Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking is a new and short hiking destination from Kathmandu. Many trekkers, even locals, are confused that you must go far and wide for a good hiking spot; however, a Ghitalng hike will make that theory false. It is one of the rapidly growing hiking trails that is a short distance from Kathmandu and will give you true adventure in nature. Previously, not many people were able to visit Chandragiri Hill and Chitland due to the lack of proper roads and transportation, a problem that has been solved recently.
Thanks to the installation of cable cars, Chandragiri Hill has recently developed into an intriguing tourist destination. Chitlang, a historic Newari town in the Makwanpur area, is the next destination on the trip. A fascinating draw is provided by the various aesthetic structures, pagoda roofs, and superb craftsmanship seen throughout the area. On the second day, we continued hiking in Kulekhani.
Moreover, Chandragiri unveiled an outstanding cable car system. The gondolas travel between the steep crevasses of the hill in between broad screens on all sides, making for an exhilarating journey. You can use the cable car or go on a lengthy downhill hike.
An alternative route to Chandragiri
This recommended path begins from Machhegaun, Chandragiri Hill’s base, and ends at the peak. It can take up to three hours to complete. To enjoy the best views of the mountain range and the valley, it is advisable to begin the hike early in the day.
The trail meanders into the lush woodland once you leave the residential village in your rearview mirror. You ascend the hill fast by taking a zigzag path while the valley below narrows. Hikers are greeted by magnificent views of the valley below all along the forest trek. When you reach the summit, the mountain ranges are renowned for playing hide and seek with you when the skies open up for breathtaking views.
Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, which has been rebuilt, is atop the mountain. Hindu believers think the temple can grant visitors’ wishes. A recently built park with a restaurant and a viewing tower surrounds the temple. The viewing tower offers a clear 360-degree view of the surrounding area, including views of the high hills between the valley and Mount Everest in the east and Mount Dhaulagiri in the west.
Get the ultimate hiking Experience in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal.
Witness different mountains like Langtang, Manaslu, and Ganesh, including the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest.
Travel in one of the most accessible hiking destinations in Nepal. Visit one of the holiest places in Nepal.
Explore the artificial reservoir of Nepal in Markhu.
Delve into the organic local cuisines from the fresh vegetables and fruits found in Chitlang.
Take a quick break and explore the waterfalls and streams where you can relax and enjoy the fantastic views.
Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking Difficulty
The Chandragiri Chitlang hike is relatively easy near Kathmandu Valley. First, you will drive from Kathmandu to Chandragiri for about two to three hours, which won’t be too difficult. Upon reaching Chandragiri, your trek to Chitlang starts as you hike towards hilly trails that are also not very difficult to scale.
The hike from Chandragiri to Chitlang is about five hours long along the trails of low-altitude subtropical forests and vegetation. The trail is relatively flat and mostly downside, meaning it will be easier to scale. The hike to Chandragiri also does not pass through remote settlements, so you will find all the services during your hike till you reach Chitlang. Furthermore, the altitude of Chitlang is just over 1800m, so there is no chance of altitude sickness for trekkers.
Best Time for Chandragiri Chitlang Hike
The Chandragiri Chitlang HIke is one of those fantastic hikes to explore all year round. However, certain times make exploring even more fun. The best time for Chitlang Hike can be divided into seasons, so let’s get into this.
October
October is the best month for Chandragiri Chitlang Hike. Since this month lies in the peak Autumn season, there is no rain, the weather is fantastic, and the temperature is mild. Furthermore, you will also have clear views of the mountains and the sky. Nepal celebrates some unique festivals in October, so the hike to Chandragiri can be even more special.
April
Apart from October, April is another good month for Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking. After the winter season in Nepal, Spring brings amazing weather, climate, temperature, and atmosphere for trekking. During the peak Spring seasons, you will be joined by fantastic flowering trails throughout the hills, where you will see different kinds of flowers and forests blooming.
2 Days Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking Day-to-day-Itinerary
Day 1
Drive to Matatirtha - Hike to Chandragiri Hills - Hike to Chitlang
Day 1 Facts
Trekking Time Average
15km./06 hours hike
Accommodation
Chitlang Organic Resort
Altitude
(2729m./9005ft.)
Included meals
Lunch, Dinner
The trip to Matatirtha, where the hike starts, takes around 35 minutes. “Matatirtha” refers to the mother’s shrine. During Mother’s Day in April each year (the Hindu people of Nepal commemorate Mother’s Day on the new moon day), this shrine receives many visitors/pilgrims who have lost their mothers. After installing a cable car, the old Chandragiri Hills Top temple site (2729m) has recently become a new, well-liked tourist destination.
