Assessment of Homestay Program at Amaltari Village …learningportal.wwfnepal.org/dashlib/files/4.Karuna Karki_Homestay...Assessment of Homestay Program at Amaltari Village of Nawalparasi,

Assessment of Homestay Program at Amaltari Village of Nawalparasi, Nepal

Karuna Karki

TU. Registration No.: 2-1-47-20-2009

Tribhuwan University

Institute of Forestry

Pokhara, Nepal

A Thesis Submitted for Partial Fulfillment of Requirement for the Degree of Bachelors of

Science in Forestry

February 2016

Assessment of Homestay Program at Amaltari Village of Nawalparasi, Nepal

Research Investigator

Karuna Karki

B.Sc.Final Year

TU Regd. No.: 2-1-47-20-2009

Institute of Forestry, Pokhara

Email: [email protected]

Research Advisor

Bir Bahadur Khanal Chhettri, PhD

Associate Professor

Tribhuwan University

Institute of Forestry

Pokhara, Nepal

Co-advisor Co -advisor

Dr. Suresh K. Shrestha Narayan Prasad Gautam

Funded by:

Hariyo Ban Program

World Wildlife Fund Nepal

For funding support

A Thesis Submitted for Partial Fulfillment of Requirement for the Degree of Bachelors of

Science in Forestry

February 2016

iii

©Karuna Karki

February, 2016

Email: [email protected]

Tribhuvan University

Institute of Forestry, Pokhara Campus

P.O. Box 43, Pokhara, Nepal

Website: www.iof.edu.np

Citation:

Karki, K., 2016. Assessment of Homestay Program at Amaltari Village of Nawalparasi,

Nepal. A Thesis Submitted for Partial Fulfillment of Requirement for the Degree of Bachelors of

Science in Forestry, Tribhuwan University, Institute of Forestry, Pokhara, Nepal.

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DECLARATION

I, Karuna Karki, hereby declare that this thesis entitled “Assessment of Homestay Program at

Amaltari Village of Nawalparasi, Nepal.” is my own work, except wherever acknowledged.

Errors if any are the responsibility of my own. This report and any part of it have not been

submitted to any other University/ Institute for an academic award.

vi

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to express my sincere and cordial thanks to those distinguished persons and

institutions that helped in myriad of ways to bring my study up to this level. Without their

support and cooperation, this study wouldn‟t have been completed in this form. First and

foremost, I would like to express my profound gratitude and sincere thanks to my respected

advisor Bir Bahadur Khanal Chhetri, PhD.(Associate Professor) and co advisor Narayan

PrasadGautam (Assistant Professor, IOF, Pokhara) and Suresh Shrestha, PhD(Former Lecturer )

for his constant supervision, guidance, suggestions, support and encouragement throughout my

research period. My heartfelt acknowledgement goes to Mr. Biraj Chaudhary for assisting

during my entire field work and for the instantaneous support throughout my research work. I am

very grateful to Miss. Dikshya Pokhrel who gave me unrepayable ideas, suggestions, and

comments during my research period. I am also very grateful to Hariyo Ban Program, World

Wildlife Fund Nepal for providing me financial support to complete this B.Sc.Forestry program

including the research.

There are other admired personalities, Mr. Nurendra Aryal (Assitant Conservation Officer, CNP,

Western Sector, Amaltari), Mr. Dhani Ram Gurau (Manager, Amaltari Homestay), Miss Pinky

Mahato (Amaltari homestay), Miss Gauri Mahato(Amaltari homestay) . I extended my heartfelt

thanks to the respondents in the study area for their kind cooperation and precious time for

answering the questionnaires despite the fact that they were very busy in their farms, taking care

of guests and other household activities. Special gratitude goes to Institute of Forestry, Pokhara

and Chitwan National Park for the permission to carry out my research work. I am very thankful

to Beeju Poudyal, Kabita Ghalan, Aruna Poudel, Bishnu Pun for their moral support.Similarly, I

am thankful to all my colleagues for their valuable suggestions, kind cooperation and positive

reflection.

Love and affection of my family always encourage and inspired me to perform any work

intensively. I am indebted to support from my parents in every turn of life but here I am unable

to express my feeling in words. I owe all my success to them. I appreciate everyone whom I have

thanklessly missed to remember and have contributed intentionally and unintentionally towards

completion of the work, and also all those who are my well-wishers.

Karuna Karki

vii

ABBREVATIONS

ABZUC: Amaltari Buffer Zone User Committee

BZ: Buffer Zone

BZUG: Buffer Zone User Groups

CNP: Chitwan National Park

DNPWC: The Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation

HMC: Home Stay Management Committee

HMGN: His Majesty‟s Government of Nepal

ICIMOD: International Center for Integrated Mountain Development

ITB: International Tourism Board

IUCN: International Union for Conservation of Nature

MCTCA: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation

MoCTCA : Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation

NTB: Nepal Tourism Board

TAL: Terai Arc Landscape

UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNWTO: The United Nations World Tourism Organization

WWF: World Wildlife Fund

viii

ABSTRACT

Despite the importance of homestay in providing ample opportunity to the visitors to explore the

real Nepalese rural life, study on its contribution to the welfare of local community, and the

varying sense of satisfaction of the visitors is limited. The research entitled "Assessment of

Home-stay Program at Amaltari Village of Nawalparasi, Nepal" was carried out to identify

the motivation for homestay adoption, explore the social, economic and environmental outcomes

of home-stay, and the satisfaction level of eco-tourists with the home-stay program. Data for the

study were collected using key informant survey, household survey with 21 numbers of

households, and survey with 60 numbers of visitors at different dates in Amaltari village where

the home-stay program is implemented on May 19, 2013. Three point Likert scale (Agree to

disagree) was employed in analyzing the level of satisfaction of the visitors. Simple descriptive

statistics such as frequency and percentages, and means were used to analyze the data, and are

presented in different charts and tables.

Improvement in family income (47.6 %) and the use of free time in constructive work (42.9%)

were found to be the most important motivating factors to run the homestay program in the area.

Homestay program contributes to increase the income of households running homestay, and in

creating the jobs to local people. Homestay income was found more important to the poor

households compared to the richer as the poor households generate around 70% of their cash

income from homestay compared to only around30% to that of richer households. Social

contributions include the increase in community pride, women empowerment and improved

community relationship. The contribution in environmental sector as perceived by the home-stay

households were mainly the increment in plantation and conservation awareness activities.

Visitors were more satisfied with the service and hospitality (100%), local environment (83%)

and culture (80%) and least satisfied with the visitor information center (21.7%) and means of

communication (13.3%).Quality of facilities and services and recreation activities were more

important to increase in the level of satisfaction than decreasing the price of homestay.

Organizing homestay management trainings including sanitations and hygiene to the households,

improvement in education of the community that may improve the information system and the

capacity of local guide in interpreting the Tharu history, culture and lifestyle can help to obtain

more benefits from homestay in the area. Linking the study village with markets (tours and travel

agencies in the capital and through webs) and the potential foreign visitors is utmost important

for the improvement and growth of home-stay of the area.

