Far from Nepal’s famous Himalayan peaks and busy Kathmandu streets lies the Terai – a lush, lowland region rich in wildlife, national parks and deep cultural tradition. Home to the indigenous Tharu people, it offers a striking contrast to Nepal’s mountain image, with sweeping fields, vibrant village life and sacred sites such as Lumbini, birthplace of the Buddha.
Visitors are increasingly discovering Terai through the Community Homestay Network, which connects travellers with local families for immersive cultural experiences. In Bhada village, guests cook meals over wood fires, join daily life, and participate in festivals like Auli – a rice harvest celebration filled with drumming, dancing and rituals honouring nature. During the festivities, villagers prepare traditional dishes including spicy fruit pickles and even roasted rice-field rat, eaten as a symbolic blessing for future crops.
Hospitality is central to Tharu culture. Hosts proudly share music, food and customs, and welcome travellers as honoured guests. “Atithi devo bhava – the guest is god,” one homestay owner explained, reflecting the warmth and generosity visitors encounter.
While the Himalayas capture global attention, Terai remains one of Asia’s most overlooked gems – a place where wildlife roams, traditions thrive, and travellers are invited not just to observe but to belong.
