Siraichuli Chepang Community Trekking

Siraichuli Trek is one of the underrated treks in Nepal. It is a newly opened trail that introduces you to the Chepang community and its unique culture. The Chepang is an indigenous Tibeto-Burman ethnic group, dwelling in rugged ridges of the Mahabharat mountain range of central Nepal. Chepang people, then a nomadic group, now embraces a semi-nomadic lifestyle and are among the neglected indigenous groups of Nepal.

Siraichuli Trekking got its name from Siraichuli Peak, the highest hill peak of Chitwan District, in Narayani Zone of Nepal. Siraichuli hill peak at 1945m commands spectacular views of majestic mountains Like Dhaulagiri, Gaurisankhar, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna and Manaslu, and the Terai belt of the southern region of Nepal. Travelers trek to Siraichuli peak to admire stunning sunrise and sunset views from the hill peak.

Siraichuli Trek route follows the hiking trails between Kathmandu and Chitwan, through landscape ranging from the lush lowland of Chitwan National Park to hill peak. This trail has been explored to promote Eco-Tourism and improve local communities’ social and economic standards. This trek, directly and indirectly, emphasis on exposure of indigenous culture.

The trail passes through lowland, pine, and the rhododendron forests and trading route between Terai plains to Kathmandu. It bestows a distinctive landscape, unlike any other treks in Nepal.

Hugdi, Hattibang, Jyandala, Siraichuli Chisapanitar, Gadi, and Shaktikhor are the remarkable landmarks of this trek. The area is home to more than 230 species of birds and thus heaven for bird-watching. The panoramic views from the hill peak, cultural experiences of Chepang, home-stay, and bird-watching are some of the major highlights of this trek.

Siraichuli Chepang Hill Trek Route

This trek starts from Kathmandu with a scenic ride to Hugdi along the Trishuli river bank. The ride offers an amazing view of the Trishuli river valley, green hills, and mountains. It will take you 2-3 hours to reach Hugdi, a small Magar village.

You will march towards Hattibang through a forested trail along the terrace fields. The trail gradually ascends and passes via groves of orange trees before reaching Jogipuri, a small village inhabited by Brahmin and Chettri communities. Further, the trail continues through forests and reveals stunning views of the Himalayas. And finally, you will be in Hattibang. Don’t forget to visit the elephant-shaped stone that gives the name to the village.

Upon continuing the journey to Jandala, you might see beautiful birds like Eurasian Jay, White-browed Shrike Babbler, Mountain Bulbul, Kalij Pheasant, Cuckoos, and Laughing. The trail encompasses downhills for a few hours to Jandala, a Chepang village. Here you will be surprised to see a unique way of life and fascinating culture. Though the Chepang people are known for being an isolated indigenous group, they have a distinctive lifestyle. Also, you will savor Chepang foods in Jandala.

On the 3rd day, you will head to Siraichuli, Chisapanitar, and Gadi. The hike is relatively easier. Hike to Siraichuli viewpoint in 1945m to embrace panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Gaurisankhar, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, and Manaslu. After enjoying the view, you will head to Chisapanitar and Gadi for overnight.

The next day, you will descend down to Shaktikhor. Trek through well preserved Sal forest for about 3 hours. You will also visit the Chepang Museum and Visitor’s Information Center. Finally, you will drive to Kathmandu to Shaktikhor.

Siraichuli Hill Trek Difficulty

Siraichuli Trekking, also known as the Chepang community trek, is an easy trek. Anyone with no prior trekking experience can embark on this amazing journey to Siraichuli hill peak.

The highest elevation of this trek is 1945m. On average, you will have to trek for 3-4 hours, and on a challenging day, you must trek for 506 hours. But rest assured the hike is relatively easier than other treks in Nepal.