Key words: Household, Income, Tourist satisfaction, Perception, Tharu

ix

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Citation: ............................................................................................................................................... iii

LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE ...................................................................................................................... iv

DECLARATION ....................................................................................................................................... v

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ........................................................................................................................ vi

ABBREVATIONS ................................................................................................................................... vii

ABSTRACT .......................................................................................................................................... viii

TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................... ix

LIST OF TABLES: ................................................................................................................................... xii

LIST OF FIGURES: .................................................................................................................................xiii

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 1

1.1 Background ............................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Study area.................................................................................................................................. 2

1.3 Rationale of the study: .............................................................................................................. 3

1.4 Objectives ................................................................................................................................. 4

1.5 Limitations of the study ............................................................................................................ 4

CHAPTER: 2 LITERATURE REVIEW ....................................................................................................... 5

2.1 Homestay tourism ..................................................................................................................... 5

2.2 Evolution and development of the homestay program ............................................................. 5

2.3 Working procedure of homestay in Nepal ................................................................................ 6

2.4 The products for homestay program ......................................................................................... 8

2.5 Tourist satisfaction from homestay ........................................................................................... 8

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY .................................................................................... 10

3.1 Sources of data ........................................................................................................................ 10

3.2 Data collection methods .......................................................................................................... 10

3.3 Selection of samples ............................................................................................................... 10

3.4 Data presentation .................................................................................................................... 11

3.5 Data analysis ........................................................................................................................... 11

CHAPTER FOUR: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ...................................................................................... 12

4.1 Demographic aspect ................................................................................................................ 12

4.2 Number of members involved in homestay ............................................................................ 12

x

4.3. Motivation of homestay ......................................................................................................... 13

4.4. Other professions of homestay households............................................................................ 13

4.5 Homestay capacity and service ............................................................................................... 14

4.5.1 Installed accommodation capacity ............................................................................................. 14

4.5.2. In room services ........................................................................................................................ 15

4.5.3. Guests' observed tendency of spending money ......................................................................... 15

4.6 Performance of Amaltari homestay ........................................................................................ 16

4.6.1 Seasonality and occupancy: ....................................................................................................... 16

4.6.2 Guests inflow ............................................................................................................................. 17

4.6.4Saving of income from homestay ............................................................................................... 18

4.6.5 Promotional Activities ............................................................................................................... 18

4.7 Economic impact .................................................................................................................... 19

4.7.1 Infrastructures developed in the community by homestay......................................................... 19

4.7.2 Annual average per capita income (Rs) of the respondents by wealth class ............................ 19

4.7.3 Contribution of homestay on economic sector ........................................................................... 20

4.7.4 Land prices in the area ............................................................................................................... 21

4.8 Social impact ........................................................................................................................... 21

4.8.1 Institutions established by homestay .......................................................................................... 21

4.8.2 Contribution of homestay in social sector .................................................................................. 21

4.8.3 Homestay and women empowerment ........................................................................................ 22

4.8.4 Skill and capacity building trainings .......................................................................................... 22

4.8.5. Contribution of homestay in youth empowerment .................................................................... 23

4.9 Cultural aspect ........................................................................................................................ 23

4.9.1 Cultural activities conducted ...................................................................................................... 23

4.9.2 Conservation of culture .............................................................................................................. 23

4.10 Environment Sector .............................................................................................................. 24

4.10.1 Contribution of homestay on environment sector .................................................................... 24

4.10.2 Consumption rate of fuel wood ................................................................................................ 24

4.10.3 Contribution of homestay program in biodiversity conservation............................................. 25

4.10.4 Type of pollution and their level .............................................................................................. 25

4.11 Satisfaction level of visitor ................................................................................................... 26

xi

4.11.1. Hospitality and service ............................................................................................................ 26

4.11.2 Food and taste: ......................................................................................................................... 26

4.11.3 Culture and cultural dance ....................................................................................................... 27

4.11.4 Information .............................................................................................................................. 27

4.11.5 Transportation system .............................................................................................................. 28

4.11.6 Means of communication ......................................................................................................... 28

4.11.7 Attractions and activities .......................................................................................................... 29

4.11.8 Security .................................................................................................................................... 29

4.11.9 Price ......................................................................................................................................... 30

4.11.10 Local place and environment ................................................................................................. 30

4.12 Factors considering the increase in satisfaction .......................................................................... 31

4.13 Willingness to visit again ............................................................................................................ 31

CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.................................................................. 32

Conclusion: ................................................................................................................................... 32

Recommendations: ........................................................................................................................ 34

REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................ 35

ANNEX-1 .............................................................................................................................................. 39

ANNEX-2 .............................................................................................................................................. 40

ANNEX-3 .............................................................................................................................................. 45

PHOTO PLATE ...................................................................................................................................... 46

xii

LIST OF TABLES:

Table 1- Number of members involved in homestay .................................................................................. 12

Table 2-Installed accommodation capacity ................................................................................................. 14

Table 3-Distribution of respondents according to the tendency of spending money. ................................. 15

Table 4-Distribution of respondents on their perception on peak months of tourist flow. ......................... 16

Table 5-Domestic and international visitor in 2013/2014 and 2014/2015. ................................................. 17

Table 6-Income from homestay in 2013/2014 and 2014/2015. .................................................................. 18

Table 7-Saving of income from homestay .................................................................................................. 18

Table 8-Annual average per capita income (Rs) of the respondents by wealth class ................................. 20

Table 9-Types of training, supporting organizations, their duration and participants by sex. .................... 22

Table 10-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on hospitality and service in the homestay area.26

Table 11-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on food and taste in the homestay area. ............. 27

Table 12-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on cultural and cultural dance in the homestay

area. ............................................................................................................................................................. 27

Table 13-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on information in the homestay area. ................ 28

Table 14-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on transportation facility to the homestay area.. 28

Table 15-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on means of communication in the homestay

area. ............................................................................................................................................................. 28

Table 16-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on attractions and activities in the homestay area.

.................................................................................................................................................................... 29

Table 17-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on security in the homestay area. ...................... 29

Table 18-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on price of food, and services in the homestay

area. ............................................................................................................................................................. 30

Table 19-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on local place and environment in the homestay

area. ............................................................................................................................................................. 30

Table 20-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on factors considering the increase in satisfaction.

.................................................................................................................................................................... 31

Table 21-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on their willingness to visit again. ..................... 31

xiii

LIST OF FIGURES:

Figure 1-Motivation of homestay ............................................................................................................... 13

Figure 2-Other profession of homestay households.................................................................................... 14

Figure 3-Promotional Activities.................................................................................................................. 19

Figure 4-Contribution of homestay on economic sector ............................................................................. 20

Figure 5-Contribution of homestay in social sector .................................................................................... 21

Figure 6-Contribution of homestay in youth empowerment ....................................................................... 23

Figure 7-Contribution of homestay on environment sector ........................................................................ 24

Figure 8-Type of pollution and their level .................................................................................................. 26

1

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Ecotourism is an alternative form of tourism that is consistently gaining grounds on a global

scale during the past few years (UNWTO, 2001). It is one of the newest opportunities for income

generation from natural resources without destroying the environment (Colvin, 1996). Its

fundamental principles refer to minimizing negative impact on the environment, representing the

local cultures and actively contributing to the economic well-being of host communities as well

as the stakeholders involved. Ecotourism has the potential to become a driver of sustainable

tourism development and also provide opportunities for the development of the disadvantaged,

marginalized and rural areas leading to poverty alleviation. It stimulates economic development

and social wellbeing of people and at the same time preserving the natural environment and

cultural heritage through awareness creation. Ecotourism plays important roles in providing

employment and raise the standard of living of the local people. Relevant employments which

can be offered to the community include homestay operator, tour operator, tour guide, handicraft

producer, restaurant operator, traditional cultural dancers, musicians, logistics and others. The

importance of ecotourism activities in economic diversification and livelihood opportunity using

natural resource attractions in remote rural has been highlighted by many scholars and

organizations, such as, Ashley et al. (2001) and UNWTO (2002).

Homestay development is one of strategies that have tremendous potentials to achieve the

conservation and sustainable development goals of ecotourism in rural areas while ensuring

greater tourist satisfaction. A homestay, by its combined words (homestay) is staying in some

one's home as a paying guest for short time period. But such guests are provided accommodation

and services by individual family and community too. Therefore, the homestay Regulation has

accepted it as run (managed) by an individual or community (Timlasina, 2012). Such guests are

provided accommodation and services by individual family or community. The “homestay”

seeks to draw tourists away from posh and crowded urban areas to the rural locality full of

splendid natural surroundings, by providing them with clean, comfortable and budget-friendly

accommodation and food. Thus, homestay offers the traveler a unique local experience and

possibilities of interaction with the host family. If offers chances to the governments for

2

expanding economic activities to remote areas and develop alternative sources of income to rural

people and generate resources for nature conservation (Gangotia, 2013).

