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: From Newar to Brahmin communities, 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 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 cultural heart of the Kathmandu Valley, from the ancient royal city of Patan and Bhaktapur to the hilltop monasteries of Namobuddha, with community experience at Nagarkot and Panauti that put you right at the centre of daily Nepali life. You’ll wander through centuries-old courtyards and temples, try your hand at age-old crafts like pottery and leaf-plate making, savor home-cooked meals with your hosts, and take in stunning Himalayan views from quiet hill stations.

This isn’t just about seeing the sights—it’s about genuine exchange. You’ll cook with local women in Panauti, learn the ways of Newari life in Patan, share meals with hill families in Nagarkot, and hear the stories behind Buddhist pilgrimage traditions in Namobuddha. Along the way, your visit helps sustain local livelihoods, preserve cultural heritage, and support women-led community tourism, making your adventure truly meaningful for both you and the communities you meet.

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-Led Tourism: Stay in community homestays run by local women, ensuring your visit directly supports their financial independence and leadership roles.

Cultural Safeguarding: Engage in workshops like pottery, leaf-plate making, and Newari cooking that help sustain age-old traditions and pass them on to the next generation.

Local Economic Support: Every stay, meal, and activity funds local livelihoods, keeping tourism income in the community and fostering pride in cultural heritage.

Sustainable Practices: Enjoy experiences that highlight eco-friendly alternatives like Tapari plates, local produce, and low-impact hospitality that respects the environment.

Meaningful Exchange: Go beyond sightseeing to form real connections with local families, artisans, and guides, learning their stories while sharing your own.

Trip Highlights

Wander around Patan Durbar Square and soak in Newari architecture and living traditions.
Sample local street food on a guided tasting tour through Patan’s historic lanes.
Get your hands dirty in Bhaktapur’s pottery square, shaping clay with skilled local artisans.
Make traditional leaf plates (Tapari) with your hosts in Nagarkot, a beautiful hill station famous for sunrise views.
Enjoy a scenic forest hike from Nagarkot to Nala, ending with a visit to a tranquil Buddhist monastery in Namobuddha.
Stay at a serene eco-resort in Namobuddha, surrounded by organic gardens and Himalayan views.
Experience women-led hospitality in Panauti, learning to cook authentic Newari meals and joining a cultural program.
Explore the countryside on a guided bicycle tour, passing through farms and temples while supporting local youth initiatives.

ITINERARY

DAY 01: ARRIVAL PATAN

Activities of the day: International airport arrival transfer and transfer to Patan
Accommodation: Hotel Traditional Stay 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 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. After your arrival you will be transferred to Patan.

Patan, This 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).

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

Activities of the day: Sightseeing tours of the Patan City
Experiential Activities: Street Food Tour followed by Momo cooking session at Patan Community Stay
Accommodation: Hotel Traditional Stay or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your day starts with a tour of Patan City, 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 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.

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 boasts many beautiful courtyards and squares, with beautiful architecture. It comprises a small area of individual neighborhoods dedicated to metalworking, stone carving, and woodwork.

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.

In the late afternoon, join a warm, hands-on momo cooking class at Patan Community Stay and experience Nepali hospitality at its most genuine. Your hosts—local Newar families—will welcome you into their kitchen and you'll start by learning how to mix and season the fillings, whether with vegetables, chicken, or local spices that give Nepali momos their distinct flavour. Under the careful guidance of your host, you’ll knead and roll out the dough, fold it into traditional shapes, and steam the dumplings to perfection. Throughout the session, you’ll hear stories about Patan’s rich Newar culture and how food plays a central role in family gatherings and festivals. After cooking, sit together to enjoy your freshly prepared momos alongside tangy homemade achaar (pickle) and traditional tea. This intimate culinary exchange not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports local women who run the community stay, and empower the community through community tourism.

