A new chapter in community-based tourism has begun in Toripani, Beni Municipality–9, with the official launch of the Sayapatri Community Homestay. The initiative, inaugurated this week with a traditional welcome ceremony featuring local music and cultural performances, is expected to significantly strengthen rural tourism and improve local livelihoods in the region.
According to the homestay group, five households those of Juna Khatri, Rashmi Chokhyal, Sujana Chokhyal, Yuva Giri, and Jamuna Shrestha, have begun hosting guests. The homestay currently has the capacity to accommodate 21 visitors per night, offering a family-like environment for those seeking authentic rural experiences.
“We started the homestay to offer visitors a warm, family-style environment,” said Sita Khatri, Chairperson of the Sayapatri Homestay Group. “As visitor numbers grow, we plan to extend this programme to additional households.”
Comfortable Facilities and Authentic Rural Experience
Visitors staying in the Sayapatri Homestay are provided private rooms, beds, bedding, clean toilets, and a comfortable setting designed to reflect local hospitality. Each participating home has one to two furnished rooms dedicated to guests, with scenic views of the Himalayas visible directly from the windows.
Toripani is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural and ecological significance. Home to diverse ethnic groups, the village offers travellers an opportunity to enjoy local customs, traditional lifestyles, and unique culinary experiences. Guests are served homegrown food items such as Gauriya Gudura rice, millet and buckwheat dishes, timur chutney, local chicken, goat meat, milk, and curd, said homestay operator Yuva Giri.
“Everything we serve is grown in the village, from vegetables, fruits, and grains to dairy products,” he shared. “Tourists can also enjoy cultural performances such as yanimaya, panche baja, and bhajan.”
Local delicacies are complemented by Toripani’s signature spice crop, timur, making timur chutney one of the homestay’s specialty dishes. Visitors often leave with local gifts such as timur, roasted soybeans, and bhagō, said operator Jamuna Shrestha. The cost for one night’s stay is Rs 1,500.
Eco Himalaya Nepal Provides Crucial Support
The homestay initiative was made possible through training and financial support from Eco Himalaya Nepal. The organization provided Rs 70,000 worth of materials to each participating household, along with Rs 200,000 to the group for infrastructure and preparation.
Eco Himalaya Nepal Director Narayan Dhakal said the organization has also been helping expand timur farming, improve production quality, and strengthen marketing efforts in Toripani.
Situated at an altitude of 1,750 metres, Toripani offers panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Manapathi Himalayan ranges. The village is reachable through a 30-minute drive from Beni Bazaar. While the road from Beni to Arthunge and Jamunakharka is already paved, ongoing construction is underway to improve the gravel road from Kirakhore to Toripani.
Rich Natural, Cultural, and Historical Attractions
Toripani is surrounded by remarkable tourist attractions, including Todke, a scenic viewpoint; Dholthana Palace, a historic site that served as a seasonal capital during the Baise-Chaubise kingdoms; and Pachhain, a religious destination. The remains of Dholthana Palace are still visible today, offering a glimpse into the region’s medieval heritage.
Visitors can reach Todke by trekking or by using local road networks that connect Toripani with Raghuganga, Mangala, and Beni Municipalities. At the base of the trail lies Galeshwar Shivalaya Temple, known as the gateway to the famed Muktikshetra region.
Local Leaders Praise the Initiative
During the launch ceremony, local leaders expressed strong support for the homestay programme. Beni Municipality Mayor Surat KC remarked that the initiative would improve the overall tourism experience in Toripani while creating new economic opportunities. “This programme will help increase income, develop entrepreneurship, and strengthen the tourism appeal of the area,” he said.
Similarly, Chief District Officer Badri Prasad Tiwari, Eco Himal Austria Chair Prof. Dr. Kurt Luger, and Eco Himal Director Narayan Dhakal highlighted the role of homestays in generating sustainable rural incomes and enhancing hospitality standards.
Adding his perspective, Krishna Prasad Acharya, President of TAAN Gandaki, stated: “Toripani’s community homestay model reflects the true spirit of Nepal’s rural tourism. By offering organic food, warm hospitality, and authentic cultural encounters, this village has the potential to become a major stop for trekkers and domestic travellers exploring the Myagdi region.”
Strengthening Rural Tourism and Local Economy
Ward Chairperson Chakra KC said the homestay project would help boost tourism, expand local employment opportunities, and elevate household incomes. The launch programme concluded with traditional Naumati music and devotional songs performed by community members, reflecting Toripani’s vibrant cultural identity.
With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and growing tourism infrastructure, Toripani is emerging as a peaceful and authentic rural destination. The Sayapatri Community Homestay is now expected to serve as a model for community-based tourism development across Nepal.