In case of Nepal, most of the tourists come to see the unique natural and cultural resources which

are located in the rural areas in and around the protected areas. In these areas, people are poor

and less educated and their livelihood largely depends on subsistence farming. The homestay

operation in small scale requires limited knowledge and skills and physical resources, as such its

scope is especially high in Nepal for involving rural people in tourism business and improving

their livelihood whilst preserving the nature, and rural lifestyle, culture and identity. Recognizing

its potentials, Terai Arc Landscape (TAL) has introduced homestay program since 2011. The

homestay program of Nepal, is a community-based program based on ecotourism theme. It opens

a new door for the locals to improve their livelihood and resources condition and offers

opportunities for tourists for interaction and direct experience of the day-to-day life of the

community. Since its initiation, a growing number of locals are operating the homestay program,

and offering tourists a place into their local culture in areas, particularly where big hotels with

modern facilities are lacking or unsuitable for establishment.

1.2 Study area

Nepal is the one of the famous tourist destination in globe, every year thousands of people from

different countries visit Nepal. Chitwan National Park (CNP) is situated in south central part of

Nepal, covering 932 km2 of core area in the subtropical lowlands of the inner Terai. The area

was gazette as CNP in 1973 recognizing its unique ecosystems of international significance,

which is the country's first National Park. UNESCO has declared the CNP as a World Natural

Heritage Site in 1984. In 1996 an area of 750 km2 surrounding the park was declared as a Buffer

Zone (BZ), which consists of forests and private lands including cultivated lands. Amaltari

BZUC is the one of them which is situated on Nawalparasi District. With a view to reducing

people‟s dependence on natural resources while ensuring that its benefits can be sustainably

managed, a homestay concept was introduced in 2013.

The Amaltari Buffer Zone Consumers‟ Committee under the CNP has started the homestay

program in 20 houses of Tharu Community at Agyauli-5 in the district. The committee started

the program in 20 houses to attract tourist in May 19, 2013. The place is the first place of

Nawalparasi district having a homestay. The Amaltari homestay is located at around six

3

kilometers south of Danda along the East-West Highway. The village is typically dominated by

Tharu community, a unique Aborigine community of Nepal. The study area is selected as it is

inhibited by the indigenous Tharu community which is famous for its cultural richness and

traditions, a large number of eco-tourists visit the area every year, many local people are

operating homestay in the area and World Wildlife Fund (WWF)‟s TAL program is working

with local community in home-stay development. TAL supported 50 thousand NRS (500€) per

household to start a homestay program and generate income from this program for local

community.

1.3 Rationale of the study:

With a growing interest to spend leisure time in nature related facilities and increasing awareness

of tourists on environment, ecotourism has become one of the fastest growing segments of the

tourism industry in the world (UNWTO, 2001). The essence of Nepalese tourism lies in naturally

beautiful rural hills and mountains and its indigenous communities with their mystical lifestyle

and culture. These natural and cultural attributes can be experienced best through homestays.

4

There are three core principles of ecotourism; i.e., (1) protect the environment and enhance

biodiversity protection; (2) lead to financial benefits to local communities without disrespecting

culture; and (3) provide education for indigenous communities as well as visitors (Blangy &

Metha, 2006). In the Nepalese context, the prime aim of ecotourism has been to promote a

symbiotic relationship between tourism and environment with a particular focus on uplifting the

local village economies (Thapa, 2008). Based on these principles, many local people in TAL and

other areas of Nepal are being encouraged to involve in running homestay business, including

the BZ of the CNP. In its working area, the TAL is providing necessary physical and technical

supports to the people in operating homestay. However, information on how homestay program

is helping to achieve its conservation and local development goals and objectives area not yet

studied. If the homestay program is to be successful, it is extremely important to have a source of

information to provide a feedback system to the planners and managers based on empirical

studies. Against these backdrops, the proposed study aims to generate some of these information

from one of the most important ecotourism destinations in Nepal, i.e., BZ of CNP.

1.4 Objectives

The general objective of the study was to assess the contribution of the homestay program in the

Amaltari village.

The specific objectives were:

To study the initial motivational factor for adopting homestay.

To analyze the contribution of homestay program in economic, social and environment

sector in the study area.

To assess the level of satisfaction of eco-tourists from homestay programs

1.5 Limitations of the study

This study has following limitations:

It uses the information and opinions obtained from the respondents. The respondents‟

biased opinions can influence the results.

Time and budget constraints.

Lack of baseline information.

5

CHAPTER: 2 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Homestay tourism

Merriam Webster Dictionary 2013 defines 'homestay' as "a stay at a residence by a traveler and

especially by a visiting foreign student who is hosted by a local family." The same dictionary

also reveals that the term was first used in 1956. Traveller or foreign students during their study

period visit another place for specific purpose and they can be hosted in local family where they

can get the traditional and cultural hospitality with warm acknowledgement. Normally the

students who have limited resources i.e. money can enjoy the home stay at lower prices and can

access their need.

Concept of community-based tourism was first coined in the 1970s (Mitchell and Muckosy,

2008). Current community-based, homestay tourism is the output of Rio summit of 1992, which

gave rise to the concept of sustainable development (Carnaffan, thesis). In homestay tourism,

environment and culture are commoditized; market value is created with the demand of visitor.

This provides financial reward to local indigenous community for conservation of environment

and their culture, conservation can be added into tourism development project with no cost to

funder (Laurie et al, 2005). Conventional tourism approaches basically focus on economic,

culture or environmental impact, usually single factor at a time. Livelihood approach, considered

multiple interaction between these different factors, putting interest of local people at center

(Teresa, 2006), under this approach tourism is consider as component of development, give

emphasis to explore ways of expanding positive impact of development and reducing negative

ones (Ashley, 2000). Need, interest and priorities of poor people are to be addressed at first place

before attending qualitative objective of environment and development (Chamber 1986).

2.2 Evolution and development of the homestay program

After introducing the Mountains of Nepal in 1950s to the outer world, international tourists

started to visit in Nepal and tourist are attracted by those beautiful mountains through the many

historic and beautiful untouched villages of Nepal. Gradually the tourism industry took a step

forward but the major issue remains dissatisfactory that the tourism income is not distributed

equally in all part of the Nepal. Industry centralized within the central region of the Nepal.

Therefore to address those issues and for the poverty alleviation from the rural area, government

6

introduced the village tourism for the first time in 1997. Sirubari (Syangja District, west Nepal)

and Ghalegaon (Lamjung District, north central Nepal) were the first two villages to implement

the concept of community homestay which was a first effort to develop village tourism by the

government of Nepal. (Thapa, 2010).

During the decade long Maoist insurgency period (1996-2006) tourism industry sharply dropped

in Nepal. However after the Comprehensive Peace Accord between the government and the

Maoist in 2006, tourism industry of Nepal began to grow again. Government started to formulate

the new tourism policy. It implemented the new Tourism Policy in 2008 and has also formulated

the 'Tourism vision 2020' Policy to development the sustainable tourism. Toward achieving the

goal finally the government has conceptualized the working procedure of homestay program in

2010 which addresses the area of sustainable tourism development in Nepal as well as eco-

tourism. (HMGN/NPC/MOPE 2003)

The government's program 'Nepal Tourism Year 2011' is another major reason to boost up

homestay tourism in Nepal. The government's target was to bring One million tourists during the

'Nepal Tourism Year 2011' and according to the official figures, there were 669 hotels including

all types of hotels with a total capacity of 26,063 beds in Nepal at that time. If During 'Nepal

tourism Year 2011' one million tourist had visited Nepal as expected then it would have meant

that there are 822 beds shortage in a daily base. This was the reason why the homestay program

has once again stepped into the spotlight. And even though Nepal Tourism Year was not fully

successful it did give motivation to many enterprises, one of them being the development of

homestays in various parts of the country including newly developed tourist destinations. The

aim was not only to increase the accommodation capacity but the major aim was to make involve

the local's participations in tourism activities and improve their income. (Royal Mountain Travel

Nepal, December 18, 2011.)

