Chilancho, Himalayas Travel Guide

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Discover the ancient Buddhist monument of Chilancho Stupa in Kirtipur, Nepal, offering a serene escape and panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

Chilancho Stupa, possibly Kirtipur's oldest monument, stands as a testament to the city's rich Buddhist heritage. Believed by many to have been founded by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, this serene stupa offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Nepal's ancient past.

A brief summary to Chilancho

M7GH+Q5F, Kirtipur, 44618, NP
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Monday 5 am-10 pm
Tuesday 5 am-10 pm
Wednesday 5 am-10 pm
Thursday 5 am-10 pm
Friday 5 am-10 pm
Saturday 5 am-10 pm
Sunday 5 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chilancho.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the approach to the stupa involves walking uphill and navigating stone steps.
Visit during the September full moon (Ashwin Purnima) to witness the local festival related to the Vihar.
Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting the religious site.

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Explore Chilancho on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Chilancho, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Kathmandu, take a local bus from Ratna Park towards Kirtipur. Buses depart every 15-20 minutes and cost approximately NPR 15-30. Inform the driver you wish to get off at Kirtipur-Naya Bazaar. From there, it's an uphill walk to Chilancho Stupa.
Taxi/Ride-sharing

From Kathmandu, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Pathao or InDriver) to Kirtipur Naya Bazaar will cost approximately NPR 450-650 and take 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic. From there, it's an uphill walk to Chilancho Stupa. Negotiate the fare or ensure the meter is used.
Walking

If you are near Patan or Sanepa, walking to Kirtipur is an option. From the base of Kirtipur, follow the narrow lanes and stone steps uphill to reach Chilancho Stupa. Be prepared for a moderately challenging walk.

Discover more about Chilancho

Chilancho Stupa, crowning the southernmost hill in Kirtipur, is a significant historical and religious site. Kirtipur, meaning the 'city of glory,' lies southwest of Kathmandu and boasts a history of resistance and cultural richness. The stupa, possibly dating back to the 3rd century BCE, is believed to have been founded during the time of Emperor Ashoka. However, the earliest confirmed records indicate renovations in 1533.The stupa's architecture features a square plan with diminishing terraces, topped by a whitewashed dome. The harmika, painted with eyes, and a beehive-shaped crown of thirteen rings representing Buddhist heavens add to its splendor. Surrounding the main stupa are smaller stupas, shrines with Tara Devi images, and pati (rest houses).Today, Chilancho Stupa provides a tranquil atmosphere, with prayer flags and the chants of monks creating a serene environment. Visitors can explore the stupa, engage with the local community, and appreciate the traditional Newari architecture. The site offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking cultural immersion and spiritual reflection.