GYARU - Legend of the Yak

Gyaru or as the locals like to call it "Yak-Ru" lies on the higher route. The higher route, as opposed to the lower route via Humde, is a much better option to reach Mugje as you will get beautiful panoramic views of Annapurna II, III and IV. Also, since you will be walking up to heights of 3700 m it will help you acclimatize better. Ghyaru is just an offshoot of Ngawal and is not a very old settlement compared to Ngawal. However, it does have a certain charm to it.

The original name of Gyaru is Yak-ru and there is an interesting story behind it. In ancient time a powerful Lama was travelling with his yak but upon reaching Gyaru his yak fell sick and died. Having no means of transportation, the Lama decided to stay at Gyaru. But the problem was he didn't know if the place was good for settlement. So to decide, he put some seeds inside the dead yak's horn. He reasoned that if the plant grew out of the horn within 7 days the place could be considered good for settlement. And it did! The plant grew out of the yak's horn and the Lama settled down in the very place which became known as Yak-ru. It was only later when some English speaking folks spelled Yak-ru wrong and penned down Gyaru in the maps that the erroneous name caught on. The locals are still pissed about this. By now, you should have guessed the meaning of Yak-ru. Yes, it is Yak's horn.

From Gyaru there is a short side trip available to a ruined Ghale Fort towards the west. However, it isn't necessary that you take this side trip as you can pass by the ruins on your way to Ngawal. Also, watch out for the Himalayan Griffon and Lammergeier that soar effortlessly in the sky with their 10 feet wide wings. Check out our placecards to know more about them. Gyaru is also about where Blue Sheep country begins.