Economic impact of Covid-19 on Homestay tourism: a study in Gandaki province, Nepal

Dani, Nabina

Economic impact of Covid-19 on Homestay tourism: a study in Gandaki province, Nepal

Publisher

Department of Rural Development

Abstract

This study entitled Economic Impact of Covid-19 on Homestay Tourism: Study in Gandaki Province, Nepal intended to explain knowledge, attitude and practices of the respondents (selected from Mountain, Hill & Terai region) on homestay tourism during pandemic periods. Purposively, three community-based homestays of Gandaki Province are selected for the study purpose. More specifically, Tachai homestay located in Nasong Rural Municipality of Manang was selected from Mountain region, Bandipur homestay located in Bandipur Municipality of Tanahu was selected from hill region and Amaltari buffer zone community homestay located in Kawasoti Municipality of Nawalpur was selected from Terai region. The general objective of the study is to explain pandemic impact on homestay tourism in the study area. Similarly, the specific objectives are to assess demographic characteristics of the respondents, to examine KAP in homestay entrepreneurs, to explain economic impact of Covid-19 on homestay tourism. The household survey technique was applied for collecting required data and information through 195 respondents by applying purposive and stratified random sampling methods. This study adopts descriptive and inferential statistical methods of data analysis. In this regard, SPSS version 20 is used to organize, summarize, describe and generalize the collected data. Under descriptive analysis the statistical tools such as frequency table, cross tabulation and central tendency is applied. This research found homestay tourism is one of the sectors most affected by the COVID19 pandemic. It is found that respondents were aware about COVID-19, safety measures & hygiene protocols. During Covid-19, respondents did not get any relief support and services from stakeholders and government. The income of the beneficiaries decreased, the number of guests in the homestay declined and change in employment structure due to COVID-19. The findings will be applicable for the Ministry of Tourism and future researcher.