Sirubari Gurung Village Homestay

Max Altitude

2,300m (Thunro Viewpoint)

Duration

4 Days

Group Size

2-12 guests

Best Season

Year-round (Best: March-May, September-November)

Difficulty

Easy

Country

Nepal

Overview

Experience Nepal's first community homestay village at Sirubari - the birthplace of rural tourism in Nepal. This 4-day cultural immersion takes you into the heart of Gurung hospitality, where traditional ways of life have been preserved and shared with visitors since 1997.

Sirubari village, perched at 1,610 meters in the Syangja district, was declared Nepal's first model tourist village in 2000. The 39 households of this Tamu Gurung community have perfected the art of welcoming guests, offering an authentic window into their rich cultural heritage.

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with flowers and the traditional Panchai Baja music at the village entrance. After visiting the local monastery (gumba), you'll be welcomed into your host family's home for an experience that goes far beyond typical tourism. You'll eat together, share stories, and truly become part of the family.

The village offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range - from Manaslu through Machhapuchhre to Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. A hike to Thunro viewpoint (2,300m) provides one of the finest mountain panoramas in Nepal.

Evenings come alive with traditional Gurung cultural performances, including the famous Ghatu and Sorathi dances. Learn about Gurung traditions, their connection to the British Gurkha regiments, their unique architecture, and their sustainable way of life. Visit the local school, interact with villagers, and gain insights into a community that has found the perfect balance between preservation and progress.

Highlights

  • Stay in Nepal's first model tourist village (established 1997)
  • Traditional welcome with flowers and Panchai Baja music
  • Live with a Gurung family and share authentic home-cooked meals
  • Evening cultural performances - Ghatu and Sorathi dances
  • Hike to Thunro viewpoint for panoramic Himalayan views
  • Visit the village monastery (gumba) and museum
  • Learn about Gurung traditions and Gurkha heritage
  • Interact with local school children
  • Experience sustainable community-based tourism
  • Stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri

Your Journey

4 Days

Early morning scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6-7 hours) along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trisuli River through beautiful valleys. Alternatively, take a 25-minute flight with stunning mountain views. Arrive in Pokhara by afternoon and explore the lakeside area. Evening briefing about the homestay experience.

Duration

-

Elevation

820m

Meals

Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Hotel in Pokhara

After breakfast, drive to Arjunchaupari (3 hours) through scenic hill country. Begin the gentle trek to Sirubari village (approximately 2-3 hours through terraced farmland and forests). Arrive to a traditional welcome with flowers and Panchai Baja music. Visit the village monastery before being introduced to your host family. Evening cultural program featuring traditional Gurung dances.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,610m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Homestay with Gurung family

Wake to mountain views and a traditional breakfast with your host family. Morning hike to Thunro viewpoint (2,300m) for spectacular panoramic views from Manaslu to Dhaulagiri. Return for lunch and spend the afternoon on a village tour - visit the local school, the village museum, and interact with community members. Learn traditional crafts, help with farm activities (seasonal), or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Evening farewell cultural program.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,610m - 2,300m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Homestay with Gurung family

Enjoy a final breakfast with your host family and bid farewell at the village monastery. Trek back to Arjunchaupari and drive to Pokhara. Arrive by early afternoon with time for lunch by Phewa Lake and last-minute shopping. Transfer to airport for flight to Kathmandu or continue your Nepal journey. Depart with memories of genuine hospitality and new friendships.

Duration

-

Elevation

820m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Stay

Not included

What's Included

  • All transportation (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Sirubari)
  • Experienced English-speaking guide
  • All homestay accommodation with local families
  • All meals (authentic Gurung cuisine)
  • Traditional welcome ceremony
  • Cultural program with dance performances
  • Guided village tour and school visit
  • Guided hike to Thunro viewpoint
  • Donation to community development fund

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Tips for guide and host family (recommended)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Items not mentioned in inclusions

Trusted By

Government of NepalNepal Tourism BoardNepal Mountaineering AssociationTrekking Agencies Association of NepalKEEP NepalTrustpilot