Exploring Nepal Through Community Tourism: A Journey Beyond the Ordinary

At Community Homestay Network (CHN), our mission transcends the conventional paradigms of tourism. We envision a world where travel is not just about visiting iconic landmarks or ticking off destinations from a bucket list. Instead, it is about fostering authentic connections, preserving cultural heritage, and uplifting local communities. Central to our ethos is Community Tourism (CT) – a transformative model that empowers communities while offering travelers enriching, offbeat experiences.

In Nepal, where the majestic Himalayas draw adventurers from across the globe, tourism has become a pressing concern. While the allure of Everest and Annapurna is undeniable, overcrowding has taken a toll on these pristine landscapes and the communities that call them home.

Recognizing this challenge, CHN has pioneered a different approach – one that celebrates the lesser-known gems of Nepal and channels tourism towards sustainable, community-driven initiatives.

Our upcoming Community Connect (exposure visit) is slated to start in mid-May, offering the wider travel industry a glimpse into the heart and soul of CT in Nepal. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the tranquil villages of the Terai region, each itinerary is meticulously crafted to showcase the diverse tapestry of Nepalese culture and heritage.

Participants will immerse themselves in the rhythms of local life, staying in community homestays, immersing themselves in traditional/local rituals, and engaging with artisans and storytellers. Working closely with diverse communities, our team has carefully designed four itineraries for the Community Connect program.

Trip 1: Kathmandu: Beyond the Ordinary (18-24 May 2024)

Participants who choose this trip will get to explore the lively capital city. They'll see old temples and busy markets. They'll discover secret courtyards and small streets full of history. They'll learn about rich and colorful Brahmin and Newari culture while passing through some of the beautiful hiking trails.

They can try cooking classes and experience unique cultural activities like Ranjana Lipi. This trip offers a diverse and exciting experience that goes beyond the usual tourist spots.

Trip 2: The Traces of Terai and its Tharu Heritage (16-24 May 2024)

While planning for the Community Connect, our team had one of the most exciting times to collaborate with locals to design this trip as this will help the participants explore the lush plains of the Terai region, home to the indigenous Tharu community.

Women of Tharu Community showcasing their cultural dance (Source - Community Homestay)

Through this trip, participants will be able to explore biodiverse national parks, where elephants roam freely, and take on safaris to spot wildlife. It will also help the participants to immerse  into Tharu traditions, learning about their unique customs, music, and dance forms. By the end of this journey, we hope the participants will have a newfound appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between human and nature.

Trip 3: Annapurna Community Trek (16-24 May 2024)

The trek itself promises a blend of natural wonders and cultural immersion, with each day offering new discoveries. From traversing through rhododendron forests to ascending Mohare Hill for panoramic views of the Himalayas, every step of the trek is filled with awe-inspiring moments.

Annapurna base camp is one of the most popular treks of Nepal, however through community connect we are proposing an alternative trek route where participants will have the opportunity to engage with local communities, learning about their traditions, cuisine, and way of life.

We have designed a trip in a way that each interaction becomes a celebration of beauty and a testament to the value of responsible travel practices, fostering a deeper appreciation for the landscapes and cultures of Nepal.

Trip 4: The Roads Less Taken (17-24 May 2024)

For those seeking offbeat adventures, this itinerary offers a glimpse into remote corners of Nepal that few travelers ever see. From the picturesque hill town of Dhankuta to the tranquil to rich cultural immersion in Janakpur and Panauti, each destination holds its unique charm.

We hope by selecting this trip participants will get to engage with local artisans, hike through pristine landscapes, and savor the simple joys of village life.

But our journey doesn't end there. On 26 May 2024, we will be inviting various tourism-related stakeholders to join us for a culminating event that brings together participants, local communities, and stakeholders.

In conclusion, our vision for the trips designed for Community Connect is not just about sightseeing – they're about sowing the seeds of responsible tourism and nurturing a vision of community based tourism that puts communities at the forefront.