Chhomrong: A Famous Gurung Village on the ABC Trail

Chhomrong Village is a mountain village in the Annapurna region and one of the major places on the way to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). The village is a prominent overnight stop for trekkers returning from the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).

Trekkers get to experience Gurung culture through how people live in the village, their food, kindness, and traditions. The strong link with Gurung history makes Chhomrong more than a place to stop on the ABC route.

Surrounded by mountain views, dense forests, and stone paths, the village also shows how local people have embraced tourism while preserving their traditions.

Because of the immersive cultural experience, local food variety, and panoramic views of the mountains like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli, Chhomrong is a village worth visiting.

Chhomrong Village Quick Facts

Here’s a quick look at the facts about this village.

Where is Chhomrong Located?

At a height of 2,170 m (7,120 ft) above sea level, Chhomrong is a prominent mountain village in Kaski District of Gandaki Province in central Nepal.

Chhomrong is located inside Annapurna Rural Municipality, Ward No. 11, and the place overlooks the Modi Khola Valley. Within the Annapurna Conservation Area, the village is located in the southern side of the Annapurna massif.

As a stop on the ABC route, Chhomrong comes before Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, Himalaya, Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). It is considered as a major gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Why is Chhomrong an Important Stop on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek?

On the way to ABC, Chhomrong is one of the villages where trekkers stop for food, a place to sleep, rest, and to get ready for the high-altitude part of the trek.

Beyond this village, other villages are just good for a stay; they don’t carry the cultural significance as rich as Chhomrong and focus more on serving trekkers.

The village has a selection of teahouses, lodges, shops, and basic hiking facilities. This makes it a good place to rest before going up.

The area also connects with paths leading to Ghandruk, Landruk, Jhinu Danda, and Sinuwa, making it a key point in the ABC trekking route.

Its location, facilities, and the links connecting to different trekking paths make Chhomrong more than just a place to spend the night.

How Can You Get to Chhomrong?

There are several routes to Chhomrong, depending on where you start your trek. The common approach is the direct route via Jhinu Danda.

Pokhara to Chhomrong

From Pokhara, trekkers can take a local bus toward the chosen trailhead and then continue on foot. The trailheads include Siwai, Jhinu Danda, or Ghandruk.

Note: Distance and time can vary depending on the route chosen, weather, and trail conditions.

Ghandruk to Chhomrong via Kimrong Khola

The route from Ghandruk to Chhomrong passes through snow-covered peaks, terraced farm villages, stone steps, lush green forests, and crosses the Kimrong Khola. The last part includes a climb before reaching the village.

Depending on the route, walking pace, and stops, the trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong usually takes around 4-6 hours, as the distance between them is approximately 8 to 12 km (5 to 7.5 miles).

It involves both uphill and downhill terrain, so trekkers should be ready for different types of terrain along the way.

New Bridge/Jhinu Danda to Chhomrong

From Jhinu Danda to Chhomrong, the climb includes thousands of stone staircases that take around 1-2 hours on foot, depending on how fast you walk or where you start. The walking distance is roughly around 3 to 4 km (1.9 to 2.5 miles). The trail passes through Taulung before reaching Chhomrong village.

Siwai to Chhomrong

The route from Siwai to Chhomrong follows through Kyumi (a small settlement along the Modi Khola valley), New Bridge, Jhinu Danda, and finally Chhomrong. The walking distance from Siwai to Chhomrong is 5 to 7 km (3.1-4.3 miles) and takes around 4-5 hours to complete.

It is important to know that the exact trail and walking duration can vary with road and weather conditions.

What Is Chhomrong Village Like?

Built along the slopes of the valley, Chhomrong is a hillside mountain village with homes spread out on different levels and not on one flat area. Long stone stairs and narrow paths are parts of the trail around Chhomrong.

The stairs are built into the mountain slopes and connect paths between houses, teahouses, shops, and small local areas. Houses have stone walls, concrete and metal roofing. The main trail has small shops, teahouses, and lodges open for trekkers trekking through the Annapurna region.

Forests, Terraces and Mountains

Chhomrong lies on a sloping hillside, and dense green forests, deep valleys, streams, and cultivated terraces surround it. As the elevation increases, the landscape changes noticeably.

During the monsoon and spring seasons, the surrounding slopes are full of vibrant plants and lush vegetation. Small streams and water channels pass through the hills, supplying water to the residents and adding an element to the beauty of Chhomrong.

