A homestay program has been launched in Toripani, Beni Municipality–9, aimed at enhancing tourist facilities, generating income for locals, and creating employment opportunities. The initiative is expected to promote tourism in the region while offering visitors a unique, community-based experience.
In the first phase, the homestay program has been established in five households, accommodating 21 guests in total, according to Sita Khatri, president of the managing group.
“Rooms and toilets have been prepared for guests, and we have ensured the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay,” Khatri said. “Eco Himalaya has contributed materials worth nearly NPR 600,000, including beds, bedding, and sanitation supplies, to support this initiative.”
Local Families Participate in Homestay Program
The initial phase of the program includes the homes of Juna Khatri, Rashmi Chokhal, Sujana Chokhal, Yub Giri, and Jamuna Shrestha. The homestay initiative has already been formally registered, and plans for a second phase to include additional households are underway.
The homestay initiative allows visitors to experience local life, while providing locals with a sustainable source of income and employment through tourism services such as food, lodging, and guiding.
Tourist Attractions and Scenic Views
Located at an altitude of 1,750 meters above sea level, Toripani offers breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, making it an attractive destination for trekkers and travelers. The area is also known for spicy fruits and timur cultivation, adding a unique local flavor to the visitor experience.
Nearby attractions include the Todke tourist site, the historical Dholthan Palace, and religious landmarks such as Pachai. These sites provide a rich mix of cultural, historical, and natural experiences for tourists visiting the area.
Improving Access and Infrastructure
The road connecting Beni to Toripani via Neptechaur is currently being upgraded by the Gandaki Province Government, which has laid asphalt and is enhancing road quality to facilitate tourism. Another road connecting Toripani to Dholthan Palace, which dates back to the Baise-Chaubise era, is also under improvement by the federal and municipal governments.
These infrastructure projects aim to make Toripani more accessible for visitors and promote a seamless travel experience, whether by walking trails or vehicles.
Potential for Family Tourism and Trekking
Toripani is seen as a suitable destination for families seeking a peaceful and scenic environment. Visitors can explore the region on foot or by road, reaching attractions in Beni Municipality, Raghuganga, and Mangala Rural Municipalities, including the Todke area, which sits along trekking routes connecting multiple cultural and historical sites.
By integrating local homestays into the tourist ecosystem, the initiative is expected to boost local income, create employment opportunities, and promote sustainable tourism, while allowing visitors to enjoy authentic experiences of rural Nepali life.
“Through homestays, we hope to enhance tourism, generate employment, and increase income for local residents,” said Ward Chairman Chakra KC, emphasizing the importance of community participation in the initiative.
The homestay program in Toripani represents a step forward in community-based tourism in Myagdi district. With scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and improved infrastructure, Toripani is poised to become a popular destination for domestic and international tourists, contributing both to the local economy and the broader development of tourism in the region.
