A historic hilltop site in Chitwan’s former district headquarters, Upperdang Gadi, has gradually transformed into a rising tourist destination. Located in ward no. 7 of Ichchhakamana Rural Municipality, this scenic village now attracts visitors daily who come to escape the summer heat and witness spectacular sunrises from the heights of this culturally rich settlement.
Once a lesser-known area, Upperdang Gadi is now gaining recognition for its natural beauty and community-led hospitality initiatives. With only 35 households in the village, 10 of them have been operating homestays since 2018 (B.S. 2075). These homestays have become a vital source of income for the locals.
Ganesh Bahadur Thapa, operator of the Sirai Chuli Homestay, shares that hosting guests is now their primary source of livelihood. “In the beginning, when tourists started arriving, we had difficulties offering them accommodation. So, locals offered shelter in their own homes. Gradually, the concept of homestay was introduced and formalized,” he says.
Today, Upperdang Gadi sees a steady flow of 60 to 70 visitors daily, according to another homestay operator, Bilbahadur Thapa Magar. The village has developed the capacity to host up to 150 guests at a time, making it one of the most organized community-based tourism models in the area.
The peak tourist season in Upperdang Gadi typically begins in March (Falgun) and continues until October (Asoj), with visitors drawn not only to the panoramic views but also to the region’s historical and cultural assets. The area is home to a blend of ethnic communities, predominantly Chepang, Gurung, and Magar. Tourists visiting the village are welcomed with locally sourced organic food and warm hospitality, which has become a hallmark of the Upperdang experience.
Upperdang Gadi
Manglabahadur Thapa Magar, another homestay operator, explains how income from tourism has helped villagers send their children to school and cover household expenses. “With no other significant income sources, we depend on farming and homestays. It’s not just a business it’s our way of life,” he says.
Local leadership has also played a vital role in promoting and sustaining the tourism potential of Upperdang Gadi. Chairperson of Ichchhakamana Rural Municipality, Danbahadur Gurung, highlighted their continuous efforts in promoting homestays and empowering the community. “We’ve been providing various training programs for homestay operators and encouraging the use of organic and locally produced food,” Gurung said.
In addition to tourism promotion, the municipality has been working to preserve the historical significance of Upperdang Gadi. Being the former administrative center of Chitwan, the area houses remains of ancient fortifications, guard houses (kotghar), and traditional stone water taps (dhara). The local government is investing in the restoration and reconstruction of these structures to enhance their tourism value. One of the key projects includes the newly constructed Kotghar building, which was completed with an investment of NPR 13.5 million.
Tourism experts and local stakeholders agree that the preservation of historical and cultural sites in Upperdang Gadi will contribute significantly to its long-term development. As a result, the area has already begun to draw not just domestic travelers but also foreign tourists looking for authentic cultural experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and opportunities to engage with Nepal’s rural heritage.
The success story of Upperdang Gadi reflects the strength of community-based tourism and the potential of Nepal’s rural areas to thrive through sustainable and inclusive development. By combining natural beauty with cultural heritage and local enterprise, the residents of this small village in Chitwan are redefining the tourism landscape of central Nepal.
With continued support from local authorities and the enthusiasm of the community, Upperdang Gadi is poised to become a model for rural tourism in Nepal. For visitors looking to explore beyond the popular hubs, this hidden gem offers a refreshing retreat where nature, history, and hospitality come together to create a truly memorable experience.
