Lamjung's centuries-old Gurung culture is emerging as a key economic asset, with community-run homestays transforming traditional heritage into a thriving rural tourism model that is generating jobs, boosting local businesses and preserving indigenous identity.
KATHMANDU, JULY 9
Once known for the lively Rodhi houses where young Gurungs gathered to sing, dance and pass cultural traditions from one generation to the next, Lamjung is now turning that heritage into a sustainable tourism economy.
The district, regarded as the ancestral homeland of the Gurung community, has witnessed steady growth in rural tourism through homestays that showcase traditional architecture, local cuisine, cultural performances and community hospitality. The model has helped preserve indigenous customs while creating new income opportunities for rural households.
The rural tourism movement began in Ghalegaun of Kwholasothar Rural Municipality in 2000 alongside a local festival. Since then, homestays have expanded to villages including Bhujung, Siurung, Pasgaun, Ghanpokhara, Khasur, Rainaskot, Kaulepani, Ilampokhari, Nalma, Chhapamimpra, Bhusme and Ghermu.
Located at an altitude of around 2,100 metres, Ghalegaun has earned recognition as one of South Asia's model rural tourism destinations. Visitors are drawn by panoramic views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Lamjung and Himalchuli mountain ranges, along with authentic Gurung settlements and cultural experiences.
According to Prem Bahadur Ghale, chairperson of the Ghalegaun Rural Tourism Management Committee, the homestay programme has significantly improved the village's economic and social conditions while helping preserve endangered traditions, local cuisine and community values.
Bhujung, another prominent Gurung settlement, has operated homestays since 2007 and is known for its traditional stone houses and living cultural heritage. Likewise, Siurung village beneath the Manaslu range has combined tourism promotion with cultural conservation, attracting visitors seeking authentic village experiences.
Local resident Purna Bahadur Gurung said tourism has encouraged communities to protect their traditions at a time when foreign employment and modern lifestyles have threatened indigenous practices. Beyond homestay operators, dairy farmers, organic vegetable growers, grain producers, artisans and small businesses are also benefiting from increased visitor spending.
Villages continue to preserve seasonal local produce such as wild ferns and mushrooms, serving them alongside millet, buckwheat, maize and other traditional dishes to offer tourists an authentic taste of the region. Cultural performances including Ghatu, Sorathi, Jhyaure, Krishna Charitra dance and Sarangi music remain major attractions in Pasgaun.
Women play a central role in the rural tourism economy by managing homestays, preparing traditional food and organising cultural programmes, while younger residents are creating local employment by working as guides, tourism entrepreneurs and digital promoters.
Kwholasothar Rural Municipality Chair Surya Prasad Gurung said the local government is investing in tourism infrastructure, including parks, trail development, waterfall conservation and beautification projects. Construction of a trekking route through Memedanda towards Dudhpokhari is also under way, with plans to develop it as an alternative trekking corridor linking Kaski and Manang.
Despite its progress, rural tourism continues to face challenges including monsoon-related road disruptions, inadequate infrastructure in some villages, labour shortages caused by overseas migration and growing pressure from modernisation on traditional culture.
Tourism entrepreneurs say improved infrastructure, stronger marketing, digital promotion and coordinated support from all three levels of government will be essential to extend visitor stays, strengthen local product branding and maximise tourism's contribution to the rural economy.
(With inputs from RSS)