Your choice of top 15 homestays by NotOnMap
Based on the love and testimonies we have received over the time by our guests. We thought we would put them all together
Before we begin, we thought it’ll be nice to share our mission with you.
NotOnMap is a socially driven organization which aims to create alternate livelihood by bringing tourism to remote villages. Adhering to its motto of “Live Like Local”, the initiative strives to preserve the cultural heritage of these lesser-known villages, promote travel and cultural exchange and protect the ecology.
Homestays in Himachal Pradesh
The mountains of Himachal are the perfect place to get away from the humdrum of the city life. Dotted with numerous hill stations and forests lining the horizons. This state is a darling for the wanderlusts at heart!
NotOnMap — H2O House near Chamba
Overlooking the Himalayas, this 100-year-old ancestral property situated in Chamba will be the perfect place to seek the long-lost tranquillity. As the name suggests, the rooms are built over water and throughout the day you will be soothed with the pleasant sound of rushing water! The sound of water cleanses your soul and calms your mind in a way that will make you cherish your stay at ‘H20 House’ forever. Farming, fishing, camping, heritage walks, treks, safaris- this homestay has got it all. And as far as food is concerned, be assured to have traditional, healthy, organic food, prepared by the locals. Get in touch and plan your unforgettable trip to the H20 House!
NotOnMap — Rafi’s House near Chamba
In the historic valley of Chamba, a multitude of tribal communities have settled down over the years. Amongst the first of these communities is the Gujjar tribal community. Rafi is held in high esteem and is one of the many Gujjar tribe members present there. Rafi stays with his family of 12, in a generational old mud house surrounded by lush green vegetation, overlooking the Sal River.
You can have the experience of staying in a 100-year-old mud house which has seen 4 generations of a Gujjar family, living and prospering here. You’ll find out what hospitality means to the traditional cultures in such unexplored places of India. The food served in the Family Kitchen is a beautiful example of traditional Himachali kitchens where the room is plastered with mud and cow dung, a warm fire blaze in the hearth keeping the room at a cozy temperature even when it is cold outside.
NotOnMap welcomes you to stay with ‘Rafi’ and his family for an authentic, unexplored, and rustic experiential stay of traditional hospitality provided by the Gujjar community.
NotOnMap — Mystic Village near Khajjiar
With the aim to provide both the hosts and the travelers an opportunity for socio-cultural exchange, NotOnMap this time has converted an entire village into a Homestay. Yes! You heard it right. An entire village! Nestled on a height of 2100 meters and on 2 km trek from Khajjiar, ‘Mystic village’ is crafted in a community styled concept where you are free to choose in which house to stay and where to eat.
Experience living in 200 years old mud houses. And since these houses are located on a mountain top, you’ll have a 360-degree bird’s eye view of Kalatop Wildlife sanctuary on your east and Dalhousie on your west. Start your day with a beautiful sunrise and accompany one of the villagers to a hike for cattle grazing, help in milking the cows, indulge in farming activities or just slow down a bit and just experience the typical village scene you once dreamt of. Spot different species of birds living on the mountain top or go for a guided village walk and experience the local culture, tradition, dresses, and language of the locals. And how enchanting it would be, to end your day with a beautiful sunset from a mountain top while the strong breeze kissing your face?
1870 Heritage House near Dharamshala
Lying on the foothills of Dharamshala town, this Heritage House was once a Residential palace. The House is built on a hilltop overlooking the splendid Maharana Pratap Sagar Dam (Pong Dam) on one side and thick alpine forests on the other. The house is built in the elliptical style and the structure has stood the test of time and the mountain weather for almost 90 years! Wake up and walk to the massive balcony to have uninterrupted views of the hills. The courtyard overlooks the still, reflective waters of the Pong Dam.
‘ Heritage House’ sits quite near Pong dam so be ready to see lots of birds here, some might even invite themselves for breakfast in the living room! For the times when life needs a splash of lavishness, get your bookings done and open up a 147 old royal home for a majestic weekend experience. Heritage House is a massive property and when we say massive it doesn’t only mean large in terms of space, but also in terms of the sheer, unique blend of one-of-a-kind of history and culture.
NotOnMap — The Lost Escape near Jibhi
Enveloped in green folds of nature, on the banks of a river, ‘The Lost Escape’ is a traditional Himachali mud house. This nature’s house is near Banjar, which is also popularly known as the “Valley of God”. Despite being a tourist attraction, it is still as untouched and magical as ever. The Lost Escape thus is the optimal bed and breakfast for a perfect getaway. This Homestay is off the road, which restricts any vehicular disturbance with the guests. The area is sparsely populated which lets the guests have a relaxing time, solely in the company of nature.
You can partake in organic farming, teach your children the art of climbing trees, travel to Jalaudhi pass, take a camping expedition to Serolsar Lake or visit Raghupur Fort. The list is endless. To sum up, the Lost Escape is filled with adventure and serenity, and must be on your next getaway list!