What Flora and Fauna Can You See Around Chhomrong?

Chhomrong lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to a wide variety of plants, birds, insects and other wildlife.

Which Plants are Found In Chhomrong?

The forests around Chhomrong have rhododendron, oak, maple, bamboo, ferns, mosses, shrubs and other Himalayan plants. During the monsoon, lush green vegetation surrounds the area. Rhododendrons bloom in spring, especially around Sinuwa, Bamboo and Dovan. The types of vegetation change with altitude.

What Wildlife Can You Find Near Chhomrong?

Chhomrong and the area around it support a variety of birds, insects and other wildlife. Birds like pheasants, barbets, tits and other forest species are easier to see in the area.

The wider Annapurna Conservation Area has animals like Himalayan black bears, Himalayan serow, langurs and barking deer. These animals are not seen near the village or busy trekking trails and stay deeper in the forest.

Trekkers may also notice butterflies, squirrels, insects, and other small creatures on the way. Local villagers keep goats, sheep, and cattle grazing on the terraced land and near farm settlements.

Chhomrong Stairs: What is the Trail Like?

Chhomrong’s long stone staircases are a unique part of the trek. The hardest part of the trail begins when you leave the village and head toward Chhomrong Khola. Trekkers go down steep stone stairs and then cross a suspension bridge. After that, the path goes up through the forest toward Sinuwa.

During dry weather, the stone trail is usually easier to walk on, but during the monsoon the rain makes the steps wet and slippery.

Because of this route profile, trekkers should be ready for both uphill and downhill sections. In particular, the downhill section can put pressure on the knees, especially when carrying a backpack.

It also has numerous taps where trekkers stop to fill their water bottles, take a short rest, and enjoy the beautiful mountain views before heading further.

Overall, the steep stairs are a part of the Annapurna Base Camp route. Even though it is hard, they are a part of the trekking experience.

Chhomrong to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

Chhomrong is a major stop on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) route. Several settlements and trail sections lie between the village and the actual Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). The distance from Chhomrong to ABC varies on the route and itinerary chosen.

The walking distance from Chhomrong to ABC is around 25 Km (15.5 miles) one way. The standard route follows Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, Himalaya, Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).

Along the way, trekkers pass Pujinam Baraha Mandir, a small temple next to a waterfall, and Hinku Cave, a natural rock formation between Himalaya and Deurali.

After leaving Chhomrong, trekkers descend a steep flight of stairs to Chhomrong Khola. A suspension bridge marks the end of the descent.

From there, the route continues through rhododendron forests to the village called Bamboo. This settlement is especially scenic in spring. After Bamboo, the trail follows through Modi Khola toward Dova and the Himalaya.

As the elevation increases, the forest gradually becomes thinner. Landscapes become more alpine. Eventually the trail reaches Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) around 3,700 m (12,139 ft).

From MBC, trekkers continue toward Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) at 4,130 m (13,549 ft).

How Does Gurung Culture Shape Life in Chhomrong?

Chhomrong is mostly home to the Gurung community, one of the most indigenous ethnic groups in Nepal. Their traditions and ways of life are very important in the village.

Along with running teahouses and lodges, the people also depend on farming, housework, small businesses, and other things to support their families.

Some households run small shops that sell souvenirs and handicrafts to trekkers. Handmade woolen items, knitted accessories, and traditional jewelry are among the products that locals sell.

People in Chhomrong rely on teamwork for activities and community events. The mix of Gurung life and a tourism-based economy makes visiting Chhomrong worth it.

Discovering Gurung (Tamu) Community and Culture

Chhomrong has a connection with the Gurung community. Its culture and traditions remain a part of village life. The community has its distinct language called Tamu Kyi. They also have their customs, clothing, festivals, music, and dances.

Even though the village is highly influenced by tourism, the village still keeps its traditions alive through festivals, community gatherings, and traditional performances.

Traditional Gurung Dresses

Traditional clothes are a way to show Gurung identity during the festive seasons, cultural programs, and other special occasions.

Gunyu Cholo is a dress worn by women. The whole dress is a combination of gunyu (wraparound skirt), cholo (blouse), ghalek (a shawl worn around the body), and patuka (a long piece of fabric tied around the waist over gunyu). Women also wear jewelry such as bangles, large earrings, and stone-beaded necklaces.

