Community Homestay Network Unveils Nepal FAMs for Trade

Community Homestay Network (CHN) has announced two new Nepal FAM trips for 2026 that are currently accepting applications.

CHN is an award-winning social enterprise and booking platform that focuses on connecting travelers with local experiences in Nepal. The organization develops sustainable tourism programs that support women, youth, and marginalized groups while preserving local traditions, offering immersive stays, hands-on activities with artisans, and community-centric itineraries that showcase a more authentic side of Nepal beyond trekking routes.

Following a strong year of growth in 2025, the company aims to evolve its relationship with the trade, and is offering the two dedicated FAM trips—one in the spring and one in the fall—as a way to attract both travel advisors and tour operators. Through CHN, travel advisors can connect their clients with tailor-made experiences across 51 communities in Nepal, supported by the company’s on-the-ground team and local relationships.

The first FAM, Stories from our Himalayas, is a 10-day trip from May 10 to 19, 2026. The journey begins in Kathmandu with a sound bath and welcome dinner, then continues to Pokhara and the Magar village of Narchyang for hikes, waterfall visits, and natural hot springs. Travelers then explore Mustang’s Himalayan culture—including Jomsom, Thini, and a Bon monastery in Lubra—before returning south for a Gurung homestay cooking workshop in Hemjakot and a relaxing finale in Pokhara prior to flying back to Kathmandu.

The second FAM, Valley of Festivals, is an eight-day experience from Aug. 25 to Sept. 1, 2026. Travelers begin in Kathmandu with a sound bath and welcome dinner, followed by an early visit to Swayambhunath to witness Gunlā, the sacred Newar Buddhist pilgrimage month marked by music, prayer, and processions. The itinerary then explores Patan, Kirtipur, Bhaktapur, and Panauti through hands-on cultural experiences—from cooking momos and trying Paubha painting to visiting temples during Janai Purnima, celebrating Gai Jatra in Bhaktapur, hiking near Namobuddha, and ending with a reflective community meal.

“There is work to do with both agents and operators in terms of enhancing and changing perceptions of both Nepal and the experiences Community Homestay Network offers travellers,” said Shiva Dhakal, CHN’s founder. “Travelling with us means seeing a completely different side to the country, beyond trekking and climbing, in a way that supports and empowers local people, particularly women, in lesser-known parts of Nepal.” 

Those interested in participating can apply for the FAMs via this form. CHN is accepting applications until Feb. 27, 2026.