Homestays are a great way to experience the local culture, cuisine and hospitality of a place. They offer a more personal and intimate alternative to hotels and resorts, where you can interact with the host family, enjoy home-cooked meals and get insider tips on the best things to do and see. India has a rich and diverse range of homestays, from royal residences and heritage havelis to cozy cottages and eco-friendly farms. Whether you are looking for a tranquil retreat in the hills, a rustic escape in the countryside, or a vibrant stay in the city, there is a homestay for you. Here are some of the best homestays in India that we discovered this year.

Slow Garden, Ladakh: A serene oasis in the Himalayas

If you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate in the lap of nature, Slow Garden is the perfect choice. This homestay, located near Leh, offers 10 spacious and comfortable bedrooms, each with a private bathroom and a stunning view of the mountains. The host, Tsewang Gyatso, has 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry and ensures that his guests have a memorable stay. He also lives on the property with his friendly dog, Dzee, who loves to play with the visitors. The food at Slow Garden is fresh and delicious, made with local ingredients and regional flavours. You can also enjoy activities like hiking, cycling, yoga and meditation, or simply soak in the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.

Aura Life, Chandigarh: An artistic and elegant home in the city

If you are looking for a stylish and sophisticated stay in the city, Aura Life is the place for you. This homestay, located in a private estate in Chandigarh, is a stunning example of contemporary design and art. The host, Anuja Lath, is the founder of Aura Pottery, one of India’s leading pottery studios, and has decorated the home with her own creations and collections. The homestay has four bedrooms, two of which are open to guests. Each room has its own unique character and charm, with handcrafted furniture, paintings and ceramics. The food at Aura Life is a fusion of Indian and international cuisines, prepared by the host and her team. You can also indulge in pottery workshops, yoga sessions, and garden walks at the property.

The Spotted Owlet, Tadoba: A wildlife lover’s paradise in the jungle

If you are looking for a thrilling and adventurous stay in the wild, The Spotted Owlet is the place for you. This homestay, located near the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The host, Hans Dalal, is a sound engineer and a wildlife conservationist, who has dedicated his life to saving tigers in the wild. He has built three eco-friendly cottages on his two-acre plot, which overlook the jungle and the lake. The cottages are cozy and comfortable, with fireplaces, hammocks and bonfire pits. The food at The Spotted Owlet is simple and wholesome, made with organic produce and local delicacies. You can also join the host on safaris, birdwatching tours, and conservation projects at the reserve.

Yeto, Uran: A creative and quirky retreat near Mumbai

If you are looking for a fun and funky stay near Mumbai, Yeto is the place for you. This homestay, located in Uran, is a hidden gem for art and music lovers. The host, Gaurav Shah, is a research consultant, musician and chef, who has transformed his two-bedroom house into an art cave. The house is filled with photographs, paintings, guitars, books and records, creating a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. The bedrooms are simple and cozy, with private patios and views of the hills. The food at Yeto is a mix of regional, international and experimental cuisines, made by the host himself. You can also enjoy activities like jamming sessions, vinyl listening parties, and pottery workshops at the property.

Aarish, Nainital: A cozy and charming cottage in the hills

If you are looking for a cozy and charming stay in the hills, Aarish is the place for you. This homestay, located near Mukteshwar, is a delightful cottage that blends traditional and modern elements. The host, Dev Verma, is a former corporate executive and a rural entrepreneur, who built the cottage as a holiday home for his family. The cottage has four bedrooms, each named after a season and decorated with antique furniture and artefacts. The rooms have large windows that offer panoramic views of the mountains and the valley. The food at Aarish is a combination of local, continental and fusion cuisines, made with fresh and organic ingredients. You can also enjoy activities like trekking, cycling, birdwatching and stargazing at the property.