Men’s traditional dress includes Bhangra, which is a shirt or upper garment; Kachhad, a cloth worn around the lower body; patuka, a long cloth wrapped around the waist to secure the lower garment; a waistcoat or vest; and Bhadgaunle or Dhaka topi as headwear.

Trekkers can also try on traditional Gurung dresses; the seller can help you put them on and take photos. A small fee is charged.

Today, everyday clothing in Chhomrong is normal. Traditional dress is still worn during festivals and cultural events.

Traditional Music and Dance

Music and dance are a source of entertainment, especially during festivals and community programs. Ghatu, Sorathi, Kauda, and Dohori are forms associated with the Gurung communities.

Among these, the Ghatu dance is a story-based performance that carries meaning. Sorathi combines singing, dancing, and storytelling. Kauda involves people dancing together in a circle or line, moving to the rhythm of songs and instruments. Dohori is a folk song style based on question-and-answer singing. Groups are split into two. They take turns singing, asking, and answering each other in a fun way.

If your stay coincides with the festival, you may be able to observe the local dance and music.

What Festivals Do They Celebrate?

The main New Year festival of the Gurung community is Tamu Lhosar. It celebrates the beginning of a year based on the traditional 12-animal cycle.

During Tamu Lhosar, families and relatives gather, prepare food, receive blessings from elders, and take part in community events.

Some Gurung families also celebrate Dashain and Tihar. This shows that there are distinct cultural and religious practices within the community.

Family events like birth ceremonies, weddings, funerals, and other religious gatherings help strengthen the bond between relatives and neighbors.

How Do Local Families Make a Living?

The economy in Chhomrong is based on farming, livestock raising, trekking tourism, teahouses operations, and small local businesses. The village is on the Annapurna Base Camp route; many trekkers pass through during the trekking season, making tourism an important source of income.

Teahouses, cafes, lodges, restaurants and small shops offer places to stay, food, drinks and basic services for visitors. Tourism also provides job opportunities to locals of Chhomrong as guides, porters and cooks.

Even though tourism has grown a lot, farming is still part of life. Terraced fields and farmland are used for growing crops while some families keep animals.

Small businesses like selling products, handicrafts, food, and everyday supplies also contribute to household income.

Traditional Honey Hunting Around Chhomrong

Honey hunting is a cultural practice among the Gurungs of the Annapurna region․ Skilled honey hunters use ropes and bamboo ladders to climb cliffs and collect honey from Himalayan giant honeybees․

Honey hunting is seasonal and culturally important․ It is common near many Gurung villages in the Annapurna region․ However, in Chhomrong it should not be encouraged for tourists without authorization from the local community․

Accommodation, Food and Facilities in Chhomrong

Chhomrong is often considered one of the developed villages on the Annapurna Base Camp route. The village has plenty of teahouses, lodges, and small shops across both the upper and lower sections of Chhomrong that offers basic services to the trekkers.

Chhomrong’s Teahouses and Lodges

Most trekkers stay in family-run teahouses and small lodges. The rooms are simple with beds, mattresses, and blankets. Twin-sharing rooms are common. Some lodges have rooms for groups or families.

Most rooms have shared bathrooms, although some lodges offer bathrooms. The dining area is where guests can relax, eat, and meet travelers.

Toilet and Hot Showers

Compared with the settlements on the Annapurna Base Camp trail, Chhomrong has good toilet facilities. Some bigger lodges have western-style bathrooms.

Shared toilets are more common in places to stay. Depending on the lodge, you might find both toilets. Sometimes there is no toilet paper or good sanitation, so bringing your toilet paper and sanitizer can be helpful.

Many teahouses offer showers. Availability depends on the lodge, weather, and heating system. Some teahouses may charge extra for showers.

Types of Food Available In Chhomrong

The food in Chhomrong includes both local dishes and common trekking meals. Dal bhat is popular and a good choice for trekkers.

They have a menu, and common choices include momo, thukpa, noodle soup, fried rice, pasta, soup, eggs, bread, porridge, and simple snacks.

The variety of food can be limited at high-altitude places, so Chhomrong is the place to eat a good meal and restock snacks.

Chhomrong is also famous for its bakeries, cafes, and shops. Small cafes and bakeries sell bakery products like bread, cakes, pastries, coffee, and other snacks.

Drinking Water

Drinking water is available in all teahouses, shops, taps, and from local water sources. Trekkers can buy filtered water, but carrying your own water bottle is more practical.

