Why we started community homestay ?
I am 30 years old now and the manager of the family-run trekking company called Friendly Trekkers Adventure. My journey in the trekking industry began when I was just 14 years old, working as a porter. As my English and adventure skills improved, I progressed to becoming a porter-guide, then eventually a full-fledged guide. Now, I am proud to operate a family-run trekking company.
Over the years, I have explored various trekking routes throughout Nepal, including the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang and many more. However, I have noticed a significant absence of cultural aspects in these popular treks. In the past, these routes used to showcase rich traditions and cultural experiences, but they have now become commercialized and much less of their cultural charm.
As a manager of a trekking company and guide leading groups to the Himalayas of Nepal, I have always felt a sense of something is missing. It has been challenging for me to share the authentic culture that I am intimately familiar with, as these renowned trekking routes have become more focused on commercialization not on preserving cultural and traditional aspects.
Recognizing the duty and responsibility to show our guests the true essence of Nepalese culture, my family initiated the community Homestay project in the village where I was born and raised, at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is a corporate social responsibility of our family-run trekking company, Friendly Trekkers Adventure. It is our initiation to community-based tourism aimed at benefiting the local communities the most.
Our community homestay is offering insight to the travelers of our community and its customs. The stay at our homestay allows travelers to experience the local culture, customs, and way of life by living with and interacting with a local host and their family in a more authentic and immersive way. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about the daily lives and routines of the local people, which is a valuable and enriching experience for anyone looking to gain a more authentic understanding of the local community of Nepal.
The feedback we have received from guests regarding our homestay has been immensely gratifying. The way of life in our village has had a profoundly positive impact on tourists. Many visitors have expressed that their stay in Barang and interaction with the local community has transformed their perspective on life in a positive way.
In summary, me and my family are dedicated to showcasing the authentic cultural heritage of Nepal to tourists who place their trust on us. Through the Homestay project in Barang, we will continue providing a genuine cultural experience to travelers from all over the world that is often lacking in commercialized trekking routes of Nepal.