Kathmandu: Chitlang Day Tour, Wine Tasting and Short Hike

Planning a day escape from the hustle of Kathmandu? The Chitlang Day Tour by Maya Trips offers a blend of culture, nature, and authentic local flavors that make for a memorable experience. From exploring ancient Newari villages to sampling fresh goat cheese and organic wines, this trip promises a taste of rural Nepal in all its charming simplicity.

What really makes this tour stand out is its focus on genuine local experiences—no tourist traps here. You’ll enjoy stunning hillside views, learn about traditional sheep farming, and walk through peaceful green landscapes that you might find surprisingly invigorating after a busy city stay. The only consideration? The 2-hour drive from Kathmandu might feel long if you’re not a fan of bus rides, but the scenery makes it worth it.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed day immersed in Nepali countryside, culture, and gastronomy. Whether you’re into food, nature, or history, there’s something for all. Just remember that it’s a full day out, so good walking shoes and a taste for authentic rural life are your best companions.

Key Points

• Cultural richness: Explore ancient Newari settlements and historical sites like Sat Dhara and Pauwa Rest House.
• Gourmet experiences: Enjoy cheese tasting at a local Goat Cheese Factory and sample organic wines made from local fruits.
• Scenic views: The hillside lunch spot and hike to Bheda Farm offer stunning vistas that make the journey worthwhile.
• Authentic rural life: Visit a working sheep farm and see how traditional Nepali sheep farming is done.
• Relaxed pace: The tour is well-paced, balancing sightseeing, tasting, and walking without feeling rushed.
• Value for money: At $112 per person, it includes transportation, guide, entry fees, meals, and tastings—making it a solid all-in-one day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chitlang Day Tour

The Journey from Kathmandu

The tour kicks off with a scenic 2-hour drive from Kathmandu, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy Nepal’s lush landscape from the comfort of a private vehicle. As you leave the city behind, you’ll start to see the transition from bustling streets to peaceful hills, with views that are often described as breathtaking. The transport is included, which simplifies logistics and helps maximize your sightseeing time upon arrival.

Exploring Chitlang’s Cultural Gems

Once in Chitlang, the focus is on its ancient Newari settlements. Visitors often appreciate the opportunity to walk through traditional streets, soak in local architecture, and witness the rural way of life. Key sites include Sat Dhara, the famous Seven Taps, and Pauwa Rest House, both offering insights into local traditions and history. One reviewer mentioned that “visiting Sat Dhara was surprisingly peaceful,” highlighting how these spots provide a quiet, authentic feel away from tourist crowds.

The Goat Cheese Factory

A real highlight is the guided tour of the Goat Cheese Factory, where you get to see how fresh cheese is made on-site. Many guests love the opportunity to taste the cheese fresh from the production line—something that resonates with cheese lovers and foodies alike. Descriptions of the cheese tasting note it as deliciously fresh with a creamy texture, a great example of what local producers can achieve. Several reviewers remarked that this was a “unique experience you won’t find in Kathmandu,” making it a standout.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch with Views

After exploring, it’s time to sit down for a traditional Nepali lunch. The setting is often praised for its panoramic hillside views, making the meal not just about the food but also the scenery. Expect local dishes that showcase Nepali flavors, served in a cozy, rustic setting. This is a great chance to relax, chat with your guide, and soak in the peaceful environment.

Organic Wine Tasting

In the afternoon, the tour shifts to organic wine tasting featuring Sand Pear, Yacon, and Plum wines. These wines are crafted from locally grown fruits, giving a taste of Nepal’s innovative approach to winemaking. Guests have described the wines as refreshing and uniquely flavored, perfect for those interested in trying something different from the usual grape wines. The tasting provides insight into Nepal’s burgeoning organic food scene, and many appreciate the chance to sample wines they likely wouldn’t find elsewhere.

Short Hike to Bheda Farm

The final activity is a short hike to Bheda Farm. This peaceful walk through lush greenery ends at a sheep farm, where visitors can observe traditional sheep farming methods and enjoy tranquil meadow views. Travelers mention the hike as relaxing and highlight how it offers a nice balance to the earlier cultural and tasting activities. The farm itself is described as serene with plenty of space for a leisurely stroll.

Practical Details & Tips

The entire day is well-organized, with transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entry fees included. The tour typically lasts about 8 hours, making it suitable for those with a full day to spare. The group size tends to be small-to-moderate, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Pricing at $112 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—transport, meals, tastings, and access to all sites. It’s a good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of rural Nepal without the hassle of organizing separate activities.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. The tour involves some walking, especially during the hike, and the views are worth capturing.

Language options: Tours are available in English, German, Chinese, French, and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration and travel time—a 2-hour drive each way might be tiring for some. If you prefer a shorter day or less travel, this might feel a bit long. Also, since the experience revolves around rural life and organic products, expect a rustic environment and simple amenities.

Flexibility & Booking

The tour offers the flexibility to reserve and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. This makes it easy to plan without a lot of upfront commitment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and nature seekers. It suits those interested in authentic local life and willing to walk a bit while enjoying scenic vistas. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, all-in-one day trip that combines cultural exploration with tasty treats and peaceful countryside.

The Sum Up

The Kathmandu to Chitlang Day Tour offers an accessible and engaging way to step out of the city and into Nepal’s rural charm. Its highlights—cultural sites, cheese tasting, organic wines, and scenic hikes—combine to deliver a well-rounded experience that appeals to diverse interests. For a reasonable price, you get a taste of local life, stunning views, and some delicious surprises along the way.

If you’re after an authentic Nepali countryside adventure that balances sightseeing with food and nature, this tour is a fantastic choice. It encourages slow, meaningful exploration and offers a genuine insight into rural Nepal, making it perfect for travelers craving a day of relaxed discovery.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Kathmandu to Chitlang?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours each way, offering scenic views and a chance to relax before the explorations begin.

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes round-trip transportation, visits to cultural sites like Sat Dhara and Pauwa, a guided Goat Cheese Factory tour, cheese tasting, a traditional Nepali lunch with scenic views, organic wine tasting, a short hike to Bheda Farm, a guide, and entry fees.

Are meals and tastings included?
Yes, both the traditional Nepali lunch and organic wine tastings are included in the price.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages, but note that it involves walking and a short hike. Comfortable footwear is recommended.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the lovely views and memorable moments.

What languages are available?
Tours are offered in multiple languages including English, German, Chinese, French, and Spanish.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the environment rustic or modern?
Expect a rustic, authentic rural setting with basic amenities—perfect for experiencing local life up close.

Would this tour be good for photography?
Absolutely. The hillside views, traditional villages, and lush landscapes provide plenty of photo opportunities.

This detailed look at the Kathmandu to Chitlang Day Tour reveals a thoughtful blend of cultural, culinary, and natural experiences. It’s a chance to enjoy Nepal’s countryside in a relaxed, meaningful way—rich in authentic moments and stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: