Chitlang Village Homestay

Introduction to Chitlang Homestays

Nestled amidst the serene hills of Nepal, Chitlang offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. This picturesque village, located in the Makwanpur district, has gained prominence as a charming destination for travelers seeking a genuine cultural experience. At the heart of the Chitlang experience are its homestays, providing an authentic immersion into the daily lives, traditions, and warm hospitality of the local inhabitants.

Chitlang homestays offer more than just a place to rest your head; they provide a unique opportunity to become an integral part of the community. Here, you’ll find yourself welcomed with open arms by friendly villagers who are eager to share their way of life, from tending to their farms to preserving age-old customs. As you explore the lush green landscapes, savor home-cooked Nepali meals, and engage in cultural exchanges, you’ll forge lasting connections and create cherished memories.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventure in nature, or a chance to connect with the local culture, Chitlang’s homestays offer a window into an authentic Nepal that is both enriching and unforgettable. Join us in discovering the tranquil beauty and heartfelt warmth of Chitlang through our curated homestay experiences.

Itinerary

You will be picked up at the airport by one of the Real Journey Nepal staff and driven to your Kathmandu host family. Here you will be welcomed into the family, be given your own room and be provided with all your meals while in Kathmandu. This will be your home during your orientation and volunteering in Nepal. With easy bus routes into town and the surrounding countryside, this quiet and safe suburb is the perfect base for your time in Nepal.

On the second day the Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Day Tour is a journey into the spiritual heart of Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city. This cultural and religious adventure takes you to two of the most sacred and revered sites in Nepal, offering a profound and enriching experience.

Boudhanath: The Stupa of Compassion

Your day begins with a visit to Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you approach the stupa, you'll be captivated by its massive dome and the watchful eyes of the all-seeing Buddha painted on its pinnacle. The stupa is a center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal and a hub of spiritual activity.

Highlights:

1. Circumambulation: Join the devout pilgrims as they perform the kora (circumambulation) around the stupa. Walk clockwise, turning prayer wheels, and spin prayer flags to offer your prayers and good wishes.

2. Boudhanath Monasteries: Explore the monasteries surrounding the stupa, where you can witness Buddhist monks and nuns in their daily rituals. Some monasteries may allow you to participate in meditation sessions.

3. Shopping: The area around Boudhanath is renowned for Tibetan handicrafts, thangka paintings, prayer beads, and other Buddhist artifacts. Take some time to shop for souvenirs and support local artisans.

4. Tea Houses: Enjoy a traditional Nepali or Tibetan meal at one of the cozy tea houses with rooftop views of the stupa. It's a great place to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Pashupatinath: The Abode of Lord Shiva

In the afternoon, your tour takes you to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world. The temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims every day.

Highlights:

1. Pashupatinath Temple: Explore the main temple area and its intricate pagoda-style architecture. While non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple, you can observe the rituals and ceremonies from outside.

2. Aryaghat: Witness the sacred cremation ghats along the Bagmati River, where Hindus perform the last rites of their loved ones. The ritualistic ceremonies provide insight into Hindu funeral traditions.

3. Sadhus (Holy Men): Encounter and engage in conversations with the colorful and ascetic Sadhus, who are devoted to Lord Shiva. They often welcome visitors and may share stories about their spiritual journey.

4. Surrounding Temples and Monuments: Explore the various temples, shrines, and ancient sculptures within the Pashupatinath complex, each with its own historical and religious significance.

Note: Please be respectful of the religious customs and traditions at both Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. Dress modestly, remove your shoes when required, and ask for permission before taking photographs, especially of people.

Conclusion:

The Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Day Tour provides a deeply immersive experience into Nepal's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. These two iconic sites offer a glimpse into the profound devotion and rituals of both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment or simply wish to explore the vibrant tapestry of Nepali culture, this day tour is a captivating and meaningful excursion that will leave a lasting impression.

