Trip Overview

Namaste! Welcome to a Journey That Means More

At Community Homestay Network (CHN), we invite you to experience travel that goes beyond sightseeing. We are a social enterprise redefining tourism in Nepal by connecting travelers with local communities through immersive, responsible, and meaningful experiences.

Working with over 50 villages across the country, our Community Circuits offer curated, multi-day journeys that celebrate culture, food, and craft—guided by the very people who call these places home. Hosted in warm, welcoming homestays and guided by locals—many of them women—these circuits are more than just holidays. They are transformative exchanges that generate real impact. We had the immense honor to be in recognized as one of Time Magazine's 'The World’s Greatest Places of 2025'! This honor has strengthened our commitment to provide authentic cultural experiences and responsible tourism in Nepal.

Why Our Circuits Matter: Travel with Purpose

Our circuit is thoughtfully designed to offer local experiences with local people at the centre while also keeping your needs and comfort in mind. This mix lets you enjoy the familiar amenities of hotels with their own unique character while also experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Nepali homes across diverse cultures. Every circuit you join contributes directly to:

Preserving Indigenous Cultures: From Newar communities to Buddhist beliefs, your journey helps safeguard traditional customs, languages, festivals, and ways of life.
Empowering Women: Many of our hosts, guides, and even drivers are women—challenging norms and leading their communities through tourism.
Strengthening Local Economies: We ensure fair wages and community ownership, meaning your money stays where it’s most needed—in the communities.
Promoting Sustainable Practices: We say no to single-use plastics, use electric or hybrid vehicles where possible, and champion low-impact travel that respects the land.
Fostering Intergenerational Learning: Join locals in cooking traditional meals, learning age-old crafts, and hearing stories passed down through generations.

These aren’t just trips—they’re investments in people, culture, and the planet.

Real People. Real Impact.

In 2024 alone, we welcomed over 7,900 travelers from 45 countries, impacting 1,996 individuals, including 916 women across 28 communities. These travelers didn't just visit—they shared meals, built relationships, and contributed to long-term change.

Through tourism, we also provide training in leadership, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. To date, we've formed 46 partnerships with businesses, local governments, and impact-driven organizations to further inclusive, community-led development.

By choosing this Community Circuit, you’re supporting livelihoods, celebrating culture, and becoming part of a movement.

Welcome to travel that transforms—for you and for the communities you visit.

More on the Trip

This journey takes you deep into the heart of Nepal’s culture and daily life inside the Kathmandu Valley. You’ll wander the ancient streets of Bhaktapur, visit traditional Newar villages like Bungamati and Khokana and experience authentic Newar architecture, traditional crafts, and vibrant local markets. Moving onwards, spend a peaceful night at Neydo Monastery, joining the monks for prayer in a peaceful setting. In Kirtipur, you’ll stay with local families in their community homestays, share meals, learn to make momos, and try your hand at writing in the beautiful Ranjana Lipi script. It’s a chance to really connect with people and traditions that make the Kathmandu Valley so special.

You’ll also explore the historic treasures of Patan, the spiritual Boudhanath Stupa, and sacred Pashupatinath Temple, plus the lively markets and old squares of Kathmandu itself. Everywhere you go, you’ll be welcomed warmly and experience daily life up close, while helping support local communities, women-led tourism, and preserving Nepal’s rich heritage. This trip is about slowing down, meeting people, and truly feeling at home in Nepal.

What Sets This Circuit Apart

Electric and hybrid vehicles wherever possible for lower emissions
Women in leadership
Community Homestays owned and operated by local communities
Farm-to-table meals, organic gardens, and local wine
Slow-paced travel that fosters deep connection and reflection

Trip Impacts

Support Women-led Tourism: Stay in Kirtipur Community Homestay, helping women earn income through hosting, cooking classes, and cultural workshops.

Preserve Indigenous Cultures: Experience Newar traditions in Bhaktapur, Bungamati, Khokana, and Kirtipur through local food, art, and language.

