Belbari, Morang. An interaction and destination familiarization program aimed at promoting village tourism was organized at the assembly hall of Belbari Municipality on Tuesday. The program focused on introducing the Dhimal Community Homestay and Living Museum located in Mati Gaun, Ward No. 10 of Belbari Municipality, one of the 32 model tourist villages recognized by the Nepal Tourism Board.
The event brought together tourism stakeholders, local representatives, tourism entrepreneurs, tourism journalists, officials from the Nepal Tourism Board, and members of the Village Tourism Promotion Forum Nepal (VITOF Nepal). Around 25 participants, along with local residents, attended the program.
Jogendra Dhimal, Chairperson of the Dhimal Community Homestay, highlighted the unique cultural heritage of the Dhimal community and the role of community-based tourism in preserving local traditions.
“Our homestay is not only a place for accommodation but also a living museum where visitors can experience the authentic lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the Dhimal people. We believe tourism can create opportunities for local communities while preserving our identity,” said Dhimal.
Speaking at the program, Belbari Municipality Mayor Dil Prasad Rai emphasized the municipality’s commitment to promoting tourism as a key pillar of local economic development.
“Belbari possesses immense tourism potential, and destinations like the Dhimal Community Homestay can play a vital role in attracting both domestic and international visitors. The municipality is committed to supporting initiatives that preserve culture and generate local employment,” Mayor Rai said.
Deputy Mayor Nitu Thapa Koirala stressed the importance of community participation in tourism development.
“Community-based tourism has the power to transform rural economies. The active involvement of local residents in preserving their culture and welcoming guests is what makes destinations like Mati Gaun truly special,” she noted.
Addressing the gathering, Hari Sharan Thapaliya, President of VITOF Nepal, praised the efforts of the local community in developing a distinctive tourism product.
“The Dhimal Community Homestay represents the true spirit of village tourism. Such initiatives showcase Nepal’s cultural diversity and provide visitors with meaningful travel experiences,” he said.
VITOF Nepal Former President Chitra Bahadur Gurung highlighted the importance of collaboration among tourism stakeholders.
“Rural tourism destinations can flourish when local governments, tourism organizations, and communities work together. Mati Gaun has the potential to become a model destination for cultural tourism in Nepal,” Gurung stated.
Similarly, Ambir Gurung, Executive Member of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN), underscored the need to link village tourism products with broader tourism circuits.
“Tourists today are seeking authentic experiences. Community homestays such as this should be integrated into national tourism packages and promotional campaigns,” he said.
Tourism expert and VITOF Nepal Advisor Dr. Alok Sharma stressed the importance of sustainable tourism practices.
“Sustainable tourism is about preserving culture, protecting the environment, and ensuring economic benefits reach local communities. The Dhimal Community Homestay is an excellent example of how these objectives can be achieved together,” Dr. Sharma remarked.
Participants also discussed strategies for enhancing destination promotion, improving tourism infrastructure, and strengthening cooperation among tourism stakeholders. The program concluded with a commitment to further promote the Dhimal Community Homestay and Mati Gaun as a distinctive cultural and rural tourism destination in eastern Nepal.
