Welcome to Trek Me Nepal, your trusted travel partner for unique trekking adventures across Nepal. Today, we invite you to explore a very special and lesser-known trek , the Gorilla Trail in Nepal.

This trail is not just about nature, but also about history. It takes you back to a time when Nepal faced a big change; the Maoist insurgency from 1996 to 2006.

The Gorilla Trail is full of beautiful views, cultural villages, and powerful stories from the past. It is a chance to walk where Maoist fighters once moved through the forests and hills, trying to change their country.

If you love history, adventure, and local culture, this trail will give you an experience you will never forget.

Highlights of the Gorilla Trail Trek

Here’s what makes the Gorilla Trail Trek special:

a) Walk through green forests and peaceful villages

b) See snow-capped Himalayan mountains

c) Visit real places from the Maoist insurgency period

d) Meet kind people from the Magar, Gurung, and Tamang communities

e) Sleep in local homestays and eat home-cooked Nepali food

f) Explore the wild Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

This trek combines adventure, history, and culture in a way no other trek in Nepal does.

What is the Maoist Insurgency?

The Maoist insurgency in Nepal started in 1996. A political group called the Maoists wanted to end the monarchy (rule by kings) and help poor people, especially in villages. They started a war to bring change.

The war lasted 10 years. Many people were hurt and had to leave their homes. The Rukum and Rolpa districts became key areas during this time. These places were where Maoist leaders stayed and planned their moves.

The war ended in 2006 with a peace agreement, and Nepal later became a republic in 2008. The Gorilla Trail follows paths the Maoist fighters used.

You’ll see bunkers, meeting points, and villages with stories from the war. This is why it’s called the “Gorilla Trail”, because of the guerrilla warfare that happened there.

About the Gorilla Trail Route

The Gorilla Trail goes through western Nepal, passing through parts of Rukum, Rolpa, Baglung, and Myagdi. The route mixes:

- Beautiful mountain views

- Rich green forests

- Historical villages and sites

- And peaceful valleys

You’ll walk along paths that feel far from modern life. It’s a great choice for travelers who want something different from the busy trails of Everest or Annapurna.

Main Areas: Rukum and Rolpa

The districts of Rukum and Rolpa are called the heart of the Maoist movement. During the war, these places were full of Maoist fighters and supporters. Their thick forests and steep hills gave the fighters shelter.

Key Villages to Visit:

- Thabang (Rolpa): This was the “capital” of the Maoists. Many plans and decisions were made here.

- Musikot (Rukum): A historic town where many important events happened during the insurgency.

Today, these places are peaceful and welcoming. But they still carry signs of their past: like old bunkers, bullet-marked walls, and stories from local elders.

Historical Places on the Trail

Here are some important historical places along the Gorilla Trail:

- Thabang Village: The center of Maoist activities. You can still see homes and public buildings with war scars.

- Gam Village: A former Maoist base area.

- Cultural museums: Some villages have built small museums that show pictures, documents, and items from the war.

These places tell the real story of Nepal’s journey from war to peace. Trekking here helps you understand how strong and brave the people were.

Culture Along the Trail

The trail goes through Magar, Gurung, and Tamang villages. These communities are known for their:

- Friendly smiles

- Colorful clothes

- Folk dances and songs

- Local food like dal bhat and momo

You’ll stay in homestays, where families cook for you and share their culture. You might even join in a local festival or dance!

This kind of cultural experience is what makes the Gorilla Trail trek so special. It’s not just about walking. It’s about connecting with the heart of Nepal.

Nature and Wildlife

The Gorilla Trail is not only historical, it is also very beautiful and green. You will walk through:

- Rhododendron forests

- Alpine meadows

- Terraced farms

- Quiet rivers and waterfalls

In the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, you may spot:

- Blue sheep (bharal)

- Himalayan Monal (Nepal’s national bird)

- Eagles and deer

You’ll also get views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The clean air and peaceful paths make the walk very refreshing.

Why Trekkers Love the Gorilla Trail

The Gorilla Trail is great for people who:

Want a quiet trail with fewer tourists

Enjoy learning about history

Like to meet local people

Want to see natural beauty and wildlife

Are looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience

This trail mixes real adventure, powerful stories, and warm people. You walk away with not just photos, but real memories and lessons.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for trekking the Gorilla Trail are:

- October to December (clear skies, great mountain views)

- March to May (warm weather, blooming flowers)

These are the dry seasons in Nepal. The views are clear, and the weather is perfect for trekking.

Avoid June to September because of the monsoon season, which brings heavy rain and slippery paths.

Cost and Accommodation

A) Typical Gorilla Trail trekking packages include:

- Guide and porter services

- Meals (dal bhat, momo, soup, tea)

- Homestays or tea house stays

- Permits and entry fees

B) Accommodation Types:

- Basic lodges: Simple rooms, shared bathrooms

- Tea houses: Cozy places with local food and private rooms

- Homestays: Sleep in local homes and eat what the family eats

Prices vary, but Trek Me Nepal offers packages for all budgets. We make sure you are safe, well-fed, and comfortable on your trek.

What to Pack for the Trek

To enjoy the Gorilla Trail trek, bring these items:

- Strong hiking boots

- Warm clothes (it can get cold in the hills)

- Rain jacket

- Backpack

- Water bottle

- Trekking poles

- First aid kit

- Flashlight

We will help you with a full gear checklist when you book with Trek Me Nepal.

How to Book with Trek Me Nepal

Booking your Gorilla Trail trekking adventure with Trek Me Nepal is easy. Just go to our Contact Us page or email us. We will:

- Answer all your questions

- Help you plan the best itinerary

- Arrange permits, guides, and transport

- Give you tips on what to pack and what to expect

We are a local company, so we know these trails very well. We also follow responsible tourism: part of your money helps local families and plants trees through our “One Guest, One Tree” program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is travel insurance required for the Gorilla Trail trek?

Yes. You must have travel insurance that covers trekking in Nepal. It should include medical help, helicopter rescue, and trip cancellation.

2. How hard is the Gorilla Trail trek?

This trek is moderate to hard. There are steep climbs and long walks, but with a good guide and slow pace, even beginners can finish it.

3. Are Trek Me Nepal guides experienced?

Yes! Our guides are trained, licensed, and speak good English. They know first aid, the local culture, and how to keep you safe.

4. What permits are needed?

You need:

TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve entry permit

We will arrange all your permits and papers.

Come Trek With Us!

The Gorilla Trail in Nepal is a trail like no other. It takes you deep into Nepal’s history, shows you real village life, and lets you walk through some of the most peaceful forests and mountains in the world.

At Trek Me Nepal, we’re proud to offer this unique trekking experience. We believe in slow travel, local support, and real adventure.

Are you ready to walk the path of the past? Join us on the Gorilla Trail trek and experience Nepal’s story, nature, and people.