A Complete Guide to Chepang Hill Trek

Do you want the combination of culture and sightseeing experiences in a single trek? If so, join the five-day Chepang hill trek with your friend, family, or partner this season. 

The Chepang Hill Trek, a newly refreshed open route Chitwan, passes through the Chepang village, rich in culture and tradition. When one speaks of Chitwan, images of majestic rhinos, powerful tigers, vibrant birds, menacing crocodiles, and lush, dense forests immediately come to mind. However, this trek is more than just animals and greenery. The rich culture and diverse bird species make for an unforgettable experience. 

At the same time, the opportunity to stay in a traditional homestay during a trek adds a layer of authenticity. Let's find out more about this trek below. 

An Overview of Chepang Hill Trek

The Chepang Hill Trek presents an exceptional adventure for intrepid travellers seeking to travel to Nepal's less-trodden yet popular paths. This trek offers a journey through remote villages of the distinct and indigenous Chepang community nestled amidst the verdant mid-hills of central Nepal. The Chepang community, rich in culture, is keeping its ancient traditional practices alive. Their distinct language and lifestyle set them apart as a particular ethnic group within the region. Nepal has 846 species, nearly ten percent of the bird species worldwide. 

Besides the chepang's culture and tradition, lush green jungles famous for bird watching will not fail to amaze you. The trail is picturesque, with the sunrise vista from Sira-Chuli being quite striking. Likewise, it offers a glimpse into the diverse ranges of the Himalayas, providing a breathtaking visual experience. Nepal is actively engaged in efforts to empower and uplift deprived rural communities. 

The role of tourism in this initiative is paramount, as it serves as a channel for showcasing unexplored regions while promoting the socio-economic well-being of the local population. A glimpse of the traditional way of life of the Chepang people is the main highlight of this trip, where one can see how they have adapted to modern agricultural methods while being committed to their tradition and culture. The Chepang Hill Trek offers a one-of-a-kind adventure for individuals seeking an exceptional experience beyond the traditional trekking routes of Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. It is usually combined with a visit to Chitwan National Park (World Heritage Site, Natural) to complete Nepal's ultimate cultural and natural experience.

People, Festival, and Lifestyle of Chepang

The Chepang, an indigenous group hailing from Nepal, has historically been viewed as one of the most underdeveloped communities in the country. Despite their nomadic origins, many have now transitioned to a semi-nomadic lifestyle. Unfortunately, a vast majority of the Chepang population, approximately 95%, currently lack land ownership and rely heavily on foraging for food. A unique aspect of their culture is their deep respect for nature since they worship the Chiuri tree (Diplohnema Butyracea). They extract butter from the seeds produced by these trees, which serves a dual purpose in culinary and spiritual practice. It is a cherished tradition in the Chepang community to present young daughters with a butter tree upon marriage. Regrettably, the educational enrollment rate among Chepangs is very low, with a similarly high rate of dropouts. 

The Chepang communities have been facing many issues in access to basic household facilities due to many factors, such as poverty, illiteracy, and inadequate social services. However, certain areas have made progress in these fields, as 27.35 percent of Chepang households currently have access to electricity, and 0.85 percent have television. 

Likewise, 58.12 percent of Chepang households have mobile phones, and 0.43 percent have motorbikes. The Chepan community relies heavily on the ancient practice of "shifting cultivation," also called "slash and burn agriculture," as their primary means of livelihood. This traditional cultivation method has been passed down through generations and is essential to the community's way of life. (Source: Household Economies of Chepang People in Chitwan by Ganesh Sharma & Badri Aryal)

Besides agriculture, they are also engaged in hunting, fishing, and collecting Githa and Vyakur (shoots and roots), catching bats, wild yams, and wild birds, as farming alone is not enough to sustain their families. 

The Chhonam festival celebrated before the new harvest season within the Chepang community, is a valuable cultural event.

According to their cultural and religious beliefs, one will suffer from disease if one eats the rewards of a new harvest without properly offering it to the departed souls of their ancestors. The Chepang community does not use Nepali as their language since their unique language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman linguistic family. 

What Is the Route of the Trek?

