Mount Mahabharat Homestay

With a few days left in Nepal, we wanted to get out of Kathmandu and found Kamal's place. It was a lovely escape with fresh air, beautiful views, and good options for relaxing or walking when the weather allowed. We stayed as guests rather than volunteers, but still got to cut sugarcane and make momos. Rain kept us from hiking to the viewpoint, though watching the huge storm from the cozy indoors was a lot of fun. Kamal and family made us feel safe and welcome, and went out of their way to help. Kamal made sure we had the right bus to the farm, helped us get back to Kathmandu, and even arranged lunch and snacks for the journey. The trip each way took 3-4 hours and wasn’t too difficult. Every meal was delicious, among the best Nepali food I’ve had. It was all vegetarian, and they always offered seconds. Our room was cozy with great views when the skies were clear. We’d have stayed much longer if we could. Whether you have a few days or are looking to volunteer for weeks or months, my partner and I highly recommend Mount Mahabharata. Thanks, Kamal and family, for making us feel at home. We hope to return!

A real highlight was gathering honey from the hive built into the kitchen wall. We also spent a few days harvesting wheat, which was hard work but rewarding, and helping with small tasks around the house. The home-cooked meals and snacks were delicious. The whole family welcomed us and made us feel at home. We had a wonderful time volunteering at Mount Mahabharat Homestay, and would love to stay again. Thanks so much for the hospitality.

We stayed with Kamal and his family for a month and came to feel like part of the family. They made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Jenish, the youngest son, is full of energy and a lot of fun to spend time with and learn from. Goma and amaa were warm and friendly, and Kamal was a good guide and host. There wasn’t much farm work while we were there, but Goma and amaa kept us busy chopping vegetables for meals and moving firewood. The food was great throughout, and we got to try so many delicious Nepali dishes. If you can, make momos with the family, it’s fun and so tasty. The location is lovely. The valley was smoggy for much of our stay, but after the rain came, we had a beautiful view of the Himalayas. We learned a lot about rural Nepali culture and life on a farm. If you want a calm, easy retreat and a taste of the simple life for a couple of weeks, this is a great place. We’ll come back on our next trip to Nepal.

Clouds below the hills at sunrise looked like a white ocean, and the view was unforgettable. Around Bethanchowk, the hiking and trekking trails pass through forests, villages, and open hills with lovely views of mountains and valleys. Camping under the stars and breathing the fresh mountain air made it even more special. Nights were quiet, a welcome break from city noise. Mount Mahabharat Homestay and Retreat in Bethanchowk is simple, clean, and welcoming, with the kind of local family hospitality that makes you feel at home from the first day. The organic farm was another highlight: almost all our food came fresh from their garden, including organic vegetables, local rice, homemade pickles, and fresh milk tea. It tasted natural and healthy, just right after a long day outdoors. For a local homestay experience with farm food, hiking, trekking, camping, and beautiful cloud views, I highly recommend it. I’ll definitely be back.