Note: This circuit itinerary has been updated based on traveler feedback and may differ from earlier versions; please be aware that prices are subject to change accordingly.
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
From sharing a meal with the families in the local community to exploring the cobbled streets of Bhaktapur and learning to make local crafts, this trip will take you to soak in the culture and community and make connections with the local people that are often forgotten while chasing the highlights.
This journey is an immersive exploration of Kathmandu Valley’s hidden culture, which highlights its vibrant communities, age-old traditions, and natural beauty. Your trip begins away from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the lesser-explored towns and villages. Starting with observing intricate woodcarving and roaming the alleyways in Bungamati to learning Ranjana Lipi script and preparing momo with the local women of Kirtipur, you’ll witness firsthand the resilience, artistry, and hospitality of Newari people. While in Nagarkot, you’ll craft traditional items like Tapari and Batti with locals and enjoy nature while doing yogaand hiking through lush landscapes, offering you a representation of both culture and nature within the Kathmandu valley. Your stay in homestays will further help you to deepen the bond with the community as you share meals, conversations, and traditions with your host families.
This trip will undoubtedly resonate with individuals who want a deeper understanding of Nepalese life, to immerse themselves culturally, and to forge connections with the locals of the community.
What Sets This Circuit Apart
Plastic-free travel: zero single-use plastics used during the trip
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 Highlights
Experience the rich ‘veiled’ Newari culture and tradition in Bungamati, engage with local artisans, and learn about wood carving and farming.
Explore Kirtipur with local hosts, learn Ranjana Lipi script, and enjoy a local Aila (liquor) tasting while knowing the efforts to preserve this ancient script.
Participate in a hands-on cooking class that has joined the community women together by preparing momos, a popular Nepali delicacy.
Experience the serene atmosphere of Namobuddha surrounded by pine forests and panoramic Himalayan views, enriched by the spiritual presence of the sacred Namobuddha Monastery.
Learn to make Tapari (leaf plate) and Batti (cotton wick) from community members of Nagakort.
Practice Hatha Yoga, followed by a hike to the spiritual Jalpa Devi Temple guided by local guide
Explore the ancient town of Bhaktapur, known for its rich Newar culture, intricate wood and brick architecture, and vibrant temples
Engage in a mask-painting workshop and craft your own souvenir guided by a skilled local artisan.