Tap or spring water should not be consumed directly. Water purification tablets are recommended to carry as a backup.

Can You Charge Phones and Other Devices?

Chhomrong has better charging facilities than the villages on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trail. Charging facilities are commonly available in lodge dining areas. Some lodges also have sockets in guest rooms, although availability varies from room to room.

Charging depends on the teahouses, and some places may charge a fee. Carrying a power bank can be useful because monsoon rain sometimes cuts off electricity for days.

Does Chhomrong Have Electricity?

Electricity is available in Chhomrong compared with the settlements along the ABC trail. Power access has improved in the area after the national electricity network was expanded toward Upper Sinuwa.

Most teahouses and lodges provide electricity for needs and device charging. However, occasional power cutoffs can occur due to maintenance or technical problems.

Is Wi-Fi Available?

Wi-Fi is available at teahouses, although the quality of the service can be slower or less reliable, particularly during peak trekking season. Internet access may become slower during periods of high demand and video calls. Network quality depends on the location and weather. Some lodges charge a fee for Wi-Fi, and their prices may differ.

What Mobile Networks work in Chhomrong?

NTC and Ncell are two mobile network providers. Both provide SIM cards, mobile calls, SMS, and mobile data services.

Both NTC and Ncell work in Chhomrong. The signal strength may differ by location. NTC usually provides better coverage, while Ncell also works well but may become weaker at higher elevations. Chhomrong has reliable NTC mobile and 4G data coverage along the ABC route.

Carrying any SIM can be useful for staying connected as you continue further into the Annapurna region.

Health and Medical Facilities in Chhomrong

Annapurna Rural Municipality includes a Community Health Unit in Chhomrong as one of its health services that offers medical care for local residents and trekkers. Minor injuries, cold, and the initial phase of altitude sickness are treated here.

This facility is not a hospital. It should not be seen as a replacement for advanced medical care. Trekkers with severe injuries, serious altitude-related sickness, or conditions requiring specialized treatment may need to go down to a bigger medical center. They may need to go to bigger medical facilities in Pokhara or Kathmandu.

However, trekkers should pack a small first-aid kit. It is helpful to include medicines, blister treatment, bandages, antiseptic supplies, pain relief medicine, and any regular medications they depend on.

Note: Medical services in mountain villages can change over time. Trekkers should check the status of health facilities before beginning their trek.

What Mountains Can You See From Chhomrong

Chhomrong offers views of the surrounding mountains such as Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

Annapurna South

Annapurna South is one of the most stunning mountains seen from Chhomrong. The mountain lies at an altitude of 7,219 m (23,684 ft). Its slope is part of the Annapurna range and is located to the north-northwest of the village.

Open areas of the village and trekking paths offer views of the mountain. As trekkers go toward Annapurna Base Camp, they get closer to the Annapurna range, making the mountain views even better.

Hiunchuli

Hiunchuli is another mountain seen from Chhomrong. It stands at 6,441 m (21,131 ft). The peak is to the north of the village. It is known for its steep slopes and a pointed, snow-covered top.

As part of the Annapurna Sanctuary, Hinuchuli adds to the impressive mountain views along the trail. Open areas in parts of Chhomrong offer beautiful views of the mountain.

Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)

Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail Mountain, is one of the most famous and beautiful mountains visible from Chhomrong. It rises to 6,993 m (22,942 ft) and is popular for its distinctive double summit, which resembles a fish’s tail.

Located northwest of Chhomrong, the mountain can be seen from areas and parts of the trekking paths. Machhapuchhre is part of the Annapurna range near the entrance to the Annapurna Sanctuary.

What Is the Ideal Time to Visit Chhomrong?

Chhomrong can be visited at any month of the year. The best time depends on whether you’re visiting the village itself or continuing from Chhomrong toward Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).

Spring (March to May)

March and April offer good weather, mountain views, and trail conditions. Rain can make the trails wetter as May approaches. The greenery and blooming rhododendron are the most loved aspects during this season.

Monsoon (June to August)

Monsoon brings humid and wet conditions. Frequent rain, cloudy skies, and occasional heavy showers block the mountain views. Trails can become muddy, wet, leech-infested, and slippery, making it difficult for trekkers to walk. The landscapes appear lush and dense with green forests, grasses, and vegetation growing.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is one of the best trekking seasons. The weather is mostly calm and pleasant. After the monsoon, the visibility is good in October and November.

