MANDI (Munish Sood)
To promote sustainable tourism, the Himachal Pradesh government has unveiled its long-awaited guidelines for the operation of homestays across the state.
The new regulations, which promise to broaden the scope of tourism in Himachal Pradesh, allow both local and non-local entrepreneurs to tap into the state’s burgeoning hospitality market. The newly introduced homestay guidelines are designed to encourage a more inclusive and diverse tourism experience in Himachal Pradesh.
For the first time, residents of other states who have lived in Himachal for over 20 years, as well as Himachali citizens running businesses outside the state, are eligible to register and operate homestays.
Additionally, homestays will now be permitted in apple orchards and tea plantations, which are iconic to the state’s agricultural landscape. Non-Himachali tourism entrepreneurs will also be allowed to run homestays, bringing a fresh perspective to the local hospitality scene.
However, to ensure smooth operations in residential areas, the new rules stipulate that operators must secure a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the respective resident welfare association before opening a homestay.
Structural and safety requirements
To maintain quality standards and ensure the safety of both guests and hosts, the government has made it mandatory for homestay operators to submit a building structural stability certificate.
Further, operators will be required to undergo a police verification process to ensure security. These measures aim to create a safe and reliable environment for tourists while boosting local trust in the homestay initiative.
To facilitate the smooth implementation of these rules, the Homestay Rules 2025 have been published on the official tourism department website. Interested parties are invited to submit objections and suggestions within the next 15 days. Once an application is submitted, approval for setting up a homestay will be granted within 60 days.
Aiming for sustainable and localised tourism
The new regulations go beyond accommodation; they are also focused on sustainability and local community development. Homestays in the region will now be required to install rainwater harvesting systems, which aligns with the state’s eco-friendly tourism goals. Moreover, homestay operators will need to integrate Himachali handlooms and handicrafts into their offerings to support the local craft industry.
Safety and operational standards will also be enforced, with operators required to maintain guest registers, install CCTV cameras, and ensure the presence of fire safety equipment.
Tax relief and special incentives for rural areas
To encourage more homestay operations in rural areas, the state government has announced tax exemptions and utility bill discounts. These provisions are expected to attract more entrepreneurs to less-developed regions, diversifying the state’s tourism offerings.
However, for homestays located in urban or Special Area Development Authority (SADA) zones, operators will need to pay utility charges for services such as electricity, water, and garbage disposal at commercial rates.
Re-registration for existing homestays
Under the new rules, existing Bed and Breakfast operators and units registered under the Himachal Homestay Scheme 2008 must apply for re-registration within 30 days of the publication of the Homestay Rules 2025.
These operators will not be required to pay registration fees until the expiration of their current registration.
The homestay registration fee varies based on the location. In Municipal Corporation areas, the fee is Rs 12,000 for 4 to 6 rooms and Rs 8,000 for 1 to 3 rooms. In TCP, SADA and nagar panchayat areas, the charges are Rs 8,000 for 4 to 6 rooms and Rs 5,000 for 1 to 3 rooms.
In gram panchayat areas, the registration fee is Rs 6,000 for 4 to 6 rooms and Rs 3,000 for 1 to 3 rooms. The renewal fee for all categories is equal to the registration fee.
Homestay registration will be valid for one or three years, with a 10% discount offered for those who opt for a three-year term and pay the fee in a lump sum. Additionally, homestays registered in the name of a woman will receive a 5% discount.
Step towards transforming Himachal into homestay hub
The new rules are expected to significantly boost tourism in Himachal Pradesh, creating new business opportunities while preserving the state’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
With the ability to cater to tourists in both rural and urban areas, these homestays are set to offer a personalized experience that celebrates Himachali culture, nature and hospitality.