2.3 Working procedure of homestay in Nepal

According to 'homestay working procedure 2067' Nepal's government has defined homestay as

an accommodation where host provides foods, accommodation and other related services to their

guest and operates it individually or in community groups. The procedure further classified

homestay in two patterns; one urban homestay as a private homestay, and village community

homestay program. Urban homestay program are normally operated by individual hosts and they

7

can accommodate only four guests per day so that there will be not much negative business

impact on the regular hotel business of the nation. Regarding the village community homestay

program, it can be operated by different individual in the group where member should be at least

5 host families to operate home stay in particular community. (MCTCA, 2010).

Homestay program is generally practiced in remote and rural areas where the locals promote

conservation of areas such as forest, parks, heritage sites, monuments and views. The local

community people operates homestay in their own home at low costs and generate profit from

visitors by offering local traditional culture and values. “Community involvement in homestay

operation provides a job opportunity and improves local quality of life” (Bhuiyan et al.,2011).

The guidelines of the government direct that the host family should offer the local cultural

experience to their guest and serve the local products of foods whatever the host family

themselves eat. Homestay operating houses have to ensure a hygienic, clean, safe, peaceful and

secure environment with adequate bathroom and toilet facilities. Beside the accommodations

facility the community are suggested to welcome the tourist with the full traditional arrangement,

entertain the visitors through the local cultural performance, make participation in traditional

functions and conserve and develop the other tourism product for the tourist such as community

forest for jungle safari, sightseeing, ethnic museum, visit local handicraft center etc. (MCTCA,

2010)

In the code of conduct, the guests are also requested to dress in an appropriate environment

manner and to participate actively in any community cultural functions or other rituals programs.

They are not allowed to give pressure to owner for food, beverage and facilities that are not

available. Guests have to eat whatever host family offered the food in a respectful manner. They

are also asked to beware of doing any unusual behavior (such as sexual activities), which is

offensive to the local socio-cultural values. Similarly they are asked to enter and leave homes

only within the prescribed routine of the host family and any forms of psychotropic drug use is

totally forbidden at home or outside home. (MCTCA, 2010)

For the registration process, both community homestay as well as individual homestay can be

registered at the department of Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation (MoCTCA),

Goverment of Nepal or Ministry related to any tourism offices on the local level. Regarding to

the community homestay, an agreement paper signed by at least five homestay members,

operating on a community basis, National identity cards, the legal paper of property and the

8

recommendations letter from the local authorities should be enclosed with the application.

Whereas for the individual homestay property ownership certificate, national identity certificate

along with the recommendation letter from the local authorities should be enclosed with the

application. If all the requirements are not fulfilled, more time will be given to the related group

or person for the improvement and a field visit will be done from the authorized office.

(MCTCA, 2010)

For the community homestay program 'homestay committee board' is mandatory for the proper

management of the homestay in the community. The role of the homestay committee board is

very important. They are assigned to manage the community tourism program and first

hospitality activities during guests arrival; equal distribution of homes (host) to the visitors,

maintain well a record of the guest and very important is to keep transparent economic account,

manage the standard of every homes, conserve the local heritage site and the cultures, organize

the cultural program for the tourist, take care about safety and health of the tourist and many

more. (MCTCA, 2010)

2.4 The products for homestay program

'Homestay' the word is itself a product but in the homestay program there are more products to

be found. Such products are the practices of community and assets of nation. Nepal is a country

very rich in nature and the culture which is accepted by whole world. Nepal has a huge potential

in wide range of tourism products. Gifted by the beautiful natural and artificial diverse heritages

are found across the country. Varieties of cast and ethnic group bring different color in social

cultural and traditions. Their festivals feasts and celebrations are unique from each other.

Hinduism and Buddhism are followed by the majority where both Mongolian and Aryan cultures

are deep-rooted. (Sedai, 2006)

2.5 Tourist satisfaction from homestay

Bigne, Sanchez and Sanchez (2001) defined satisfaction as a reaction and the outcome of the

choice made based on an individual‟s emotion and inner-being. On top of that, the reactions also

refer to the focal point that is usually represented by an object that satisfies the users in a

particular destination. These reactions also relate to specific moments considered special which

are the pre-buying, post-buying and the after effects of using a product or service. Researchers

9

have identified many factors contributing to tourist satisfaction. Common factors include quality

of services, safety aspects (Norlida Hanim, et al., 2011; John and Ron, 2000), infrastructure

facilities (Yeong, et al., 2010), personal factors (Mutinda and Mayaka, 2012), food and

beverages (Tak, et al., 2007), fastidiousness (Norlida Hanim, et al., 2011) and so o

10

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

By nature, this research is a descriptive as well as explorative type of research. The research

findings are based on the perception and opinion of community, the visitors and the stakeholders

of Amaltari homestay.

3.1 Sources of data

Data and information have been collected from both primary and secondary sources. The

respondents from homestay, guests who visited this place earlier and the members of AHMC and

focus group discussion are the primary sources of information. Newspapers, internet sites,

different publications, leaflet about Amaltari homestay obtained from WWF TAL office and the

website are the secondary sources of information.

3.2 Data collection methods

For collecting primary data and information for the study, the questionnaires as given in Annex 1

and 2 have been used. Unstructured interviews have been undertaken with some people or

experts met during the study visit. Similarly, discussion has been made with the focus group viz.

the locals and the experts other than the respondents.

For collecting secondary data and information for the study, study relevant news on different

newspapers have been studied and quoted wherever required. Internet sites have been used to

download relevant reports. Similarly, articles & books published by different researchers, authors

and agencies have been studied and quoted as required. The information about the origin of

Amaltari homestay has been gathered from the leaflet and the website.

3.3 Selection of samples

The entire 21 homestay households of Amaltari village have been studied. Alltogether, 60 guests

were interviewed at different dates to collect on visitor satisfaction. Also to get some study

11

relevant information and suggestions, the members from AHMC, TAL-Nepal, CNP, ABZ have

been discussed with.

3.4 Data presentation

Tables, charts, diagrams and figures have been used as required to present the numerical data.

The non-numerical subjective information has been descriptively presented.

3.5 Data analysis

The information collected from various methods was categorized based on the objective of the

study. Various qualitative and quantitative analysis were carried out for the research. A simple

statistical tool such as frequency, average, percentage etc was used during the data analysis. The

outcomes of the analysis were presented by using various modes such as tabular form, bar

diagrams, charts and graphs.

12

CHAPTER FOUR: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Demographic aspect

Age-wise respondents

In total of 81 respondents, 66.66 percent of respondents were from age group of 25 to 40 years,

24.69 percent from age group of 0 to 25 years, 3.70 percent of respondents from age group of 40

to 55 years and 4.93 percent respondents from age group of above-55-years.

Gender-wise respondents: In total of 81 respondents, male respondents were 59.25 percent

while female respondents were 40.75 percent. The male respondents dominated within guest

groups whereas female respondents dominated in homestay group.

.

4.2 Number of members involved in homestay

Table below presents the gender-wise classification of total number of family members of all the

households involved in homestay:

Table 1- Number of members involved in homestay

S.N Gender Number Percent

1 Male 22 41.5%

2 Female 31 58.5%

3 Total 53 100%

Source: Field survey, 2015

As mentioned above, 53 members from those 21 homestay households are involved in the

homestay business affairs. Out of these members, 58.5 percent are female and 48.5 percent are

male. It shows that Amaltari homestay is basically female-led and female-managed.

13

4.3. Motivation of homestay

Figure 1-Motivation of homestay

Source: Field Survey, 2015

The findings as figured above show that improvement in family income was the initial

motivating factor for 47.6 percent households to conduct homestay. Similarly, Use of free time

in constructive work was key factor for 42.9 percent households, and conservation of nature 9.5

percent households. Though most of the households expressed their agreement on contribution of

homestay in culture preservation, women empowerment and social unity, none of these

households expressed any of these two as primary drivers for homestay business.

4.4. Other professions of homestay households

Some of the homestay households were involved in multiple professions. Alternative professions

in which homestay family members were involved are agriculture, service in government offices

or non-government or private institutions, tour guiding, labor, private business, foreign

employment, etc.