Promote Spiritual Immersion: Overnight at Neydo Monastery, supporting the monks while joining daily chants and meditation.

Revive Art and Language: Preserve heritage by learning Ranjana Lipi, keeping Newari customs alive for future generations.

Local Economic Support: Strengthen communities by exploring off beat destinations and backing local-led tourism initiatives.

Trip Highlights

Stay in community-run homestays in Kirtipur and experience warm Newari hospitality in an urban heritage town.
Take part in a hands-on momo cooking class with local women and share stories over a homemade meal.

Explore the ancient Newar villages of Bungamati and Khokana, famous for traditional woodcarving and mustard oil making.

Enjoy a night at Neydo Monastery in Pharping, joining peaceful Buddhist prayer sessions with the resident monks.

Learn the art of Ranjana Lipi calligraphy and sample traditional Newari dishes and drinks.

Visit iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple for deep cultural insight.

Stroll through the bustling streets and markets of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Asan Bazaar for a real taste of local life.

Travel responsibly, supporting local livelihoods, women-led tourism, and heritage preservation in every stop.

ITINERARY

DAY 01: ARRIVAL KATHMANDU-BHAKTAPUR

Activities of the day: International airport arrival transfer and transfer to Bhaktapur
Accommodation: The Nanee or Similar
Meals Included: None

Namaste & Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal!!!

Your first impression of arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport is an experience in itself.

Your time to get clear of the immigration formalities depend if you are looking to get On Arrival Visa or not.

As you exit baggage claim/customs on arrival at Kathmandu Airport, there will be a security check who will be collecting your baggage tag. Please note that there are trolleys available at the airport which are free to use.

As you walk down the tunnel to the arrival lounge, you will find many people showing various placards and waiting anxiously. Please do not get confused and look out for our airport representative who will be amongst the crowd waiting to welcome you with your name written on the placard. Our airport representative will assist you with your vehicle. Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be transferred to Bhaktapur.

From Kathmandu, As we exit Kathmandu Metropolitan city at Koteshor, we take the Arniko Highway all the way to Bhaktapur. Driving along the concrete buildings on each side of the highway curvy roads towards Koteshor, entering the City of Devotees `Bhaktapur’.

An important and fascinating World Heritage Site, made up of three large squares filled with shrines, temples and activity; Bhaktapur is the essential Newari city with some of the finest architecture in Nepal. In its heyday (14th-16th centuries) Bhaktapur was the most powerful of the Kathmandu Valley kingdoms and its capital for 300 years.

Despite earthquakes and frequent rebuilding, Bhaktapur today retains a medieval feel; its neighborhoods are still caste oriented and centered around the old ponds or tanks (built to store water for drinking, washing and religious ceremonies) and which continue as a social focal point. Local people here are predominantly farmers or engaged in the traditional crafts of pottery, metalwork, art and woodwork which have supported the city since its establishment in the 12th century to service the trade route between Tibet and India and remain active industries. A fascinating place to explore, the Nanee Hotel is not just a place to stay; it is a realm where art, architecture, cuisine, culture, and spirituality converge to create transformative experiences. As an upscale, sustainable boutique accommodation, with the clear mission to offer a bespoke oasis that not only promises comfort but also enriches through handcrafted experiences that celebrate Newari culture. The architecture of

The Nanee seamlessly marries traditional Newari ethos with modern minimalism, drawing inspiration from Bhaktapur's rich heritage. The design is intentionally simple and thoughtful use of art pieces or even exposed bricks that add texture without overwhelming the space. Each room is uniquely designed to reflect one of the five elements of nature inviting guests to connect with nature and experience a deep sense of calm.

