Homestays in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has always framed homestays as a way for hill families to earn from tourism in their own homes. The 2026 rules tighten that principle.

What changed in 2026

• The homestay category is reserved for permanent residents of Uttarakhand who run it in the home where they live.
• The focus is on rural areas and nagar panchayats rather than cities.
• A unit may have up to eight rooms and twenty-four beds, up from the earlier six-room limit.
• Urban properties, and those operated by non-resident owners through hired caretakers, now fall under the bed and breakfast scheme.

Applications go through the District Tourism Development Officer or the state's online homestay portal. Because the framework is new, ask your district office for the current document list before applying.

Regional realities

Rishikesh and the Doon valley: warmer and more humid than the higher hills. Guests often come for yoga courses or rafting and stay longer. Cooling, mosquito protection and monsoon drainage near the river matter more than snow.

Mussoorie and Nainital: weekend crowds, tight parking and cold winters. Describe the distance to the Mall Road or the lake and whether a car can reach the gate.

Interior Garhwal and Kumaon: villages that attract trekkers and quiet-seekers. Mobile signal, the condition of the last road section and snow preparedness decide whether a stay goes well. Tell guests where the nearest fuel pump and pharmacy are.

Monsoon planning

Both Garhwal and Kumaon see road closures from landslides during heavy rain. Build flexible terms for those weeks, and keep a list of alternative routes and local taxi contacts to share with guests who are already on the way.

Paperwork to prepare

Keep your land and house records, proof of permanent residence if you seek the homestay category, a room plan with attached bathrooms, and fire-safety arrangements ready before visiting the district office.