The region is covered with lush subtropical forest with a variety of flora and wildlife, which gives the area a lot of natural greenery. It takes 4-5 hours to climb over several smaller hills, a lush jungle, and a tiny village before arriving at Chhap Bhanjyang (you might be lucky to find a local cafe to enjoy a cup of soothing tea or coffee here). Chandragiri Hill has an attractive park, eateries, and the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple. On a clear day, the majestic mountain ranges of Mt. Gaurishanker, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Mt. Everest, Api, etc. may be seen from east to west.
We eat lunch while admiring Chandragiri Hills’ natural splendor and the Himalayas, then climb back down to Chitlang. The old settlement of Chitlang is still home to numerous artfully constructed rest homes, stone water taps, and other artifacts that attest to its former status as a civilized community. There are a few lodges where you can stay, and Chitlang Village also offers homestays where you can connect and learn about rural life in Nepal. When visiting Chitlang,
Historical attractions like Pauwa, Saat Dhara (seven water taps), Shiwalaya, and other ancient monuments will increase your enjoyment.
Day 2
Hike to Kulekhani via Markhu Village - Drive to Kathmandu
Day 2 Facts
Trekking Time Average
10km./03 hours hike
Altitude
(1295m./4273ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch
After a delicious breakfast, continue your hike. We arrive at Kulekhani after a hike of roughly one and a half hours. The largest man-made lake (dam) in Nepal is located in Khulekhani, which was built to generate hydroelectricity. Indrasarovar Lake is its name (Sarovar Means Lake). We can take pleasure in lake boating. We then take a journey back to Kathmandu after lunch. We travel past the Black Goddess of the South, Dakshinkali Temple, and the well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site of Pharping, where the illustrious Guru Padmasambhava is reputed to have meditated and gained Buddhahood. If we’d like, we can use this chance to explore the temple and monastery. Drive back to Kathmandu as usual.
Included
Overland private transport as per mentioned in itinerary.
All meals during the hiking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with tea/coffee) three times in a day.
Hotel accommodation ( Twin share basis) during hiking.
One experienced educated, well trained, fluent English speaking, friendly, government authorized and professional hiking guide.
Guide and porter’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance and transportation.
Hiking T-shirt, Water , seasonal fruits etc.
Government tax and service charge.
Public Liability Insurance
Not Included
Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu .
Hard and soft table drinks such as coke, fanta, beer, desert, phone bill, laundry etc during hiking.
Personal Travel insurance.
Tips for guide. ( Highly suggested ).
Book the Trip
Available dates..
Currently, we do not have any scheduled group trips, but you are welcome to embark on the journey on a date that suits you best.
The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.
The Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking alternative route starts at Machhegaun, the base of Chandragiri Hill, and ends at the peak. The hike can take up to three hours, so it’s best to start early in the day to enjoy the beautiful views of the mountain range and the valley.
Once you leave the village, the trail goes through lush woodland. The path ascends the hill quickly in a zigzag pattern, offering great views of the narrow valley below. Along the forest trek, hikers can enjoy magnificent views of the valley. When you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the mountain ranges when the skies clear up.
Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, which has been rebuilt, is atop the mountain. Hindu believers think the temple can grant visitors’ wishes. A recently built park with a restaurant and a viewing tower surrounds the temple. The viewing tower offers a clear 360-degree view of the surrounding area, including views of the high hills between the valley and Mount Everest in the east and Mount Dhaulagiri in the west.
Major Attractions of Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking
Here are some of the major attractions of Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking.
Chandragiri Hills
Undoubtedly, the major attraction of Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking is Chandragiri Hills. Many people, either local or from different countries, embark on this hike to reach the Chandragiri Hills. Chandragiri Hills gives you amazing views of the mountains like Everest, Ama Dablam, Langtang, and Manaslu.
Chitlang Village
Another major attraction of the Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking is the infamous Chitlang Village. The famous Newari village has attracted many trekkers and tourists for stunning views of surrounding places, trekking through hills and valleys, and delicious yak milk and cheese dishes. Chitlang village is also famous for the Ashoka Stupa, built by Indian Emperor Ashoka.
Indrasarovar
Near Chitlang village, you can go on a little hike toward the beautiful blue lake, Indrasarovar. Indrasarovar is also an ideal place to take a break, have lunch, and take lovely pictures. It is also a perfect place for fishing and boating, and it has been attracting many tourists for a few years.
Frequently
Asked Questions
How long is Chandragiri Chitlang Hike?
Chandragiri, one of the numerous hills around the Kathmandu Valley, has long been a popular pilgrimage site for Nepalis. It provides one of Kathmandu’s excellent vantage points of the Himalayan range at a height of 2,551 meters.
Is Chandragiri worth visiting?
Bringing a coat up the mountain is a good idea because the vista is stunning, and there is a significant temperature difference at the base. The Hindu temples above are stunning, and the air is immaculate. Take a trip with the cable car.
How long is Chandragiri's cable car ride?