DAY 02: PHARPING (NEYDO MONASTERY)

Activities of the day: Village Walking tour of Bungamati & Khokana, after sightseeing, drive to Neydo Monastery
Accommodation: Neydo Monastery
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your city guide will pick you up from the booked hotel in Bhaktapur and transfer you to Bungamati, where you will be walking a classic Newari village, Bungamati has rows of brick houses lining streets paved with flagstones. The village is the winter residence of the Rain God as well as being justifiably famous for the significant number of skilled woodcarvers among its inhabitants. Nearby is another ancient Newari village, Khokana ,which has earned quite a reputation for its mustard oil made in the traditional ways of oil pressing. If you come across somebody with a weathered face carrying two tin drums hanging at the two ends of a pole across his shoulders in the old marketplaces of Kathmandu, it is likely that he is from Khokana and in town to sell mustard oil. A day exploring these 2 villages will be one of the most genuine experiences of traditional life in the Kathmandu Valley you will find.

After half day sightseeing of the Bungamati & Khokana village, drive to Neydo Monastery.

Neydo Monastery (Neydo Tashi Chöling) is a tranquil Buddhist monastery nestled in the scenic hills of Pharping, surrounded by lush greenery. Home to around 200 monks, it offers a serene setting where visitors can observe or even participate in daily chants and meditation sessions. Adjacent to the monastery is Neydo Hotel, features clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, hot showers, and many balconies overlooking the monastery. Guests can relax in the garden, enjoy a hearty breakfast or meals with Tibetan and Nepali dishes, and take part in optional hikes, yoga, or teaching sessions with monks. It’s the perfect base for a restful yet immersive spiritual experience in Pharping. You can take part in or observe their morning and evening prayer sessions. If you are interested, you can also take part in hikes, yoga or Buddha teaching sessions with the monks.

Note: Guests should note however, that there are no evening and morning prayers at the Monastery on Saturday and Sunday (except for festivals and occasions). Prayer Timing timing (summer) is from 5.00 AM to 6.00AM and 4.00 PM to 6.00 PM and Timing (Winter) is 6.00 AM to 7.00AM and 4.00 PM to 5.30PM. More than 70% of the monks go on a pilgrimage tour from January to May, so there will be fewer monks in the monastery during this period. In-house guests are allowed to meet the monks when they are in their English class, but not when during Tibetan classes.

DAY 03: KIRTIPUR

Activities of the day: Early Morning Buddhist Puja, After breakfast transfer to Kirtipur
Experiential Activities: After lunch explore local vegetable market to buy ingredients for Momo Cooking Course in the evening
Accommodation: Kirtipur Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Early morning you will be engaging in regular prayer at Neydo. After, drive to Kirtipur for an excursion. Kirtipur in the Kathmandu Valley is one of the oldest Newari town in Nepal. Home to the Newari community, the locals are friendly and eager to welcome guests into the town to share their traditions and culture. Homestay accommodation is provided in an urban setting within the narrow streets of Kirtipur.

As evening sets in, at first your hosts guide you to the local market, where you actively participate in selecting fresh ingredients essential for the upcoming momo-making class. Momos or Dumplings are more than a dish in Nepal; it is a way of life. Like any other type of dumpling, it is a vegetable filling wrapped in dough. It is bite-sized and usually served with dipping sauce. It is a sheer delight when you bite into the savory fillings of a Momo. Not only is eating Momos a delight, but the process of making them is a unique and fun experience. you’ll join a hands-on momo-making class led by the passionate women from the community. From kneading the dough and preparing the savory fillings to mastering the art of folding the dumplings, you’ll learn the steps that go into creating this iconic Nepali dish. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with laughter and stories shared as you cook and enjoy the meal together.

Choosing to stay at Kirtipur Community Homestay supports a model of tourism that empowers women and promotes economic independence for local families. These accommodations are often women-led, providing dignified jobs, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism stay within the community. In Kirtipur Community Homestay, you’ll stay with local families for an authentic immersion in Newari culture. Accommodations are simple but clean, with comfortable rooms and shared bathrooms often located outside. Guests can learn about traditional script writing and connect with local artisans, gaining a true sense of this historic Newari town. Meals feature classic Newari dishes, rice and lentils, seasonal veg rich in flavours and local hospitality.

