Piprahar Community Homestay Transforms Lives of Tharu Women in Nawalparasi

Nawalparasi. The community homestay (home stay) operated in Piprahar, Devchuli Municipality-17, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East) has now become not just a place for tourists to stay, but it has also started to transform the lifestyle, confidence, and economic condition of the local Tharu women.

Until a few years ago, women here were limited to household chores, childcare, and farming, but now they are seen taking the lead in welcoming guests, managing affairs, and conducting cultural programs. Women who were hesitant to speak with strangers are now able to confidently provide information about their village, culture, and lifestyle.

In recent years, the arrival of domestic and foreign tourists to Piprahar Community Homestay has been increasing. Tourists who want to experience the local Tharu culture, traditional cuisine, natural environment, and rural life up close visit here.

The responsibility of operating the homestay is largely on the shoulders of the women. Women are managing tasks such as welcoming guests, preparing meals, presenting cultural dances, and managing cleanliness. Although men provide support in such activities, women are active at the leadership level.

Local Chandramaya Mahato says that her life has changed significantly since the homestay started. "Earlier, we had to depend only on income from farming. It was difficult to manage expenses," she said, "Now guests come to the homestay, and we earn from providing services. It has become easier to manage household expenses."

Locals say that the homestay has empowered women not only economically but also socially. They share their experiences of women becoming capable of reaching leadership positions after receiving encouragement from their families and society.

Somnath Mahato, chairman of Piprahar Community Homestay, said that the local culture and natural beauty have become the main attractions for tourists visiting Piprahar. "Guests who come here get an experience of the village's original culture and feel like they are staying at home," he said, "In the central area around the Narayani River, one can observe rhinos, deer, antelopes, wild boars, crocodiles, and various birds through jeep safaris."

According to him, the problems faced by the locals due to wild animals are also starting to turn into tourist attractions. Tourists are excited to observe wild animals that come near the villages. Devchuli Municipality Chief Hariprasad Neupane said that the homestay has made a significant contribution to the self-reliance and capacity development of women.

"Earlier, women were afraid to speak outside," he said, "Now they communicate openly with guests and conduct programs. The role of women in the development of the village has increased."

Piprahar Community Homestay, which started with five houses in 2072 BS, has now expanded to 22 houses. Along with the homestay, local products, Tharu cuisine, and cultural programs have started to find a market.

Piprahar Community Homestay, which has become an example of rural tourism as well as women's leadership and economic empowerment, is now becoming a identity of Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East).