Lamjung, Sept 9: Ghalegaon of Lamjung is a treasure trove of diversity. Majestic white mountains tower above, lush forests in the middle, and a village predominantly inhabited by the Ghale community at the foothills. This village holds historical and touristic significance, nestled in the northern region of the district at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level, cradled by the Lamjung and Annapurna Himalayas.
Among all the villages in the district, Ghalegaon attracts the most tourists every year. It has been hailed as the country’s first smart village, a happy village, and a model village in South Asia. Many Gurung villages in the district have untapped tourism potential, but Ghalegaon stands out as a progressive village leading the way in various styles of tourism. Currently, local homestay operators are eagerly anticipating the return of tourists. The village has felt deserted since the decline in tourist numbers due mainly to the covid pandemic but with the end of the summer season approaching, operators are gearing up to welcome visitors.
The office secretary of the Rural Ghalegaon Tourism Management Committee and homestay owner, Dirgharaj Ghale, mentioned that the village had been quiet since June/July due to the lack of tourists. However, with the rains subsiding and clearer weather ahead, they are preparing accommodations and necessary amenities for incoming tourists. Hem Kumari Gurung, another homestay owner, expressed the financial strain faced during the tourist lull and their anticipation for visitors now that the rainy season has passed.
Tourism serves as the primary income source for most homestay operators in Ghalegaon. During the tourist season, each household can earn over Rs 50,000. Homestay owners, who have been idle without tourists, are now busy preparing organic materials and eagerly awaiting the arrival of guests. Visitors to the village are warmly welcomed, honored, and bid farewell with white tikas, flower garlands, local delicacies like gundruk, corn soybeans, millet bread, and tea. The locals also entertain tourists with traditional Gurung songs and dances, showcasing their rich cultural heritage.
It is a tradition for the people of Ghalegaon to invite tourists into their homes and perform traditional dances like Ghatu, Krishna character dance, Ghyaber, Lama, Sorathi, and more, rooted in Gurung customs. Prem Bahadur Ghale, Chairman of the Tourism Management Committee in Ghalegaon, emphasized that this cultural exchange not only entertains tourists but also promotes and preserves their traditions.
The residents of Ghalegaon are eagerly anticipating the arrival of tourists, ready to welcome them with open arms. In case of overflow, tourists are accommodated in neighboring villages.
Currently, there are 44 homestays and two hotels operating in Ghalegaon, with a total capacity of 300 guests per night. In addition to providing hospitality, the locals showcase cultural dances and ethnic identities to preserve their arts, customs, and culture.
After the people’s movement of 2062-63, Ghalegaon was recognized as a model rural tourism village by the SAARC nations, following the establishment of the republic in Nepal. It was designated as a Smart Village and Happy Village a few years ago.
As the birthplace of the Gurungs, one of Nepal’s indigenous tribes, and the former seat of Ghaleraja’s kingdom, Ghalegaon holds historical significance. The village comprises about 135 households and offers breathtaking views of the Mount Manaslu (8,163m), Mount Ngadichuli (7,835m), Mount Annapurna (second and fourth) (7,935m), Mt Machhapuchhre (6,963m), Mt Himalchuli (7,893m), Mt Lamjung (6,986m), and Mt Buddha (6,672m) from a single point.
Visitors to Ghalegaon are charged a fee of Rs 1,250 per person per night, which includes accommodation and meals. The village is located 172 km from Kathmandu via Dumre Bazaar in Tanahun to Beshisahar, and 110 km from the provincial capital Pokhara to Beshissahar. From Beshisahar, it is a 24 km journey to reach Ghalegaon. #Ghalegaon