DAY 04: KIRTIPUR

Activities of the day: Sightseeing around Kirtipur & Engage in local activity
Experiential Activities: Morning Ranjana Lipi
Accommodation: Kirtipur Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

In the morning, experience Ranjana Lipi which is an ancient script traditionally used by the Newar community of Kathmandu Valley. Developed around the 11th century, it is known for its flowing, decorative lines, Ranjana Lipi also found its place in religious and historical contexts beyond Nepal, particularly in Tibet, India, and Mongolia, where it was used to transcribe important Buddhist texts. Its artistic form has made it popular for inscriptions on temple walls, prayer wheels, manuscripts, and in modern times, calligraphy and tattoos. Deeply rooted in Newar cultural identity, Ranjana Lipi holds great historical and spiritual significance.

Today, Ranjana Lipi represents a vital link to Nepal’s artistic, linguistic, and spiritual traditions. Efforts are underway to revive and preserve the script through teaching and public art, ensuring that younger generations continue to recognize and value its importance. Using traditional bamboo pens and ink, you’ll get hands-on experience crafting these elegant characters—an art form deeply rooted in Newar heritage. As you practice, enjoy a glass of Aila, a traditional Newari alcoholic drink, and savor a classic Samay Baji set—a festive meal that’s an essential part of Newari celebrations, featuring a delicious spread of local flavors.

Later in the day, you’ll explore the culturally vibrant town of Kirtipur, a historic Newari settlement perched on a ridge with sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley. With your local hosts as guides, you’ll visit some of Kirtipur’s most treasured sites, including the ancient Bagh Bhairab Temple, dedicated to a fierce guardian deity, the peaceful hilltop Umamaheshwar Temple with its stunning valley panoramas, and the tranquil Chilancho Stupa, a symbol of the town’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Each site offers a glimpse into Kirtipur’s layered spiritual and architectural history.

DAY 05: KIRTIPUR-PATAN-KATHMANDU

Activities of the day: Transfer from Kirtipur to Patan. Patan City Tour and drive back to Kathmandu via visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sight of Boudhanath & Pashupatinath
Duration: Full day tour (06-07hrs)
Accommodation: Traditional Comfort Hotel or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, in the morning at first, you will be first picked up from Kirtipur and transferred in a full day sightseeing program that includes the main historic and religious sights of Patan & Kathmandu.
Patan, once an independent Kingdom, lies only a few kilometers south of Kathmandu, but is quite different in atmosphere. Patan’s Durbar Square contains some of the finest Newari urban architecture in all of Nepal as well as Hindu and Buddhist monuments.
After visiting Patan you will drive back to Kathmandu via sightseeing of Boudhanath & Pashupatinath.

Boudhanath Stupa is one of the holiest sites in Nepal. It envelops an absolute admiration and faith not only from the Buddhist perspective, but Hindus of Nepal also pay their equal respect to this pious Buddhist site. The Stupa is one of the UNESCO world heritages for Nepal and the station where the Stupa stands with the message of peace and love; it used to be an ancient resting point for the Tibetan merchants to Nepal and India, where they would rest and perform their holy prayers. Ever since then and now, especially Tibetans, but also Buddhist from all around the world, value the Boudhanath Stupa as their ultimate holy destination.

Pashupatinath Temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, particularly in his form as Pashupati, the Lord of Animals. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and sacred rituals, attracting pilgrims from around the world. The temple complex features numerous shrines, ghats, and ashrams, with the main temple housing a revered lingam, symbolizing Shiva's cosmic energy.

