I will never be tired of reiterating the hidden gems of Nepal offer so much more than the well-marketed destinations. This belief isn't just because I work at the Community Homestay Network, an organization dedicated to promoting community tourism. Since my childhood, I have had the joy and opportunity of traveling extensively across Nepal and witnessing a side of the country that is often overlooked.
When we think of Nepal, we often picture towering Himalayan peaks, bustling markets in Kathmandu, and serene Buddhist monasteries. While these are certainly highlights, there is so much more beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. My work fuels my passion for discovering and exploring these hidden gems even more. What no one tells you about visiting Nepal is that it has several tucked-away villages filled with beauty, culture, and local people who will amaze you with their love, warmth, and traditional ways of living in harmony with nature.
From my experience, I can wholeheartedly guarantee that if you love to understand the culture, appreciate tradition, and admire the natural beauty of a destination, Dobato in Ilam and Tharu Sonaha in Bardiya are two places in Nepal that must be on your list. These locations offer an immersive experience, providing a deeper connection to the country's rich culture and stunning natural beauty.
Dobato: Where Adventure, Conservation, and Warmth Converge in the Eastern Himalayas
Beyond the bustling cities and nestled amidst the hills lies the tranquil village of Dobato. In Nepali, "dobato" means a place where two roads diverge, and fittingly, Dobato in Ilam District, eastern Nepal, is situated at a junction where human habitation meets the lush forest. This small settlement of eleven Rai and Sherpa households in Sandakpur Rural Municipality has recently emerged as a sanctuary for the charismatic Red Panda, an endangered species found in the Eastern Himalaya. But Dobato offers more than just Red pandas; it is also home to other rare wildlife like the Chinese pangolin, Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard, barking deer, and a variety of beautiful birds. The rich diversity of rhododendrons further adds to the charm of this hidden gem.
Red Panda (Source - ICIMOD)
Exploring Dobato was one of the most off-beaten paths I have ever ventured on in Eastern Nepal. The Red Panda Network, in collaboration with ICIMOD, initiated a community homestay program to support ecotourism here and they invited us, Community Homestay Network, to explore the potential for a community homestay circuit in 2021. With its lush forests and the elusive presence of the Red Panda, Dobato gives travelers the adventurous spirit. From the moment I arrived, I knew this place would hold a special place in any traveler's heart. The warmth of the people was one of the highlights for me, adding to the beauty of this remote village.
Immersing in the Tranquil Beauty and Rich Biodiversity of Dobato
We stayed in a homestay run by an elderly Sherpa couple, where I savored the most unforgettable Thenthuk, a noodle soup I've had many times before in Kathmandu, but never quite like this. The organic produce and chilly weather surely enhanced its flavor, but it was the love and warmth of Syanghe Buwa, the homestay host, that made it truly special. I thought that was the best part of the evening, but as we stepped out of the cozy dining area, preparing for a good night’s sleep after a full day of assessment, we were greeted by a breathtaking sight—the stars. This turned into one of the best stargazing experiences I have ever had. The sky lit up brilliantly, and at that moment, I knew this place would always hold a special place in my heart.
The stars were so mesmerizing that we stayed outside for another two hours, despite the November chill, using an app my colleague had to spot constellations. The beauty of the night sky and the warm hospitality we experienced made this moment one of my personal favorites while traveling.
Exploring Dobato’s Natural Wonders and Cultural Connections
The next day, we explored the area through a serene walk through the pristine rhododendron forest, leading us to Kaal Pokhari, a tranquil pond that lies on the border between Nepal and India. This peaceful journey was another highlight of our time in Dobato. Though we left the village on the third day without having spotted a Red Panda, just half an hour into our departure, we received an exciting call from one of the forest guardians—they had just seen one. Perhaps it was a sign that we should return to this magical place.Though we didn’t see a Red Panda ourselves, the effort and dedication of the forest guardians, who carefully explained how they never allow travelers to stand for more than 20 minutes when these little furry creatures are spotted to avoid disturbing the shy animal, showed their deep respect for the biodiversity of Dobato. Such information on Red Panda by the local conservationists made up for the missed opportunity and left me with a profound appreciation for this place and its people.
The two nights we spent in Dobato seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. Between our assessments for the potential to include the village in the community homestay circuit—which we successfully achieved in 2022—and the delicious meals shared over Tongba to warm up the chilly evenings, time flew by. The laughter and stories exchanged with our colleagues and homestay hosts over dinner were moments of genuine connection, where strangers become friends. These memories, woven with the beauty of Dobato and the kindness of its people, have left an indelible mark on my heart.
Embracing Tradition and Reflection in Tharu Sonaha: A Journey of Culture, Resilience, and Responsible Tourism
Tharu Sonaha, on the other hand lies in the heart of Bardiya, a place where the rhythmic sound of panning gold and the vibrant local crafts transport you to a timeless realm, rich in tradition and culture. The Tharu people, distinct from the mountainous communities of Nepal, have preserved a cultural heritage that is as vibrant as it is resilient. Their traditions, dances, and crafts offer a glimpse into a way of life that has withstood the test of time. The Sonaha, a subgroup of the Tharu, have their own unique history, deeply intertwined with the rivers that flow through their land. Their connection with the rivers and their ancient fishing practices form the backbone of their identity.
