CHEPANG

One of the most backward ethnic groups of Nepal, the Chepangs inhabit remote areas, detached from others. Sparse contours, river banks, outback areas and cave likes precipices are the likely places for their habitation. Chepangs are found in the districts of Makwanpur, Chitwan, Gorkha and Dhading. They have their own distinct language belonging to one of the Tibeto-Burman strains. Like the Kusundas, the Chepangs also shun farming and prefer to forage for tubers or for fishing for their livelihood. They are born hunters. Their clan priests are called Pandes. It is felt that their religion and culture are influenced by the Tamangs.