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 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:

Safeguarding Indigenous Cultures: Your journey helps safeguard traditional customs, languages, festivals, and ways of life.
Address rural migration: Exploring travel options creates local employment and renews hope for the future in villages like Narchyang.
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 organizatons 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 immersive journey takes you from the ancient alleys of Kathmandu Valley to the remote highlands of Narchyang, blending culture, nature, and community-led experiences. From wellness experience through sound healing to wood carving in Bhaktapur, serene lakeside moments in Pokhara, and move forward with Annapurna Community trek through orange groves and rhododendron forests to the breathtaking Mohare Hill, each step invites deeper engagement with Nepal’s rich heritage and landscapes. The journey peaks in the peaceful Magar village of Narchyang, where visitors are welcomed into homes and traditions rarely seen on conventional routes. Along the way, travelers witness Nepal’s resilience, beauty, and warmth—whether it’s through a meal shared with a host, a sunrise viewed from the hills, or laughter exchanged during cooking lessons.

This trip isn't just about seeing Nepal—it’s about living it alongside the communities that call it home. Your visit directly supports women-led initiatives, community homestays, and traditional artisans, helping these communities flourish while preserving their unique identities. From participating in seasonal activities to learning age-old crafts, your involvement encourages pride and ownership within these destinations. This adventure leads you to a slow, thoughtful travel that leaves a meaningful impact on both traveler and host—nurturing a deeper connection with the places you visit and the people who shape them.

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

Women Empowerment: Stay in women-run homestay and engage in activities that create local employment and foster leadership among rural women.

Farm-to-Table Food: Enjoy meals made from fresh local produce, supporting local farmers while also learning about their seasonal farming patterns.

Cultural Preservation: Learn, practice, and promote traditional crafts like wood carving, Tapari-making, and Newari cooking that help sustain Nepal’s living heritage.

Support Local Economies: Your participation in community activities and workshops directly contributes to artisans, farmers, porters, and local guides.

Trip Highlights

Start your trip by rejuvenating through sound healing session at Avata Wellness Center in Kathmandu.
Try your hand at the centuries-old craft of wood carving with local artisans in Bhaktapur.
Fly over scenic valleys to Pokhara, then trek through the Annapurna region and Magar villages to Mohare Danda.
Share farm-to-table meals and seasonal harvests in Narchyang Community Homestay.
Enjoy a peaceful sunrise at Mohare Hill with panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Participate in cooking, farming, and cultural exchange in Magar homestays.
Visit Upper Narchyang- the original settlement of the Pun community at Narchyang.
Explore Patan’s living museum of temples, courtyards, and artisan quarters.

ITINERARY

DAY 01: ARRIVAL KATHMANDU

Activities of the day: International airport arrival transfer. Pickup from the hotel to experience sound healing followed by vegetarian dinner at Nourish by Avata Wellness.
Accommodation: Hotel Traditional Comfort or similar
Meals Included: Dinner

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 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 to your vehicle.

Depending upon the traffic on the road, your drive to your booked hotel can take up to 30 minutes or more.

You will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to Avata Wellness Center to experience the sound healing. It will introduce the foundation concept behind sound and its effect on us in daily life. It is an ancient practice of understanding our relationship with the universe through metaphysical elements mostly unseen to the eye.

Through Vibration it works on three main levels, physical, mental, and emotional.

While it’s an ancient practice native to the Himalayan region, it is increasingly being recognized in the world of science and medicine for its powerful healing quality.

If you want to know more about the magic of sound healing this session is definitely for you! Here we will be using different instruments such as gongs, singing bowls.

After dinner you will be driven back to the hotel.

Traditional Comfort, a 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 02: KATHMANDU

Activities of the day: Pickup from the hotel and transfer to Bhaktapur for sightseeing tour
Experiential Activities: Wood Carving at Bhaktapur
Accommodation: Hotel Traditional Comfort or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, you will drive to Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern part of the Kathmandu Valley, is celebrated for its rich Newari culture and stunning medieval architecture. The city’s centerpiece, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, features significant monuments such as the Golden Gate, Peacock Window, and the Fifty-Five Window Palace, all reflecting its historical importance. Notable attractions include the towering Nyatapola Temple, dedicated to the five basic elements, and the Bhairava Nath Temple, an important religious site. Once an independent principality ruled by the Malla Kings, Bhaktapur serves as a living museum of art and craftsmanship, particularly in wood and pottery. The square showcases traditional Newar architecture with ornate woodwork and intricate brick buildings, while local markets and street vendors contribute to the lively atmosphere. Bhaktapur offers a glimpse into Nepal’s medieval past, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts. Comprising three large squares filled with shrines, temples, and vibrant activity, Bhaktapur is the quintessential Newari city, known for some of the finest architecture in Nepal.