DAY 03: PATAN-BHAKTAPUR-NAGARKOT

Activities of the day: Transfer from Patan to Bhaktapur for sightseeing same day drive to Nagarkot
Experiential Activities: Pottery at Bhaktapur, Tapari and Batti Making Experience at Nagarkot
Maximum Altitude: 2100m
Accommodation: Nagarkot Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lun Dinner

Today, you’ll begin your journey toward the culturally rich Bhaktapur area, starting with a hands-on pottery experience in Thimi—Nepal’s pottery hub. Thimi has been a hub for pottery for generations, largely because of its access to quality clay, skilled artisan families, and cultural demand for handcrafted wares used in rituals and daily life. Many families have passed down the craft through centuries, preserving traditional wheel-throwing techniques that are still used today. After a short introduction to the local tradition of ceramic-making, a skilled artisan will guide you through the basics of shaping clay and creating your own piece.

Originally to service the old trade route between Tibet and India, the city was formed in the 12th century around Tachupal Tol, the oldest part of the city. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, Bhaktapur was at its heyday, more powerful than any of the other Valley kingdoms. Once the capital of the Valley, Bhaktapur is the most unchanged of the three cities of Kathmandu and Patan. Retaining something of its medieval atmosphere, Bhaktapur embodies the essence of the Newari city. It is another of the five important World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley; a real ‘must see’ place.

Made up of three large squares, each are filled with temples showing some of the finest architecture in Nepal. Surrounded by countryside, local people here are predominantly farmers, if not engaged in the traditional crafts of pottery, metalwork, art and woodwork.

Durbar Square Much of Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square was destroyed in the 1934 earthquake and it appears much emptier than the Durbar Squares in Kathmandu or Patan. Amongst its many attractions are substitute shrines for the four great Indian pilgrimage sites and the Golden Gate.

Potter’s Square This is the neighborhood of the potter caste, where hundreds of clay vessels are set to dry in the sun before being fired in makeshift kilns. Families work in the open producing tiny oil lamps, teacups, bowls, vases and water jugs. This huge square is full of potters’ wheels and is the center of Bhaktapur’s pottery industry. At the back of the square are the straw-fired kilns used to fire the pots.

Taumadhi Tol Beyond the Potters’ Square, this square is important to the local people and more intimately tied to daily life and festivals than Durbar Square. It is dominated by the five-roofed, 30-meter high Nyatapola Temple, the tallest in Nepal.

Main Bazaar This brick paved street and its offshoot alleys reveal the heart of Bhaktapur, as life spills into the street – women wash their laundry, children play, old men squat in doorways for a chat and shopkeepers sell all the necessities of daily life.

Tachapal Tol This is the original town center, dating from the 8th century. Many of the pilgrim rest houses and those that sheltered ascetics have become private dwellings, whilst others remain as fully-fledged temples. The famous ‘Peacock Window’ is down an alley off the square.

After exploring Bhaktapur, Head north east from Bhaktapur on the relatively quiet Nagarkot road, climbing via the dramatic hairpin bend at Tharkot to the valley rim, to be rewarded with stunning mountain views.

Nagarkot is a serene hill station on the outskirts of the greater Kathmandu valley. Renowned largely for its view of the valley, mountains, sunrise and sunsets Nagarkot offers a relaxing experience surrounded by flourishing nature. Nagarkot is also home to Nagarkot Community Homestay where the guests will get a chance to experience the lifestyle of a Hill-Brahmin family of Nepal. Staying with local families, you’ll experience authentic hospitality, share home-cooked meals, and learn about village life away from the tourist crowds. The rooms are simple yet clean and you will find a mix of western and squat-style washroom facilities that you may have to share with the host family.

In the evening, gear up for Tapari making session with the community. Tapari is a style of leaf plate made by various indigenous communities of Nepal using the leaves of the Sal tree (Shorea robusta). Traditionally crafted by women’s groups, this eco-friendly practice is now being adopted in many homestays as a sustainable alternative to non-biodegradable picnic plates. More than just a traditional craft, Tapari reflects a living example of indigenous sustainability. Baati is a cotton wick used in prayers.

