With the concept of providing a home-away-from-home experience that enhances cultural exchange and offers a hospitable setting, homestays have become a growing notion for establishing and maintaining the tourism industry in Nepal. Homestays allow visitors to deeply experience the local culture, lifestyle, customs, traditions, and hospitality of the host community firsthand. In a homestay arrangement, tourists stay with a local family in their home while visiting a particular destination. The level of integration with the host family can vary. Some homestays involve actively participating in the family's daily routines and activities, including sharing meals together. In contrast, others offer a more independent experience with access to the family's local knowledge and insights about the community's way of life. This immersive experience allows visitors to truly understand the host community's culture, lifestyle, and traditions that they may not be able to grasp through other means of travel and accommodation fully.
You can find a bountiful number of top homestays in various parts of Nepal, whether traveling, trekking, or just seeking an escape from the city's chaos. The idea of homestays in Nepal has its roots in the cultural value of "atithi devo bhava" (treating guests as gods). The concept gained momentum in 1997 when Capt. Rudra Man Gurung opened the country's first homestay in Sirubari village of Syangja district, facilitating accommodations for travelers to experience the local lifestyle. Since then, over 500 rural areas across Nepal have adopted the homestay model as a form of sustainable rural tourism development and sustainable travel
Homestays in Nepal offer an authentic and local home-like experience unlike hotels, providing an affordable and cheaper alternative, especially appealing to backpackers on a budget. These family-owned accommodations have emerged as a way to promote rural tourism, generate income for local communities, preserve cultural heritage, and create employment opportunities in remote areas where building conventional hotels is challenging. By staying in a homestay, visitors can immerse themselves in the local way of life while contributing to the economic upliftment of rural communities and the preservation of their rich cultural traditions.
Popular Homestays in Nepal
Nirvana Kuti, a popular homestay in Kathmandu offering a blend of Hindu and Buddhist culture, stands just steps away from the iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square. This pocket-friendly and welcoming destination, preferred by tourists and locals alike, boasts proximity to a variety of popular sites. The friendly, cooperative owners ensure visitors experience a congenial and pleasant stay. Nirvana Kuti provides a cozy, home-like atmosphere where guests can fully immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying breathtaking views. To ensure a hassle-free experience, the property provides full-day security, daily room service, complimentary Wi-Fi, private check-in/out, and currency exchange services. With its profound service and serene environment, Nirvana Kuti aims to serve as a comfortable and convenient home away from home, ideal for couples, solo travelers, and anyone seeking an authentic Kathmandu experience.
Location:
- Located just a few steps from Kathmandu Durbar Square
Nearby Attractions:
Facilities:
- Free WiFi
- 24/7 security
- Daily maid service
- Currency exchange service
- Friendly, cooperative, and helpful owners
- Pocket-friendly (affordable) for tourists and locals
- Pleasant environment for visitors
Dragon Homestay is one of the popular homestays in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, Nepal. It emphasizes the motto "Come as a guest, leave as family" through its warm hospitality and authentic local experience. Located about 1.4 km from Bhaktapur's center, this family-run homestay is tastefully designed with intricate dragon sculptures throughout, giving it a unique aesthetic. The multilingual owners and locals value Bhaktapur. With its comfortable accommodations in a peaceful neighborhood, Dragon Homestay provides an ideal base to explore Bhaktapur's rich heritage while experiencing life as a local.
Nearby Attractions:
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square (1.7 km away)
- Temples
- Cultural shops
Location
- Located in Bhaktapur, Nepal, which is just 1.7 km away from Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Facilities:
- Free WiFi
- Well equipped bathrooms
- Comfortable beds
- Authentic Nepalese cuisine
- Amazing room service
- Bar service (cocktails and chilled beer)
- Shuttle service
- Rental car service
Sirubari homestay, Sirubari
Sirubari village homestay is a community homestay operated by the Gurung locals of Sirubari. It is considered the first official homestay in Nepal founded by the Late Capt—Rudra Man Gurung. To relish the authentic Gurung customs, a 4-hour jeep ride from Pokhara and a 7-hour bus ride will be required. It is undoubtedly an unbeaten and the most fulfilling experience you will encounter. Awarded the PATA Gold Award in conjunction with the National Tourism Board in 2001 for their constant effort in the preservation of the heritage and culture of their community is truly commendable.
Location:
- Situated in the Syangja district of Nepal
- A short drive and walk from Pokhara, the main tourist center of the Annapurna region.