The surroundings stay green. Grasses and seasonal plants become less lush as the dry season starts. The trail is dry and easy to walk on. Clear skies, terraced fields, and snow-covered mountains make for trekking scenery.

Dashain and Tihar, the two major festivals widely celebrated, fall in Autumn. Trekkers can experience and participate in this sacred festival.

Winter (December to February)

Winter offers relatively dry weather. Mornings and nights become colder, with temperatures dropping below freezing at higher elevations.

Vegetation becomes sparse because of the temperatures. Mountain views can still be seen clearly. Snowfall may block the trail and visibility at higher elevations.

Tamu Lhosar, the New Year festival of the Gurung community, is generally celebrated in late December. Trekkers can take part in the events and celebrate with the locals.

Temperature in Chhomrong

The village experiences a range of temperatures depending on the season.

Spring (March to May)

Spring temperatures typically range from 4°C to 20°C. March is usually mild. April and May get warmer.

Summer (June-August)

During summer, temperatures often go from 13°C to 21°C. Because this time falls during the monsoon season, humidity stays high. Rain is frequent, skies are cloudy, and trails can be wet.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn temperatures generally stay between 2°C and 19°C. Rainfall starts to drop in September. October and November are cooler. The skies clear up. Mountain views become better.

Winter (December-February)

Winter temperatures can fall from about -1°C to 13°C. Days may remain cool but sunny. Nights and early mornings can be very cold.

Note: Temperature can change depending on altitude and weather patterns. It is best to check the weather conditions before starting a trek.

Permits Needed For Chhomrong and ABC

Chhomrong lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. To enter this area, trekkers need a conservation-area permit. This permit must be carried at all times because it might be checked at points along the trail.

Permit needed: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Guide: Trekkers who plan to reach Chhomrong as part of the Annapurna Base Camp route do not need a guide. However, hiring a guide can make the trek easier and safer, especially if you are a first-time trekker.

Because regulations for trekking can change, trekkers should confirm the requirements with the Nepal Tourism Board or a registered trekking agency before starting their journey.

What Can You See and Find in Chhomrong?

From enjoying views to exploring local culture, there are many ways to make your trek around Chhomrong memorable.

Mountain Photography

The area around Chhomrong offers views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. These mountains are especially visible when the sky is clear during early mornings.

Experiencing Gurung Culture

Chhomrong offers a chance to experience the traditional Gurung culture of the Annapurna region. Trekkers can learn about the Gurung culture by seeing traditional customs, food, architecture, and village life.

Visit Chhomrong Monastery

Chhomrong Gompa is a small local monastery in the village. It indicates Buddhist influence on the local Gurung population in Chhomrong․.

Tourists should be respectful of the monastery, although the gumba is well used by the local communities and not a key site for tourists․

Jhinu Danda Hot Springs

Walk down from Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda. Take a walk to the natural hot springs near the Modi Khola river. The hot springs are a refreshing place to rest after a long walk, particularly while returning from the Annapurna Base Camp.

Walking Toward Sinuwa and the Annapurna Sanctuary

Follow the trail through forests toward Sinuwa and other villages. This path leads to the Annapurna Sanctuary and Annapurna Base Camp along the way. Trekkers can enjoy views of dense green forests and surrounding mountain peaks.

See a Watermill

A traditional water-powered mill can be found in Chhomrong. This shows how locals ground grains and gives trekkers a look into daily life in the past.

Go To a Bookstore

Chhomrong has a local bookstore. Trekkers can find books and other things to read during their stay. It’s a spot for quiet reading.

Pass Through Chhomrong Checkpost

The checkpost in Chhomrong is where permits and route information are checked. For trekkers, this is a place for checks, not a sightseeing stop.

What Trekkers Should Know About Waste Management in Chhomrong?

Chhomrong is located within the Annapurna Conservation Area. This makes responsible waste management very important. Conservation efforts and tourism must work together.

Trekkers have a role to play in protecting the environment. They can help by avoiding waste using refillable water bottles, putting trash in designated bins, using toilets instead of polluting natural water sources, and following local instructions on conservation.

Why is Chhomrong Worth Visiting?

Chhomrong is more than just a stop on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. Whether trekkers visit Chhomrong as a destination or continue toward Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), the village offers a chance to experience the local way of life while enjoying the atmosphere of the Annapurna region.

With its hospitality, traditional surroundings, and location inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, Chhomrong remains one of the most important villages to visit in this area.