Chainpur Bazaar

Chainpur was one of the great trading posts of the eastern hills, where goods from Tibet and the plains changed hands. Its cobbled main street is still lined with old tile-roofed Newar houses, and workshops that cast water jugs (gagri), bowls and ritual vessels in brass and bell metal.

On a clear day the ridge looks straight across to Makalu and the Everest range. It makes a peaceful stop on the way to Makalu Barun, and few tourists come.

What to see and do

Walk the old bazaar and look into the metal workshops, where Newar craftsmen still beat and cast brass, copper and bell metal into gagri water jars, karuwa jugs and ritual lamps. Small temples and old houses with carved wooden windows line the street. Early morning gives the clearest views of Makalu, Chamlang and the Everest range from the ridge.

Chainpur is a good base for short walks to surrounding Rai, Limbu and Chhetri villages and for visiting the Arun valley. It combines well with Khandbari, the district headquarters, and the start of the Makalu Barun trek.

Good to know

Accommodation is simple — a few guesthouses and hotels. Metal goods make excellent souvenirs; buy directly from workshops. The dry season (October–April) has the best mountain views.