Top 12 Most Unique Homestays in India

Nestled beneath the majestic Himalayas, right next to Corbett National Park, The Homestead is a true haven for relaxation. Managed by Bunny and Amu, this homestay is surrounded by a variety of forests, farmland, and mango and apple orchards, making it an ideal escape from urban life. With an outdoor pool, fitness center, spa, library, and a picturesque garden, The Homestead offers all the luxury of a resort while providing the warmth and comfort of a home.

The Homestead features a luxurious house with two rooms, a living area, a garden, and a balcony. This unique retreat includes a 6-hole golf course and a private runway, making it perfect for family and friends' getaways. Ten cozy rooms and two cottages are spread across lush greenery, with most offering their own private seating area. Each accommodation is named after a local plant or bird species found in the Corbett region.

The Homestead is an excellent choice for birdwatchers and discerning travelers looking for a private retreat experience. The homestay offers freshly prepared meals with options for indoor and outdoor dining at their all-day restaurant, serving Indian and continental cuisine. Activities available include barbecues, bonfires, and stargazing with a telescope. A stay at The Homestead provides one of the best wildlife experiences in India, alongside destinations like Kanha, Nagarhole, and Kaziranga. Corbett is renowned for its birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Highlights: Located next to Corbett National Park, features a 6-hole golf course
Price: 6,000 rupees/night

Jibhi is a small village situated on the banks of the Tirthan River in the Banjar Valley of Himachal, along the famous route connecting Manali to Shimla. It's just 14 km from the Jalori Pass. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, Jibhi is surrounded by oak, deodar, and pine trees, offering breathtaking natural beauty. This serene destination is popular among trekkers, hikers, and international tourists, making it a great base for exploring the Banjar Valley.

Set in a peaceful valley surrounded by forested hills, Mountain Breeze Homestay is a stunning traditional pahadi house made of stone, wood, and mud, enveloped by an apple orchard. Located just 6 km from Jibhi and easily accessible by road, it provides the perfect setting to wake up to the sounds of birds, enjoy the view of fluttering butterflies, and watch flocks of sheep pass by. Here, you can savor delicious meals and experience the slow-paced village life for a few days. It's the perfect place to reconnect with nature and yourself while enjoying modern comforts without disrupting the local culture and harmony.

Mountain Breeze Homestay offers 4 spacious rooms. Two rooms on the ground floor are mud bath rooms, each accommodating two guests. The other two rooms on the first floor are wooden cabins, each designed for three guests. All rooms provide stunning views of the garden and river, with balconies offering panoramic mountain views. Location: The homestay is located 6 km from Jibhi's market. You can enjoy authentic North Indian and pahadi dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. Breakfast choices include aloo paratha, sandwiches, porridge, pancakes, and siddu. Meals include seasonal vegetables, dal, curry, rice, roti, and more. You can inform the homestay hosts about your dietary preferences in advance.

Highlights: Breathtaking and unique location

Price: 3,500 rupees/night

Vembanad House is a charming heritage home and undoubtedly one of the finest examples of traditional Kerala architecture. Spanning over 10.5 acres, Vembanad House boasts a stunning 800-meter stretch of riverfront, offering breathtaking views from every one of its four bedrooms. This wooden house is uniquely surrounded on three sides by the vast Vembanad Lake. Behind the property, you'll find rice fields, lush tropical gardens, picturesque villages, and historic temples. The panoramic lake views from the front of the house are simply spectacular, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding environment in its full glory.

Staying at Vembanad House feels like being in paradise, as it offers not just a relaxing getaway but an authentic Kerala experience. Here, you’ll get to explore the local lifestyle, traditional cuisine, and, of course, the peaceful village life of Kerala. It’s a special place, perfect for those seeking a serene escape. Vembanad House is a favorite among many visitors, with smooth check-in/check-out processes, flexible policies, and friendly management that ensure an excellent experience for guests.

Vembanad House is ideally located with easy access to the city's main transport hubs. It is close to several well-known tourist attractions in Alleppey. Some popular spots nearby include Marari Beach (8.8 km), Vikasana Beach (13.3 km), Vijay Beach Park (14.4 km), and Alappuzha Beach (14.8 km).

Highlights: Experience the lifestyle and cuisine of Kerala
Price: 3,500 rupees/night

Loktak is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, located near Moirang in the state of Manipur. It is famous for its Phumdis—floating islands unique to this lake. The lake also hosts the world’s only floating park, Keibul Lamjao National Park, which serves as the last natural habitat for the endangered Sangai deer, a graceful and elusive animal. Loktak also provides the livelihood for local fishermen who live on and around these floating islands. Keibul Homestay is located right in the heart of the lake, with guests transported by local boats from Moirang Bazar.

The 20-minute boat ride to Keibul Homestay offers a truly memorable experience. The homestay provides an authentic local living experience in traditional thatched huts. Visitors can enjoy fishing and taste traditional Indian meals prepared in the local style.

The thatched huts offer a cozy retreat, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Breakfast includes staples like oatmeal, scrambled eggs on toast, paratha, and noodles. For a taste of local cuisine, Keibul Homestay serves traditional seasonal snacks like grilled corn with a tangy lime drizzle. Dinner usually consists of rice, dal, vegetables, and salad. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are available upon request.

