Heritage Homestays differ from ‘Heritage Haveli's & Hotels’ in that homestays are run primarily as homes and are always owner occupied and run along informal and family lines. Heritage Homestays are pretty unique to India, though could perhaps be best likened to a family run bed & breakfast in the UK and are generally houses owned by older members of the former landed gentry, who supplement their income by taking in paying guests.
They are generally lovely spacious houses or converted havelis (traditional mansions) and often elegantly furnished in a traditional style. The service is always warm and friendly, though often the staff will have very limited English and will rely on the family to translate and it is often quirky and idiosyncratic.
Meals will often be taken with the family, with conversation in English, which can be a wonderful and enriching experience for some. To stay in a heritage homestay is a treat for most people and we feel that they have a unique charm and romantic atmosphere which makes them well worth considering, at least for part of your holiday.
