About Us
About Us
Both of us share a deep-rooted commitment to leaving our planet in a better state than we found it. Mother Nature gives and takes, and in return, it is our duty to protect her.
When choosing a name for our homestay, we looked for something that reflected our essence. We found that inspiration right on our doorstep: The Rapti River.
Water is the source of all life; it connects humanity with the animals and the nature that surrounds us. The Rapti brings us fresh water and new life, flowing directly from the highest peaks in the world. As the river winds its way slowly toward the Ganges, it reminds us of the importance of patience and natural flow. "Go with the flow" is more than just a phrase here; it is the way the Nepalese people live. It is this sense of tranquility and constant renewal that we want to embrace in our homestay.
The 'Nest' in our name represents a place of ultimate sanctuary. It is a space where new life can grow in peace and safety, and where parents do everything they can to ensure their brood is as comfortable as possible.
That is exactly the feeling we want to create for you.
At The Rapti Nest, you don't just arrive; you entering in an environment that is comfortable, pristine, safe, and calm. We take care of the details, so you can fully immerse yourself in the mystical magic of Nepal and the comfort of our home.
Doma Paudel
"I am Doma Paudel: conservationist, entrepreneur, and Nepal's first certified female nature guide. I was born and raised in the beautiful surroundings of Sauraha, Chitwan. My deep connection to this landscape and its wild inhabitants is part of my DNA; the jungle is not just my office, it is my home.
Driven by this passion, I founded Nepal Dynamic Eco Tours (NDET). My mission is simple yet powerful: to offer a form of tourism that honors and protects nature rather than straining it.
At NDET, we believe in ethical, animal-friendly experiences and sustainable travel where the connection to the environment is central. For my years of dedication to conservation, I have been honored with several prestigious awards, including the WWF Conservation Award, the TOFT Conservationist of the Year, and the World Female Ranger Guide Award.
In addition to my work in the field, I serve as the chairperson of Wildlife Victim Fund (WVF), striving for a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals, a cause that is very close to my heart.
My work and vision have gained international recognition, leading to features in various television programs and documentaries, such as the series 'In Her Nature, the one who"s not afraid' and 'Floortje gaat mee'.
It is my hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to look at our natural world with respect and wonder."
Jurgen Callewaert
"I am Jurgen Callewaert, and my journey in Nepal began in 2010. What started as a first visit grew into an annual tradition that never let me go. During that very first trip, I met Doma. It was a brief encounter, but fate decided that our paths would continue to cross.
In 2015, we married, and after years of traveling back and forth, I permanently settled in this extraordinary country in 2024.
To me, Nepal is a land of mystery and pure magic. The contrasts are unlike anywhere else in the world: on one side, you have the majestic, snow-capped peaks of the highest mountains on Earth, and on the other, the dense jungle teeming with wild, untamed life. This unpredictability, combined with the beautiful weather, acts like a magnet for me.
I am particularly drawn to the rich history of this country and the authentic daily lives of the Nepalese people. I have immense admiration for the people here; they are hardworking when necessary, but they have mastered the art of enjoying life the moment the opportunity arises. That balance is a great inspiration to me.
My own career path has been just as diverse. From being a metalworker to a paramedic in Belgium, to now running a B&B in Nepal. It is a leap of faith I took with full confidence.
In Nepal, you learn that anything is possible, as long as you do it with passion.
I look forward to sharing my love for this country and the legendary Nepalese hospitality with everyone who stays with us."