Dhorpatan: The usually bustling homestays nestled in the rural corners of Baglung district have taken a hit as a result of the ongoing monsoon season, with a conspicuous absence of tourists.

Local sources have reported a sharp decline in tourist arrivals to these idyllic villages, a trend that has persisted since the previous year. Faced with this downturn, homestay operators are left with no choice but to turn their attention towards cultivating their fields.

Even the traditionally sought-after tourist destinations within the district, including the revered Kalika Temple, the iconic suspension bridge connecting Baglung to Parbat, and the culturally significant Panchakot and Shaligram Museum, have lost their usual vibrancy due to the scarcity of visitors.

The concept of homestays, which are operated at the community level in Kathekhola Rural Municipality-3, is currently grappling with this unprecedented lull in tourism.

Gopal Shris, the proprietor of the Baldhunga Community Homestay, revealed that they are cautiously optimistic about the prospects of an uptick in tourist activity in the coming weeks. Historically, the monsoon season has been a period of rare tourist influx. Shris pointed out that the relentless monsoon rains have led to severe damage and blockages in the rural road network, significantly impeding the movement of visitors. He emphasized the need for dependable and secure road transportation to reinvigorate the homestay business across the district.

In an attempt to entice visitors, the homestays offer a range of organic products and a delectable assortment of local dishes such as gundruk, dhindo, mutton, chicken, and various potato delicacies, all of which have been appreciated by previous tourists.

Muna Thapamagar, who operates a community homestay in Bhakunde of Baglung Municipality-10, expressed her anticipation for the upcoming winter season—a time that historically witnesses an influx of tourists from various corners of the country. However, the current weather conditions are less than favorable, with cloudy skies and compromised visibility affecting the overall sightseeing experience.

Thapamagar noted that visitor numbers tend to gradually increase after the conclusion of the Teej festival, marking a potential turning point in the current tourism slump.

As the district eagerly awaits the revival of its tourism industry, all hopes are set on the changing seasons and improved road connectivity to breathe life back into the local homestays and tourism destinations.