Nearby Attractions:
- Thumro viewpoint at 2300 meters, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Langtang, Machhapuchare, Annapurnas, and Dhaulagiri
- Gompa (a simple but beautiful Buddhist temple)
Facilities:
- Homestay accommodation with village families
- Comfortable and simple bedding with clean toilets
- The authentic local cuisine served as part of the family
- Traditional Gurung and Nepali dancing and singing entertainment
Jungle Crown Organic Homestay, Nagarkot
Jungle Crown Organic Homestay, a delightful homestay in Nagarkot, offers a fantastic stay in the peaceful hills of Nagarkot, Nepal. It provides a unique experience of living in a natural environment surrounded by beautiful jungles. The homestay offers comfortable accommodation options like the Tree House, Family Cottage, and Private Cottage. One of the highlights of Jungle Crown is its cultivation of organic vegetables and its serving of fresh, delicious food prepared by the experienced chef Mr. Keshav and his wife. Guests can enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine with a touch of Western hospitality. Additionally, the homestay features a campfire area where visitors can gather in the evenings and enjoy the warmth of the fire under the starry sky. Nearby, there is a stunning waterfall that guests can reach by a short walk. Jungle Crown Organic Homestay promises guests a relaxing and rejuvenating stay surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Nearby Attractions:
- Close to the Bageshwori suspension bridge and a waterfall
- Near Shivapuri National Park (around 14 km away)
- Other nearby attractions include Buddha Peace Park, Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Location
- Located in Nagarkot, Nepal
- Around 10 km from Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Approximately 18 km from Boudhanath Stupa, 20 km from Pashupatinath, and 22 km from Patan Durbar Square
Facilities:
- Free private parking is available nearby
- WiFi is available in the rooms (charges apply)
- Family rooms and nonsmoking rooms
- Bar and terrace
- Garden
- Private bathrooms in the units
- Campfire
Tharu Community Homestay, Chitwan
The Tharu Community Home Stay offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of the Tharu people, one of Nepal's largest ethnic groups. The Tharu community originates and runs the homestay, allowing guests to truly become part of their way of life. Visitors can observe and participate in traditional Tharu dances, savor authentic local cuisines, and tour the village to gain insights into their fascinating customs and heritage. The friendly Tharu hosts extend warm hospitality, and the serene surroundings of lovely gardens and an inviting terrace area create an authentic and enriching experience for those eager to explore the diverse ethnic landscape of Nepal.
Nearby Attractions
Chitwan National Park (for jungle safaris and wildlife viewing)
Location:
Located near Chitwan National Park
Facilities
- Basic but comfortable rooms
- Private bathrooms
- Air conditioning
- Free internet access
- Balconies overlooking the mountains and river
- Lovely gardens
- Watching traditional Tharu dances
- Trying local Tharu cuisine
- Opportunity to interact with friendly Tharu people
Goat Cheese Homestay, Chitlang
Chitlang Goat Cheese Homestay offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure. It houses Nepal's first goat cheese factory, allowing guests to enjoy fresh goat cheese and locally produced plum wine. Adventure lovers can indulge in paragliding, quad biking, and exploring natural wonders. The homestay provides cozy rooms, toilets, drinking water, electricity, hot and cold water, internet access, and off-road access. Visitors can participate in practical farming activities, enjoy campfires and barbeques, and immerse themselves in authentic Nepali village experiences, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
Nearby Attractions:
- Paragliding
- Quad biking
- Mohini Jharana Spring
- Markhu River
- Practical farming activities
- Campfires and barbeques
Location
- Chitlang is a town located approximately 1.5 hours from Kathmandu, Nepal.
Facilities:
- 16 rooms that can hold up to 65 people
- Fresh goat cheese and plum wine from local orchards
- Drinking water
- Hot and cold water
- Internet
- Offroad access
- Parking areas
- Shared common rooms
- Private attached rooms
- Hot showers
- WiFi
- Western style toilets
Pradhan House Homestay, Bhaktapur
Pradhan House Home Stay is a local Newari family-run homestay located in the heart of Bhaktapur, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and devotional atmosphere. Established in 2016, the three-story building offers a beautiful garden where guests can relax and engage in various activities. With six rooms, each equipped with an attached bathroom and necessary amenities, the homestay ensures a comfortable stay for its visitors.
Nearby Attractions:
- Dattatraya Square (100 meters away): One of the oldest sites in the city, featuring an open museum, famous for its wood carvings, the ancient Dattatraya Temple, Bhimsen Temple, water spouts, the iconic Peacock Window, and mathhs (monasteries).
- Brass and Bronze, Wood Carving Museum: Located in Dattatraya Square
- Durbar Square: The main square of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 10 minutes away on foot.
- Taumadi Square: Another historic square in the vicinity, approximately 10 minutes away.
- Pottery Square: A vibrant area showcasing the local pottery tradition, within a 10-minute' distance.
Location
- Situated in the heart of Bhaktapur, with proximity to bus parks connecting to Kathmandu, Changunarayan, Nagarkot, Lalitpur, and other destinations within a 5-minute walk.
