Explain why odysseus must first go to the eumaeus’s hut rather than to his own palace?

Odysseus first went to Eumaeus's hut to hide out, as ordered by Athene and find out any information about his household and kingdom before he regains his rightful place.

Explanation:

Once back in Ithaca, Odysseus was ordered by Athene to hide out at the hut of the swineherd Eumaeus. Disguised as a poor beggar, he inquired about the state of affairs of the kingdom and also whether his previous subjects are still loyal to him or not. By knowing about the current situation, he was able to plan his actions on when he goes back to the palace. And through Eumaeus, he came to know about the suitors that had besieged the palace and the queen, his wife Penelope. Also, not knowing that the poor traveler was indeed his former master, Eumaeus began narrating about the good things of Odysseus and criticizes the actions and wrongful deeds of the suitors. This is an indirect proof of his testament of loyalty to Odysseus, even though he did not know the true identity of his guest.