public buses to Kathmandu city center and Patan Durbar Square are easily accessible outside the monastery gate. Fares range from NPR 30-40. Ride-sharing apps like Pathao are also available.
- Nearby Facilities: Kirtipur Hospital and a local health post are within a 5-minute distance, ensuring immediate healthcare access.
- Curfew: The monastery gates are open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Volunteers returning from personal activities should arrive by 9:00 PM or inform the guard for security purposes.
About Kirtipur
Kirtipur is an ancient town dating back to the 12th century. It is renowned for its:
- Historical Significance: A pivotal site in King Prithvi Narayan Shah’s unification campaign.
- Cultural Richness: Traditional Newari architecture, ancient temples, and stupas.
- Educational Importance: Home to Tribhuvan University, Nepal’s oldest university.
For more about Kirtipur and its attractions, visit this guide.
Monastery Complex
The monastery comprises four key buildings:
- Main Monastery: The central hub for worship and communal activities.
- Guest House: Accommodates volunteers, with classrooms on the ground floor and living quarters on the second floor. Rooms include two beds, a cupboard, and an attached bathroom with hot and cold showers. Laundry services are available for NPR 100 per kg.
- Anni Residence: Living quarters for the nuns.
- Café: Operated by the monastery, offering beverages and snacks. Volunteers receive three basic meals daily.
Facilities: Wi-Fi is available throughout the monastery.
Daily Schedule and Volunteer Activities
- Morning Rituals: Puja from 6:30 to 7:00 AM, followed by breakfast.
- Junior Annis’ Education: Classes from 9:00 AM to 4:00-5:00 PM. Lunch is served at 12:00 PM, tea at 3:00 PM, and dinner at 7:00 PM. Bedtime is at 9:00 PM.
- Volunteer Teaching:
- Classes for Junior Annis from 5:00 to 7:00 PM and 8:00 to 9:00 PM.
- Private lessons for Senior Annis during school hours, focusing on English or other skills.
- Samadhi Incense Factory: Volunteers can learn and assist in incense making.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage with Senior Annis during free periods to share knowledge and experiences.
Monastic Community
- Population:
- 36 Junior Annis (ages 5-18).
- 59 Senior Annis (ages 18-77).
- Education Levels: Students are distributed across grades:
- Grade 1: 4 students
- Grade 7: 4 students
- Grade 9: 8 students
- Grade 10: 6 students
- Languages: Senior Annis primarily speak Tibetan, with basic English skills.
Accessibility and Local Guidelines
- Security: The monastery is safe and guarded. Visitors include locals and travelers who come for prayers and exploration.
- Pets: The monastery grounds are home to a few friendly local dogs.
Why Visit Kirtipur Monastery?
Kirtipur Monastery provides a tranquil environment ideal for spiritual growth, cultural immersion, and meaningful volunteer work. From teaching young nuns to participating in traditional incense-making, visitors can contribute to and learn from this vibrant community, all while experiencing the rich heritage of Kirtipur.