Heritage · Samagaon
Nubri village walk and Ribung Gompa
Walk through the lanes and fields of Samagaon with your guide, past stone houses, mani walls and grain-drying courtyards, then climb to Ribung Gompa for a view over the Nubri plain.
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Samagaon is laid out across a wide plain, with houses clustered in groups and fields divided by stone walls. In autumn barley and potatoes are harvested and dried, and in spring the fields are ploughed with yaks or dzo.
Your guide leads you along the mani walls, explaining the carved prayers and chortens, and introduces you to people where it is welcome. You learn about Nubri life: yak herding, the old trade with Tibet, children studying in Kathmandu, and how tourism has changed the village.
The walk ends at Ribung Gompa on the hill above the village, with a view across the plain to Manaslu. If monks are present, you may be invited in. It is a quiet way to spend an afternoon between bigger hikes.
Good for
Questions
Who are the Nubri people?
The Nubri are the Tibetan-Buddhist people of the upper Budhi Gandaki valley, including Samagaon, Lho and Samdo. They speak Nubri, a Tibetic language, along with Nepali, and traditionally farm barley and potatoes and herd yaks. Their culture is closely linked to Tibet, across the passes to the north.
Can I visit Ribung Gompa?
Usually yes, when monks or a caretaker are present. Remove shoes and hat inside, walk clockwise, keep quiet and ask before taking photographs. A small donation is appreciated. Your guide can check opening and prayer times on the day.
Is it okay to photograph people in Samagaon?
Always ask first, through your guide if needed. Many people are happy to be photographed, others are not, especially elders and people working. Do not photograph inside homes or gompas without permission, and never pay children for photos.
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