We start the day after breakfast in the morning. It will take about 30-40 minutes to drive to Matatirtha, our start point of the trek. The word “Matatirtha” means the mother’s shrine. This shrine sees a lot of visitors/pilgrims who have lost their mothers on the mother’s day each year in April (Hindu people of Nepal celebrate mother’s day on new moon day in April each year).
We start hiking towards the top of Chandragiri Hills (2729m) which is an old temple site and is now a popular tourist site after the establishment of the Cable Cars. The area is full of natural greenery and it will take about 4-5 hours to hike to the top. During the hike, we’ll walk up some minor hills, through lush jungle, and a small village at Chhap Bhanjyang (you may find a local shop to have a cup of relaxing tea/coffee here).
Chandragiri Hills is a very beautiful site with Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, restaurants, parks, etc. On a clear day, you can observe spectacular mountain views from east to west including Mt. Gaurishanker, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang mountain range, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Mt. Everest, Api, etc. After enjoying lunch together at the top of Chandragiri Hills and basking in the Himalayan views, we hike down towards Chitlang.
Chitlang is an ancient village which still has lots of evidence like ancient temples, artistically made rest houses, stone water taps, etc., that proves it was a civilized society in ancient time. There are some lodges to stay and Chitlang Village also gives you an opportunity to stay in a homestay if you want a more authentic interaction and insight into the rural life in Nepal. We will visit historical sites like Pauwa, Saat Dhara (seven water taps), Shiwalaya, and some other archeological monuments during your staying in Chitlang. Stay overnight in Chitlang (D)

Morning:

Breakfast in Chitlang: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Chitlang. Fuel up with some local cuisine or your preferred meal to prepare for the day's hike.

Start Hiking to Markhu: Your hiking adventure for the day starts as you leave Chitlang and make your way towards Markhu. The trail may take you through scenic countryside landscapes, including terraced fields, charming villages, and lush forests. Enjoy the serenity of nature and the fresh mountain air as you trek.

Midday:

Lunch Break: Along the trail, you can have a packed lunch or stop at a local teahouse or eatery in one of the villages for a delicious meal. Interact with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in the culture.
Afternoon:

Continue Hiking: Resume your hike towards Markhu. The route may offer various viewpoints and photo opportunities as you ascend and descend through the terrain.

Arrival in Markhu: Upon reaching Markhu, you can settle into your accommodation for the night. Markhu is a beautiful lakeside village located on the shores of Indrasarovar, a serene and picturesque lake. You'll have the chance to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Evening:

Explore Markhu: Spend your evening exploring Markhu and its surroundings. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, interact with the locals, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. You might also want to visit the nearby Indrasarovar, a sacred lake with a small temple dedicated to Lord Indra. This area is ideal for photography and relaxation.

Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner or your preferred meal at a local eatery or your accommodation. Savor the flavors of local cuisine while taking in the serene ambiance of Markhu.

Night:

Overnight Stay in Markhu: After a day of hiking and exploration, retire to your accommodation in Markhu for a well-deserved night's rest at the homestay, to experience local hospitality.
As you spend the night in Markhu, you'll have the opportunity to recharge and appreciate the natural beauty of the Indrasarovar area.

Morning:

Breakfast in Markhu: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation in Markhu. Enjoy the local flavors and a warm cup of tea or coffee before you embark on your journey back to Kathmandu.
Mid-morning:

Prepare for Departure: After breakfast, make sure you have packed all your belongings and completed the check-out process from your accommodation. Double-check that you have all your essentials and any souvenirs you may have picked up during your trip.
Drive to Kathmandu:

Drive from Markhu to homestay in Kathmandu: Your return journey to Kathmandu will be by road. Depending on traffic conditions and the specific route you take, the drive can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The road journey will give you a chance to enjoy more scenic views of the Nepali countryside.

Depending on your travel plans, you may be catching a flight from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to your next destination, embarking on another adventure within Nepal, or continuing your journey in the region.

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