Community-Run Homestays: HOI’s Path to Cultural Preservation

Community-based homestays have revolutionized the tourism landscape by empowering local communities to take ownership of their cultural heritage and economic development. This innovative approach has not only helped preserve traditional practices but also encouraged community members to work together, strengthening social bonds and fostering collective decision-making. This sustainable tourism model has gained significant traction, driven by increasing demand for authentic experiences and responsible travel practices. 

But its growing popularity  has also led to unintended consequences like over tourism and commercialization. The influx of tourists and investors has resulted in the construction of villas and vacation homes thus diluting the authentic community-based homestay concept and experience. The introduction of external amenities and services have started to erode traditional practices and cultural distinctiveness. 

To ensure the long-term viability of this approach, it’s crucial to support authentic community-led initiatives. Homestays of India (HOI) is committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices and supporting local communities. Here are some of the exemplary community homestays supported by HOI.

Help us support them and be a part of this positive change!

Tsogsti, Ladakh

Sitting on a cliff above the mighty Zanskar, Tsogsti is one of the remotest villages of Ladakh with just 4 households. It is around 30kms from Leh. It is a collective homestay system that has been adopted in order to negate any unequal number of guests visits so that every house gets a fair share of income. As a village guest, you get to stay and eat in each of the houses based on the duration of your trip. The sense of togetherness and unity is marvelous among the four households where each festival, every occasion is celebrated with brotherhood. Tsogsti is a true eco-village running completely on solar power with no mobile towers. Know More

Demul, Spiti

Demul is a charming little village in Spiti Valley at a distance of about 32 kilometers from Kaza towards Tabo. There are around 24 houses in the village participating in the homestay program. Every year coordinators are appointed to take care of these homestays. The representative allots homestay to the guest on rotation basis. Demul is a perfect example of a strong community-based enterprise. The village which has perfected the socialist model so well, that the whole village prospers together. Know More

Basoli, Almora, Uttarakhand

Basoli is a tiny village located in Almora district of Uttarakhand. Built with a mission to help grassroots women to diversify their income and to promote responsible and community-based tourism, these homestays connect tourists to the authentic rural and cultural experiences of the Himalayan region. This is a set of homestays in a rural setting with three units spread across the village. While staying here you can engage in farm activities, village walks, traditional cooking and occasional cultural performances. Know More

Basti Bagra, Gaurela – Chhattisgarh

Basti Bagra is a tiny tribal village in GPM located 46kms from Pendra Rd railway station. This community homestay, located at the beginning of the Jhojha waterfall trek, is a pioneering initiative to promote GPM as an eco-tourism hub, empowering locals to supplement their income. Managed by the Village Tourism Samiti, the homestay also has a cozy canteen, with proceeds supporting village development. Experience tribal culture, go on a village walk and enjoy the serenity of nature while you stay here. You can also visit local tribal market. Other than Jhojha waterfall, you can also go on a day’s excursion to places Jogi gufa and Kariyam lake Ashram. Know More

Kandara, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand

Kandara village is located 18 km from Ukhimath in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand. The place falls near the famous Chopta and Kedarnath, so the natural beauty is heavenly. But what makes it special is the raw and unique pahadi experience. You get to stay with local families, experience Himalayan village life and try local cuisine. There are 6 rooms spread across 4 houses; all houses at the walking distance from each other. Engage in farm activities, go on hidden nature trails, gorge on farm fresh local fruits and pahadi food. Know More

Chennamkary, Alleppey -Kerala

Chennamkary is a traditional village in the Kuttanad region of Alleppey in Kerala, with Arabian Sea on one side and rivers and canals on the other. There are 24 rooms spread across 4 different family houses in the village. Stay with people of this village who are simple farmers to experience village life. All houses are nearby and are located in front of river Pampa. Engage in farm activities and learn traditional cooking, go on boat rides, cycle through country roads, go kayaking and gorge on farm fresh local food. Know More