Bayali, located at 3,450 meters in Annapurna Rural Municipality–5, remains under the radar due to a lack of infrastructure and promotion. According to local lodge operator Lok Bahadur Paija, the area offers breathtaking views of mountain ranges, sunrises, and a tranquil setting, but sees very few visitors.
He noted that the absence of well-developed trekking trails and promotion has hindered tourist arrivals. “If Bayali is properly developed, it could encourage visitors on the Annapurna Circuit to extend their stay,” he added.
For the past 15 years, community lodges have operated in Bayeli, Dhandkharka, and Khopra under the leadership of locals from Shik, Paudwar, and Swanta villages. These lodges use local resources to support schools, health centers, and tourism facilities.
Below Bayali lies a forest of rhododendrons and pine, while above is an alpine pasture used for grazing during the monsoon. The area is also home to yak herding and seasonal animal shelters. Facing west, Bayali offers stunning views of the Dhaulagiri range, sunrises, sunsets, and surrounding hills and villages. Its remote and peaceful environment, along with yak herding scenes, adds to its appeal.
Bayali is accessible via a one-day trek from Ghorepani in Myagdi or a two-day trek from Ghandruk in Kaski. With support from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), basic trails connect these points to Bayali. The community lodge at Bayali can accommodate 18 people per night.
Trekkers can continue from Bayali to Dhandkharka, Swanta-Shik, or Khopra-Khair-Paudwar. However, the lack of trails between Bayali and Dhandkharka makes the journey risky through forests and cliffs.
Annapurna Rural Municipality Chairman Bharat Kumar Pun stated that efforts are being made to identify and develop potential destinations like Bayali to encourage longer tourist stays on the now-shortened Annapurna Circuit. “Bayali has potential as a new destination. We will assess the needs and initiate infrastructure development accordingly,” he said.