Highlights: Live on the world’s only floating islands
Price: 2,300 rupees/night

Situated in the Chambal ravines of Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Fort Rampura has been the ancestral home of the Rampura family for fourteen generations. Shivendra Singh, the son of the current Raja, along with his wife Padmini, has opened this historic home to visitors, offering four rooms as part of an authentic local living experience. Fort Rampura makes an ideal base for exploring several nearby war forts, and a morning hike through the ravines to the family’s original fort ruins, with its ancient family temple still intact, is an unforgettable experience.

All the staff at Fort Rampura come from Rampura or neighboring villages. The moat around the fort serves as a rainwater harvesting area, providing water to the fort’s grounds. A stroll through the village and a visit to the colorful weekly markets offer a true glimpse into rural life. In the evenings, local folk singers will entertain you with ballads about the Bundelkhand kings and the daring exploits of local bandits, who once turned these ravines into their hideouts.

Fort Rampura operates as a homestay that uses only locally sourced resources. Meals are prepared with ingredients from the local markets, offering traditional recipes and Rajput favorites such as jungli maas, ensuring you are well-nourished during your rural adventure in India.

Highlights: Experience living in a historic royal fort
Price: 10,000 rupees/night

Himalaica is a charming luxury wooden home nestled on the hillside, surrounded by protected forests in the ancient village of Shyam Khet in the Himalayas, near Bhowani, Uttarakhand. A perfect retreat for those seeking a luxurious homestay experience, Himalaica offers the perfect blend of traditional vibes and modern amenities. Built by local artisans, the property is cozy yet spacious, set in a tranquil forested environment, providing a peaceful escape. It features a glasshouse, a living room, a separate reading room, a dining area, three bedrooms, a garden lawn, and a guesthouse with three rooms.

Located in Nainital, Himalaica stands out from other retreats as it is a fully functional facility with a full-time staff and all essential amenities. In addition to being an ideal base for exploration, relaxation, and rejuvenation, there’s plenty to do both inside and around the property. You can enjoy forest walks, birdwatching, explore the garden filled with various plants and flowers, watch movies, meditate at the nearby temple, read from their library – or simply do nothing at all! Guests can also dine at the on-site restaurant. A note: alcohol is not served, and the local market offers limited options, so be sure to stock up before you leave!

Highlights: A serene getaway that immerses you in the untouched beauty of India’s nature
Price: 10,000 rupees/night

Atithi Parinay offers a premium rural farmstay experience, nestled in the heart of the Konkan belt, just 15 km from Ganpatipule and Ratnagiri. With a stream flowing beside the property, lush green lawns, and the pristine Konkan beach nearby, it's an ideal retreat for nature lovers. For a truly authentic rural stay, opt for the small, non-air-conditioned cottage, featuring stone walls, cow dung floors, and Mangalorean tiled roofs.

Atithi Parinay is a haven for nature enthusiasts, surrounded by a variety of trees such as Mango, Coconut, Banana, Supari, Jackfruit, Kokum, and Lemon. Vegetables, lentils, rice, and other crops grown on the farm are used to prepare meals for guests. The area is home to a variety of bird species, particularly during the winter when migratory birds visit. In the summer, it turns into a mango lover's paradise.

The Indian-style decor enhances the rustic charm of the place, and all basic amenities are provided. Atithi Parinay also offers tented accommodations, a treehouse, and around three air-conditioned rural cottages. It's a perfect destination for family vacations. The stone walls and cow dung floors create a truly rural experience. The homestay serves authentic Brahmin Kokoronashi meals, prepared with fresh produce from the farm or nearby villages. All dishes are vegetarian, in line with the Maratha Brahmin family tradition. Even those who typically enjoy non-vegetarian food will find the meals here delightful!

Highlights: Treehouse accommodation, immerse in India’s rich ecosystems
Price: 4,300 rupees/night

Olaulim Backyards is a luxurious countryside retreat surrounded by nature. Tranquil, sparkling ponds line the paths, creating a peaceful environment. Located in a secluded area, it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy quality time with loved ones in a serene, natural setting. This homestay promises an unforgettable experience, blending the beauty of Goa with a sense of peace and privacy.

The property consists of five cottages, each offering a different experience. There's a family-friendly cottage, but for the perfect romantic getaway, the Golden Oriole or Paradise Flycatcher cottages are ideal. These rustic, earth-inspired cabins help guests reconnect with nature and focus on their relationships while enjoying the surroundings.

Olaulim Backyards offers several types of accommodations: the Golden Oriole, a charming treehouse-like cottage with stairs leading up to it, offering a cozy space for couples. Overlooking the swimming pool, it’s just a few steps away from the water. The Paradise Flycatcher is a sustainably-built cottage made from recycled materials and the newest addition to the property. With a unique design and a sloping roof, this cottage offers a more modern feel. It’s also a prime spot for birdwatching, with rare and beautiful species often visiting, many of which are named after the cottage.