The 2.5 km long cable car gives you a close-up view of the pristine forest while ensuring smooth and safe travel. Using a 2.5-kilometer cable car trip, it takes 9 minutes to get to the top station of the Chandragiri Hills.
Can you see Everest from Chandragiri?
Chandragiri highlands provide a clear view of Everest’s summit as well as other summits like Cho Oyu, Gaurisankhar, and Kang Nachugo.
Who is the owner of Chandragiri Hills?
Dhakal founded Chandragiri Hills and served as its founding chairman. Chairman Dhakal claimed that since 2009, he has considered Chandragiri Hills an integrated tourism infrastructure, influenced by the Genting Highlands project constructed there during his extended visit to Malaysia.
What is Chitlang famous for?
Before the Tribhuvan Highway was created, the Chitlang historic commercial route connected Kathmandu with the rest of the nation. Since then, Chitlang has recovered and is a popular tourist destination.
What is the best time to visit Chitlang?
Whether winter, summer, or spring, Chitlang is a great site to visit. One can camp in Chitlang’s lush vegetation in the summer, while in the winter, one can stay in a private homestay. The flowers blossom throughout the springtime months of March and April, giving tourists a tranquil experience.
How far is Chitlang from KTM?
Concerning Chitlang. Chitlang is located 195.3 kilometers from Pokhara and 28 km from Kathmandu. In the South Asian landlocked nation of Nepal’s Narayani Zone sits the village of Chitlang.
What is the altitude of Chitlang, Nepal?
An old Newar settlement is called Chitlang. It is a tiny village around 22 kilometers south of Kathmandu. This settlement, 1833 meters above sea level, is south of Chandragiri Hill.
Which fruit is Chitlang famous for?
A Pear Orchard that attracts tens of thousands of visitors serves as Chitlang’s main draw. The Chitlang village dates back to the Lichchhavi dynasty and served as a commerce route between Tibet and India.
What is the famous product of Chitlang?
The famous product of Chitlang that foreign trekkers and local people love is goat cheese. Ashok Singh Thakuri, the owner of the local teahouse, is quite renowned for teaching trekkers the process of goat cheese and even providing them with cheese delicacies like ice creams.
Which months are not ideal for Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking?
When it rains most, the least ideal time for Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking is June, July, and August. As the hikers must flee from hills and valleys, avoiding the rainy seasons is wise.
When was Chandragiri Cable Car opened to the public?
Chandragiri Cable Car was opened to the public in 2016. It takes passengers from Thankot to Chandragiri Hills and is among Nepal’s famous trekking or tourist hubs.
When was Chandragiri Hill Resort established?
The Chandragiri Hill Resort was established around late 2016, but no date was confirmed. However, the resort was established to provide services for people who take cable cars to reach Chandragiri Hills.
Do we need to carry extra money for Chandragiri Chitlang Hiking?
It is wise to carry extra money during your hiking as you may want to spend additional money on shopping or tips, but most expenses are covered in the itinerary.
We thank our guests for trekking with us, reviewing our services, and making us eligible for the prestigious awards. We also sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment and continuous support of our company. Without their hard work, dedication, and passion, the awards and achievements we have received wouldn’t be possible.
My friend and I were lucky to find Tej online before visiting Nepal. We knew we wanted to do a trek, but we weren’t sure exactly which trek. Tej sent us a bunch of itineraries for different treks and we chose the Manaslu circuit. When we arrived our guide, Kumar, was waiting for us at the airport and Tej was able to get us all our permits for the trek done in less than 2 hours which was great. The manaslu trek was absolutely amazing! We were super happy with our whole trip and we were lucky to be able to make the pass even though we saw dozens of other people who had to turn back because of the weather. We are already looking forward to going back next year at the same time to trek Everest and we will definitely use Tej again!
“Nepal Alternative Trek addressed my needs according to my schedule and agenda. I stayed most of the time at his home-stay, shuttling between home and the places that I wanted to visit. Tej, the boss behind Nepal Alternative Trek, helped to make my stay in Kathmandu comfortable and productive. He walked me to the monasteries that I wanted to visit and even picked me up when I needed a ride back home.
The home-stay is hosted by his wife and I got to experience living with a Nepalese family, sharing their food, space and laughter.
For the home-stay:
1) Meals available upon request
2) Family get together and chats
3) Regular change of bed-sheets and towels
4) Free WIFI
5) Near Swayambhu and Thamel
6) Safe environment
7) Mountainous forest behind home
8) Walking distance to beautiful monasteries
9) Away from hustle and bustle of towns yet easy to get to town
Goal was achieved 4130 meter and 0 degree celsius, Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It was 6 months of preparation. It was challenging target for us. We had dense forest, mountain, and completely wilderness above the treeline, it was windy and terrain . There is a huge support team. Without them it would not be possible. We can do it , we just have to give time and practice. Mr. Gurung Ji, you with your entire 7 of team were wonderful. They were always ready to help us.
