The journey from the end of the trail to the homestay community was an endurance-filled one, marked by bumpy roads, long drives, a stay in Kathmandu, and a finale requiring a hike down to the community itself.
But, goodness, has it been worth it! Check out these views from the community:
When our weary travelers arrived, they were greeted in a traditional welcoming ceremony, where a katah (scarf) is placed around their necks as a blessing. They then met their homestay families, and began settling in. Take a look at photos of the ceremony and first impressions of the homestay community below!
While they’re living in the homestay community, our travelers will be conducting a community service project. This year, they’re helping re-build a school that was destroyed in the 2015 earthquake. In the photos below, you can take a look at the site itself (overseen by local site managers), the process of passing dirt and rocks to lay the foundation, and the hard work it takes to crush rocks in order to use them for concrete. Everyone is hard at work!
While they’re in the homestay community, our travelers are still alongside their local guides, Binod and Bolle, who often surprise them with delicious treats. The most recent was this apple-chocolate pie. Wish we could have a slice!