Bhoj Bahadur Gurung and his wife have turned their home in Rupa’s Bhirchok village into a thriving community homestay, attracting tourists with its authentic Nepali hospitality and cultural experiences. The couple has dedicated three rooms to accommodate visitors, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere with organic meals sourced from their land.
Despite having children working abroad, the Gurungs continue to welcome guests, maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and comfort in their rooms. The homestay charges NPR 1,200 per person for a full package, including meals and accommodation, ensuring guests experience the charm of rural life in a pristine setting.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat rural depopulation, as many villages across Nepal face migration due to the search for better job opportunities in cities. The Gurung family’s return to their village after serving in the Indian Army highlights their commitment to rural development. They emphasize the improvements in local infrastructure, including clean drinking water and well-maintained roads, which make village life more convenient and appealing.
The community homestay project launched a year ago, is a collaboration between Chisapani and Bhirchok villages. Together, 30 households have joined the initiative, with 11 homes in Bhirchok and 19 in Chisapani participating in the homestay program. The homestays provide guests with organic meals and an opportunity to witness local cultural performances such as traditional Nepali dances – Sorathi, Ghatu, Charitra, Chudka, and Jhora.
Tourists visiting the area are treated to spectacular views of the Annapurna and Machapuchhre mountain ranges, as well as the opportunity to explore religious and historical landmarks, including Rupakot Kal Bhairav Temple and Durga Devi Temple. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views from several vantage points like Thaple Viewpoint and Barah Thok Viewpoint, while taking in the serene beauty of nearby lakes, including Phewa, Begnas, and Rupa.
The local municipality has been proactive in promoting tourism, with an emphasis on sustainability and preserving the region’s natural beauty. Authorities are working closely with homestay operators to ensure effective management and high standards of service for tourists. The British Royal Trek, which passes through the region, has also been highlighted as a major attraction, further boosting the area’s tourism potential.
Recent promotional visits by media professionals from various outlets, coordinated by the Press Club Gandaki, have further raised awareness of the homestay’s success. The initiative is seen as a model for sustainable tourism that can benefit both the local community and visitors while preserving the cultural heritage of the area.