47.60% 42.90%

9.50%

Improve family Income Use free time in constructive work Conservation of nature

14

Figure 2-Other profession of homestay households

As per the study findings, 100 percent homestay households or their members were also involved

in agriculture and livestock, 23.80 percent were also having their own private businesses in

private shop and hotel, 19 percent were also in service, 14.30 percent were, 4.5 percent were also

in foreign employment, 9.1 percent were also in foreign employee and 9.50 percent were also

paid workers.

4.5 Homestay capacity and service

4.5.1 Installed accommodation capacity

The number of rooms and bed capacity available for guests' stay in the homestay are given in the

following table:

Table 2-Installed accommodation capacity

S.N Facilities No of room No of bed

1 Bedroom with attached bathroom 2 4

2 Total 42 84


As mentioned in the table, the homestay households have arranged 42 rooms for guests' stay.

Hence, in a night, 84 guests can stay in this homestay. With this capacity in hand, this homestay

can accommodate for 30 thousand 6 hundred and 60 person-nights every year.

100% 100%

14.30% 23.80%

19% 9.50%

Agriculture Livestock Remittance Hotel/shop Service Wage labor

15

However, there are seasonal fluctuations in flow of guests. In some peak and exceptional

periods, households have also managed more than 84 guests in a day. The two private hotels

managed by the homestay 8 and homestay 11 also provide accommodation in peak seasons.

Amaltari homestay committee has planned to include more houses in coming days.

4.5.2. In room services

Every homestay rooms have attached bathroom and one can find a pair of wooden study table

and chair, a small tool, a mirror, a water jug, a water glass, a mosquito net, a mattress, a pillow

and a blanket covered with white cotton clothes and a slipper, all arranged for the guests' rest and

convenience. The households have also arranged ceiling fan and electric lights in the rooms for

the guest's convenience .Based on the information provided by the respondents, it is known that

all homestay households clean off the guest-rooms and change bed covers every day as required.

4.5.3. Guests' observed tendency of spending money

Table 3-Distribution of respondents according to the tendency of spending money.

Activities Rank

1 2 3 4 5 6

Elephant Ride 0 0 15 2 3 1

Jungle Safari 0 0 4 16 1 0

Souvenirs 0 0 0 0 1 20

Cultural dances 0 21 0 0 0 0

Exploring

homestay

21 0 0 0 0 0

Cart ride 0 0 2 3 16 0

Guests who visit the homestay in Amaltari village can enjoy various outdoor activities like

Exploring homestay, enjoying the cultural food and dance ,jungle safari, cart ride, elephant ride,

visiting nearby CNP, eye-sighting the rare one-horned rhino, deer, birds and the natural beauty

and peace.

16

As per the findings, all households (100 percent) have observed their guests exploring homestay

and have ranked first followed by cultural dance, elephant ride, jungle safari, cart ride and

souvenirs at last.

4.6 Performance of Amaltari homestay

It is a community based homestay program but they individually served their guest after the

decision made by committee to send guest in individual household. They have their own

committee to run homestay program and decide the entire administration activities, booking,

placing and distribution of income with mutual agreement. Committee is responsible to collect

income and it charges 10 percent administration cost and distribute to all community member.

4.6.1 Seasonality and occupancy:

The homestay business in Amaltari is influenced by seasons. The months of August, October,

November, December and January (5 months) are peak business seasons. The guests have flown

in the homestay accordingly. As per the findings, most of the households (61.90 percent)

respondent concluded November as a peak season and 14.30 percent respondent concluded

December and January as peak season. Similarly 4.80 percent respondent concluded August and

October as peak season.

Table 4-Distribution of respondents on their perception on peak months of tourist flow.

S.N. Peak months No of respondents %of respondents

1 Aug 1 4.80%

2 Oct 1 4.80%

3 Nov 13 61.90%

4 Dec 3 14.30%

5 Jan 3 14.30%

6 Total 21 100%


17

4.6.2 Guests inflow

Homestay program gradually attracts more tourist attention in Nepal. The significant number can

be found in homestay program. According to the records maintained by AHMC, around 12

thousand guests had visited the place in fiscal year 2013/14. The homestay was in operation only

for 5 months during this year. As the place started getting fame, a large number of guests visited

the place to take part in the training in the place or observation visit to the place or day tour of

the place. In fiscal year 2014/15, the flow of guests increased to around 14 thousand 7 hundred.

However due to blockage and earthquake, the number of international tourist was very low.

Table 5-Domestic and international visitor in 2013/2014 and 2014/2015.

Source: Field Survey, AHMC 2015

4.6.3 Income from homestay business

As per the data given by management committee of homestay, 21 families keeps guest. Tourism

income has different economic impact to local people, earning form tourism vary enormously.

Common earning from tourism is keeping them as a guest in house. They will charge money for

lodging, for food and service offered at tourist, which is direct income from tourist. Under

tourism income only direct income earned from tourism is considered as tourism income for

study purpose, though it has indirect and induced economic impact (Daniel J. Stynes).

According to the records maintained by AHMC, total income in fiscal year 2013/14 was around

78 lakhs. As the place started getting fame, a large number of guests visited the place to take part

in the training in the place or observation visit to the place or day tour of the place. In fiscal year

2014/15, the total income was around 57 lakhs.

Year Domestic visitor International visitor

2013/14 12000 44

2014/2015 14700 9

Total 26,700 53

18

Table 6-Income from homestay in 2013/2014 and 2014/2015.

S.N Year Total income

1 2013/2014 7800000

2 2014/2015 5700000

3 Total 1,3500000

Source: AHMC Record, 2015

4.6.4Saving of income from homestay

Table 7-Saving of income from homestay

S.N Income saved from homestay No of respondents Percentage of

respondents

1 25-50% 15 71.4

2 more than 50% 6 28.6

3 Total 21 100.0


Around 71.4 percent of the respondent concluded that they save 25-50 percent of income from

homestay while 28.6 percent of the respondent concluded that they more than 50 percent of

income from homestay.

4.6.5 Promotional Activities

Around 28.30 percent guests said they knew about this place from their friends, relatives and

social network, and 45 percent guests said also they heard about the place in different programs,

committee meetings and organizations. Similarly 11.70 percent guests said they got information

about this place from Travel agents and 15 percent guests said they knew about this place from

Advertisement. The figure below presents the findings:

19

Figure 3-Promotional Activities

This shows that this homestay is largely running with the event hosted by homestay and word-of-

mouth marketing. Social media like newspaper, television, radio and government agencies have,

so far, not used to promote it.

4.7 Economic impact

4.7.1 Infrastructures developed in the community by homestay

With the increasing number of visitor in homestay, community people are generating a good

amount of money every month. According to the management committee and the respondents,

they were able to make a comfortable and concrete house for their living.Other infrastructure

developed includes drinking water taps in every house, health post with in a village and cultural

program hall. They also said that they are planning to blacktop the road to Amalatari village in

coming years.

4.7.2 Annual average per capita income (Rs) of the respondents by wealth class

The total per capita income of the rich household is Rs 7468.66 and the total per capita income

of the poor household is Rs 2716.5. The total per capita income of the rich household from

homestay income is Rs 2486.73 and the total per capita income of the rich household from

homestay income is Rs 1917.71. The share of homestay in total income for rich is 32.29% and

the share of homestay in total income for rich is 70.59%. In absolute term rich people generate

28.30%

45%

11.70% 15%

Friends and Relatives Program, committees &organizations

Travel agent Advertisement

20

more income but in relative term poor people generate more income from homestay .This shows

the contribution of homestay income is more important to poor than to rich.

Table 8-Annual average per capita income (Rs) of the respondents by wealth class

Wealth Class Annual average per

capita income from (Rs)

Monthly average per capita

homestay income (Rs)

Share of homestay in

total income

Rich 7468.66 2486.73 33.29%

Poor 2716.5 1917.71 70.59%


4.7.3 Contribution of homestay on economic sector

According to the response extent of impact of homestay in economic sector was found that

homestay contributes more to increase the income of local people and for creating jobs to local

people followed by improvement of infrastructures and generating fund for investment in other

community development activities.All the respondent agreed that homestay have increased the

income of local people, homestay have created jobs to local people, increased the income of

local people and created jobs to local people.19.04 percent of respondent agreed that homestay

have helped in the improvement of infrastructures and 14.29 percent of respondent agreed that

homestay have helped in in generations of fund for investment in other community development

activities.