Beyond its physical beauty, Pashupatinath holds profound spiritual significance. It represents the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, as the temple is a major cremation site where many Hindus come to perform last rites for their loved ones. The continuous flow of the Bagmati River symbolizes the journey of the soul, while the rituals performed here emphasize the importance of dharma (righteousness) and the transient nature of life. Pashupatinath serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of life and death, encouraging visitors to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the impermanence of existence.

Traditional Comfort Boutique Hotel blends Nepalese traditional hospitality and architecture with modern amenities for a truly enriching experience. Committed to sustainability, it supports the local economy while reducing environmental impact through measures like eliminating single-use plastics and using solar energy. The hotel’s name reflects its dedication to preserving cultural values while offering contemporary comfort. Guests enjoy genuine Nepali hospitality while contributing to responsible tourism.

DAY 06: KATHMANDU

Activities of the day: Walking tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square via Ason Bazaar, sightseeing tour of Swayambhunath & Thamel Market.
Duration: Full Day Tour (06-07hrs)
Accommodation: Traditional Comfort Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be visiting some of the places enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will begin with Kathmandu Durbar Square, one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley and Swayambhunath

You shall start walking past the old town and narrow streets of Kathmandu, where you can witness local life, local shops in Ason Market, small temples and stupas, shops selling many local food items, spices, vegetables, clothes, trekking gears and souvenirs, restaurants and many more. Ason Market, one of Kathmandu's oldest markets, offers a sensory experience with its lively stalls brimming with spices, textiles, and artifacts that reflect the city's vibrant trade history and the cultural fusion that Kathmandu has experienced over centuries. These sites together form an artistic and historical journey that encapsulates the essence of Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry.

Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of history and artistry, reflecting Nepal's rich cultural heritage. The square is home to magnificent temples, palaces, and courtyards, each showcasing intricate craftsmanship. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace, once the royal residence, stands as a symbol of Kathmandu’s royal past. The Kumari Ghar, where the living goddess resides, is an architectural marvel and a living testament to Nepal's deeply rooted religious traditions.

Freak Street, once the hub of Nepal's 1960s-1970s hippie movement, remains a nostalgic space where visitors can explore its vibrant past through eclectic shops and cafes. The nearby Indrachok, known for its ancient Newar architecture, reveals narrow lanes leading to stunning shrines and hidden courtyards, each with its own story. Itumbahal, a secluded Newar courtyard, is renowned for its centuries-old architecture, featuring intricately designed wooden windows and doors, along with a sacred stupa.

Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient religious complex perched atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley. This iconic stupa, with its striking white dome and golden spire adorned with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, symbolizes the unity of wisdom and compassion. Believed to have been established over 2,000 years ago, Swayambhunath is a significant pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus, representing the interconnectedness of different faiths. The stupa is surrounded by vibrant prayer flags, ancient shrines, and a lively population of monkeys, which add to its unique charm.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Swayambhunath embodies deeper spiritual meanings, serving as a reminder of the path to enlightenment and the importance of self-awareness. The ascent to the stupa involves climbing 365 steps, symbolizing the journey of life and the effort required to attain spiritual awakening. As visitors circumambulate the stupa, they engage in a meditative practice that fosters mindfulness and reflection, making Swayambhunath not just a historical site, but a profound space for spiritual growth and connection.

DAY 07: KATHMANDU

Accommodation: Traditional Comfort Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Roam around Kathmandu on your own. There are no activities planned for the day. You may choose to wander around the city or visit nearest market on your own

DAY 08: DEPARTURE

Activities of the day: International airport departure transfer in Kathmandu
Driving Duration: 30-45min approx.
Accommodation: None
Meals Included: Breakfast

As per airlines regulation, travelers needs to check in to their respective airlines counter at around 3 hours before the scheduled flight time.

Your booked airport transfer will be at your hotel, ready to take you to the airport. Depending upon the traffic on the road, the drive from your hotel to airport may take around 30 minutes or more.

At the airport, security will check for your flight ticket - either hard copy or on your mobile along with your passport before you are allowed to enter the departure hall.