DAY 04: NAGARKOT-NALA-NAMOBUDDHA

Experiential Activities: Town Excursion, Cooking with Hosts
Hike Duration: 3hrs approx.
Accommodation: Panauti Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, we explore Panauti. It is a town that beautifully blends the charm of ancient Newari heritage with glimpses of rural modern life. You will find narrow alleys lined with centuries-old Newari houses, intricately carved temples, and quiet courtyards. Venture a bit further out, and you'll find modern homes surrounded by vibrant fields and peaceful farmland. Panauti Community Homestay is a women-led initiative that empowers local women by placing them at the forefront of hospitality and cultural exchange. Nestled in a historic town rich in Newari architecture and heritage, the homestay offers travelers an immersive experience through traditional cuisine, guided tours, and warm, family-style living. A unique highlight is the opportunity to connect directly with the women hosts, who share their stories, skills, and deep-rooted cultural knowledge.

Upon arrival in Panauti, your hosts from the community homestay will warmly greet you with traditional garlands and welcome drinks before leading you to their homes. Afterwards, go for a short town excursion with the hosts around Panauti and get more familiar with this ancient town.

Later in the evening, join your hosts in preparing a traditional Newari meal alongside their everyday dishes. This hands-on experience invites you into their kitchens to learn recipes passed down through generations. From preparing traditional Newari dishes like Bara (lentil patties) and Chatamari (rice flour crepes), to understanding the role of local spices and seasonal ingredients, you’ll get a deeper appreciation of Nepal’s culinary heritage. The class is not only about cooking—it’s also a platform for cultural exchange, laughter, and stories that bring guests and hosts closer together. Enjoy the meal you’ve prepared together, shared in the warmth of a true Nepali home.

Panauti Community Homestay open their homes to share traditional cuisine, stories, and customs passed down through generations. Explore medieval temples, narrow brick alleys, and vibrant markets with your host as guide, gaining an insider’s view of Newari culture. The rooms are simple yet clean, with a mix of Western and squat-style shared washroom facilities used by both guests and the host family. It’s an immersive cultural journey where genuine connections are made over shared meals and conversations.

DAY 05: NAMOBUDDHA-PANAUTI

Experiential Activities: Town Excursion, Cooking with Hosts
Hike Duration: 3hrs approx.
Accommodation: Panauti Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, we explore Panauti. It is a town that beautifully blends the charm of ancient Newari heritage with glimpses of rural modern life. You will find narrow alleys lined with centuries-old Newari houses, intricately carved temples, and quiet courtyards. Venture a bit further out, and you'll find modern homes surrounded by vibrant fields and peaceful farmland. Panauti Community Homestay is a women-led initiative that empowers local women by placing them at the forefront of hospitality and cultural exchange. Nestled in a historic town rich in Newari architecture and heritage, the homestay offers travelers an immersive experience through traditional cuisine, guided tours, and warm, family-style living. A unique highlight is the opportunity to connect directly with the women hosts, who share their stories, skills, and deep-rooted cultural knowledge.

Upon arrival in Panauti, your hosts from the community homestay will warmly greet you with traditional garlands and welcome drinks before leading you to their homes. Afterwards, go for a short town excursion with the hosts around Panauti and get more familiar with this ancient town.

Later in the evening, join your hosts in preparing a traditional Newari meal alongside their everyday dishes. This hands-on experience invites you into their kitchens to learn recipes passed down through generations. From preparing traditional Newari dishes like Bara (lentil patties) and Chatamari (rice flour crepes), to understanding the role of local spices and seasonal ingredients, you’ll get a deeper appreciation of Nepal’s culinary heritage. The class is not only about cooking—it’s also a platform for cultural exchange, laughter, and stories that bring guests and hosts closer together. Enjoy the meal you’ve prepared together, shared in the warmth of a true Nepali home.

Panauti Community Homestay open their homes to share traditional cuisine, stories, and customs passed down through generations. Explore medieval temples, narrow brick alleys, and vibrant markets with your host as guide, gaining an insider’s view of Newari culture. The rooms are simple yet clean, with a mix of Western and squat-style shared washroom facilities used by both guests and the host family. It’s an immersive cultural journey where genuine connections are made over shared meals and conversations.

