In a significant milestone for Nepal’s tourism landscape, Ghalegaun, a picturesque village nestled in the hills of Lamjung district, celebrated its 25th year of contribution to the tourism sector with grand Silver Jubilee festivities. The event was formally inaugurated today by the Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, who is also the official Spokesperson of the Government of Nepal.
Organized by the Ghalegaun Tourism Management Committee, the Silver Jubilee celebration marks a quarter-century since Ghalegaun first ventured into organized tourism. The celebration aims not only to commemorate this achievement but also to reinforce the village’s image as a model rural tourism destination and a symbol of Nepal’s unique cultural richness.
Ghalegaun: From Remote Village to Smart Tourism Destination
Addressing the gathering, Minister Gurung reflected on the transformative journey of Ghalegaun over the past two and a half decades. Once a remote and largely inaccessible settlement, the village has emerged as a prime example of rural tourism success. “Ghalegaun has overcome immense hardship, challenges, and remoteness to become a smart village,” said Gurung. “This transformation was made possible by unity and community efforts, political commitment, and the active participation of the people.”
Ghalegaun, primarily inhabited by the Gurung community, has been at the forefront of promoting homestay tourism in Nepal. The village is widely recognized as the birthplace of the homestay tourism model, which has since flourished across the nation. “What began here in Ghalegaun is now a national movement,” Gurung noted. “Homestay tourism has spread to all 77 districts of Nepal, setting an example for community-led development.”
Rural Tourism and Living Museums
Minister Gurung emphasized the need to continue strengthening rural tourism initiatives in Nepal. “Our villages are not just rural settlements they are living museums that showcase Nepal’s rich diversity, natural beauty, and cultural heritage,” he said. According to him, the essence of tourism in Nepal lies not only in the mountains and cities but also in the heart of its rural communities.
“Fate and future are generally uncertain,” the Minister remarked, “but determination, policies, and actions shape destiny. Ghalegaun is a living proof of how the right vision and community engagement can bring about revolutionary change.”
He also revealed that there are currently 306 homestay facilities registered in Gandaki Province alone, with the majority of them operating successfully. This statistic reflects not only the popularity of rural tourism but also the economic empowerment it brings to the local population.
Silver Jubilee Highlights: Culture, Collaboration, and Community Spirit
The Silver Jubilee event saw the enthusiastic participation of local residents, homestay operators, elected officials, and delegates from various organizations associated with tourism and rural development. The celebration was a vibrant reflection of Ghalegaun’s cultural wealth and community spirit.
Highlights of the day included captivating traditional Gurung cultural performances, discussions on the future of rural tourism, exhibitions of local agricultural and handicraft products, and knowledge-sharing sessions on sustainable tourism practices. These activities provided a platform for both celebration and strategic planning, aiming to pave the way for the next phase of Ghalegaun’s tourism journey.
The event also served as a venue for exchanging ideas and experiences among tourism stakeholders, which many believe is essential for promoting innovation and sustainability in Nepal’s tourism sector.
Ghalegaun: A Model for the Nation
Situated at an altitude of around 2,100 meters, Ghalegaun offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, making it a favorite among domestic and international tourists alike. Its appeal, however, goes beyond its scenic landscape. Ghalegaun’s warm hospitality, cultural authenticity, and strong community involvement in tourism activities have turned it into a benchmark for other villages looking to emulate its success.
With its well-established homestay system, cultural showcases, and commitment to preserving local traditions, Ghalegaun has become a symbol of how rural communities can lead sustainable tourism development while preserving their identity and environment.
Looking Forward: Strengthening Rural Tourism
As Ghalegaun celebrates 25 years of achievements in tourism, the Silver Jubilee event also laid the groundwork for future initiatives. The government, in coordination with local bodies and tourism stakeholders, plans to invest more in improving infrastructure, enhancing service quality, and promoting the village on international platforms.
Minister Gurung concluded his speech with a note of optimism and encouragement: “The journey of Ghalegaun is not just a local success story it is a national inspiration. With determination, vision, and collaboration, we can replicate this model in every corner of Nepal.”
As Nepal continues to position itself as a diverse and inclusive tourism destination, Ghalegaun’s story stands as a shining example of what community-driven tourism can achieve. The Silver Jubilee celebration is not only a tribute to the past but also a call to action for the future of rural tourism across the country.