Welcome Program at Tharu-Sonaha Community Homestay (Source - Community Homestay Network)
Working with the Community Homestay Network has afforded me many opportunities to explore these hidden gems, and my time at the Tharu Sonaha community was no exception. I spent three nights in a Tharu Sonaha, a Community Homestay, with an elderly Tharu couple immersed in a training program focused on building resilient entrepreneurs in the face of climate change and disaster during the day and enjoying the conversations around their life and culture in the evening. Floods are the major threat here, and various organizations, both government and non-government, have been working to mitigate these challenges. Despite the remoteness, the lack of infrastructure, and the impacts of disasters, the communities here are thriving, trying to create employment opportunities through community tourism.
Immersing in the Daily Life and Traditions of the Sonaha Community
The Sonaha community, though small in number, has a deep and enduring relationship with the Karnali River, the largest protected area in the Tarai. For generations, they have fished and mined alluvial gold dust along the river, leading a semi-nomadic life that has fostered a distinct identity and culture. Their connection with the land predates the formation of the Nepali state, and their customs have remained largely unchanged despite the passage of time.
During my stay, I was welcomed into their world, where I had the privilege of dressing like a local and dancing to the rhythms of traditional Tharu music. Although our schedule didn’t allow us to observe the traditional practice of panning gold, we did make time to cross the Karnali River on a local streamer boat to visit Tikapur Park at sunrise. The peacefulness of the morning, the beauty of the lotus gardens, and the simple joy of a local breakfast gave us the energy we needed for the day's training sessions.
Evenings were spent exploring the area on foot, wandering along the banks of the Karnali, and observing the community's daily life. Watching the locals fish in the river, I was struck by the authenticity of their lives—nothing curated for the needs of others, just the pure essence of living in harmony with nature. The host families were amused by our tales of eating pond fish, a concept they found difficult to understand. In their eyes, only fish from the fresh, streaming river are worth eating. I couldn’t help but reflect on how, in our attempts to “uplift” these communities, we often fail to see how impoverished our own day-to-day choices are.
Reflections on Responsible Tourism and Personal Growth
My trip to Tharu Sonaha was more than just an exploration of a beautiful place; it was a journey of reflection. It challenged the usual narratives of tourism, questioned the savior complex that often revolves around community tourism, and made me reconsider the true needs of travelers. Last year has been a significant one for me, marked by the joys of new motherhood and witnessing the gradual revival of the travel industry. Both experiences have taught me invaluable lessons about community, resilience, patience, and kindness.
Becoming a mother has made me more aware of the strength in togetherness and the power of bouncing back from challenges. It has also deepened my understanding of the importance of having choices—both in life and in the way we travel. Responsible tourism has always been close to my heart, but now, as a mother, it feels even more personal. I want to provide my children with the same opportunities to explore pristine nature and diverse cultures that have enriched my own life.
As a professional in the tourism industry, I’m committed to ensuring the sustainability of tourism destinations. This isn’t just for the benefit of travelers, but for the local communities to whom these places truly belong. In the case of Bardiya, many people know it as a place where you can spot tigers, but what they often miss is the magic that happens beyond the wildlife. The cultural richness, the warmth of the people, and the delicious local foods like Dhigri, Ghongi, and fresh river fish are experiences that add layers to the beauty of this region.
Balancing Work and Motherhood in Bardiya
This trip was my first time leaving my ten-month-old twins at home for work, and I thought I would be overwhelmed with guilt. But the month of November in Bardiya was pleasant compared to Kathmandu, and the warmth of the environment, the flowers blooming across the roads in each household, filled me with energy and enthusiasm for my work. I missed my babies, especially when I saw other children running around carefree, but instead of feeling guilty, I found myself planning a future trip with them to Tharu Sonaha. How could they not enjoy this well-kept beauty? I dream of the day they can splash their tiny feet in the Karnali River, witness the fishing, the sunrise and the sunset, see the oxen, cows, and chickens grazing around the village, and dance to the music of Tharu songs.
Tharu Sonaha is a place where the past and present coexist, where the lessons of resilience and sustainability are lived every day, and where I hope to return—this time, with my children by my side, ready to share in the magic of this hidden gem.
Beyond the Beaten Path
Nepal is a land of extraordinary beauty, but it's true essence lies beyond the well-marketed destinations. It’s in places like Dobato and Tharu Sonaha, where adventure, culture, and nature blend seamlessly, offering experiences that go beyond the ordinary. These hidden gems showcase the richness of Nepal's heritage and the warmth of its people, waiting for those who are willing to look a little closer, travel a little further, and embrace the road less traveled.
