A beautiful city of lakes surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world, Pokhara is also the gateway to many other attractive destinations around. If you plan to visit Nepal and have Pokhara and Annapurna on your bucket list, going beyond the city and usual Annapurna trekking routes will give you a unique opportunity to explore the mesmerizing yet unexplored areas, their diverse culture, and way of life.
Hemjakot Community Homestay
Hemjakot is a perfect getaway to witness the majestic mountains and experience the rural Nepali way of life. About an hour's drive and a moderate hike for another one hour from Pokhara, it is ideally located on the foothills of Mt. Machhapuchhare (often referred to as Fishtail Mountain to English speakers). Along with its diverse culture and beautiful landscape, the Hemjakot Community Homestay, which belongs to the Gurung, Magar, and Dalit communities, adds a different charm to this village.
While the facilities at the community homestays are basic, you would be provided with everything from clean linen to toilet paper. The concept of community homestays here also supports the traditionally underprivileged Dalit groups (the Damai and Kami) to improve their livelihoods.
Staying at Hemjakot Community Homestay will also give you an excellent opportunity to understand and reflect on the typical traditional architecture of the western Himalayan region of Nepal. The houses are uniquely designed and often made with stones from the area itself. It is also an excellent base for short hikes around Pokhara. Travellers who want to explore the beautiful landscapes without going on a strenuous trek can hike to Dhampus and Asthma, which provides up-close views of the mighty Himalayas. In addition to the majestic views and changing colours of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre over the sunrise and sunset, you would also enjoy the cultural diversity and their hospitality and leave Hemjakot with warm feelings.
Narchyang Community Homestay
A five-hour drive from Pokhara, you can immerse yourself in one of Nepal's most beautiful yet unexplored landscapes. A village tucked in the laps of the Himalayas, Narchyang is a scenic destination with a view of Shangri-la and aims to evolve as a sustainable community by operating a community homestay.
Previously known to only a few trekkers, Narchyang is a refreshing alternative to the usual trekking route in the Annapurna region. As it is in the 'rain-shadow' area, it can be visited annually and is favourable to travellers who want to indulge in a leisurely hike. Along with the mesmerising view of the mountains, one could explore the waterfalls and hot springs around the area. With five households, the Narchyang Community Homestay offers traditional Magar culture and some of the most authentic dishes, such as Dhido Set (buckwheat mash with a smooth and creamy taste, with melted ghee on top).
Mustang Bon Community Homestay
Lower Mustang offers a different landscape from the rest of Nepal and holds an even greater mystery as it has recently started to welcome outsiders. Anyone who visits the area will be mesmerized by the landscape and majestic view of the mountains. Immersing yourself in Bon culture is a rare opportunity to understand remnants of an older, pre-Buddhist religion.
Mustang Bon Community Homestay is in Lubra, and you can enjoy a rural mountainous experience in this small village. The community homestays in Lubra have basic facilities but will manage to keep you comfortable. The hosts eagerly celebrate and keep parts of their culture alive, which can otherwise be forgotten due to modernization. Another highlight of your stay would be preparing and eating locally grown food. Depending on your length of stay and the season, you will also be able to plant and gather their food. If you are looking for some adventure, you can go hiking to Falek and Pakling or follow the trail to spot the elusive snow leopard. You can also cycle around the region on mountain bikes.
