Nepal’s Community Homestay Network is set to launch three new immersive trips designed to connect travellers with local culture, artisans and community life—strengthening Nepal’s position as a leading destination for responsible and meaningful travel.
Travel with purpose across authentic local communities
Building on its recent recognition as one of TIME’s World’s Greatest Places of 2025, the Community Homestay Network will unveil new experiences that allow visitors to explore lesser-known destinations and support local communities through low-impact, high-connection travel.
The three new trips include:
- Hidden gems of the Kathmandu Valley – An eight-day itinerary through Bungamati, Kirtipur and Nagarkot, combining Newari cultural encounters, local cooking, hiking, and artisan workshops.
- Rural life with the locals – A scenic eight-day journey through Narchyang and Hemjakot, including homestays, community cooking, nature hikes and a relaxing finale in lakeside Pokhara.
- Eastern Nepal: The road less taken – From Kathmandu to Dhankuta and Janakpur, this cultural circuit blends sustainability, Aathpahariya heritage, Mithila art, and temple visits.
Each itinerary has been curated to maximise the economic and social impact of tourism for local hosts, while offering visitors an intimate look into Nepalese life and traditions.
Industry spotlight on community tourism
In May, the Community Homestay Network will host its second Community Connect event, welcoming 30 travel agents and media to trial the new itineraries and celebrate the role of community tourism in Nepal’s tourism future.
The event will spotlight how community-based travel can reduce tourism leakage, empower local families, and foster authentic cultural exchange. The network now features 50 bookable experiences across 23 destinations, including 40 active community homestay villages and 10 artisan-led cultural hubs.
Travellers can choose from 20 multi-community ‘circuit’ trips, 20 single-location packages, or 10 in-depth artisan experiences that preserve and share traditional craftsmanship.
A model for sustainable travel
Community Homestay Network Founder Shiva Dhakal said the power of community tourism lies in its ability to bridge cultures and create lasting social impact. “It is through meaningful connections that we safeguard heritage, support empowerment and ensure that tourism leaves a positive and lasting impact,” he said.
The initiative is backed by the Nepal Tourism Board, with CEO Deepak Joshi stating that community-based travel is key to building a more resilient and responsible tourism economy for Nepal.
