About

Himalayan Farmstays (HFS) is an initiative of Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL) attached as an live lab to its School of Responsible Tourism. HFS was initiated to kickstart the local economy by empowering the amaleys of the villages of Ladakh while providing an authentic experience to the tourists and enabling the students to learn the basics of hospitality while working with the local communities. These farmstays are homes in the village where the villagers stay. Most of these homes have an attached farm (hence, the term “farmstay”) where the villagers grow seasonal vegetables and teh tourists get to participate in the experience. The guests at the farmstay get to stay with these families and experience the authentic Ladakhi lifestyle. You will see the day to day activities of the villagers from milking the cows to working in the farms. This pastoral getaway from the daily bustle in the midst of the Himalayas is an unparalleled experience. You get to taste the fresh farm produce, live with the local families and go for long walks in the mountain valleys. Along with the above, HFS curates various activities and experiences around these farmstays. A variety of tourism products are designed to enhance the overall experience of the guests and make it a memorable experience.