The Madhya Pradesh government’s ‘homestay’ concept, offering tourists a taste of local customs, lifestyle, and home-cooked food, has seen significant success in the past two years. Villagers operate 346 homestays in 98 selected villages, with an additional 642 under construction to cater to the rising number of visitors. These homestays provide tourists, both domestic and international, a chance to immerse themselves in rural culture.
The initiative not only enhances tourists’ experiences but also boosts employment opportunities and income sources in rural areas. Families running these homestays have collectively earned Rs 6.76 crore in the last two years through accommodation, traditional cuisine, and exposure to local arts and crafts. The project aims to uplift the rural economy, create jobs, and preserve cultural heritage.
Selected villages near tourist spots and those rich in natural beauty and tribal culture have been integrated into the rural tourism network. Khari village in Sehore district, close to Bhopal, has become a ‘model tourism village,’ hosting numerous national and international delegates interested in community-based rural economies. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board supports this initiative by providing technical training to villagers in hospitality, hygiene, and skill development.
