A new community-driven tourism initiative, ‘Hattidaha Onestay,’ has officially come into operation in Lahan Municipality–15, marking a significant step toward promoting sustainable tourism while uplifting local livelihoods. Established in the scenic Hattidaha area, the project blends natural beauty with cultural immersion, offering visitors a unique alternative to conventional tourism experiences.
A New Concept Blending Culture and Nature
The concept of “Onestay,” inspired by the popular homestay model, aims to provide tourists with a deeper connection to the local way of life. Unlike traditional accommodations, Onestay focuses on offering a holistic experience where visitors can engage with local art, traditions, and the surrounding natural environment.
Set within a tranquil wetland ecosystem, Hattidaha Onestay allows guests to experience rural Nepal through close interaction with the community, making it an attractive destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking authentic cultural exposure.
Built on Community Forest Conservation Efforts
The development of the Onestay is closely tied to earlier conservation efforts led by the Koiralokhola Model Forest Users Group. The group had been actively working to transform the Hattidaha wetland area, located within a community forest, into a sustainable tourism destination.
Through years of conservation and development, the wetland has evolved into an eco-friendly site that balances biodiversity protection with tourism potential. The introduction of Onestay is seen as a natural progression of these efforts, adding value to the area while maintaining its ecological integrity.
Collaborative Effort with International Support
The construction and launch of Hattidaha Onestay were made possible through financial and technical support from multiple organizations. Funding was provided by Jersey Overseas Aid, in collaboration with CARE Nepal, Federation of Community Forest Users Nepal (FECOFUN), and National Farmers Group Federation (NFGF).
The initiative was implemented under a joint conservation project aimed at integrating environmental protection with income-generating opportunities for local communities. This multi-stakeholder collaboration highlights the growing emphasis on sustainable development models in rural Nepal.
Linking Tourism with Local Livelihoods
According to Rudra Narayan Chaudhary, chairperson of the users group, the primary goal of the Onestay is to create economic opportunities for residents while ensuring the conservation of forests and wetlands.
He emphasized that the project is designed to directly connect tourism activities with income generation, allowing community members to benefit from the influx of visitors. By involving locals in management and service delivery, the initiative promotes ownership and long-term sustainability.
Facilities Designed for Diverse Visitors
In its initial phase, the Onestay has begun operations with a two-room guest house, catering to small groups of visitors. However, the broader premises have been developed into a multi-faceted recreational and educational site.
The area now includes a training hall for community and tourism-related programs, a picnic area for visitors, and boating facilities within the wetland. Additional attractions such as a children’s recreation park, a small zoo, and designated selfie spots have also been introduced to enhance visitor engagement.
These facilities are expected to draw a wide range of tourists, including families, students, and nature enthusiasts, making Hattidaha a versatile destination.
A Model for Sustainable Rural Tourism
Tourism experts view the Hattidaha Onestay as a promising model for community-based tourism in Nepal. By integrating conservation, culture, and economic development, the project demonstrates how rural areas can leverage their natural and cultural assets without compromising environmental sustainability.
As Nepal continues to diversify its tourism offerings beyond traditional trekking and heritage sites, initiatives like Hattidaha Onestay could play a crucial role in decentralizing tourism benefits and promoting lesser-known destinations.
With its official launch, Hattidaha Onestay is poised to become a new attraction in eastern Nepal, showcasing how grassroots innovation and collaboration can transform local landscapes into thriving hubs of sustainable tourism.