Trip Cost Includes

All accommodation for 7 nights (hotels and community homestays) as per itinerary
Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
Meals as per itinerary
All surface transfers in private vehicles as per the itinerary
Guided Sightseeing Tour of Patan , Boudhanath, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa
Hands-on experiences: momo cooking class, Ranjana Lipi session, Neydo monastery stay with prayer participation
Accompanying English-speaking guide throughout the trip

Trip Cost Does not Include

International airfare to/from Nepal
Nepal visa fees
Personal travel insurance
Entrance fees, and community fees as applicable
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and homestay hosts
Personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, laundry, and souvenirs
Emergency evacuation or medical costs (if required)
Any services not mentioned under “What’s Included”

Additional Information

Accommodation

Hotel Accommodation

Traditional Comfort Boutique Hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms featuring handcrafted Nepali décor, modern bathrooms, and cozy furnishings that blend tradition with comfort. Guests can relax in the serene courtyard, enjoy locally sourced meals at the in-house restaurant, or unwind in the welcoming lounge. Unique for its authentic Newari architecture and artistic details, the hotel creates an immersive cultural experience within a modern setting. With attentive service and sustainable practices throughout, it provides a warm, elegant stay that celebrates Nepal’s heritage.

Neydo Monastery in Pharping offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush hills, where guests can observe or join daily chants and meditation with resident monks. Neydo Hotel features clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, hot showers, and many balconies overlooking the monastery. Guests can relax in the garden, enjoy a hearty breakfast or meals with Tibetan and Nepali dishes, and take part in optional hikes, yoga, or teaching sessions with monks. It’s the perfect base for a restful yet immersive spiritual experience in Pharping.

The Nanee Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s where art, architecture, cuisine, culture, and spirituality come together for a truly enriching experience. This upscale, sustainable boutique hotel blends traditional Newari design with modern minimalism, inspired by Bhaktapur’s heritage. Thoughtful details like exposed brick and curated art add texture without overwhelming the space. Each room is uniquely themed around the five elements of nature, inviting guests to connect with nature and enjoy a deep sense of calm.

Homestay Accommodation

In Kirtipur, you’ll experience a homestay run by local families, where you’ll be immersed in the Newari culture. The accommodations are simple yet clean, offering comfortable rooms with basic furnishings. While the bathrooms are often outside the rooms, you’ll enjoy a truly authentic experience, learning about script writing traditions and connecting with local artisans. This homestay offers a unique and immersive cultural experience in a traditional Newari town.

Meals

While staying at hotels in Nepal, guests can expect a wide variety of meals ranging from traditional Nepali dishes to popular international cuisines such as Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Most hotels offer buffet breakfasts and à la carte options for lunch and dinner, prepared by professional chefs with a focus on comfort and flavour. Depending upon the lunch place of the day, especially while you are on an excursion, the guide may suggest you some delicacies. The quality of meals prepared may not be of the quality like you may find in big cities of Nepal but they will be delicious and hygienically prepared.

At community homestays, meals are a warm and authentic part of the cultural experience. Guests are served freshly prepared home-cooked meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Typical dishes include dal bhat (lentils and rice), seasonal vegetables, pickles, and sometimes local specialities of the destination. Meals are often shared with the host family, offering a deeper connection to local customs and everyday life.

Transportation

In order to meet the safety standards, we have been working to make sure that the vehicles used during the tours are of high quality. We have a fleet of our own vehicles and we continuously make sure that the vehicles are in good condition. All safety requirements such as first aid box, fire extinguishers, and seat belts are available in every vehicle of ours. We annually give First Aid Training to our drivers too. First Aid Training is provided by Red Cross Society of Bhaktapur, which is a branch of Nepal Red Cross Society. Our drivers are well trained to make sure that your journey is safe and smooth.

