An interaction and destination familiarization program was held in Belbari Municipality to promote the Dhimal Community Homestay and Living Museum in Mati Gaun, Ward No. 10, one of the 32 model tourist villages recognized by the Nepal Tourism Board.
The program brought together tourism stakeholders, local representatives, tourism entrepreneurs, journalists, Nepal Tourism Board officials, and members of VITOF Nepal. Around 25 participants attended the event.
Welcoming the guests, Homestay Chairperson Jogendra Dhimal highlighted the unique culture and traditions of the Dhimal community, describing the homestay as a living museum that offers visitors an authentic cultural experience.
Mayor Dil Prasad Rai emphasized Belbari Municipality’s commitment to promoting tourism as a driver of local economic development, while Deputy Mayor Nitu Thapa Koirala stressed the importance of community participation in preserving culture and strengthening rural tourism.
Speaking at the event, VITOF Nepal President Hari Sharan Thapaliya praised the community’s efforts in developing a distinctive tourism product. Former President Chitra Bahadur Gurung and TAAN Executive Member Ambir Gurung highlighted the need for stronger collaboration and integration of village tourism into broader tourism circuits.
Tourism expert Dr. Alok Sharma underscored the importance of sustainable tourism practices that preserve culture, protect the environment, and benefit local communities.
Participants discussed destination promotion, tourism infrastructure improvement, and stakeholder cooperation. The program concluded with a commitment to further promote the Dhimal Community Homestay and Mati Gaun as a unique cultural and rural tourism destination in eastern Nepal.