NotOnMap — Grandma’s House near Dharamshala
Nestled amidst picturesque Dhauladhar Mountains, lush greenery, mystical rivers, serene weather, the ‘Grandmas House’ is an old architectural treasure with a beautiful blend of old-charm and modern comfort, devoid of urban noise and hustle. As the house is an ancestral property, the architectural built of the house blends in its local surroundings, and it is mostly constructed of clay and forest woods. The common kitchen is open for all where you are free to cook anything or learn from the hosts.
Being in the vicinity of Dharamshala town, ‘Grandma’s Home’ is secluded yet accessible to take a day tour of Dharamshala and around. And if you have decided to stay back home, then a running stream next to the homestay and the lush greenery around is enough to keep you enthralled and calm at the same time for the whole day.
NotOnMap — Apple Farm Stay near Shimla
Heading out towards the famous tourist destination of Shimla, but want something quiet and serene to spend some quality time with your gang, or with family? Apple Farm Stay will be the perfect place for you. It is a 100-year-old restored heritage bungalow, situated at 6500 feet above sea level and nestled on the edge of the serene Himalayas and orchards of Kothkai, known best for its apples and undulating landscape.
This place offers something comforting and engaging for everyone. From local sightings, nature walks, bonfire, snow drive expedition (in winters) to living the rustic village life as you feed and milk the farm animals or watch the gaddis herd their goats in the neighborhood pasture land or get closer to nature and help the locals with planting and harvesting crop. When all this is done satisfying your soul you can then simply relax and camp under the clear night sky.
Just 60 km drive up the hills from Shimla this is the perfect place to come experience the old-world charm of Himachali architecture. The structure of The Apple Farm Stay was built in 1920 by the honcho’s great grandfather late Shri Thakur Bala Nand who at that time was the wazir of Ranvirgarh state in Himachal. Come join this family as they share not just their home but also their history, culture and stories to tell dating as back as 1920s.
Homestays in Spiti and Ladakh
The scenic state of Jammu and Kashmir is famous for Ladakh and it’s paradisiacal beauty, inspiring landscapes, quaint little hamlets and of ofcourse the deserted expanse stretching from peak to peak that’s comparable to a stadium!
NotOnMap Singay House in Ladakh
In the vicinity of the beautiful monument of Lamayuru/ Yuru Monastery, lies the Singay house. It is run by a Ladakhi ‘ Amchi’, which is name for a qualified Tibetan medical doctor. comes from a family lineage of Tibetan doctors and through the organisation Yuthog Foundation that he founded in 1982 he has continuously worked to develop Amchi practice in Ladakh.
The rooms are situated on two levels and command spectacular views of Lamayuru monastery and on the southern horizon the famous moon land. In addition, there is a large restaurant which serves a full range of Continental and Asian cuisines, as well as traditional Ladakhi food made from fresh organic ingredients. Do ask for their special herbal tea when visiting! Plan your trip and attend festivals like Yuru Kabgyat and Hemis Tse Chu. Do come, for a colourful, exciting and yet peaceful and introspective experience at the Singay House.
NotOnMap — Abode the Clouds in Chitkul
Chitkul the last inhabited village of India lies at a height of 3450 meters, located at a distance of 28 km from Sangla. With the misty weather, sparse population, a valley full of flowers and fog all over the year, Chitkul is a beautiful escape for the soul of a traveler. Merging in the solitude of the misty mountains is our homestay, ‘Abode the Clouds’
‘Abode the clouds’ is cozy and personal-run by innkeepers who would make you feel like you are home away from home. The most mesmerizing part of the home is the rooftop room with a large glass window. Outside the Homestay, there is a garden blooming with flowers, misty, foggy weather, which will give a sense of quiet and peace from within, rejuvenating your soul. Take treks nearby, get out for a village walk, meet the villagers, take a walk around apple orchards, or just sit in the balcony and enjoy the drizzling with a hot cup of coffee. ‘ Abode the Clouds’ is sure to give you the quality time you need with yourself or your loved one.
Homestays in Rajasthan
The land of the royals and a place where the country’s most beautiful sunsets can be witnessed amongst other things, rich in Indian culture and even richer in hospitality, Rajasthan is home to some vast deserts!
NotOnMap — Innovation House near Jaipur
Lying in the village of Katrathal, in the east of Sikar City, the Innovation House will take you down memory lane, making you nostalgic of your childhood when you visited your native village. We often lose touch of our indigenous roots, and your stay at Innovation house will revive and strengthen the same. From the walls plastered with cow dung, the cow urine used for making bacteria-free surroundings, solar energy resources and vernacular architecture, all have been planned, keeping the mental and physical health in mind.
After absorbing and enjoying the facilities of the homestay, head out to learn various farm tasks and learn about organic methods of farming, interact with village artisans to understand and participate in craft activities liken pottery, bangle work, dyeing, weaving and woodwork, learn to make traditional delicacies from the locals, learn horse riding and camel Safari. Their ecotourism practices are benefiting both the land and people. Do visit the sand dunes and while you are there, roll in the sand and unleash the kid in you. It’s picturesque beauty during sunsets is worth your attention. In a period of few days, you will develop a bond with all the family members at the Innovation House, making it extremely difficult for you to leave.
