Asian Journal of Sociological Research

Homestays in Ilam district, Nepal, have emerged as a significant community-based tourism initiative contributing to rural development, cultural preservation, and local livelihoods. Despite their growing importance, limited scholarly attention has been paid to the socio-economic and cultural impacts of homestays in this region. This study addresses this gap by examining the role of homestays in Ilam's tourism sector, focusing on their contribution to sustainable development and local empowerment. Employing a qualitative research design, data was collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and secondary sources. The findings reveal that homestays promote local entrepreneurship, preserve indigenous culture, and attract domestic and international tourists, although challenges such as limited infrastructure, training, and marketing remain. The study underscores the need for policy support and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of homestays as a sustainable tourism model. These insights offer valuable implications for tourism planners, policymakers, and community stakeholders in similar rural contexts.