Facilities
- 6 rooms with attached bathrooms and necessary room amenities.
- Beautiful garden for relaxation and activities.
- Opportunity to experience local Newari dishes and participate in festivals celebrated at the homestay.
- Welcoming atmosphere, ensuring guests feel at home.
Namaste Homestay, Dhulikhel
Namaste Home Stay is a delightful Nepali family-run guest house located 1km from Namobuddha Monastery, offering breathtaking Himalayan views, delicious homemade meals, and cozy guest rooms. It is associated with the Scottish charity The Bimiri Foundation, providing hiking tours to local villages with ongoing drinking water pipeline projects, allowing visitors to experience rural Nepali landscapes and a stunning 100m waterfall feeding into the nearby Roshi River. The homestay is run by Prem Tamang, a local with decades of experience in the tourism industry, and Ian, originally from Scotland, who operates The Bimiri Foundation.
Nearby Attractions:
- Buddha Peace Park
- Brahmyari Bus Park
- Libali Parking Area
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Location
- Located in Dhulikhel, approximately 30 km from Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Facilities:
- Restaurant onsite (Namaste Cafe)
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
- Bar
- BBQ facilities
- Terrace
- Cooking classes (additional charge)
- Walking tours
- Badminton and tennis equipment
- Games room
- Coffee house on-site
- Special diet menus available (on request)
- Luggage storage
- 24hour front desk
Hotel Rhinoceros- Homestay, Sauraha
Hotel National Park Sauraha is a comfortable and peaceful hotel in Sauraha, near Chitwan National Park. It is just a 10-minute walk from the Rapti River and the entrance to the national park. The hotel offers a relaxing stay surrounded by nature and aims to provide friendly service. It has free WiFi, a barbecue area, and a terrace to enjoy beautiful sunset views. The hotel supports animal rights and ensures that safaris offered do not harm the wildlife in the national park.
Nearby Attractions
- Chitwan National Park
- Rapti River
Location:
- Situated in Sauraha, a 10-minute walk from Chitwan National Park Entrance
- 1 km from Sauraha Bus Station
- 20 km from Bharatpur Airport
Facilities:
- Free WiFi
- Free private parking
- Room service
- Bike and car hire
- Arrangements for Chitwan National Park activities and tourist bus tickets
- Sunset views from the terrace
- Shared balcony
- Garden
- Sun terrace
- Entertainment staff
- Bar
- BBQ facilities (paid extra)
Sunrise Point Homestay, Nagarkot
Sunrise Point Homestay is a family-run homestay in the beautiful town of Nagarkot, Nepal. Established in 2019 by Ram after living abroad for many years, this homestay was created to provide a warm, homelike atmosphere for travelers worldwide. Ram and his family take great pride in offering genuine Nepali hospitality and sharing their culture and local knowledge with guests. They aim to ensure each visitor leaves with happy memories and a deeper appreciation for the region. Sunrise Point Homestay offers a welcoming environment, personal attention, and an authentic glimpse into traditional Nepali life surrounded by stunning natural surroundings.
Nearby Attractions:
- Scenic views of the Himalayas and sunrise
- Hiking trails in the surrounding areas
- Local temples and cultural sites
Location:
- Situated in Nagarkot, approximately 0.4 miles from the town center
- Convenient access to nearby attractions and transportation
Facilities
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant serving freshly cooked, homemade food with organic vegetables from their garden
- Hot showers
- Terrace with beautiful views to enjoy the sunrise
- Hiking opportunities nearby
- Bike tours available nearby
- In-room breakfasts and 24-hour room service
- BBQ facilities
- Car hire service
- Private check-in/checkout
- Garden and picnic area
- Outdoor fireplace
- Karaoke and entertainment staff
Frequently asked questions
Which is the first homestay in Nepal?
- The first homestay in Nepal is typically credited to Sirubari village in the Syangja district, starting in the early 2000s, allowing visitors to stay with local families and experience their culture.
How many homestays are there in Nepal?
- As of summer 2022, there were approximately 6,500 registered homestays spread across 1,500 villages in Nepal, according to Krishna Chaudhary of the Homestay Federation of Nepal.
Which is cheaper homestay or hotel?
- Homestays are generally cheaper than hotels, offering a more affordable accommodation option for travelers.
What is the cost of homestay in Nepal?
- The cost of a homestay in Nepal varies depending on the location, amenities, and services offered, but it typically ranges from around $10 to $30 per night per person.
How long can you live in a homestay in Nepal?
- The length of stay in a homestay in Nepal can vary depending on the arrangement with the host family, but it's typically flexible, ranging from a few days to several weeks or even months.
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