Koksar tourism panel launches homestay guidelines
In a significant move to promote sustainable tourism while preserving local heritage, the Koksar Panchayat Tourism Development Committee (TDC) has launched a set of homestay guidelines under the people-on-demand and people-governed tourism (POPGT) initiative. This unique effort, in collaboration with People for Himalayan Development (PHD) and Royal Enfield, aims to empower both tourists and local homestay owners by offering guidance on maintaining a balance between hospitality and cultural conservation.
The guidelines, developed in consultation with homestay owners and local stakeholders, will foster mutual respect between visitors and the community. Each homestay owner has been provided with two copies of the guidelines — one in Hindi and another in English — to ensure accessibility for both hosts and guests.
Anshul Paul, a tourism stakeholder, said, “The homestay guidelines reflect regional values and encourage tourists to respect local traditions, minimise waste and engage responsibly with the environment. For homestay owners, these guidelines provide a shared framework that helps them offer authentic yet consistent hospitality, rooted in the warmth and simplicity of the Lahaul culture.”
“The launch event, held today at the Koksar PWD Rest House, brought together community members, homestay owners and stakeholders. The event was chaired by the head of the Koksar Panchayat Tourism Development Committee, who emphasised on the collective spirit behind the initiative,” said Paul.
Speaking at the event, Sachin Mirupa, the committee head, said, “In Lahaul, hospitality is not just a practice, but a part of our identity. These guidelines will help us welcome guests while honouring our traditions and keeping our region beautiful for the future generations. Our people and our mountains tell a story and it is important for visitors to respect it and be its part during their journey.”
“The homestay guidelines are the first step in TDC Koksar’s larger plan for the development of responsible
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