Gurung People
Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Gurung people, known for their bravery, traditional music, and vibrant cultural traditions in the Himalayan region.
About the Gurung People
The Gurung — who call themselves Tamu — are an Indigenous ethnic group native to the hills and high valleys of central Nepal, particularly around the Annapurna massif in the Kaski, Lamjung, Gorkha, Manang and Syangja districts. Traditionally herders, farmers and traders, many Gurung villages sit on scenic mid-hill ridges with sweeping Himalayan views, and communities such as Ghandruk and Sikles are popular stops on Annapurna treks.
The Gurung speak the Gurung language (Tamu Kyi), part of the Tibeto-Burman family, alongside Nepali. Their religion blends Tibetan Buddhism with the indigenous shamanic traditions of the Pachyu and Khlebri priests, and elements of Bon. Tamu Lhosar, the Gurung New Year, is the community's biggest celebration, marked with feasting, music and the circular Ghatu and Dohori dances.
Globally, the Gurung are renowned as Gurkha soldiers, serving with distinction in the British and Indian armies for over two centuries — a source of deep community pride. They are also famous for traditional cliff honey hunting, harvesting wild Himalayan honey from sheer rock faces. Today the Gurung are recognised as one of Nepal's major Adivasi Janajati (Indigenous nationalities).
Cultural Heritage
Traditional Festivals
Major celebrations and religious observances
- Tamu Lhosar - Gurung New Year
- Dashain - Major Hindu festival
- Tihar - Festival of Lights
- Rodhi Ghar - Community gatherings
Art & Music
Traditional artistic expressions and musical heritage
- Traditional dance (Ghatu)
- Folk music (Doohori)
- Handicrafts
- Traditional instruments
Culinary Heritage
Traditional Gurung cuisine and food culture
- Dhido - Traditional porridge
- Gundruk - Fermented vegetables
- Sukuti - Dried meat
- Local alcohol (Raksi)
Social Structure
Community Organization
Traditional social structure and roles
- Clan system (Thar)
- Village councils
- Community leadership
- Social responsibilities
Religious Practices
Spiritual traditions and beliefs
- Buddhist traditions
- Shamanic practices
- Religious ceremonies
- Spiritual beliefs
Cultural Preservation
Efforts to maintain cultural heritage
- Traditional education
- Cultural institutions
- Heritage conservation
- Modern adaptations
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Gurung people of Nepal?
The Gurung, who call themselves Tamu, are an Indigenous ethnic group of central Nepal, traditionally living in the hills around the Annapurna region. They are well known for their Gurkha military heritage, Tibetan-Buddhist and shamanic traditions, and mountain farming and herding life.
Where do Gurung people live in Nepal?
Gurung communities are concentrated in central Nepal — especially the Kaski, Lamjung, Gorkha, Manang and Syangja districts — in villages such as Ghandruk and Sikles along the Annapurna foothills. Many have also settled in cities like Pokhara and abroad.
What religion do the Gurung follow?
Most Gurung practise a blend of Tibetan Buddhism and indigenous shamanism led by Pachyu and Khlebri priests, with some Bon and Hindu influence. Festivals like Tamu Lhosar reflect this mix of Buddhist and ancestral traditions.
What are the Char Jat and Sora Jat clans of the Gurung?
Gurung society is traditionally divided into the Char Jat ("four clans") and the Sora Jat ("sixteen clans"). This clan classification — the source of the common question about the "16 types of Gurung" — historically shaped marriage and social organisation, though its role is far less rigid today.
Is Gurung a caste?
Gurung is an ethnic or Indigenous community (Janajati), not a Hindu caste in the traditional varna sense. The word "Gurung" is the community's identity, with Tamu being the group's own name for itself.
Experience Gurung People Culture
Our cultural experts can help you discover authentic experiences, traditional festivals, and learn about this community's rich heritage.