Ghalegaun, a village rich in diversity, offers breathtaking views of white snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and a settlement predominantly inhabited by the Ghale community. This historically and touristically significant village is located in the northern part of Lamjung, nestled in the lap of the Annapurna Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level, Ghalegaun falls under Ward 3 of Kwholasothar Rural Municipality.
Known as the first “Smart Village” in Nepal, Ghalegaun is also recognized as a model village in South Asia and is often referred to as the “Happy Village.” Among the many Gurung villages in the district with tourism potential, Ghalegaun stands out for its distinct charm and rapid progress in tourism, making it an exemplary village in the region. At present, the locals and homestay operators eagerly await the arrival of tourists. Although the village used to welcome around 200-300 tourists daily, the monsoon season has seen a sharp decline in visitors, leaving the village unusually quiet. However, with the end of the rainy season, homestay operators are busy preparing to welcome guests.
Dhirgharaj Ghale, the Secretary of the Ghalegaun Rural Tourism Management Committee and a homestay operator, mentioned that while the village has been relatively empty during the monsoon, the clear skies and improved roads after the rains signal the beginning of the tourist season. Homestay operators are currently busy cleaning rooms and preparing necessary supplies for the guests. Hemkumari Gurung, another homestay operator, shared her anticipation, saying, “The last three months have been slow with no tourists due to the rains, but now we are eagerly waiting for tourists to return and resume our income.”
Tourism is the primary source of income for most homestay operators in Ghalegaun, with each homestay earning over NPR 50,000 during the peak tourist season. As they await tourists, the homestay operators are preparing organic food and other essentials. Visitors to the village are greeted with warm hospitality, including traditional welcome rituals involving white tika, flower garlands, and khada. Tourists are treated to local delicacies such as Gundruk (fermented leafy greens), roasted maize and soybeans, millet-based Sel roti, and tea. After a hearty meal, the visitors are entertained with traditional Gurung songs and dances, providing a complete cultural experience.
A unique aspect of the Ghalegaun experience is the presentation of traditional Gurung dances, including Ghatu, Krishna Charitra, Ghyabre, Lama, and Sorathi, which are performed to preserve the culture and entertain visitors. Prem Bahadur Ghale, the President of the Tourism Management Committee and former chairperson of Kwholasothar Rural Municipality, emphasized the excitement of the villagers when tourists arrive. During peak times, when the number of tourists exceeds the capacity of the local homestays, they are accommodated in neighboring villages.
According to the committee, homestays in Ghalegaun, which started in 2000 (2057 B.S.), currently operate in 44 homes with the capacity to accommodate 300 guests in a single night. There are also two hotels in the village. Along with providing hospitality, the locals ensure their cultural identity is preserved by showcasing their traditional attire, arts, and dances to the visitors.
In 2006, following the establishment of the Republic of Nepal, the SAARC ministerial meeting declared Ghalegaun as a model rural tourism village for the SAARC region. The village has also been recognized as a “Smart Village” and “Happy Village” in recent years.
As the homeland of the Gurung community, Ghalegaun holds historical significance as the last kingdom ruled by the Ghale kings. The village consists of around 135 households and offers stunning views of the Manaslu (8,163 meters), Ngadi Chuli (7,835 meters), Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters), Himalchuli (7,893 meters), Lamjung Himal (6,986 meters), and Buddha Himal (6,672 meters).
Visitors can also see the statue of the last Ghale king, Jyalu Buruja Klek, in the village. The homestay charges are NPR 1,250 per person per night, which includes accommodation and meals (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian). Breakfast consists of tea, millet-based Sel roti, vegetables, and eggs.
Ghalegaun is located 172 kilometers from Kathmandu via Dumre and Besisahar, and 110 kilometers from Pokhara to Besisahar. From Besisahar, visitors need to travel an additional 24 kilometers to reach the village.
