Heritage Homestays differ from Heritage Haveli's and 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 had with the family, with conversation in English, which can be an enjoyable 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 luxurious Indian holiday.
Heritage Homestays in India
Abbotsford Heritage Homestay, Almora
A classic mountain house with a charming atmosphere, delicious food, and a fascinating host, Abbotsford has been host to some remarkable guests over the years.
Ayisha Manzil, Thalassery
An authentic and remote homestay with nostalgic touches, passionate hosts and loads of charm in beautiful Thalassery.
Banyan Tree Farm, Sethumadai
A welcome chance to stay in rural Tamil Nadu on a working farm in clean and comfortable rooms with friendly hosts.
Bari Kothi, Murshidabad
Unique and comfortable riverside heritage property.
Biksthang Heritage Farmhouse, Sikkim
A traditional ancestral home renovated into a rural farm stay with incredible mountain views, local service and experiences.
Bundi Vilas, Bundi
This haveli (mansion) was originally built into the ramparts of the Bundi Garh Palace and you can only enter by foot from the heart of the walled city.
Castle Bera, Jawai
The private residence of Thakur Baljeet Singh, Castle Bera is former hunting lodge presiding over the small village of Bera with great access to the Jawai region and its population of wild leopards.
Dera Mandawa, Jaipur
This tranquil and spacious family-run boutique homestay might be in the centre of Jaipur, but it feels like a sanctuary.
Devra, Udaipur
Devra is an unforgettable homestay on the outskirts of Udaipur. Expect great home-cooked food, comfortable suites, and a warm reception.
Dev Shree, Deogarh
Dev Shree is a shiny new haveli-style hotel in Deogarh with eight beautiful rooms, home-cooked meals, and a friendly family in residence.
Gitanjali Homestay, Mysore
A tranquil and authentic family-run homestay providing comfortable, spacious accommodation.
Kandath Tharavad, Palakkad
In rural Palakkad, Kandath Tharavad offers an original mud house homestay and to experience village life.
Kesar Bagh, Jojowar
A high quality, heritage homestay run by the noble Jojawar family on the site of an old hunting lodge.
Phillipkutty's Farm, Kumarakom
A remote homestay experience, Phillpkutty’s Farm is a tropical oasis near Lake Vemnabad.
Ranjit Svaasa , Amritsar
Ranjit Svaasa is a fascinating haveli in central Amritsar with excellent service and royal treatment.
Serenity, Kanam
Simple and tranquil, Serenity is an intimate experience in a private villa on a rubber plantation in Kanam.
Sunnymead Estate, Shimla
A quaint, eco-friendly heritage cottage that feels like home in the hills of Shimla.
The Bangala, Chettinad
Enjoy traditional Chettinad hospitality in this charming & comfy hotel-cum-homestay with old-world charm and fascinating family history.
The Bhuj House, Bhuj
This historical family home offers a calm and friendly atmosphere in the heart of bustling Bhuj.
The Garden Bungalow, Santiniketan
Sensitively restored heritage property in a 3-acre exotic garden.
Vivenda Dos Palhacos, Goa
A small restored Portuguese heritage property tucked away in a village near Goaâs quiet beaches.
