If you’re looking for a short-distance scenic tourist destination due to limited leisure time, Chitlang could be your perfect destination. It’s an excellent tourist spot for utilizing your Friday and Saturday leisure time to observe lush green natural scenery. It’s a historic village that you can not only enjoy viewing but also read about with interest.
Historical Significance of Chitlang
Originally named Chitrapur, Chitlang later became Chaityalong due to its path leading to Chaitya (Buddhist shrine). According to 91-year-old local resident Hari Bahadur Shrestha, it eventually became “Chitlang” through linguistic evolution.
Situated in Thaha Municipality-10 of Makwanpur district, Chitlang is bordered by the Chandragiri hills in the north and the Mahabharat range in the south. This historic village has witnessed many rulers and administrations in Nepal’s history. It remained a bustling place until around 1955 AD, making it a significant settlement dating back to the Licchavi period.
Historical Landmarks
- The Ashoka Chaitya, built by Emperor Ashoka in 316 BS
- Ancient temples and inscriptions from Kirat kings
- Bhalebas hill, worshipped as Lord Shiva
- The village was gifted to shepherds by King Anshu Varma
Why Visit Chitlang?
Natural Beauty
- Three sides surrounded by pine, chestnut, and diverse vegetation
- Verdant plains with green corn, pumpkin vines, green peas
- Grasslands and pear trees
- Perfect blend of natural and cultural heritage
Cultural Significance
- Home to the famous song “Kun Mandirma Janchau Yatri” written by Mahakavi Laxmi Prasad Devkota
- Traditional welcome ceremony with local pear wine
- Houses with unique tin roofs featuring Queen Elizabeth‘s portrait
- Diverse community of Newars, Brahmins, Chhetris, and Tamangs
Unique Attractions
- Olive Farm (20-year-old establishment)
- Rare Alpaca farm – unique in Asia
- Spiny Babbler habitat – rare bird species
- Sweet radish cultivation
- Historic stone bridge from 1950 BS
- Government goat farm
- Jungle safari opportunities
- Trek to Baleshwor Mahadev (3-hour hike)
Homestay Experience
- Authentic local hospitality
- Maximum 5 guests per house
- Organic local cuisine
- Kitchen garden vegetables
- Stone-ground grain dishes
- Rich cultural interaction with locals
How to Reach Chitlang?
Route Options
- Cable car route:
- From Kathmandu to Kalankito cable car station
- Cable car to Chandragiri (2,551 meters)
- 2-hour trek to Chitlang
- Road route:
- 19 km southwest from Kathmandu
- 1.5 hours by vehicle from Thankot
- 3 hours by motorcycle from Koteshwor
- 4-5 hours on foot
Road Conditions
- Challenging route from Chandragiri
- 7 km off-road section
- Suitable for Bolero vehicles
- Difficult for scooters
- Better road conditions via Pharping route
Accommodation and Costs
Resort Options
- Organic Village Resort
- Nature views
- Campfire facilities
- Tent accommodation
- Chitlang Resort
- Modern amenities
- Premium facilities
Package Prices
Full Package (NRs. 2,800-3,500)
- Transportation from Kathmandu
- Attached bathroom with hot/cold shower
- Welcome snacks
- Campfire
- Live music and dance
- All meals
- Village walk with local guide
- Boating at Markhu
Normal Package (NRs. 1,300-2,000)
- Room
- Meals
- Breakfast
- Self-arranged transportation
Note: Additional charges apply for drinks
Despite the challenging road conditions, once you reach Chitlang, you’ll forget all the troubles and raise a toast to its beauty!