Figure 4-Contribution of homestay on economic sector

100% 100%

19.05% 14.30%

Increase the income oflocal people

Create jobs to local people Improvement ofinfrastructures

Generations fund forinvestment in other

community developmentactivities

21

4.7.4 Land prices in the area

All the respondents and the management committee of Amaltari homestay said that homestay

program have significantly increased the price of land of Amaltari Village.

4.8 Social impact

4.8.1 Institutions established by homestay

Amaltari homestay is a community homestay program. Entry and distribution of the guests is

done on the rotational basis. The number of guests are distributed equally every month to each

household. They have established saving credit group.

4.8.2 Contribution of homestay in social sector

As per the findings, all respondents (100 percent) have said that homestay have increased

community pride and 85.7 percent respondents said that homestay have improved the

relationship of people with in the community. Similarly, 70 percent respondents said that

homestay have helped to enhance the standard of life and have empowered women , 33.33

percent respondent said that homestay have helped to build community based organization and

19.05 percent respondents said that homestay have helped to provide better education.

Figure 5-Contribution of homestay in social sector


85%

100%

19.05% 33.33%

100%

Community relation Provide communitypride

Helps to providebetter education

Helps to buildcommunity based

organization

Womenempowerment

22

4.8.3 Homestay and women empowerment

Homestay have provided women opportunity with in their home to earn some money to support

her family. It has been an ample utilization of their free time in constructive works. Homestay

have helped to improve the relations of women with in the community. They have become

economically independent and empowered at the same time. They have got the opportunity to

attend different tourism and homestay related training programs, which have enhanced their

skills and capabilities. Their communication skills are improving, as they have to deal with their

guests. It is playing an important role in making women strong, independent, capable and

business-oriented. They are making money and that is improving their standard of living.

4.8.4 Skill and capacity building trainings

Skill development trainings are the ways to make women empowered and capable. Women and

youths of Amaltari have been provided with various skill development trainings by organizations

like World Wildlife Fund (WWF), BZ management committee and Taragaun Bikas Samiti.

Table 9-Types of training, supporting organizations, their duration and participants by

sex.

S.N. Types of

trainings

Supporting

organization

Duration of the

training

Participants

Male Female

1 Tourist guide BZ management

committee

3 months 3

2 Handicraft

training

BZ management

committee

3 months 50

3 Hospitality

management

WWF 2 days (2 times) 21

4 Basic cook

training

Taragaun Bikas

Samiti

3 days 21


23

4.8.5. Contribution of homestay in youth empowerment

Youth are the most active member of the society . 85.71 percent respondents said that homestay

programme is providing job orientd training program for youths. 80.95 percent respondents said

that homestay is providing direct involvement of youth in homestay. Most of the members of the

homestay committee are youths. They have very active participation in serving guests,

management as well as cultural programs. 71.42% of Respondents said that homestay have

provided education and involvement.

Figure 6-Contribution of homestay in youth empowerment

4.9 Cultural aspect

4.9.1 Cultural activities conducted

Tharu culture is one of the main attractions of Amaltari homestay .According to the visitor and

the respondent perception, visitor main attraction and preferred activity is exploring homestay

and its cultural dance. Some of the cultural activities conducted are temple visit, festival

celebration, dance programs, cultural food and Tharu museum visit.

4.9.2 Conservation of culture

Homestay is the way people with different cultures and traditions are exposed to each other and

share their norms and values. Guests learn the local values and norms whereas they also share

85.71% 80.95% 71.42%

Job oriented training programfor youths

Direct involvement in HSprogram

Education and involvement

24

their norms and values to the host families. They have a cultural group with 10 male and 15

female members who are actively participating in the cultural activities. Management committee

said that 10 percent of total income is allocated for cultural activities.

4.10 Environment Sector

Environment is the prerequisite as well as important product as well as attraction of any tourism

destination. Well-planned and managed tourism can contribute the preservation of destination

environment where as the failure to recognize it may degrade the destination attractiveness.

4.10.1 Contribution of homestay on environment sector

As per the findings, all respondents (100 percent) have said that homestay have raise awareness

of the need of conservation and increased plantation activities. 52.38 percent respondents said

that homestay have fostered environmental education. Similarly, 38.10 percent respondent said

that homestay have helped to study the potential pollution of the area and 9.52 percent

respondents said that homestay have helped to introduction of alternative source of energy.

Figure 7-Contribution of homestay on environment sector

4.10.2 Consumption rate of fuel wood

Fuel wood is the most important source of energy in all the settlements. Although the alternatives

source of energy is electricity, gas and kerosene but the consumption rate of fuel wood is very

high.

100%

52.38%

9.52%

38.10%

100%

Raise awareness ofthe need of

conservation

Fosterenvironmental

education

Introduction ofalternative source of

energy

Helps to study thepotential pollution

of the area

Plantation activities

25

4.10.3 Contribution of homestay program in biodiversity conservation

With an example of linking local people with nature, the Amaltari Buffer Zone consumers‟

committee under the CNP has started the homestay program in 20 houses of Tharu community at

Agyauli-5. Various ecotourism sites, such as conservation areas and national parks, are situated

in rural areas which have huge ecological and biological diversity with fascinating indigenous

cultures (Hawkins & Lamoureux, 2001, 63-72). Annapurna conservation area, Langtang

conservation area, Chitwan National park are the finest examples of community and ecotourism

sites in Nepal. In these places community people are responsible to protect the ecological and

biological diversity. The local communities and homestay operator from these places try to

attract visitors by promoting natural beauty with its large scale of conservation of forest, heritage

site which are situated in the community level. Such activities help to save the ecology for the

future generation and it also generates economic activities and increases healthy and wealthy

lifestyles. Argeuli VDC is situated near Chitwan National Park, a famous tourist destination for

wildlife and jungle safari in Nepal. Biodiversity being one of the major attractions of Amalatari

homestay, the member of AHC works itself as a patrol team. Establishment of the homestay in

the area has raise awareness and interest of local people towards biodiversity conservation.

4.10.4 Type of pollution and their level

Tourism causes the same form of pollution as any other industry. All of the respondents

concluded that the level of air, noise and land pollution is low. 85.70 percent of the respondents

concluded that the level of water pollution is low and14.30 percent of respondents concluded it is

medium. 81 percent of the respondents concluded that the level of solid waste is low and 19

percent of respondents concluded it is medium. The growing concern of local people and the

homestay committee has succeeded to reduce the level of pollution. They conduct regular

cleanliness programs and have installed garbage collection rings in homestay area.

26

Figure 8-Type of pollution and their level

4.11 Satisfaction level of visitor

4.11.1. Hospitality and service

The hospitality of host community to the guest was also studied through perception of visitors as

well as the community. 100 percent visitors perceived that the host community is very

hospitable.

Table 10-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on hospitality and service in the

homestay area.

Perception Number Percentage

Very hospitable 60 100%

Hospitable 0 0%

Poorly hospitable 0 0%

Total 60 100%

4.11.2 Food and taste:

The food provided by host community to the guest was also studied through perception of

visitors as well as the community. 60 percent visitor perceived that the food provided as very

satisfactory followed by 40 percent visitors who concluded the food as satisfactory.

14.30% 19%

100% 85.70%

100% 100% 81%

Air Water Noise Land Solid waste

1 2 3 4 5

Medium Low

27

Table 11-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on food and taste in the homestay

area.


Very satisfactory 36 60%

Satisfactory 24 40%

Poorly satisfactory 0 0%

Total 60 100%

4.11.3 Culture and cultural dance

The culture and cultural dance provided by host community to the guest was also studied through

perception of visitors as well as the community.80 percent visitor perceived that the food

provided as very satisfactory followed by 20 percent visitors who concluded the culture and

cultural dance as satisfactory.

