Discover Authentic Rural Lahaul: Sushma's Cultural Homestay Experience in Himachal Pradesh

Nestled amid the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Lahaul Valley has quietly emerged as a sought-after destination for travellers craving authentic, offbeat experiences. Among those redefining the region's hospitality landscape is Sushma, a local woman who has transformed her ancestral mud house in Thangthang village into a unique cultural retreat.

Far removed from the sleek comfort of five-star hotels, her traditional home offers something more meaningful—a deep connection to the region’s heritage, lifestyle, and flavours.

Preserving the Past, Welcoming the World

Located about a kilometre above Gondla, Sushma’s 80-year-old mud house is not a newly built structure mimicking tradition—it’s a real, timeworn home once lived in by generations of villagers. Surrounded by the raw beauty of the valley, the stay immerses guests in the day-to-day rhythms of rural life in Lahaul.

Rather than cashing in on the tourism boom by building modern hotels, Sushma took a different route—one rooted in sustainability and cultural preservation.

A Bold Shift From Insurance to Hospitality

Sushma's foray into tourism began three years ago when she left her job as a Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) agent in Kullu. Inspired by the growing number of tourists seeking local experiences, she returned to her village to breathe new life into her ancestral home—with strong support from her family.

She now runs the homestay independently, handling bookings via social media and Airbnb, and even offers camping experiences for those seeking adventure.

More Than a Stay—It’s a Way of Life

Guests at her homestay are not just passive visitors—they are invited to live like locals. From cooking traditional Kullu and Lahauli dishes, to helping out in the fields, travellers gain a genuine taste of life in the valley.

Her initiative promotes slow, mindful travel—a tourism model that benefits both locals and visitors, while preserving the fragile cultural fabric of the region.

A Model for Sustainable Tourism

Sushma's story is more than just one of personal reinvention. It highlights how heritage-based tourism can flourish in harmony with nature and tradition. As more travellers seek out meaningful, grounded experiences, ventures like hers offer a glimpse into a more sustainable and inclusive future for travel in the Himalayas.

Lahaul Valley, through Sushma’s efforts, is not just a place to visit—it’s a way to reconnect with culture, simplicity, and the enduring spirit of the mountains.