As Kashmir’s tourism sector continues to diversify beyond traditional destinations, the valley has witnessed a significant rise in registered homestays, with more than 2,000 now operating across the region, including a growing number in border villages aimed at promoting border tourism.
A senior tourism official told Rising Kashmir that the increasing number of homestays reflects the government’s efforts to encourage community-based tourism while ensuring that the economic benefits of the sector reach rural and remote areas.
“More than 2,000 homestays have been registered across the valley. Many of these are located in border areas where we are promoting border tourism by encouraging local families to host visitors,” the official said.
The official said the initiative is helping tourists experience the region’s traditional lifestyle, cuisine, culture and hospitality while generating a sustainable source of income for local residents.
Homestays have become an integral part of Kashmir’s tourism strategy over the past few years, particularly after the introduction of a structured registration process by the Tourism Department. Registered homestays are required to meet prescribed standards relating to hygiene, safety, basic amenities and guest services, ensuring a quality experience for visitors.
Unlike conventional hotels, homestays offer tourists an opportunity to stay with local families, providing an authentic cultural experience and encouraging longer stays in lesser-explored destinations. The model has gained popularity among domestic travellers seeking immersive travel experiences while also reducing pressure on hotels during the peak tourist season.
The Tourism Department has also focused on expanding tourism infrastructure in border areas including places in Uri, Keran, Tangdhar, Gurez and other frontier destinations, where improved road connectivity and enhanced security have opened new avenues for tourism. Officials believe the growth of homestays in these regions is playing a key role in attracting visitors beyond the traditional circuits of Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.
Meanwhile, the official said the department has outsourced more than 20 tourism properties to private operators to ensure better upkeep, professional management and improved visitor facilities.
“The outsourcing of tourism assets has resulted in improved maintenance, enhanced services and better utilisation of government-owned infrastructure. Our objective is to provide tourists with quality facilities while ensuring these properties remain financially sustainable,” the official said.
The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen tourism infrastructure, encourage private sector participation and improve the overall visitor experience as tourist arrivals continue to increase across Kashmir.