Table 12-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on cultural and cultural dance in

the homestay area.


Very satisfactory 48 80%

Satisfactory 12 20%


Total 60 100%

4.11.4 Information

The information provided by host community to the guest was also studied through perception of

visitors as well as the community. 21.7 percent visitor perceived that the food provided as very

satisfactory followed by 70 percent visitors who concluded the information as satisfactory and

8.3 percent visitor concluded information as poorly satisfactory.

28

Table 13-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on information in the homestay

area.


Very satisfactory 13 21.7%

Satisfactory 42 70%

Poorly satisfactory 5 8.3%

Total 60 100%

4.11.5 Transportation system

The transportation system provided by host community to the guest was also studied through

perception of visitors as well as the community. 48.3 percent visitor perceived that the food

provided as very satisfactory followed by 30 percent visitors who concluded the transportation

system as satisfactory. 21.7 percent visitor concluded transportation system as poorly

satisfactory.

Table 14-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on transportation facility to the

homestay area.



Satisfactory 18 30%


Total 60 100%

4.11.6 Means of communication

Table 15-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on means of communication in the

homestay area.



Satisfactory 48 80%


Total 60 100%

29

The means of communication provided by host community to the guest was also studied through

perception of visitors as well as the community.13.3 percent visitor perceived that the food

provided as very satisfactory followed by 80 percent visitors who concluded the food as

satisfactory and 6.7 percent visitor concluded means of communication as poorly satisfactory.

4.11.7 Attractions and activities

The attractions and activities provided by host community to the guest was also studied through

perception of visitors as well as the community. 71.7 percent visitor perceived that the attractions

and activities provided as very satisfactory followed by 23.3 percent visitors who concluded the

food as satisfactory and 5 percent visitor concluded attractions and activities as poorly

satisfactory.

Table 16-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on attractions and activities in the

homestay area.



Satisfactory 14 23.3%


Total 60 100%

4.11.8 Security

The security provided by host community to the guest was also studied through perception of

visitors as well as the community. 78.3 percent visitor perceived that the security provided as

very satisfactory followed by 21.7 percent visitors who concluded the security as satisfactory.

Table 17-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on security in the homestay area.





30

Total 60 100%

4.11.9 Price

The price of food, and services provided by host community to the guest was also studied

through perception of visitors as well as the community. 58.3 percent visitor perceived that the

price of food, and services provided as very satisfactory followed by 41.7 percent visitors who

concluded the price of food, and services as satisfactory.

Table 18-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on price of food, and services in the

homestay area.





Total 60 100%

4.11.10 Local place and environment

The satisfaction with local place and environment to the guest was also studied through

perception of visitors as well as the community. 83.3 percent visitor perceived that the local

place and environment as very satisfactory followed by 16.7 percent visitors who concluded the

local place and environment as satisfactory.

Table 19-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on local place and environment in

the homestay area.


Very satisfactory 50 83.3



Total 60 100%

31

4.12 Factors considering the increase in satisfaction

There are several factors that determine level of satisfaction. Some of the factors considering the

increase in satisfaction are decrease in price, increase in quality, increase in activities and

increase in services.28.3 percent of the respondents concluded that decrease in price can increase

in the level of satisfaction and 95 percent of the respondent concluded that increase in quality can

increase the level of satisfaction. Similarly 86.7 percent of the respondents concluded that

increase in activities can increase in the level of satisfaction and 88.3 percent of the respondent

concluded that increase in services can increase the level of satisfaction.

Table 20-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on factors considering the increase

in satisfaction.

Options No of Respondents Percentage of Respondents

Decrease in Price 17 28.3%

Increase in Quality 57 95%

Increase in activities 52 86.7%

Increase in services 53 88.3%

4.13 Willingness to visit again

The willingness of the guest to visit homestay again was also studied through perception of

visitors.81.7 percent said that they would like to visit the destination again and again in the

coming days and 18.3 percent said that they were not sure about visiting the destination again.

Table 21-Distribution of the visitors by their perception on their willingness to visit again.

Willingness to visit again No of Respondents Percentage of Respondents

Yes 49 81.7

don‟t know 11 18.3

32

CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion:

Despite potentiality to grow and efforts made to promote the tourism sector of Nepal, the sector

has failed to contribute significantly in the country's GDP. A reason for such poor performance

might be low accommodation capacity with the tourism industries in Nepal. To develop

alternative touristic destinations, meet the government's target of 2 million tourists by 2020 and

distribute tourism benefits up to the common people, the government has issued Homestay

Operating Guidelines in 2011. Encouraged by visit of Tharu homestay of Bardiya and with the

support of TAL to promote conservation based livelihoods, the Tharu community from Amaltari,

Nawalparasi has started their Amaltari Tharu homestay village since May 2013.

In order to study this homestay and its contribution on the social sector, economic sector,

environment sector, culture conservation, women and youth empowerment, conservation of

biodiversity. 81 different respondents from homestay households, guests and the homestay

management committee were selected. A focus group discussion was also conducted. The

findings of the study have been concluded as given below:

With an example of linking local people with nature, the Amaltari Buffer Zone

consumers‟ committee under the CNP has started the homestay program in 20 houses of

Tharu community at Agyauli-5 in the district. .The committee started the program in 20

houses to attract tourist in May 19, 2013. The place is the first place of Nawalparasi

district having a homestay.

Presently, there are 21 households included in the homestay system. This homestay has

provided direct employments to 53 members, largely of them are women. Hence, it has

emerged as a sample of female-led and female-managed homestay in Nepal. Initially,

income and utilization of the free time was the main motivating factor for these

households for taking homestay profession. Apart from homestay, households also take

other professions, mainly agriculture.

The present capacity of this homestay is 84 beds and this account for 30 thousand 6

hundred and 60 person-nights annually.

Neither the committee nor the government agencies have done much to promote this

homestay in domestic market. Despite insufficient promotion, around 26 thousand 7

33

hundred 9 persons have been recorded to have visited the place till Dec 30, 2015. The

visitors have, however, gained information about this place through their friends,

relatives and social network as well as participation in programs, meetings and seminars.

The homestay business in Amaltari is influenced by seasons. The months of August,

October, November, December and January (5 months) are peak business seasons with

highest flow of visitor in November.

According to the records maintained by AHMC, around 27 thousand guests had visited

the place from May 2013 to Dec 2015.

The share of homestay in total income for rich is 32.29% and the share of homestay

income in total income for poor is 70.59%. The contribution of homestay income is more

important to poor than to rich.

According to the records maintained by AHMC, total income from May 2013 to Dec

2015 is 1 crore 35 lakhs.

According to the response extent of contribution of homestay in economic sector was

found that homestay contributes more to increase the income of local people and for

creating jobs to local people followed by improvement of infrastructures and generating

fund for investment in other community development activities.

According to the response extent of contribution of homestay in social sector was found

that homestay contributes more to community pride , have empowered women and have

improved the relationship of people with in the community followed by enhanced

standard of life , development of community based organization and provision of better

education .

According to the response extent of impact of homestay in environment sector was found

that homestay contributes more to plantation activities and raise awareness of

conservation activities followed by fostering environment education and study of

potential pollution.

Visitors were more satisfied with the service and hospitality, culture and local

environment and least satisfied with the visitor information center and means of

communication.

Increase in services, quality and activities is more important to increase in the level of

satisfaction than decrease in price.

34

Recommendations:

Following recommendations have been made based on the findings of the research and

the conclusion made for the sustainability of tourism in Amaltari Tharu homestay.

Accommodation facilities and services should be increased and improved.

Information facilities should be improved through the destination. It includes internet

facility at the destination, web site of the destination, enough display of information at

Information center and adequate signpost and arrow post on the route.

Cultural tourism package should be more improved and local guide should be more

capable in interpreting the Tharu history, culture and lifestyle. Some local guidebook

comprising all places and subjects of tourist attractions should be developed in local

Tharu and English language.

More emphasis should be given to improve sanitation, personal health and hygienic

condition through awareness and coordinated efforts with District health Office.

