Women in Tinau Rural Municipality of Palpa district are increasingly turning to homestay businesses as a reliable source of income, marking a significant shift in local economic participation. Traditionally engaged in household chores and agricultural labor such as collecting fodder, many women have now found new opportunities through tourism-related hospitality services.
Rise of Women-Led Homestays in Tinau
In recent years, several areas within Tinau have seen a growing number of women either starting or preparing to launch homestays. Motivated by the success stories of fellow locals, women across the municipality are now stepping forward to embrace entrepreneurship.
Prem Shrestha, Chairperson of Tinau Rural Municipality, expressed optimism about the trend. “Women are now spontaneously getting involved in income-generating activities. The potential for earning a decent income from homestays and tourism has made it an attractive avenue for many,” he said.
Empowering Women Through Tourism
A shining example of this transformation is Maya Saru of Jantilung, who now spends her days managing a local homestay. “The income from homestays helps cover expenses like school fees for children and daily household needs. It’s been a turning point for me and my family,” she shared.
The homestay model offers local women the opportunity to remain close to home while still becoming economically self-reliant. For women who were previously unable to work outside due to familial responsibilities, this opportunity has brought newfound independence and purpose.
Skills Training for Sustainable Growth
To support this growing interest, Tinau Rural Municipality has initiated homestay training programs, with financial support from Palpa Development Centre and the Social Development Division Office. These training sessions aim to equip women with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to successfully operate homestays.
According to Chairperson Shrestha, the training is being conducted across all six wards of the municipality with a focus on:
- Attracting both domestic and international tourists
- Enhancing local income sources
- Promoting women’s entrepreneurship
- Strengthening women’s economic status
“Our goal is to make Tinau prosperous through tourism and agriculture, and we’re ready to support communities at every level,” he said.
No Shortage of Opportunities in Tinau
Vice-Chairperson Lal Bahadur Thapa emphasized that Tinau residents face no obstacles in achieving self-employment if they are willing to put in the effort. “If you’re hardworking, you can easily earn Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 a month from the comfort of your own home,” he noted. “The rural municipality is committed to providing the necessary infrastructure, training, and support for cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.”
Expanding Homestay Zones Across Wards
Currently, homestay operations have begun in:
- Ward No. 6 – Masyam
- Ward No. 5 – Maramkot
- Ward No. 4 – Satyawati
Preparations are underway in:
- Ward No. 1 – Kachal
- Ward No. 2 – Dovan
- Ward No. 3 – Jhumsaa
In these areas, local women are actively engaged in organizing their homes to welcome guests. A few households have already started hosting visitors, providing a glimpse into rural life, culture, and cuisine.
Jantilung Community Homestay: A Model for Success
One of the most well-known setups is the Jantilung Community Homestay, where guests are offered a warm welcome and a full local experience for Rs. 1,200 per person. The package includes:
- Traditional Nepali snacks and dinner
- Local chicken curry
- Breakfast in the morning
Guests are also treated to the picturesque views from Jantilung and Maramkot, regions that provide breathtaking panoramas stretching from the Himalayas in the north to the plains of the Terai in the south.
Former Rural Municipality Chairperson Om Bahadur Ghartimagar, who played a vital role in initiating the Jantilung homestay during his tenure, stated that the homestay has become well-organized and impactful. “We had envisioned this as a long-term community development project, and I am glad to see it becoming a reality,” he remarked.
Cultural Preservation Through Community Tourism
The homestay initiative is not only a means of income but also a tool for preserving local culture, food, and traditions. Guests often enjoy authentic village life, including traditional cooking methods, local songs and dances, and participation in daily chores, which adds to the uniqueness of the experience.
As tourists seek out authentic and off-the-beaten-path destinations, these homestays are becoming an integral part of Nepal’s rural tourism strategy, offering both experiential travel for guests and sustainable income for hosts.
A Future Built on Empowerment and Local Pride
The shift toward homestays in Tinau is more than just an economic development; it’s a social transformation that places women at the heart of local tourism and entrepreneurship. With the right training, support, and vision, Tinau’s women are not just running households, they are running businesses. As this initiative continues to expand, it holds the promise of empowering more women, enhancing the local economy, and positioning Tinau as a model of community-based tourism in Nepal.