Highlights: A homestay with a glass ceiling perfect for stargazing
Price: 4,000 rupees/night

Located just 45 minutes from Dindigul, Cardamom House offers stunning views of Kamarajar Lake. Overlooking the Western Ghats and nestled near the quaint village of Athoor, this eight-room building was constructed in 1996 by British doctor Chris Lucas. Seven rooms face south, offering panoramic views of the lake and hills, each named after a different Indian spice or herb. The serene rural location offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Dindigul or Madurai, making it an ideal retreat to immerse yourself in nature.

Cardamom House consists of three distinct cottages, with rooms named after Indian spices like saffron, cinnamon, coriander, and pepper! Cozy, quirky, and comfortable, it’s the perfect setting for relaxation. Explore the beauty of nature with walks to the village, wander through the gardens, or enjoy birdwatching. With a dedicated team of staff keeping everything tidy and preparing local delicacies, the tranquil location ensures a serene getaway, away from the crowds and noise of Indian towns and villages. You can unwind on the verandah or enjoy the vibrant floral garden at your leisure.

Highlights: Stunning views of the Western Ghats
Price: 3,500 rupees/night

A serene retreat located just a few kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, Hidden Forest Retreat is a haven for those seeking privacy and tranquility in nature. Spanning three acres, this lush property is filled with flowers, fruit trees, and dense forests. The homestay is an extension of the owner’s 40-year-old orchid nursery, which remains the heart of the retreat. It opened its doors in 2003 and is primarily managed by Kesang, the daughter, a graduate in horticulture. Her parents help with guest services and guide tours of the property.

Hidden Forest Retreat offers 12 spacious rooms, each with a balcony overlooking the mountains and rice fields, and a large library. From the terrace, guests can enjoy views of the Rumtek Monastery, Rani Khola (river), and the town of Gangtok. Nature walks, hikes, local sightseeing, and a visit to the orchid nursery are available. Spring (March and April) is the best time to visit if you love flowers, but you can enjoy blooming blossoms year-round.

The entire Hidden Forest Retreat is interconnected by cobblestone paths through the lush forest and orchid nursery. Organic food, freshly prepared from the owner’s garden, is served, and they even have a cow that provides fresh milk. There’s no fixed menu; instead, local dishes are prepared based on guest preferences. In the evenings, locally brewed chaang (a millet-based liquor) is served on the terrace.

Highlights: Panoramic views of the lush forest and the 40-year-old orchid nursery
Price: 3,500 rupees/night

Nestled in the Western Ghats, this small district in Karnataka, often referred to as the 'Scotland of India,' offers a nature lover's paradise. The Tree House is a haven for birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts. The rolling hills are blanketed with lush forests, coffee plantations, tea gardens, and orange orchards, making Coorg (now Kodagu) a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.

Recently constructed, The Tree House is arguably one of the most unique accommodations in Coorg. Located on a one-acre forest plot with a coffee plantation in the village of Katakuri, it’s just 2 km from the hill town of Madikeri. The property features two studio rooms: the Superior Studio on the ground floor comes with a dry kitchen, fridge, microwave, and tea/coffee-making facilities. The Deluxe Studio upstairs has a separate living area. Both rooms have private bathrooms and balconies, offering an exceptional stay experience.

Sathish Rai, alongside his wife Saloka, manages The Tree House. His passion and love for nature and the region’s wildlife are evident when he shares stories about the dense forests with guests. Meals can be prepared according to guest preferences, with the in-house chef specializing in South Indian cuisine with a touch of North Indian flavors. Non-vegetarian dishes, including pork, are available upon request.

Highlights: Unique treehouse design with modern amenities
Price: 18,000 rupees/night

Perched high above the majestic Zanskar River, Tsogsti is one of the most remote villages in Ladakh, home to just four families. Located 31 km from Leh and 4 km from the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers, this eco-village is entirely solar-powered, with no mobile towers or network connections. If you're seeking a digital detox and wish to immerse yourself in nature, this is the perfect getaway. Previously, villagers crossed the river via a cable car, but now they are connected to the main road by a 1 km non-metallic path. Originally, the village consisted of a single house, but over time, three more homes were added. A small monastery sits atop the village, offering a peaceful spot for meditation away from human interaction. Tsogsti is also a base for rafting on the Zanskar River.

Tsogsti offers a unique homestay experience where you can stay and dine in each house, depending on your visit schedule. The village operates a collective homestay system to ensure equal income distribution among all families, creating a strong sense of unity. Every festival or occasion is celebrated with a spirit of brotherhood. The four homes vary in size and structure, so be prepared to sleep and eat in different rooms and houses, interacting with new people each day. As an eco-village, they still use traditional Ladakhi toilets.

You will be warmly welcomed into the village of Tsogsti. Each guest is served meals at different homes depending on their length of stay. During festivals or special occasions, meals are prepared and shared as one big family. You may want to plan your visit around one of these occasions. The menu includes Ladakhi specialties like Thukpa and Momos, all made from home-grown vegetables and ingredients. Additionally, North Indian-style dishes are available on request.

Highlights: Unique cultural experience in a collective homestay system
Price: 1,500 rupees/night