Emphasis should be given to improve education level of the community.

Efforts should be initiated to reduced seasonality by increased tourist product and

publicity/promotion.

Community should be mobilized to keep kitchen gardening, mushroom, local foods,

fishery etc.

In order to promote all homestay systems through its policies, the government should

come up with a comprehensive homestay promotion program.

Arranging trainings to the households to improve their skills relating to cooking, service

delivery, hospitality and communication.

Linking the Amaltari village with markets (tours and travel agencies in the capital and

through webs) and the potential foreign visitors.

The government should come up with a comprehensive homestay promotion program.

Formulating long-term plans for development and sustainability of the homestay.

35

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39

ANNEX-1

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

1. What is the name of home-stay and address?

2. How many households are involved in home-stay program?

3. What is the process of formation of the management committee??

4. Registration process of home-stay/ home-stay committee? (when/where)

5. How are guests distributed, rules and trends in the home-stay?

6. How is cultural activities performed in home-stay? (Individually, group performance or other

participant)

7. How are the cultural activities promoted in the home-stay?

8. What are the organizations supporting the home-stay program technically, financially, policy and other

institutional support?

9. Role of male and female in home-stay and entrepreneurship?

10. Did you receive any complaints from the visitors regarding the services and the facilities?

11. What are you doing to promote your home-stay program?

12. How many guests did you receive this year compared to the last year? What's the trend?

13. Do you agree that home-stay program is making significant contribution in natural and cultural

resources conservation: if yes, how if no, what is not working?

14.How women are empowered from HS program And what is the role of women in it?

15.How youths are empowered and what's the contribution of HS program

16. Do you think the rules and regulations of Government of Nepal are in favor of home-stay program if

not what should it be?

40

ANNEX-2

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR HOUSEHOLD SURVEY

Date:

Data collector: ....................

1. Household No

a. Name of Respondent.................................... Name of HH head……………………….

b. Age of Respondent ..............................years Age of HH head …………………………

c. Sex of Respondent: i. Male ii. Female

d. Education of Respondent............................. Education of the HH head...................

e. Religion: i. Hindu ii Buddhist

iii. Muslim iv. Christian v. Othes

f. Ethnicity: i. Bhramin ii. Chhetri

iii. Tharu iv. Others

g. Family Size .........................

j. Land holding (in Kattha) of the Respondent family:

i. Khet………………… ii. Bari …………………

iii. Gaderi……………… iv. Kharbari…………… v. Other-………

Q.2. How long have you (family) been living here? ............... Years

Q.3. Do you provide home-stay service in your home?

i. YES ii. NO [if answer is NO then go-Q4]

If yes, i. Motivational Factors:

a) Improve family Income

b) Use free time in constructive work

c) Conservation of nature

d) Conservation of culture- cultural exchange

ii. How long have you been providing this service?............ Years

iii. What is the monthly flow of guests in peak seasons? ……..…. Guests

b. Management: i. Private ii. Community

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If private, i. Certified ii. Not certified

c. How many tourists you can accommodate a day?...............

d. Average length of stay per tourist in your homestay?.....................days

e. In which months you receive highest number of tourists in your home-stay? ...........................

f. What percentage of tourists coming to your home-stay is domestic? …………………Percentage.

g. What are the basic facilities you are providing?

S.N Facilities YES NO

1 Private Bedroom

2 Kitchen Access

h. Did you get any loan facility to establish home-stay? If any other facility mention.

Yes No

If yes i. Local cooperatives ii. Government iii Private Bank

iv WWF v. Others

Q. 4. If you are not operating a home-stay service, please list three most important reasons of not

operating a homestay?

a) First most important reason: …………………….

b) Second most important reason: …………………

c) Third most important reason: ………………….

Economic aspect:

Q.1. What are the major sources of your family income (record last year income)? Specification

of each income category.

S.N Income sources Amount in Rs./year Rank

1. Agriculture

2. Livestock

3. Remittance

4. Pension

5 Tourism(homestay) activity

6. Service

7. If others specify

2. How many people are directly involved in tourism activity? What do they do?

S.N. Heading of income No of people involved

Male Female

1. Running home-stay

2. Selling handicraft

3. General store

4. Renting out vehicle

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5. Guide to tourism

6. Transportation service

7. If others specify

3. What % of the total income from the tourism activity is saved?

i. Less than 25% ii. 25-50% iii. more than 50%

4.What are the infrastructures developed in your community through home-stay?

a...............................

b……………………

c………………….....

5.How many guests visit the home-stay per month and their monthly flow?

6.Contribution of homestay on economic sector.

S.N Impacts Yes No

1 Increase the income of local people

2 Create jobs to local people

3 Improvement of infrastructures

4 Generations fund for investment in other community

development activities

7. Money spent by those tourists in different activities? Rank them.

S.N Activities Rank

1 Elephant Ride

2 Jungle Safari

3 Souvenirs

4 Cultural dances

5 Exploring homestay

6 Cart ride

9. Homestay in site increasing the land price in area?

Social aspect

1. What are the institutions established after the home-stay program?. .

2. Community people‟s relation improved after the home-stay program?

i. very good ii. good iii. same iv. worst

3. Contribution of home stay on social sector

Impacts Yes No

Provide community pride

Help to enhance the standard of life

Helps to provide better education

Helps to build community based organization

43

Women empowerment

3. What types of skill and capacity building trainings are provided to the local people?

S.N. Activities Supporting

organization

Duration of the

training

Participant/hh

Male Female

1 Tourist guide

2 Handicraft training

3 Organic farming

4 Hospitality

management

5 If others specify

Cultural aspect:

1. What type of cultural activities are conducted?

(Temple visit, festival celebration, dance programs, cultural food , Tharu museum visitetc.)

2. How home stay program has helped youth empowerment?

Activity YES NO

Job oriented training program for youths

Direct involvement in HS program

Education and involvement

If others specify

3. Home-stay has contributed in conservation of culture?

i. Yes ii No iii. Don't know

Environmental impacts:

1. Contribution of tourism on environment sector.

S.N Impacts Yes No

1 Raise awareness of the need of conservation

2 Foster environmental education

3 Introduction of alternative source of energy

4 Helps to study the potential pollution of the area

5 Plantation activities

6. Sanitation program

2. Consumption of fuelwood

a. high b. medium c. low

3.Type of Pollution and their level

S.N Pollution High Medium Low

1 Air

2 Water

3 Noise

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4 Land

5 Solid waste

Other Questions:

1.Does HS guests hosting affect your family privacy?

2. Did you find any home stay guests not respecting your moral and cultural values?

3. How comfortable are your kids with having HS guests routinely in your house?

4. What governmental support you want for the support of HS program?

45

ANNEX-3

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR VISITORS SURVEY

1. Name of Visitor: 2. Date of Visit:

3. Sex of the visitor 4. Age of the Visitor:

5. Address of the visitor:

6. Have you previously visited homestay? a. First time b. Second time

c. Numerous time d. Not sure

7. How do you come to know about this homestay?

a. Friends and Relatives b. Program, committees & organization c. Travel agents

d. Advertisement

8. Level of satisfaction

S.N. List of things or activities

Satisfied(1) Neutral(2) Dissatisfied(3)

1 Service and hospitality 1 2 3

2 Food and taste 1 2 3

3 Culture and cultural dance 1 2 3

4 Tourist information center 1 2 3

5 Transportation facility 1 2 3

6 Communication 1 2 3

7 Attraction and activities 1 2 3

8 Security 1 2 3

9 Price of food and services

1 2 3

10 Local place and environment 1 2 3

9.what factor must be considered to increase tourist satisfaction:

Options Yes No

Decrease in Price

Increase in Quality

Increase in activities

Increase in services

10.Would you like to visit again? a. Yes b. No c. Don't know

46

PHOTO PLATE

Documents

Assessment of Homestay Program at Amaltari Village …learningportal.wwfnepal.org/dashlib/files/4.Karuna Karki_Homestay...Assessment of Homestay Program at Amaltari Village of Nawalparasi,