Syangja (स्याङ्जा)

Syangja is a prosperous hill district in Gandaki Province, known as Nepal's leading orange-growing district, with its citrus orchards producing high-quality oranges for domestic markets. The district is also home to the 144 MW Kaligandaki A Hydropower Station, one of Nepal's largest hydropower projects. Putalibazar, the headquarters, is a charming hill town with traditional architecture and clean streets, often considered one of Nepal's best-managed towns. Syangja is predominantly inhabited by Brahmin-Chhetri, Magar, and Gurung communities, with high literacy rates and significant contributions to education and politics. The district is famous for the Manakamana and Kaligandaki temples, and offers scenic viewpoints of the Himalayan range. Agriculture, particularly citrus farming, hydropower, remittances, and small-scale businesses drive the local economy. Syangja's model development, clean environment, and community-driven initiatives have earned it recognition as a progressive district.