Patalekhet Homestay: Joyous Break From City’s Monotony

We often wish for an occasional respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Getting close to the serenity of nature is a creative way to escape mundane urban life. There are many pleasant sites adjoining the capital city that offer greenery, peace, and wonders of nature. Patalekhet Community Homestay, located around 40 kilometres from the capital, can be a good choice for people looking for a momentary break from their busy routine. Unlike star hotels, community homestays provide a unique experience to guests, who share the kitchen and dining hall while participating in the community's everyday activities.

A week before our college was to announce a community homestay scheme for junior students, which was linked to their assignment, my programme director gave me the surprise that I would be accompanying them to support the trip to make sure that every aspect of the itinerary was meticulously followed. Human Resources Department manager Sangita Kashichhwa would oversee all our activities. The three-day stay was filled with exciting activities as our hosts were generous and affable. It aimed to provide the students with hands-on experience in community homestay operations and develop a complete housekeeping management plan that adheres to the highest standards of cleanliness and service to visitors.

Engaging chats

On the first day, the adventure began with a two-hour van ride from the college. When we arrived at the destination, we were welcomed by the Patalakhet community with tika and flowers. Keshav Badal, the chairman of the community homestay, extended his warm hospitality, engaging us in interesting talks regarding our stay. We enjoyed popcorn and gundulk pickles. A total of 26 participants, including students and supervisors, were divided among nine households. I had the privilege of staying at the chairman's house, from where one can relish the breathtaking views of Sundupalchowk Chautara, Melamchi, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel's Kot Ko Devi, Sailung, and Mt. Langtang.

Stupa Pipal Chautara was the first site of the excursion. Our guide, Narayan Limbu, gave us fascinating details about the cultural heritage. A century-old pipal tree stands there, giving soothing shade to visitors and devotees as well. Then, the students participated in traditional Tapari and Duna-making skills with locals. It was followed by a musical show filled with sonorous songs and dance, which strengthened social relationships between the visiting students and the villagers. The next day began with a testy organic tea and the sighting of a majestic sunrise. The 5-hour journey had a stopover at Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, which exuded serene ambience and tranquility.The trail featured cultural artefacts and spectacular natural splendour, making the trekking experience memorable and rewarding for all.

Upon returning homestay, the students observed the local milking process demonstration. On the third day, the visitors got insights into the dairy production process. We also learned how to cook with firewood. A friendly conversation with chairman Badal in the early afternoon led us to the history of homestays in the village. It started with the sojourn of Japanese guests in 2070 B.S. During his stint as chairperson of the Village Development Community, he worked with the non-profit group ‘Love Green Nepal’ to improve sanitation and the conditions of roads, schools, electricity, biogas, and medical services.

Cultural values

Ms. Gaurika, a representative from Love Green Nepal, introduced the idea of a community homestay in the early days, unlocking Patalekhet's potential as a tourism destination. Despite its accomplishments, the community continues to face problems, such as language barriers with tourists, and has been urging the government for assistance to enhance local infrastructure to attract more tourists. At the end of the trip, we were extended a farewell ceremony by the community’s residents. As the students returned home, they shared that they had gathered knowledge of the social and cultural values of a typical Nepali village.

What most influenced us was the warmhearted treatment of the host—the members of the Patalekhet community homestay. Traditional values, skills, courtesy, and wisdom of the rustic folks have enriched our horizons of thinking that can hardly be acquired in an urban setting. For me, the trip was an opportunity to hone my communication and managerial skills, in addition to learning about the adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and tourism value of Nepali villages. I think this sort of brief travel helps people come out of the city’s monotony, enjoy nature’s beauty, and have amicable interactions with innocent hearts.

(Bachelors in Business & Hospitality Management 6th Semester, Mid-Valley International College, Kathmandu