This Trek route takes us from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the serene and picturesque landscapes of Hugdi. The journey to the Chemong begins with a bus ride from Kathmandu, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. Upon arrival at Hudi, we begin our 5-hour trek to Hattibang. As we travel to Chepang Hill, we will see many majestic mountain peaks such as Rolwaling at 7,181 meters (23,560 ft), Gaurishankar at 7,134 meters (23,406 ft), Langtang at 7,234 meters (23,734 ft), Gorkha Himal, Peak 29 at 7,871 meters (25,823 ft), Himalchuli at 7,893 meters (25,896 ft), Manaslu at 8,163 meters (26,781 ft), the Annapurnas, Dhaulagiri at 8,167 meters (26,795 ft), in the way. Continuing the journey, we will have the opportunity to explore the Hiundi Bazaar, where we can witness the unique cultures of the Magar, Chepang, and Giripuri people living in traditional ways. We will rest for a day at Hiundi Bazzar in a trekking lodge, where meals will be provided for every trekker. 

This experience should not be missed at any cost, as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature and the region's rich cultural heritage.

Our journey resumes the next day with a hike to Serai Chuli, standing at a majestic altitude of 1945 meters (6381 feet). We will be welcomed by breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape as we trek to higher elevations. As we continue, we will reach picturesque Chepang Gaun, the highlight of the trek. The journey is further enhanced by the awe-inspiring mountainous scenery and the Trishuli River flowing majestically below. You will rest for a day at Chepang Gaun. This day is an opportunity for trekkers to dig deeper into the local culture and customs, gaining a more  deep understanding of the way of life in the area. You will spend an additional evening in the village, granting us much time to fully explore and appreciate the beauty and traditions of this unique community. The next day you continue to trek from Chepang Gaun to Upper Dang Gadi, which stands at a majestic elevation of 1275m/4183 ft. This trek is moderate, with a duration of approximately 6-7 hours and a combination of challenging inclines and descents through lush, dense forests. The region is a bird watcher's paradise, boasting over 300 bird species. Likewise, the animals we get to see in this place are also among the rare species. We will stay overnight at Dang Gadi after 6-7 hours of trekking from Chapang Gaun. Our famous travel destination begins the next day from Upper Dang Gadi to Chitwan on a trek. 

Chitwan is a popular travel destination in Nepal famous for its Jungle Safari on Elephant back and other exhilarating activities. We will spend the night in a luxurious hotel in Chitwan, indulging in its comfort and luxuries. The following day, you will bid farewell to Chitwan and return to Kathmandu with all the memories and experiences. You can utilize your day in Kathmandu by exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel or purchasing souvenirs for your friends and family. 

Cost and Best Month For Chepang Hill Trek

Chepang hill trek will cost you less than other popular treks like the Everest base camp or the Annapurna base camp trek. Located at just 166.1 kilometers/ 166100m far from the capital city of Kathmandu, the trek will cost anywhere around $495-$500. However, the cost of the trek varies depending on the itinerary chosen. This trek is a cost-effective option for those trekkers who want to explore Nepal without emptying their pockets. 

The best months for the Chepang hill trek will be Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the days are typically sunny, with pleasant temperatures and crystal clear skies, providing ideal conditions for taking in breathtaking mountain views without any weather disturbance. Trekkers can also choose to trek during a monsoon season from June to August, but the weather may not be as favourable as in the spring and autumn seasons. 

Photo: Route to Chepang Hill Trek

Importance of Travel Insurance in This Trek

Travel insurance holds great importance in this trek as this is a real adventure in high altitude. Get yourself good travel insurance before hiking to Chepang hill. This trek takes you to an altitude of 4128 meters (13543 ft). Secure a policy covering helicopter evacuation and medical expenses in an emergency. 

Purchase a reputable policy from your home country, as no Nepalese insurance companies offer travel insurance.

Overall, the trek to Chepang village is worth your money. Getting to see one of the most primitive and indigenous societies of Nepal, Chepang will be an unforgettable memory in your brain gallery. Contact us if you are ready to scoop your next trek to Chepang Hill village.