Nestled in the border village of Chushul, adjacent to China, Sonam’s life is intertwined with the rhythms of farming that sustain the community. In 2023, Sonam opened her doors to travelers, transforming her home into a place to live for the travelers. Since then, hosting guests has not only brought joy but also become a source of income, providing a livelihood for Sonam. With over 40 guests in the current season, the experience of hosting has been fulfilling, and she eagerly anticipates welcoming more travelers to the region. Sonam envisions tourism as a key contributor to the economic development of women in the area, fostering a positive outlook for the future.
Deeply engaged in village initiatives, Dorje demonstrated a profound enthusiasm for the electrification project. Collaborating with engineers, he actively contributed to resolving the energy poverty issues in his community. His dream of making a positive impact and fostering development in his own village finally materialized. Dorje and his team underwent training provided by the International Astronomical Union, equipping them to operate a telescope for observing planets and stars. With a telescope installed in their village, a dedicated team conducts captivating astronomy sessions for their guests, sharing their passion for the celestial wonders above.
The benefits of homestay-based tourism for the local communities are manifold. It allows a consistent flow of travellers to the rural economies, thus creating multiple livelihood opportunities for the locals. By creating jobs in these remote villages, they help curb urban migration and cultural loss, even as they help the communities aspire for a better future.