Clean and well-managed homestays often play a key role in attracting tourists, even in communities known for their rich culture and unique cuisine. In Shingnyer village, one of the most remote settlements in Bumthang, residents are now exploring community-based tourism. To prepare for the initiative, villagers have undergone health sensitisation and homestay management training to improve hospitality standards and better welcome visitors.
Shingnyer village, known for its rich culture and scenic landscapes, remained largely isolated for many years due to difficult terrain. As a result, opportunities for economic development were limited.
Now, the village is exploring community-based tourism. As residents are hoping to host visitors through homestays and local cuisine, maintaining proper hygiene and standard practices has become increasingly important.
Around twenty villagers attended a health sensitisation programme in the village. The training focused on sanitation, food safety, personal hygiene and maintaining a healthy environment in homes and homestays.
Participants say the sessions are particularly important for rural communities, where access to health information is often limited.
“This programme is very important for people living in the village. It teaches us how to maintain proper hygiene and prevent diseases. We have learned that if we do not keep our surroundings clean, it can lead to various health problems,” said Thinley Chezom, a participant, Shingnyer.
“In the past, this village struggled to maintain proper hygiene. Over time, awareness efforts have led to significant improvements. Holding large gatherings like this helps the community learn even more and reinforces these important practices,” said Dipendra Subba, a health assistant at the Ura Primary Healthcare Centre.
The villagers also received practical training in homestay management and culinary skills.
Trainers showed them how to prepare traditional local dishes while maintaining proper hygiene and hospitality standards expected by tourists.
“When people are coming for this culture events, they can host the guests and guests can pay them. Therefore, they can get some economic benefits through it,” said Sonam Nyendra, the executive director of Druk Nyo Foundation.
The training was organised by Druk Nyo Foundation.
For now, although there are other aspects of community-based tourism that people of Shingnyer will have to work on, the recent training has left them better prepared to welcome visitors.
Thinley Dorji, Bumthang
