Trek in the hills around Pokhara and you'll soon be welcomed into a Gurung village, with stone houses, terraced fields and some of the warmest hospitality in Nepal.
Quick answer: the Gurung (who call themselves Tamu) live mainly in the hills of central Nepal, around the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. They are known for their Gurkha military tradition, villages such as Ghandruk and Ghale Gaun, the Tamu Lhosar new year, and community homestays.
Villages to visit
- Ghandruk: a classic Gurung village with views of Annapurna South.
- Ghale Gaun and Sikles: quieter villages with homestays.
- Barpak in Gorkha.
Traditions
- Gurkha heritage: many Gurung men serve in the British and Indian armies; see who are the Gurkhas.
- Tamu Lhosar: the new year festival around late December; see Losar.
- Cultural dances often performed for visitors in homestay villages.
Visiting respectfully
Stay in community homestays, ask before taking photos and try local food. See our Ghandruk trek, Ghandruk guide and village homestays.