Travel agents and tour operators are being invited to experience a different side of Nepal, with Community Homestay Network (CHN) launching two dedicated trade famil trips for 2026.
The Nepal-based community tourism pioneer is taking applications for two immersive departures: Stories from our Himalayas (10–19 May 2026) and Valley of Festivals (25 August–1 September 2026). Applications close 27 February 2026.
Following its most successful year to date in 2025, CHN is now turning its focus to expanding travel trade partnerships, working more closely with agents and operators keen to incorporate community-led experiences into their Nepal programs.
Founder Shiva Dhakal said 2026 marks a strategic push to reshape perceptions of Nepal beyond trekking and mountaineering.
“Travelling with us means seeing a completely different side of the country — one that supports and empowers local people, particularly women, in lesser-known regions,” Dhakal said.
CHN collaborates with both agents and operators, offering community homestays, curated day experiences such as cooking workshops and artisan crafts, and flexible integration into existing itineraries. The organisation can also operate as a local DMC where required.
Two Immersive Itineraries
Stories from our Himalayas is a 10-day journey beginning in Kathmandu before heading to Pokhara and into the Magar village of Narchyang. Highlights include hikes to waterfalls and hot springs, exploration of Mustang and Jomsom, a visit to Lubra — home to one of the last Bon monasteries — and hands-on cooking experiences in Hemjakot.
Valley of Festivals is an eight-day cultural deep dive through Kathmandu, Patan, Kirtipur, Bhaktapur and Panauti. Timed to coincide with major celebrations including Gunlā, Janai Purnima and Gai Jatra, the itinerary features momo-making with local women, Paubha painting, temple visits and village hikes.
CHN currently works with 51 communities across Nepal, offering 41 homestays and 10 artisan-led experiences. In 2025, the organisation was named one of TIME’s World’s Greatest Places.
Agents and relevant operator staff can apply for the 2026 famil trips via CHN’s website.