Guide and Support Staff

Our tour guides are all well trained and well educated. They all have gained their professional license from Government of Nepal to do tour in Nepal. In addition to their professional license, we train them to provide magical, unique and unforgettable experiences to clients either it is during their sightseeing tours in historical sites.

Money Exchange

As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard but these are limited to major cities. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.

Tipping

It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected, though not compulsory, and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels.

Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $4-$7 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your Community Homestay guide did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline $7-10 USD per day, can be used.

Health

There are no specific health requirements for entry into Nepal. However, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date information regarding vaccinations and medications for any reasonably foreseeable illnesses whilst traveling in Nepal.

Be aware that some drugs, including anti-malarial, have side effects at altitude. Please discuss this carefully with your doctor.

Visas

Please note it is your responsibility to arrange visas before you travel. Below are the visa requirements at the time of printing. NEPAL: All foreign nationals (except Indians) require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad or on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan airport. If getting the visa at the airport be prepared for long queues. You will also need to provide one passport photo and the following fees in US dollars’ cash only: multiple entry visa valid for 15 days - US $30: multiple Entry Visa for 30 days - US $50 and multiple entry visa valid for 90 days - US $125.

Weather Information

Nepal has a generally temperate climate, but varying altitudes lead to distinct variations. The monsoon sweeps up from India each summer, making mid-June to mid-September humid and wet.

Winter (December-February) winter is cold and you will need to be prepared, but the air is very clear providing the
best mountain views.
Spring (March-May) Days are increasingly warm; mist and clouds are not uncommon.
Summer (June-August) The monsoon season. It will rain every day, although not all day.
Autumn (September - November) the most pleasant season, in which days are warm but not hot and skies are clear.

Please note that the weather information given below is for reference only. Weather cannot be forecasted.

Booking Terms and Conditions

In order to book any trip(s) with Community Homestay Network, please provide the following details in your email.
- Name or code of the trip(s) you wish to book
- The date you would like to commence your trip (s)
- Any additional night's hotel accommodation that you would like to book before or after your trip

For each traveler please provide
- Full name exactly and completely as it appears in their passport
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Nationality as per their passport
- Passport number and expiry date

Please read our booking conditions carefully. By booking with us you accept and are bound by these conditions. To confirm a booking, you need to pay a non-refundable deposit. Until your deposit is received your booking cannot be confirmed.

Payment may be made by bank transfer or credit card. Please note 4% additional bank charge will be applicable if you pay by credit card.

Responsibility

When booking with Community Homestay Network (CHN) you understand that CHN runs adventure/cultural trips and that the standards of accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, telecommunication facilities, level of infrastructure development and medical facilities are not the same as those that you are used to at home or would find on a conventional holiday. This type of travel inherently involves a high level of personal risk, which you fully agree to assume.

You understand that during the course of the trip certain events may occur, including, but not limited to, accident or illness in remote locations without medical facilities, political instability and the forces of nature. You agree to assume all risks associated with the journey to the maximum extent permitted by law.

You acknowledge that travel on a CHN trip requires a degree of flexibility, and understand that the trip's route, accommodation, modes of transport and included activities are subject to change without prior notice due to local circumstances. Should CHN deem it advisable to amend an itinerary for any reason, it may do so by shortening, varying or re-routing any trip. These changes are binding and additional expenses will be charged to you if the reason for any alteration is outside CHN direct control.

While traveling with CHN you agree to accept the authority of the leader or guide at all times. You are aware that travel within a group may involve compromise to accommodate the diverse desires and physical abilities of group members. You understand that CHN reserved the right to decline, accept or retain any person as a member of the group at any time.

You acknowledge that CHN contracts with a network of companies, government agencies and individuals to assist in the running of its tours. To the best of CHN knowledge, these third parties are qualified to perform the duties they are contracted to perform. However, CHN will not be held liable for any injury, damage, loss, delay or irregularity that may occur due to the behavior of these third parties.

CHN will not accept responsibility or liability for any traveler who contravenes any law or regulation of any country visited.

