Chhomrong is a village in Nepal, situated in the middle of the Annapurna region and what is amazing is that once you visit you will get pulled to it.
This small Gurung village is enclosed by hills and snowcapped mountains, for this it is known as the Gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp.
Each trekker who visits the well-known Annapurna Sanctuary visits the village not only since it is in the route, but it is also the epitome of trekking in Nepal.
The altitude of Chhomrong is approximately 2,170 meters above the sea level. It is approximately a two-day walking distance though the traditional starting of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is at Nayapul.
The route is the way to Sinuwa, Bamboo, Deurali and the last to the base camp.
This is the reason why trekkers refer to it as the gateway. It is where we can relax, have nice meals, and get to know more people who happen to be the other travelers and are at the location.
There are friendly locals who serve you with smile and hot tea at the village which is overwhelmed with cozy teahouses, cafes and lodges.
It is not only this location that is quite unique about Chhomrong, but also the life and warmth that you experience here. The Gurung ethnic group residing in Chhomrong is not only well-regarded but great in terms of the Chhomrong culture.
As you stroll across the village, there are houses of stone, flying prayer flags on the winds, and terraced lands on the hill side. In virtually every part you have a breathtaking sight of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre which is the sacred Fishtail mountain.
It is wonderful to see the sun rise here as the first rays fall upon the peaks, they gradually turn gold. It has been one of the most memorable mornings of the whole trek to many trekkers.
Several years back, Chhomrong was a small farming village where people used to subsist on land and cattle. Trekking in the Annapurna region became even more popular thus the village began receiving increased travelers.
Local people established lodges, restaurants, and stores to cater to the surging number of tourists who were traversing through.
There are Wi-Fi, bakeries and even small gear shops here today. Chhomrong has not lost the traditional beauty despite the increasing tourism.
The development has provided an improved opportunity to the locals and yet they will retain their way of life and the natural beauty that surrounds them.
To get to Chhomrong it is not very easy. It has its ups and downs and has long lengths of stone stairs which wear you out. That is however, one of the things that make the journey rewarding.
As you pass by towering rhododendron meadows you walk on hanging bridges and listen to the sound of the waterfalls reverberating in the valley.
As you eventually arrive at Chhomrong the effort is justified. The mountain air and the calm scenery and the spectacular views all dissolve the fatigue. Eating a hot meal and observing the sunset in the Himalayas, sitting in a terrace is how trekkers wish to spend their moments.
Chhomrong is not merely another stage in the Annapurna Base Camp trek, it is the center of the hike. It’s the place where the wild and the tame come together, and where culture and nature are got along together so well.
To many, this village is a place to relate with but not necessarily with the mountains but with people who call this place home. Despite these changes, Chhomrong still symbolizes the experience of the real spirit of trekking in Nepal.
This place would make every visitor remember why the Himalayas are special with its hospitable residents, breathtaking trails, and serene atmosphere.
When you are traveling to Annapurna Base Camp, then do not consider Chhomrong as a point of entry but as a destination in itself.
Browse all the cities & articles at The Rooftop Guide
Follow The Rooftop Guide