By inviting guests into their homes, these women are hosts, storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and champions of sustainable tourism all at once.
Bhutan’s Department of Tourism says their journeys highlight how community-based tourism can empower women, preserve Bhutan’s heritage and support local economies.
“The success of Bhutan’s women-run homestays reflects the strength and innovation of our women,” says Damcho Rinzin, the Director of the Department of Tourism.
“Their dedication to cultural preservation and sustainable tourism is inspiring, proving that empowerment begins at home.
“Through hospitality, Bhutanese women are redefining economic independence and cultural leadership.
“Their homestays are more than places to stay; they are experiences woven with history, resilience and warmth.”
Discover the stories from homestays across the country below:
Yeshi Choden Homestay, Zhemgang
In 2021, Yeshi Choden and her husband embarked on an ambitious journey into homestay tourism in Buli, Zhemgang Dzongkhag (district). It was a journey marked by challenges, perseverance and community support. Coming from a large farming family, Yeshi envisioned diversifying their livelihood by opening their home to guests, despite the uncertainties that lay ahead.
At the outset, gaining local acceptance for the homestay concept was a significant challenge. Skepticism from the community made the transition difficult, but undeterred, Yeshi and her husband sought guidance from the Dzongkhag authorities. With encouragement from government initiatives and support from the Department of Tourism, they found the motivation and resources needed to turn their vision into reality.
A pivotal moment in their journey came during a 10-day training program in Phobjikha, organized by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN). There, Yeshi and her family acquired essential skills, from arranging guest accommodations and maintaining hygienic facilities to mastering traditional Bhutanese cuisine. This hands-on experience empowered them to transform their home into a warm and inviting space that offers an authentic cultural experience.
Today, Yeshi Choden’s homestay stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation, demonstrating how rural tourism can thrive alongside traditional farming. Beyond supplementing their income, the homestay has enriched the local tourism landscape, providing visitors with an immersive experience of Bhutanese life. Yeshi’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, training, and community support in creating new opportunities for rural women entrepreneurs.
For bookings, contact +97517483910 / +97517740438
Naktsang Homestay, Trashigang
At the heart of Naktsang village in Trashigang Dzongkhag stands a charming traditional house, rich in Bhutanese heritage. This is the home of Deki Pelden, who has been welcoming guests since 2018, offering an authentic Bhutanese experience. With just three rooms, her homestay is more than a place to stay; it’s a glimpse into Bhutan’s culture and the daily lives of Bhutanese locals in remote villages. Deki and her family are dedicated to preserving traditional architecture and hospitality.
However, her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Initially, attracting visitors was difficult, and even today, the rough 9km road from the main road remains a major hurdle. Despite this, Deki has carved a niche by offering immersive cultural experiences. Most guests visit for activities like savoring a traditional Bhutanese lunch and tasting local village wine (ara), bringing valuable income and exposure to her homestay. Through her homestay, she not only sustains her family but also shares the beauty of Bhutanese traditions with the world.
For bookings, contact +97517116766
Kuenzang Dechen-Thukten Tshering Homestay, Trashiyangtse
In the tranquil village of Bumdeling in Tashiyangtse Dzongkhag, Kuenzang Dechen has been a trailblazer for women’s empowerment through her homestay. For over a decade, she has welcomed guests into her home, offering an authentic Bhutanese cultural experience.
With a family of nine primarily dependent on farming, Kuenzang ventured into tourism, inspired by government support and the Department of Tourism’s homestay initiative. Despite early challenges, including limited amenities and few visitors, she remained determined, believing in her community’s potential.
Today, Kuenzang hosts 20-30 guests annually, earning a modest but meaningful income. Her homestay not only supplements her family’s livelihood but also provides visitors with an immersive experience of Bhutan’s rural charm, traditional cuisine and warm hospitality.
Kuenzang’s journey reflects the resilience of Bhutanese women breaking barriers and creating opportunities.
For bookings, contact +97517659821
Chencho Dema Homestay, Paro
In the scenic valley of Paro, Chencho Dema’s homestay has been a symbol of warmth and hospitality since 2017. With a family of seven primarily dependent on farming, she ventured into tourism with support from the Department of Tourism.
Starting out was challenging as renovating rooms, upgrading toilets, and improving guest comfort required significant effort. Yet, Chencho and her family remained committed to offering visitors an authentic Bhutanese experience.
Between 2017 and 2019, her homestay thrived, attracting travellers seeking traditional hospitality. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought setbacks, with lockdowns and travel restrictions impacting business from 2020 to 2023.
However, with the revival of tourism, her homestay has regained momentum, now welcoming 200-300 guests annually. This has strengthened her family’s income and reaffirmed the value of community-based tourism.
For bookings, contact +97517675757
Choden’s Homestay, Haa
Situated in Dumcho valley n Haa, Choden’s Homestay, once a simple farmhouse, has been transformed to offer additional cozy rooms, welcoming guests to a comfortable haven. The journey to establish the homestay wasn’t without its challenges, especially financial. Yet, Choden and her family persevered, welcoming visitors into their homes.
Despite the uncertainties brought on by the pandemic, the commitment to creating a welcoming space remains unwavering. Choden and her family ensure that the guest experience is one of comfort, warmth and authentic connection. In Haa, where traditional ways of making a living through farming and animals prevail, the homestay becomes a unique opportunity for visitors to share in the rich fabric of the community. Choden’s Homestay is not just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to become a part of their story, to discover the beauty of Haa, and to forge connections that go beyond the ordinary. Visitors are eagerly awaited, to share the warmth of Choden’s family.
For bookings, contact +97517718795 or visit https://services.bhutan.travel/search/homestay/choden-homestay
