Community homestay launched in Toripani

By Thakur Prasad Acharya,Beni, Dec. 3: A community homestay programme has been launched in Toripani of Beni Municipality-9, Myagdi. The homestay was formally inaugurated on Tuesday with a welcome ceremony for guests.

Aimed at domestic and foreign tourists visiting Toripani and nearby attractions such as Ravan Park, Pachhain, Dholthana, Jagannath and Todke, locals have started the Sayapatri Community Homestay. Eco Himalaya Nepal supported the initiative by providing training and financial assistance for basic infrastructure.

In the first phase, five houses in Toripani have been prepared with guest rooms, toilets and other facilities, according to a member of homestay group Yuva Giri Sanyasi. “Eco Himalaya provides beds, bedding, sanitation materials and essential training,” he said.

Each homestay operator received Rs. 70,000, while the group as a whole received Rs. 200,000 for infrastructure, he added. The homestay currently has a combined capacity of 21 guests across the five houses, group chairperson Sita Khatri said.

Speaking at the inauguration event, Mayor of Beni Municipality Surat KC said the homestays would make visits to Toripani more convenient for tourists. He expressed confidence that the initiative would help improve local livelihoods, create jobs and promote tourism. Chief District Officer Badri Prasad Tiwari, Chairperson of Eco Himal Austria Prof. Dr. Kurt Luger, Director of Eco Himal Narayan Dhakal and Chairperson of TAAN Gandaki Krishna Prasad Acharya were among those who highlighted the role of homestays in boosting local income. They stressed the importance of warm hospitality, organic food and local culture in attracting visitors.

Currently, homes belonging to Juna Khatri, Rashmi Chokhyal, Sujana Chokhyal, Yuva Giri and Jamuna Shrestha are operating as homestays. Preparations are under way to include more homes in the second phase, chairperson Khatri said.

Located at an altitude of 1,750 metres, Toripani offers views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The village is also known for its spice crop, particularly Timur. Nearby attractions include Todke, the historic Dholthana Palace and the religious site Pachhain.

Toripani is emerging as an appealing destination for visitors seeking a peaceful, family-friendly environment in Beni. From the village, tourists can hike or travel by road to Todke, situated on the border of Beni Municipality, Raghuganga and Mangala rural municipalities.

Ward Chairperson Chakra KC said the homestay initiative is expected to promote tourism, generate employment and raise local incomes. 

Guests and tourists attending the inauguration were welcomed with traditional Naumati baja and devotional songs by local residents.