Namje Village, located in the lush hills of the Dhankuta District of eastern Nepal, is a tranquil paradise for relaxation and the discovery of a rich culture and natural beauty, all in the name of sustainable tourism. Situated at an elevation of about 1,585 meters in the Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality, this Magar community village has put up a number of community-based homestays and it boasts spectacular scenery.
A Look at Namje’s Beauty
Namje is recognized for its terraced farm fields, old Magar-style houses, and magnificent views of the world’s 5th-highest peak (Mt. Makalu). The name “Namje” translates to “eaten sweet potato” in the Magar language, reflecting the agricultural roots of the community. The village’s charm lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its vibrant cultural practices and warm hospitality.
The Homestay Initiative
In 2013, Namje Village launched a community-based homestay program that served as a significant development in the community. This initiative has provided local families an opportunity to accommodate visitors, with 19 of the 30 households providing accommodation. Each homestay has a capacity of 80 guests per day and may be as high as 100 people, with many domestic and overseas tourists experiencing an authentic experience of Nepal.
The homestay experience in Namje is authentic and rooted in its daily village life, and visitors who eat authentic Magar food, like dal bhat, are encouraged to take part in cultural practices like traditional dancing and music. As well as visiting, these cultural interactions do much to validate our travel experiences, and also play important parts in preservation and fostering the cultural heritage of the Magar community.
Economic and Social Impacts
The villagers have seen their households develop into homestays – with households that are homestays, on average, earning around NPR 50,000 a month. It has become an easier and allopathic way for the residents to develop their standard of living and contribute to their village development. Further, the homestay program has educated communities about sanitation and hygiene, which has assisted in the cleanliness of their surroundings, even in the community’s living conditions.
Also, and different from the economic benefits, the homestay program has instilled a sense of pride among the villagers. The people utilized their cultural practices and traditions in their best interests and believed a resurgence in their heritage was worth celebrating.
Adventure and activities
Namje Village is rich with many attractions and adventures for both the avid nature god and those looking for cultural ambrosia. Visitors can hike to Thumki Dada, the ‘Place of Spirits’, to view the beautiful sunsets and witness ‘Atma Ghar’, a memorial of the ancestors made by 24 architects from various countries in 2011.
There are many other attractions around Namje Village as well, including Namaste Falls, Rani Lake in Rajarani and Dhoje Dada, each of which has a unique experience and view from their respective places. For the adventure-seeker, there are activities such as white-water rafting and paragliding to make the most of your time in this area.
Planning your visit
Namje will ideally be visited in the spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) because of the pleasant weather and clear views. Travellers can travel from Kathmandu to Biratnagar by plane and then travel the 57 km to Bhedetar Bazar, followed by a hike up to the village itself. Alternatively, travellers can take a bus from Kathmandu to Bhedetar, which will take roughly 13 hours.
Guests stay through the community homestay program, where you will be provided with a comfortable room equipped with modern conveniences for you to thoroughly enjoy your stay. Guests can also enjoy three meals per day and partake in excursions to the village to experience culture, wildlife, scenery, and other activities.
Conclusion
Namje Village is a great example of the benefits of tourism for communities. The homestay project has allowed the community of Namje Village to maintain their cultural identity, and also benefits the residents in an economic capacity. For travellers who wish to have an authentic and immersive experience in Nepal, Namje offers an often overlooked opportunity to experience the heart of rural living, where nature, typical cultural life, and the warm hospitality of its people converge.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Namje located?
Namje is a hilltop village in the Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality of the Dhankuta District of east Nepal, situated at an elevation of around 1,585 meters (5,200 ft) that offers 360-degree views of adjoining hills and the distant Himalaya (including Mt. Makalu).
2. How do I get to Namje Village from Kathmandu?
There are 2 options to reach Namje from Kathmandu.
- Fly to Biratnagar and then travel about 2-3 hours in a vehicle to Bhedetar Bazar, then hike a short uphill trek to Namje.
- Alternatively, travel on a bus for 13 hours, to Dhankuta or Bhedetar, and then carry on from there.
3. Is Namje a place for international visitors?
Definitely! Namje is looking forward to catering for both local and international visitors. The community homestay program allows guests to have comfortable accommodations, tasty local meals and an abundance of cultural experiences. Many local hosts have at least basic English communication skills.
