Picture Credits: a.curious.capture (https://www.instagram.com/a_curious_capture/)


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If we took a survey poll, asked a bunch of random travel junkies around the globe about that ONE destination which exists at the top in their travel bucket lists, the crown of India - popularly known as the Heaven on Earth- Kashmir is gonna be there in the list.

Rightly known as the Crown of India, this northernmost Indian state with vast, mesmerizing hills caters to a large influx of domestic and global tourists. The locals in this region are known to be friendly, welcoming, and always ready to help their guests. The hospitality culture in Kashmir dates back centuries, and has been passed down from generation to generation. 

Kashmir is a never ending hilly land with dozens of never-seen-before places and spots. Places like Sonmarg, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and of course the hub, Srinagar are among the most popular, famous and known cities and places in the whole of the state. There are luxurious 5 star hotels, lavish resorts and overrated stays; and there are primitive, scattered, rustic accommodations in all these places as well. 

Instead of booking a over-hyped stay and paying unreasonable commissions, don’t forget to check out Rural Stay India, offering exclusively picked rural, affordable and unique stays!

In this blog, we explore the unique aspects of Kashmiri hospitality, from the art of making guests feel at home in Kashmiri homes to the delightful food and flavors that are a key element of Kashmiri hospitality. 

We shall also delve into the common gestures of hospitality in Kashmiri culture and the challenges that the region faces in ensuring that visitors continue to feel welcome. Here are three reasons why an authentic homestay in Kashmir should be on every traveler's bucket list:

 

Closest to the Local Culture

When you stay in a hotel, you're often removed from the local community and culture. But with a homestay, you get to live with a local family and experience their way of life firsthand. You'll get to learn about their customs, traditions, and cuisine. Plus, you'll have a chance to practice your language skills and make new friends. 

And the best part? You'll get to do all of this while staying in a comfortable and welcoming home.

 

Houseboats Experience

Known for the mesmerizing Dal Lake, aesthetic Shikaras, and majestic, floating houseboats can be seen during the summer season.  and it’s truly recommended for Kashmir visitors to spend a couple of days inside the houseboats. The experience of staying in a deluxe houseboat Kashmir is ever memorable for every visitor, especially first timers. 

 

Family Run Homestays Equals Unbeatable Hospitality

Kashmiri people are known for their hospitality and warmth. When you stay in a homestay, you'll experience this firsthand. Your hosts will go out of their way to make you feel at home while making sure you have an unforgettable stay in Kashmir. And because they're locals, they'll be able to offer you a unique perspective on the region that you won't get from a guidebook.

 

In our quest to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Kashmiri people, there's no better way to do it than with a homestay. Not only will you get to enjoy some of the best homestays India has to offer, but you'll also get to do it without breaking the bank. 

So, why wait?