Thimi

Thimi (officially Madhyapur Thimi, from Madhyapur meaning 'middle city') sits on a gentle rise between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, straddling the ancient route that once connected the three royal capitals. Though often overlooked by visitors speeding past on the highway, Thimi is a living centre of two of the valley's most celebrated crafts: pottery and papier-mache mask making.

The potters of Thimi work in open courtyards throughout the town, shaping clay on foot-powered wheels and drying thousands of pots, planters, and piggy banks in the sun — a scene that has barely changed in centuries. The mask makers produce the elaborate, brightly painted Lakhe, Bhairav, and deity masks used in festivals across the valley, and their workshops are open to visitors year-round.

Thimi's greatest spectacle is Sindoor Jatra, held on the first day of the Nepali New Year (mid-April). During this explosive celebration, palanquins bearing local deities are paraded through the streets while crowds hurl handfuls of orange-red sindoor (vermilion powder) at each other, musicians, and the deities — turning the entire town into a blaze of colour. It is one of the most photogenic and exhilarating festivals in Nepal, yet remains far less known to international visitors than Holi.

Thimi is easily accessible — it lies directly on the Kathmandu-Bhaktapur road, about 20 minutes from either city. No entry fee is charged. Visit any morning to see potters at work, or time your trip for mid-April to witness Sindoor Jatra.