During its heyday from the 14th to the 16th centuries, it was the most powerful kingdom in the Kathmandu Valley and served as its capital for 300 years. The city retains a medieval charm, with neighborhoods centered around old ponds or tanks that serve as social focal points. The local population primarily consists of farmers and artisans engaged in traditional crafts such as pottery, metalwork, and woodwork, which have supported the city since its establishment in the 12th century along the trade route between Tibet and India. Bhaktapur is a fascinating place to explore!

Next, engage in a wood carving experience with a delicious lunch is prepared by the artisan who will be guiding you through the session. The woodcarving session begins with a brief introduction to the rich history of woodwork in Nepal, particularly its significance in traditional Newari architecture and design by a seasoned local artisan. Your instructor will guide you through the essential tools used in the craft, explaining the purpose of each and how they help bring intricate designs to life. Over the next 1.5-2 hours, you'll slowly carve the pattern, getting hands-on experience and becoming familiar with the rhythm and precision of the art. Once your carving is complete, you’ll move on to painting your piece using colours of your choice, transforming it into a unique and personal souvenir ready to take home.

DAY 03: KATHMANDU-POKHARA

Activities of the day: Pickup from the hotel and drop to domestic airport. Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Pickup from the Pokhara airport and transfer to the hotel.
Flight Duration: 25 minutes
Accommodation: Temple Tree Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast

You will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to Kathmandu Domestic Airport. It takes around 25 minutes to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. After reaching Pokhara airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your booked hotel in Pokhara.

Temple Tree Resort & Spa, This boutique hotel is close to Fewa Lake in Pokhara, framed by the foothills and majestic peaks of the Annapurna range. All rooms are in two-storied cottages finished in hand-cut stone and featuring beautifully-decorated timber struts and pillars. Each room has a private balcony with a pergola looking onto a lush garden that centers on an ancient tree formed from three interlocking trunks. It is located a short stroll from Lake Side’s many specialty restaurants, fine handicraft and trekking equipment shops, mountain bike and boat rentals, and convenience stores.

DAY 04: POKHARA-GALESHWAR-BASKHARKA

Activities of the day: After breakfast, drive to Galeshwar via Beni from Pokhara. Trek from Galeshwar to Bas Kharka.
Experiential Activities: Depending upon the season opportunity to help plant or harvest oranges
Driving Duration: 3 hours approx.
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours approx.
Maximum Altitude: 1525m
Accommodation: Community Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

Starting from Pokhara (895m), you are driven approximately 3 hours to Galeshwar (1170m) via Beni, where you start your trek.

Heading up to Bas Kharka from Galeshwor crossing the Kali Gandaki River by Suspension Bridge could be an amazing experience, you pass scattered farmhouses, climb through forest and then orange groves as you approach this attractive village. You will have time to explore this Magar village,. In the month of November & December, enjoy the sweet oranges that grow on the hillsides here. Accommodation at the Community Lodge and meals at community dining hall.

During the orange season, there is an opportunity to help plant or harvest oranges as well.
Accommodation on this trek will mostly be in community lodges that have been built by the local communities on each stopover. The lodges are built in an environmentally-friendly way, from local materials and using local labour. The local communities run the lodges and the purpose is to ensure that the village people share the benefits from the income coming from tourism, for projects that will benefit the whole community.
Most accommodation will be on a twin-share basis, though occasionally you might be accommodated on a multi-share basis (lodge accommodation). You will need to be flexible!

DAY 05: BASKHARKA-NANGI

Activities of the day: Trek from Baskharka to Nangi
Experiential Activities: If possible, cook lunch at tea house kitchen, help to harvest Kiwi
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours approx.
Maximum Altitude: 2300m
Accommodation: Community Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

Hike up through the forest to Danda Katteri where you stop for lunch. Overlooking the valleys, this is a great place to meet some of the local people and admire the views. After lunch, it is a leisurely walk to Nangi (2300m), the main village where you will spend the night. Here you may visit local cottage industries - as villagers making paper from locally grown plants and also visit some income generating projects. (please note: these visits depend on weather, seasonality and local holidays).

Depending on the number of guests, your trekking guide will help to arrange for you to cook lunch in the tea house kitchen together with the host. If this is not possible, you will enjoy their cooking instead. You will also visit the houses where kiwi have been planted and when in season you can help to harvest the fruit and of course, taste them as well.