Thanks Mr. Gurung ji for all the support, and guidance that made the trip successful. While all of us focused on Mountain, big thing but there were so many beautiful things along the way, stream, flowers, flora, so many birds I took pictures. So, in summary, phenomenal, success and our confidence there. We know, we can do more and higher in next what bigger thing.
8 days non trek city tour and 21days trek to EBC and chola pass
We love nepal and made 3 time visit to this beutiful country and rich culture. This time last year we came with 6 pax and visited Kathmandu , Pohkara and chitwan with a stay of 2 night in each place. We flew to Pohkara and got the van to chitwan and flew to Kathmandu. Tej arranged all transports overland and flights for us. We did not asked for a local guide but it was all smooth and no problem. We are happy with the service provided by Tej and he made all efforts to make us happy. His company performed professional with the very reasonable pricing. We encountered some small problem with the van transporting us back from nagarkot to kathmandu airport. This van was quite small and it came to pick up quite late that we almost missed the flight to pohkara. We told Tej about this and he must take care of this outsourced van company. Anyway the van in pohkara and to chitwan was excellent , big and comfy. So he has corrected the mistake.
Part 2 was our trek to EBC and chola pass for 21 nights. Tej arranged for flight and guide plus porter. For this trekking it was only me and my wife travelling together. We are about 50 years and used the service of 2 porters cause we bought a lot of dry food plus chocolate. We are difficult persons in terms of foreign food. Our guide Ammer and 2 porters are fabulous. They took care of us very well like we are part of their family.
Overall we strongly recommend this company. They are good and not high expensive tag. We will use their service again in June to trek in Langtang. Rocky
We had a fantastic experience on the Annapurna Circuit with Nepal Alternative Treks. Tej, the manager, was helpful, professional and efficient in dealing with our requirements and amendments, the arrangements worked smoothly and the information provided to us was excellent. Our guide Kul was brilliant. He was friendly, knowledgable and experienced and took changes in our itinerary in his stride. Our trekking experience was much better with his help in everything from planning the stages of the route to organising our food and accommodation. Just one warning: he is an ace card player and will probably beat you hands down!
A wonderful & interesting trek overall. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances ( heavy snow fall & Lie ping with a bad cold) we were unable to cross the Ganja la pass. However, our guide Simbir offered us as alternative trek which took us on a difference journey of Nepal. We had the opportunity to visit & stay in many local villages and meet Tamang, Gurung people experience, their lifestyle and culture. We visited our guide’s home town of Chalishgaun and timed it right to join in with Diwali celebrations!
Attempting Everest base camp trekking for me & my group was taking it to the next level. Before this, our limits were Kedarnath, MadMaheshwar & Tunganath with max distances of 18-19 kms spread over 2-3 days. Moreover, these tracks are such that people doesn’t necessarily have to trek. They have the option of ponies. EBC involves a lot for people like us (acclimatization to altitude, strength etc.), but above all, you need someone to provide logistical support, moral support that it can be done. This is where Nepal Alternative Treks does a great job. They organized it very well, guides and porters provided were very reliable and cost is reasonable when you compare to others. They can customize your travel plan according to your need.
A few weeks ago we went on a trip to Nepal, accompanied by a couple of friends who were on their second trip with Nepal Alternative Trek. Our first goal was to trek to the village of Chalish in Ruby Valley. We decided to go with the services of Nepal Alternative Trek to take us up there. We went there partly by jeep, partly walking through the cultivated terraces, meeting the inhabitants of the different communities who worked there.
I must say that the service that Tej offered us was perfect on all lines. First of all, before our departure, months before, Tej always answered our many questions (luggage, temperature, route to be revised, etc.) Always within 24 hours, he answered with a lot of patience.
All the equipment we thought we would need was available at his office.
Our guide Ammar led us to destination with confidence and professionalism. He knew all the trails, and especially all the shortcuts to avoid us having to go up or down too much along our road. He has managed all the difficulties we have encountered: due to personal reasons, we had to change and our itinerary, and our calendar, and he made everything possible. The whole team adapted to our changes. Our guide contacted Tej who orchestrated the changes without us even having to deal with anything.
The porters were attentive and were always in front of our needs.
Our journey continued towards Bandipur with the driver who made us know the various interesting points, from sunrise to sunset, making detours to take us to the most famous places. Then a 2 days stay in Chitwan, and return to Kathmandu again where the driver carried us without calculating from one place to another – God knows that traffic in Kathmandu, Bakhtapur and Patan can be complicated.
Thanks to Tej, and the whole Nepal Alternative Trek team. We will remember forever that amazing experience.
Many thanks to Tej – well organized, Dhan + hal worked Hard, we could not have done it without there Help, they were always there when needed, worked extra to help us when we were sick. Always kind and cheerful
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