From One Home to a Movement
The story of Panauti Community Homestay began in 2012, when Shila Amatya and her husband welcomed guests into their home. It wasn’t easy to initiate homestay in a region like Panauti where homestay was a new concept and most travelers visited Panauti only briefly before moving elsewhere for food and lodging. Inspired, other community women were encouraged to join. What started as one family sharing a room grew into an inspiring movement of women who welcomed the world not just into their homes, but into their lives.
With support from the Community Homestay Network, this small initiative grew into Panauti Community Homestay, a thriving women-led model of community tourism. Over time, this simple gesture has blossomed into an exemplary community-led model of hospitality, where every guest becomes part of something deeper - a shared moment of connection, learning and belonging.
Where Is Panauti?
Nestled just 32 km southeast of Kathmandu, Panauti is one of Nepal’s oldest towns—an ancient Newar settlement surrounded by lush terraced hills, serene rivers, and scenic walking trails. Despite its proximity to the capital, Panauti feels worlds apart: peaceful, culturally rich, and untouched by mass tourism.
Why Panauti?
Panauti is a perfect destination for those seeking slow, meaningful travel. Here, every interaction leaves an impact. It’s not just about seeing Nepal—it’s about being part of it.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, family, or a small group—Panauti welcomes you not as a tourist, but as a guest of the community.
Empowering Women, Enriching Communities
At the heart of this initiative are women who, through tourism, have become entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and cultural guardians. With each guest, they gain confidence and financial independence—rewriting traditional gender roles and opening doors for the next generation.
Your stay contributes directly to:
Economic empowerment of women
Local education and youth engagement
Cultural preservation of Newar traditions
What to Expect During Your Stay
Private rooms in family-run homes
Warm Newari hospitality and home-cooked meals
Traditional welcome and tea ceremonies
Cozy, walkable town perfect for slow travel
Deep cultural exchange with your host family
What You Can Do in and Around Panauti
✔️ Panauti Heritage Walk – Explore medieval temples, sacred ghats, and hidden courtyards
✔️ Rice Planting or Harvest Experience (seasonal)
✔️ Cooking Class – Learn to make Newari delicacies like Yomari and Chatamari
✔️ Hiking & Cycling Trails – Scenic trails through rice paddies and nearby villages
✔️ Visit Namobuddha Monastery – A sacred Buddhist site just a short drive or trek away
✔️ Cultural Workshops – Try your hand at traditional painting, woodwork, or pottery
✔️ Attend Local Festivals – Experience authentic Newari traditions up close
