5 reasons why you should choose homestays in your next Himalayan expedition

• Vibhutipathak
• 10 March, 2025

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By: Vibhuti Pathak

The majestic Himalayan region, spanning across Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and the North-East states of India, has witnessed a significant surge in tourism in recent years. With growing traveler interest in offbeat experiences and sustainable tourism, homestays have emerged as the preferred choice of accommodation in these serene and picturesque locations.

Offering an immersive and affordable stay, homestays provide a unique opportunity to experience the authentic culture, lifestyle, and natural beauty of the Himalayas.

Travelers today are increasingly looking for personalised and meaningful experiences rather than just standard vacations. Homestays in the Himalayan region offer a gateway to a more intimate travel experience where guests can live with local families, partake in daily routines, and experience the cultural richness of the region.

In states like Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, travelers often choose homestays to enjoy the serene environment, local hospitality, and access to unexplored natural landscapes. In the North-East states such as Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim, homestays provide travelers an insight into the indigenous culture, traditional cuisine, and sustainable practices adopted by the local communities.

According to a report by Videc, as of October 2023, a significant majority of surveyed travelers (91 per cent) opted for hotel accommodations during their trips. In contrast, only 7 per cent chose homestays, villas, or bungalows, and 10 per cent booked all-inclusive packages.

A comprehensive study conducted by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) surveyed 180 homestays and over 540 tourists across six Indian states. The findings highlighted that, despite the potential for growth, homestays currently represent a smaller segment of the accommodation market compared to hotels.

Another driving factor behind the rising demand for homestays is affordability. Unlike luxurious hotels, homestays offer comfortable and budget-friendly accommodations that cater to backpackers, solo travelers, families, and nature enthusiasts. Additionally, homestays provide a much-needed boost to the local economy by creating employment opportunities and promoting local businesses.

Benefits of Choosing Homestays in the Himalayas

1. Authentic Cultural Experience: Homestays allow travelers to experience the rich cultural heritage, local traditions, and cuisine of the Himalayan communities. In Jammu & Kashmir, visitors can savor traditional Wazwan meals, while in Himachal Pradesh, they can experience Himachali cuisine and customs.
2. Personalized Hospitality: The warmth and hospitality offered by local families in homestays often surpass that of commercial hotels. Travelers receive personalized services and valuable local insights that make their stay memorable.
3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tourism: Homestays promote sustainable tourism by encouraging responsible travel practices, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting local economies. Many homestays in Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and the North-East region emphasize eco-friendly living by using solar energy, organic farming, and minimizing plastic use.
4. Offbeat Travel Experience: Homestays often provide access to lesser-known and pristine locations that mainstream tourism misses. Staying in a homestay allows travelers to explore hidden villages, untouched landscapes, and authentic local festivals.
5. Economic Empowerment for Locals: Opting for homestays significantly benefits local families by providing them with a steady income source. This helps in reducing migration from villages to cities and promotes rural development.

Popular Destinations for Homestays in the Himalayas

• Jammu & Kashmir: Places like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam offer traditional Kashmiri homestays, where guests can enjoy local cuisines, cultural music, and scenic landscapes.
• Himachal Pradesh: Homestays in Manali, Spiti Valley, and Dharamshala provide an immersive experience into the serene mountains and local Himachali culture.
• Uttarakhand: From Rishikesh and Nainital to Mukteshwar and Munsiyari, travelers can find cozy homestays nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas.
• Sikkim: In Gangtok, Pelling, and Lachung, homestays allow visitors to experience the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and Buddhist traditions.
• North-East States: Homestays in Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam offer a glimpse into the indigenous lifestyle, traditional cuisines, and vibrant festivals of the region.

The growing demand for homestays in the Himalayan region reflects a changing preference in travel patterns among tourists. Seeking authentic experiences, cultural immersion, and sustainable tourism, travelers are increasingly choosing homestays over conventional accommodations.

As homestays continue to gain popularity, they play a crucial role in promoting eco-tourism, empowering local communities, and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Himalayan region. The future of tourism in the Himalayas seems promising, with homestays leading the way in providing a genuine and memorable travel experience.