DAY 06: NANGI-MOHARE HILL

Activities of the day: Trek from Nangi to Mohare Hill
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours approx.
Maximum Altitude: 3300m
Accommodation: Community Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

You climb through the forest with stunning views of the mountains. Upon the top of Mohare Danda, you can see the Himalayas stretching as far as the eye can see, with close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail Mountain) and Dhaulagiri. Surrounded by forest, do not be surprised if you meet yaks grazing nearby. There is no village here but there is the highest wireless internet relay station in Nepal, providing internet to the remote villages for schools and health posts that use telemedicine, linking up with hospitals in Kathmandu to provide better healthcare in the villages.

DAY 07: MOHARE HILL-SIKHA

Activities of the day: Trek from Mohare Hill to Sikha
Experiential Activities: Cook local food, visit local animal farm
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours approx.
Accommodation: Basic Tea House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, you can witness a stunning sunrise over the mountain ranges, including the renowned Mount Fishtail, Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, Tukuche, South Annapurna, and Nilgiri, among others.

After breakfast, you will gradually descend through a lush rhododendron forest, with a scenic backdrop and an opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna. The forest is home to the national flower of Nepal, Rhododendron which are indigenous to the Himalayan region, in addition to other plant species such as Oak and Bamboo.

Your guide will pre-inform the tea house owner at Shikha so that you can enjoy cooking local food such as Rice and Lentil (Dal Bhat) or Chapati (Roti) for dinner. You will also visit the animal farm and help out with some daily activities.

DAY 08: SIKHA-NARCHYANG

Activities of the day: Trek from Sikha to Narchyang. Hike to waterfalls
Experiential Activities: Farm activities (June-August; millets & bean farming, Dec-Feb; Potato farming, March-April; Potato harvesting, rest of the months regular farming at the kitchen garden where you can plant vegetables.
Trek Duration: 4 hours approx.
Maximum Altitude: 1400m
Accommodation: Narchayang Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

On this last day of your trek, you will descend through pastoral lands adorned with beautiful landscapes and lush vegetation. After a pleasant trek, you will arrive at Narchyang Community Homestay, where you'll be warmly welcomed by the locals and a delicious lunch will be served by local families. Narchyang is a Magar village situated in the foothills of the Annapurna range who follow their own culture and speak their own language- Magar Kura. Magar people are recognized for their simplicity, innocence, and bravery. After you are assigned to your host family and a short break the host family will take you on a short hike of around 1 hour to Narchyang Waterfall which is just opposite to the homestays. The village of Narchang has been divided into Upper Narchyang and Lower Narchyang-where the community currently resides.

The homestay offers a plethora of activities, from interacting with the friendly locals and learning about their culture to hiking and exploring the hidden wonders of the place which include the enchanting Narchyang Jharana (waterfall). During your stay, your gracious hosts will guide you on hikes and excursions to the untouched Lek region/ Upper Narchyang, showcasing the beauty of the village, their traditions and lifestyle.

You can also be involved in various farm activities such as:

June to August: Millets & Bean farming
December to February: Potato farming (Planting)
March to April: Potato harvesting
Rest of the month regular farming in the Kitchen garden where you can plant vegetables.

In Narchyang Community Homestay, stay with Pun Magar families who open their homes and hearts to visitors. Experience daily village life surrounded by forested hills and waterfalls, sharing home-cooked meals and local stories with your hosts. This homestay offers an authentic cultural exchange, where traditions are alive in food and hospitality, helping you understand the rhythms of rural Nepal. It’s a peaceful setting perfect for travelers wanting genuine connection with nature and people.

DAY 09: NARCHYANG

Activities of the day: Trek to Upper Narchyang
Trek Duration: 6-6.5 hours approx.
Maximum Altitude: 2043m
Accommodation: Narchayang Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin your day with a scenic hike to Upper Narchyang (approximately 6 to 6.5 hours round trip)—a path that winds through serene forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional Magar villages. Upper Narchyang was the original settlement of the community however to seek easier access to education, healthcare, and transportation, the community moved to Lower Narchyang as the highway runs nearby. Yet, their roots remain deeply tied to their ancestral lands in Upper Narchyang. Even today, they hike back to tend their fields, cultivating seasonal crops in the highlands.

As you ascend, enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and discover stories of local resilience, including how families migrated from highland settlements to lower villages for better access to resources. You can expect a steep uphill hike to Upper Narchyang and while on the trail, you’ll witness the living culture of the Magar community, reflected in their homes, attire, and agricultural traditions.

