Bayeli awaits development despite high tourism potential

KATHMANDU: Bayeli, a hidden gem located in Annapurna Rural Municipality-5 at an altitude of 3,450 meters above sea level, remains underdeveloped and largely unknown due to lack of infrastructure and promotion.

According to Lok Bahadur Paija, operator of a community lodge in Bayeli, the location offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, sunrises, and the surrounding hilly landscapes.

Its tranquil environment is ideal for solitude and nature lovers, yet the area receives only a limited number of tourists.

“Without a proper trekking route and adequate promotion, tourist arrivals have remained minimal,” Paija said. “If Bayeli is developed and promoted well, it could encourage longer stays for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.”

For the past 15 years, local residents from Shik, Paudwar, and Swanta have been running community lodges in Bayeli, Dhandkharka, and Khopra to support tourism and fund essential services such as schools and health facilities.

Bayeli is surrounded by rhododendron and pine forests. During monsoon, its upper slopes serve as grazing grounds for livestock, particularly yaks. Temporary shelters are also set up here for sheep, goats, cows, and buffaloes during this season.

The location offers spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri range and both sunrise and sunset, adding to its natural allure. The peaceful, remote atmosphere and traditional yak herding culture further enhance its charm.

Bayeli can be reached with a one-day trek from Ghorepani (Myagdi) or a two-day trek from Ghandruk (Kaski).

A basic trekking route to Bayeli exists with support from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), and the community lodge there can accommodate up to 18 people per night.

From Bayeli, trekkers can continue to Dhandkharka and onward to Swanta–Shik or Khopra–Khayer–Paudwar.

However, the trail between Bayeli and Dhandkharka remains underdeveloped, passing through dense forests and cliffs, making the journey risky.

Chairperson of Annapurna Rural Municipality Bharat Kumar Pun stated that efforts are underway to identify and develop potential destinations like Bayeli to extend tourist stays along the now-shortened Annapurna Circuit, which has been affected by road expansions.

“Bayeli holds strong potential to be developed as a new trekking destination,” Pun said. “We will conduct site visits to assess its needs and take initiatives to improve the necessary infrastructure.”