DAY 06: PANAUTI

Activities of the day: Sightseeing of Panauti (Panauti-Sunthan-Khopasi-Panauti) on Bicycle with Panauti Bike Station.
Experiential Activities: Thaili Making Experience
Bicycling Duration: 4 hours approx.
Accommodation: Panauti Community Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Shortly after breakfast, set off on a bicycle tour with a licensed guide from Panauti Bike Station through the scenic countryside, passing through three indigenous towns—Panauti, Bhandari Gaun, and Khopasi. Along the way, explore small temples, pedal through potato fields, and cross a suspension bridge while soaking in the rural charm. The guide will brief you on the importance of the religious sites and also the history of the old town as you cycle across Panauti. Panauti Bike Station has become an inspiring example for young locals who once considered going abroad for work or study, showing them that meaningful opportunities can be created at home. By turning their passion for cycling and community into a sustainable business, they’ve proven that it's possible to build a future right in their own hometown.

Join in for a Thaili making session —a craft deeply woven into Nepali daily life. A Thaili is a small, hand-stitched fabric pouch historically used to carry coins, jewelry, or personal items. Guided by local women artisans, you’ll learn each step of crafting your own Thaili, from cutting and sewing to adding decorative touches. As you chat with your hosts over tea, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of this simple yet beautiful handmade item—and leave with your own Thaili as a meaningful souvenir of your time in Panauti.

DAY 07: KATHMANDU

Activities of the day: Late afternoon, transfer from Panauti to Kathmandu
Driving Duration: 1 hour
Distance in Km: 35 kms.
Accommodation: Traditional Comfort Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After Lunch, drive back to Kathmandu.

From Panauti it is a very short drive back to join the Arniko Highway for the 35kms down into the Kathmandu Valley and into the city. The rest of the day is yours to explore!

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 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 need 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 the mentioned ground transfers
Escorting guide for 7 Days
Sound Healing and Dinner at Avata
2 nights at Hotel in Kathmandu in BB Basis
2 Night at Kirtipur Community Homestay in Full Board Basis
1 Night at Hotel in Dhulikhel in BB Basis
2 Nights at Nagarkot Community Homestay in Full Board Basis
Local Guide for Nagarkot-Nala Hike and Shanti Stupa Hike
Wood Carving followed by lunch in Bungamati
Hatha Yoga Instructor at Nagarkot
Tapari and Batti Making at Nagarkot
Momo Cooking at Kirtipur
Ranjana Lipi and Aila Experience in Kirtipur
Mask Painting at Thimi

Trip Cost Does not Include

International airfare to/from Nepal
Nepal visa fees
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Any personal expenses
Any travel and medical insurance
Any entrance fees
Any experience, transport or meal not specified as included.

Additional Information

Accommodation

Hotel Accommodation

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.

Namo Buddha Resort is built in a traditional Newari style, surrounded by organic farmland, flower gardens and a forest, . Here, where we encourage sustainable methods of cultivation are encouraged as well as preservation of natural wildlife habitats. Perched on a hilltop at 1800m, just outside the Kathmandu Valley, Namo Buddha Resort is an oasis of peace and tranquility, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan mountain range on clear days. Within easy reach of Kathmandu, but it is away from the bustle of the city.

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.

Homestay Accommodation

In Nagarkot, you will stay in a Nagarkot Community Homestay. This peaceful retreat 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 backyard gardens, adding a fresh and personal touch to your stay. While the bathrooms may be separate from the rooms, the accommodations provide a welcoming and authentic environment for relaxation after a day of hiking.

Panauti Community Homestay offers simple but comfortable rooms in local family homes with clean bedding and shared bathrooms. Guests enjoy freshly prepared Newari meals in a welcoming family atmosphere. Though facilities are basic, the charm lies in the personal attention from hosts, cultural immersion, and easy access to explore Panauti’s beautifully preserved heritage sites. Ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail.

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 the traveler

Loss of deposit applies to all cancelled reservations. Cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.

No refunds will be made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip has begun.

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.

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.

Kathmandu Valley Community Tour: A Journey of People and Places (7N/8D)