Upon reaching Upper Narchyang, you’ll be welcomed with a freshly prepared, home-cooked lunch, showcasing the community’s culinary heritage. Guests also have the unique opportunity to dress in traditional Magar attire and visit a local museum that preserves ancestral tools and artifacts.

Choosing to stay at Narchyang Community Homestay not only enriches your travel experience but also contributes directly to local livelihoods—creating employment for homestay operators, guides, farmers, and artisans. Your visit supports a sustainable tourism model that empowers women, helps preserve cultural identity, and encourages eco-conscious practices such as waste reduction and use of locally sourced materials. In a region often bypassed by commercial trekking routes, your presence helps ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared with communities that have long protected Nepal’s natural and cultural wealth.

DAY 10: POKHARA

Activities of the day: After breakfast, Short Village tour and transfer to Pokhara via Beni-Jomsom Highway
Accommodation: Temple Tree Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up to a warm breakfast, prepared by your host family before you move to a short tour of the village with the hosts. Most of the houses are surrounded by their own vegetable gardens and farm fields from where they source their ingredients directly for meals. We will help out a little bit with some daily chores. The mountains can still be seen closely from the village and you can see the locals being busy with their daily activities.
Shortly thereafter, you will be transferred to Pokhara driving along the Beni-Jomsom highway, which runs alongside the rapidly flowing Kali Gandaki River. You can take the rest of the day off or you can choose to walk along the nearby lake.

Temple Tree Resort & Spa, This boutique hotel is close to Fewa Lake in Pokhara, framed by the foothills and majestic peaks of the Annapurna range. All rooms are in two-storied cottages finished in hand-cut stone and featuring beautifully-decorated timber struts and pillars. Each room has a private balcony with a pergola looking onto a lush garden that centers on an ancient tree formed from three interlocking trunks. It is located a short stroll from Lake Side’s many specialty restaurants, fine handicraft and trekking equipment shops, mountain bike and boat rentals, and convenience stores.

DAY 11: POKHARA-PATAN

Activities of the day: Transfer from Pokhara to Patan
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours approx.
Driving Distance: 215km approx.
Accommodation: Traditional Stay
Meals Included: Breakfast You drive along the Prithivi Highway and take the winding road, pass small villages and beautiful landscapes to cross the Kathmandu city road to reach Patan, one of the old Newari town with best-preserved palace courtyards.

If time permits, visit the ancient city, once a kingdom in itself, is situated across the Bagmati River to the south of Kathmandu. Approximately 80% of the inhabitants are Newars who fiercely retain their identity, proud to be separate from Kathmandu. Though now virtually a suburb of Kathmandu, this was once a very independent city state and is still often referred to as Lalitpur (City of Beauty).
One of the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Sites, Patan is well worth a visit. Its origins are clouded in mystery, but it has a long Buddhist history. It claims its place as capital of the mythical Kiranti Dynasty and association with the great Indian emperor, Ashoka, who is credited with the building of the four grass-covered stupas surrounding the city around 250BC.

For many centuries Patan’s importance eclipsed that of Kathmandu and by the 7th century it was one of the major Buddhist centers of Asia, attracting pilgrims, scholars and monks from India, Tibet and China. Medieval Patan was the largest and most prosperous of the three Valley kingdoms. The town was ruled by noblemen until Lord Shiva Malla of Kathmandu took over control of the city in 1597, for a while unifying the Kathmandu Valley. Most of Patan’s magnificent architecture dates to the late Malla era (16th - 18th centuries).
Durbar Square Patan’s Durbar Square forms the center of Patan and offers the finest display of Newari urban architecture in Nepal.

The Royal Palace This forms the eastern side of Durbar Square and was originally built in the 14th century, expanding in the 17th and 18th centuries to its current size. The courtyards of the Royal Palace with their ornamented windows, columned arcades, shrines and sunken royal bath are amongst the loveliest in Kathmandu.

Old Patan As well as shrines and temples, Old Patan boasts many beautiful courtyards and squares, with beautiful architecture. It comprises a small area of individual neighborhoods dedicated to metalworking,
In April-May, the Rato Machhendranath festival is celebrated here, where a chariot containing a statue is moved across Patan to Jawalakhel, a mile or so away.

Traditional Stay is set in the historic heart of Patan, offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and ancient ambiance. Located in a living museum, it immerses guests in local cultural heritage while prioritizing environmental responsibility. The hotel supports local arts and uses regional resources and skills, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint. Single-use plastics are banned, with refillable glass water bottles provided in all rooms for eco-friendly convenience.