NotOnMap — Abode “1000” Acre near Udaipur
Often, after being caught amidst the fast paced life of cities, we yearn for peace, unity, warmth, wholesomeness and most importantly a natural and a beautiful life of a village. To satiate those experiences, we are excited to bring to you, Abode ‘1000’ Acre. Lying between Udaipur and Jodhpur, the Bankli village is a small Rajasthani village in the interiors of which lies ‘Abode 1000 Acre’.
The unique experience of the stay is going for a Leopard safari around Jawai Leopard conservation area. Here the leopards and natives live in harmony with each other, and you can observe various migratory and local birds. Going on picnic on a wetland are few out of many experiences one can experience in this rural yet modern village of Rajasthan, which will make your visit to Rajasthan, an indelible one. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and head over to this homestay!
NotOnMap — Badal House near Jaisalmer
Badal house is a minimalist place near Khuri, 35 km from Jaisalmer. Run by a very simple, very humble and honest man named Mr. Badal, this house has seen an influx of travellers from various countries in the last 3 years. This place is for those who would prefer an environment of home, and enjoy living with local community over a hotel or resort. Everything is authentic here, from the huts to the food, the simplicity of which is sure to surprise you in ways you didn’t expect. You can also witness the ancient wisdom of rainwater harvesting being practiced here.
The house has a quiet place to relax under a juniper tree, which will redefine your conventions of a library, a reading space or meditation space. The kitchen is old school and every guest who is living under the shade of Badal house has to sit and eat with the family. After getting adjusted to the lifestyle here, go to the nearby Khuri dunes and see a gorgeous sunset. Stay up chatting the whole night, or wake up early in the morning to witness the sunrise. The dunes of Khuri is far cleaner than the dunes of Sam. You can opt for camel safari as well. Caught in the clutches of office, casual leaves, and usual inertia of taking a break, this is your chance of treating yourself. Break the cycle of monotony and come stay with us, in our humble adobe.
NotOnMap — Mud, Desert, and life near Bikaner
If you want to stay somewhere away from the chaos of the city of Bikaner, enjoy the real camel safari experience and wish not be treated like a tourist but kin, then ‘Mud, Desert & Life stay’ is a complete package for you. This homestay lies in the village called Raiser in Bikaner. And don’t worry about the temperature because the mud houses and tent accommodations will keep your weather woes away.
A visit to Rajasthan is incomplete without a camel safari. Therefore, ‘Mud, Desert & Life’ is at 24*7 services to provide you the best camel safari experience of your lifetime. Starting from village camel safari tour to enjoying the mesmerizing sunsets and entertaining evenings filled with dance and music, this place is enough to give you the real flavor of Rajasthan.
Homestays in Uttrakhand
Also known as Dev Bhoomi is a culturally rich state that welcomes each season with hearty celebrations, divided by tribes and united by the beauty the lies in the landscapes. this state has more than just one thing to offer!
NotOnMap — Semal House near Lansdowne
Nestled amidst the shade of pine trees and the panoramic view of Garhwal Himalayas, Semal House in Uttarakhand takes its name on the Semal tree, residing in the lawn. This community homestay in Lansdowne is rooted in history, going back as far as 1935, when it was first constructed. The stay is not only symbolic of the proverbial phrase, “Back to Roots” but includes activities and practices, which utilise what is there in nature. The “back to nature” theme pervades almost every aspect of this house, including the food and even the walls.
You can always explore Lansdowne and at the stay you will be surrounded by the chirpings of birds and can even pet and feed cows and goats. Picnics, walk till sunset point, trek to a waterfall, are also organised. So, why stall your plan for the perfect weekend getaway? Hurry now!
NotOnMap — Mountain View Abode near Auli
This 400-year-old house built in the Vernacular style of Architecture, resides in Manoti village, near Joshimath. The legend is that this property was the first one to be built in the village- all the other houses were built uphill. All the people in Manoti village are related, and make one big ‘’Rana’ family. The Rana household can be often seen cooking and serving food to the guests together and the guests are often recipients of old village stories and legends. The homestay feels like an actual home, with their warm hospitality, kind behaviour and lively presence.
The homestay overlooks peaks including Nanda Devi, Hathi Parvat, ‘Sleeping beauty’ and many more, making it an ideal destination for a vacation. The gigantic snow peaks will you feel like a Lilliputian but will also leave you in awe. Staying here means waking up to the breath-taking view of the sunrise and sunset. Reconnecting with nature doesn’t end here. You can also accompany the Rana family to the field, learn about the local vegetables and cooking techniques. Sounds amazing right! Wait, till you get there!
How many have you visited? Which one is your favorite among the Top 15 Homestays in India, do leave a comment below 🙂
Originally published at https://blog.notonmap.com on August 2, 2019.
