Impact analysis of homestay tourism in bhada village of Dhanghadi sub- metropolitan City, Kailali

Abstract

Homestay tourism becoming one of the major sources of family income in the destination areas of Nepal. In this context, this study aims to analyze socio-cultural and economic impact of homestay tourism in Bhada village of Kailali District. It is the first community homestay village in Sudur Pachim Province, started in 17th December, 2010. This study is based on both primary and secondary data. Under the survey design, primary data were collected from 45 sample households benefited from homestay and 30 tourists through self-administered survey questionnaire. The study found that Bhada village has both religious and cultural attractions to fascinate visitors. More specifically, the Vehada Baba temple and cultural practices and daily lifestyles of Tharu community are attracting to the numbers of visitors annually. Homestay also helps to increase the employment opportunities and local people living standard. Likewise, it is helpful for the conservation of the environment in order to maintain environmental balance in the village. Furthermore, it plays pivotal role in the preservations of traditions, culture and customs of the village. The study also comes to the conclusion that homestay tourism activities have supported the livelihood of the rural community by creating some business and employment opportunities at local level. Most of the homestay owners are earning between Rs 25,000 to 50,000 per month. Homestay also helps to flourish the culture, arts and tradition of Tharu community in national level as well as international level. Local indigenous culture of Tharu community, their typical lifestyle and forest biodiversity are becoming motivational factors for the tourists to visit Bhada homestay tourism destination. Finally, homestay tourism has brought positive impact on the lives of host community and also helps to maintain wastage management and biodiversity conservation practices. That is why, the tourism development action plan and policy recommendation highlighted in the study can be a reference material to the homestay management committee, local government and well as Provincial government and federation.