When the team at Global Himalayan Expeditions was installing sustainable solar-based micro-grids in some 20 odd remote villages of Ladakh, which until then had no electricity, they realised that the homes could be attractive stay options for trekkers. Plus, they could provide additional income to these communities. Thus was born Mountain Homestays.

The operator has worked with local villagers to set up accommodation facilities in 20 villages. Travellers get a comfortable stay option in parts of Ladakh where until now camping was the only option.

Mountain Homestays also offers curated tours, created around this homestay network. The tours showcase the arts, crafts, culture and heritage of Ladakh. The Copper Trail, for instance, takes travellers to villages where copper artefacts and traditional utensils are made by hand. The Lingshed tour takes travellers to one of the remotest settlements in the region. This tour includes crossing two passes, day-long trekking and visits to ancient monasteries. The operator also offers popular tours like the Hemis and Nubra Valley tours, with stays at village homes along the way.

Price: Depends on tour. The Copper Trail costs Rs 31,000 per person, all inclusive ex-Leh. A stay at the homestay starts from Rs 900.

Read More: http://www.mountainhomestays.com/