DAY 12: DEPARTURE

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

As per airlines regulation, travelers need to check in to their respective airlines counter at around 2.30 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 the 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

Airport arrival and departure transfers
All local ground transportation
Permit for the Annapurna Region
Accommodation in hotels and community homestays as per itinerary
Meals as mentioned (daily breakfasts, some lunches and dinners)
Guided activities and immersive cultural experiences: sound healing, wood carving, farming, cooking classes, hiking, etc.
Local Guide for Upper Narchyang Hike
Wood Carving Experience followed by Bhaktapur Sightseeing tour
English speaking licensed trekking guide throughout the trip

Trip Cost Does not Include

International airfare to/from Nepal
Nepal visa fees
Domestic flights (e.g. Kathmandu–Pokhara sector) Note: pricing for flights or alternative options (tourist bus/private vehicle) will be offered at the time of booking
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, a 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.

Temple Tree Resort & Spa, This boutique hotel is close to Fewa Lake in Pokhara, framed by the foothills and majestic peaks of the Annapurna range. All rooms are in two-storied cottages finished in hand-cut stone and featuring beautifully-decorated timber struts and pillars. Each room has a private balcony with a pergola looking onto a lush garden that centers on an ancient tree formed from three interlocking trunks. It is located a short stroll from Lake Side’s many specialty restaurants, fine handicraft and trekking equipment shops, mountain bike and boat rentals, and convenience stores.

Traditional Stay is set in the historic heart of Patan, offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and ancient ambiance. Located in a living museum, it immerses guests in local cultural heritage while prioritizing environmental responsibility. The hotel supports local arts and uses regional resources and skills, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint. Single-use plastics are banned, with refillable glass water bottles provided in all rooms for eco-friendly convenience.

Homestay Accommodation

In Narchyang, you will stay in a community homestay operated by the Pun Magar ethnic community. This peaceful village offers a connection to nature, with rooms that are cozy and clean, complemented by home-cooked meals prepared by the host family. Many of the homes feature small gardens, adding a fresh and personal touch to your stay. The bathrooms are situated outside of the host house and there is a mix of squat and western washroom areas. You also may have to expect bucket showers while at the homestay and the hosts can provide you with hot bathing water if needed.

Community lodges and teahouses along the Annapurna Community Trek offer simple yet welcoming accommodation, with clean twin rooms, shared bathrooms, and bucket or hot showers often available for a small fee. Meals are served in warm, communal dining areas where trekkers enjoy hearty local dishes like dal bhat and momos while sharing stories. Most accommodation will be on a twin-share basis, though occasionally you might be accommodated on a multi-share basis (lodge accommodation). You will need to be flexible! Some eco-lodges offer added comfort with private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, solar lighting, and occasional Wi‑Fi, though electricity and hot showers may cost extra.

Meals

Meals are vital part of every trips. Healthy and Hygienic food is our utmost priority. While in big cities and town there are plenty of restaurants serving you all types of food from local cuisines to multinational cuisines. But while on Tea Houses, your choice become limited.

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.

Water

Water from the village taps is not safe to drink. However, there will be boiled water provided in the lodges that is fine for drinking. It is recommended taking water purification tablets or a filter as these are environmentally-friendly options for ensuring you have drinking water available whenever you need it.

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 whether it is during their sightseeing tours in historical sites or hikes through the beautiful landscapes.

The Physical Reality

This is not a trek for those needing every comfort, though the standard of accommodation is clean and good. You cannot expect hot water everywhere, though every attempt is made to ensure that your stay in the lodges and family homestays is as comfortable as possible. Sometimes the toilet will be outside and away from where you are staying (family homestay accommodation). Remember that these are remote villages, with few of the mod-cons you might find in the towns.

Culture shock

Trekking in Nepal you will experience a very different perspective on life. You will be greeted with smiles and friendly faces. Most of the villages have electricity, but often water has to be brought from an outside tap, some way away.

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.

Communication

Email: This area is unique in offering internet access throughout the trek.
Telephone: For mobile/cell phones, in some areas, it may not be possible to get a signal, but most places along the trekking route are accessible if the mobile phone has international roaming facilities.
Insurance
It is essential that you take out comprehensive travel insurance prior to your trek. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, medical expenses, emergency evacuation and repatriation, and personal liability. We also recommend that it covers cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.

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 ci rcumstances 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.

Kathmandu to Narchyang: Community Homestays from Valley to Mountains (11N/12D)