Homestays in Dhampus are simple family homes with one or two guest rooms, coordinated through a community group so that income is shared around the village. You arrive in the afternoon after the walk from Phedi or Australian Camp, are welcomed with tea and sometimes a marigold garland, and settle into a clean room with twin beds and warm blankets. Bathrooms are usually shared and may be outside the main house.
In the evening, join the family in the kitchen while dinner cooks over a wood fire or gas stove. Expect dal bhat with lentil soup, rice, a vegetable curry of whatever is in season, saag greens, homemade pickle and perhaps fresh buffalo-milk yoghurt. Your hosts may show you how to grind millet, weave a doko basket or make millet rotis. In some homes, children or neighbours sing Gurung songs or show a dance.
Wake at dawn to see the mountains from the courtyard, help with morning chores if you like, and eat breakfast of chapati, eggs and tea before walking on. Bring a small gift such as fruit or stationery for children rather than sweets, dress modestly and ask before taking photos. The experience suits curious travellers who are happy with simple facilities. Our guide stays nearby and can help with translation and any requests during your stay.
Good for
- Families
- Solo
- Couples
- First-timers
Questions travellers ask
Is a homestay in Dhampus comfortable?
It is simple but clean. You get a private room with twin beds and blankets, home-cooked meals and a warm welcome. Bathrooms are often shared and may be squat toilets, and hot water depends on solar or gas heaters. If you need attached western bathrooms, choose one of the trekking lodges in the village instead.
Is a Dhampus homestay safe for solo women?
Yes, generally. Homestays are family homes coordinated by the community, Dhampus is a quiet village on a well-used trail, and our licensed guide stays nearby. As anywhere, use common sense, dress modestly and keep valuables with you. Many solo women travellers stay in Dhampus homestays each season.
What do I eat at a Gurung homestay?
Mainly dal bhat: rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetable curry, greens and pickle, often with yoghurt or buttermilk. Breakfast is usually chapati or Tibetan bread with eggs and tea. Meat is occasionally offered. Vegetarian meals are easy; tell your guide about Jain or other dietary needs in advance.