Passports, Permits and Visas

You must carry a valid passport that contains at least 3 blank pages and remains valid for 6 months beyond the duration of the trip.

You must not change or renew your passport once you have supplied CHN with your passport details as these details will be used by CHN to apply for permits on your behalf. It is your responsibility to obtain the appropriate visas for your trip and CHN cannot accept responsibility if you are refused entry to a country because you lack the correct documentation or have failed to provide CHN with the correct details of your documentation.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by Community Homestay Network

We understand that plans can change, and we aim to offer a fair and transparent cancellation policy. Please review the following guidelines for cancellations:

General Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by Guests: More than 30 Days Before Arrival: Full refund minus any transaction fees.
15-30 Days Before Arrival: 50% refund of the total booking amount.
Less than 15 Days Before Arrival: No refund.
Cancellation by Homestay Hosts: If a homestay host needs to cancel your booking, we will make every effort to find a suitable alternative. If no alternative is available or acceptable, you will receive a full refund.

Special Circumstances

Certain bookings may have different cancellation policies due to exceptional circumstances or promotions. Please refer to the specific terms provided at the time of booking. Refunds will be at the discretion of CHN if you are involuntarily forced to leave a trip for any reason. No refunds will be made for any accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals or other services not utilized.

How to Cancel

Email: Send a cancellation request to reservation@communityhomestay.com with your booking details.
Phone: Call us at +977-01-4519039 to speak with our customer service team.
Online Account: Log into your account on our website, go to your bookings, and follow the cancellation instructions provided.

Refund Process

Refunds will be processed within 14 business days of receiving your cancellation request. The refund will be credited back to the original payment method used for the booking.

Non-Refundable Situations

Refunds will only be provided for no-shows or cancellations made at least 15 days before the scheduled arrival date. No refunds will be made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip has begun.

Changes to Booking

If you need to change your booking, please get in touch with us immediately. We will do our best to accommodate your request, but changes are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.

Contact Us

Email: info@communityhomestay.com
By booking with Community Homestay Network, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Inquiry and Cancellation policy and agree to the terms and conditions outlined herein.

Booking Amendments

Once your booking has been confirmed any changes to the itinerary and/or departure date may result in additional costs which will be passed on to the traveler.

Last Minute changes

Due to the procedures for applying for and obtaining permits and visa authorization, it may not be possible to make any amendments to your booking within 21 days of departure.

Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory for all CHN travelers. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, repatriation and personal liability. We also recommend that it cover cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. You will not be permitted to join any Community Homestay Network trip unless you can show proof of insurance. Loss of deposit applies to all cancelled reservations. Cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.

Thank You

Thank you for choosing a journey that uplifts people, preserves culture, and respects Mother Nature. When you travel with us, you support a movement, not just a destination.

In the News

“Community Homestay Network named one of the World’s Greatest Places by TIME Magazine” — TIME
“CHN hosts ‘Community Connect’ event to promote Nepal’s unique travel experiences” — B360 Nepal
“Touchdown Nepal: A 9-Day Itinerary to Explore the Best of Newari Culture” — आईना
“Nepal homestay journeys connects culture and community” — Travel Monitor
“Copy My Trip: A homestay tour of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal” — Lonely Planet
“Searching for the local connection? Try Community Homestay in Nepal.” — RunawayJuno
“Where women rule: The Nepali foothill community of Panauti” — Adventure.com
“The Power of Community-Driven Tourism” — GLPFilms
“Sara’s Travel Story: Connecting with Communities in Nepal” — Experience Travel Group
“Marketing Communications Tips for Supporting Community Tourism” — Rooted
“Empowering Nepal: Meet the woman behind the Panauti Community Homestay” — Planeterra
“Don’t Miss Your Chance for a Homestay in Nepal” — TravelPulse

Discover more Media Features.

8 Days in Kathmandu: Culture, Heritage, and Homestays (7N/8D)