Reminiscent an old tea plantation, the Gurung lodge comprises a handful of traditional Gurung houses dotted around a delightfully well-kept garden, on the edge of Majhgaon village. It’s a short drive from Pokhara to the closest road head, followed by an hour’s climb. But at 4,620 feet altitude, the real attraction is the amazing views of surrounding peaks and valleys.
There are total of eleven neat and well-decorated guest rooms, all with high-ceilings, and arched windows, all boasting very nice attached bathrooms (a rarity in these parts). Showers have plenty of hot water. To beat the night cold, down jackets, warm hats, hot water bottles and gloves are provided.
In the warm and distinctive main room, a great fire is lit, a hearty meal is laid out on a long wooden dining table—international cuisine, typically—and after dinner, musical instruments will come out, or simply a spoon and container, as guides entertain guests with Nepalese music. The atmosphere is very convivial.
Do spend time on site: You can expect the star treatment from Jit and his staff, all happy to meet your needs—including massages for those with aching muscles. This is also a great spot for yoga. As the sun rises and sets, there’s no better view of Fishtail. The small village of Tanchok, amid the nearby millet fields, are also well worth a walk around, to see the traditional stone-built houses with their log beehives and drying corn.