The present study aimed to investigates the changes, local understanding and perceptions of swidden agriculture amongst swidden farmers (N = 51) in two central districts of Nepal, namely Dhading and Chitwan. Data were collected through focus group discussion, a questionnaire survey and field observations from Jogimara and Shaktikhar Village Development Committee focusing on the indigenous Chepang communities, to whom swidden agriculture is more than a way of subsistence. Additionally, interviews with professionals from relevant government and non-governmental organizations were conducted to get their stand points on that specific issue.