Our home is a tranquil haven nestled amidst lush fruit orchards and verdant forests, with stunning views of snow-capped peaks. With fresh, invigorating air all around, this place is a haven for those seeking respite from the fast-paced city life. We designed and constructed two beautiful villas side-by-side for ourselves, complete with cozy open areas and nooks to unwind and relax.
As we settled into our new home, we discovered the joy of living a slower, more intentional life. We started cultivating our own fruits and vegetables, connecting with the warm and welcoming locals, and hosting occasional get-togethers with our neighbors and friends. Our way of life was so idyllic that some of our friends decided to stay with us, and it was they who inspired us to share our little slice of paradise with discerning guests.
And so, we decided to open our home as a homestay. Today, our little slice of heaven is a peaceful retreat for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the natural world and the warmth of community hospitality. We are proud to welcome some discerning guests from all over the world to our little oasis and share with them the beauty of our way of life.
A Focus on Sustainability
Since our inception, we have been unwavering in our commitment to environmental sustainability. Despite having limited space, we have planted a multitude of trees and continue to do so relentlessly. We maintain a carbon-negative footprint, and our minimalist lifestyle ensures that we consume goods only when necessary. Disposable crockery and plastic bags are shunned completely. We have adopted several water conservation measures and rely heavily on alternative energy sources like solar power. Rainwater harvesting and traditional groundwater replenishment techniques are also employed. Our farming practices prioritize organic cultivation and eschew the use of harmful pesticides or chemicals. Every drop of wastewater is reused, and we leave no stone unturned in our quest to preserve the planet.
Do take a look at some of the things that we have been doing – Environment & Social Work
From Farm to Plate
Cooking for our guests is an absolute joy for us. We use recipes passed down through generations, and most of our herbs and vegetables are grown using natural and organic farming methods. Additionally, we incorporate local wildflowers and herbs into our dishes, all sourced sustainably from the surrounding region. We prioritize sourcing chemical-free and organic produce, and support local farmers by purchasing from them whenever possible. Our guests are always treated to delectable and wholesome meals, crafted with care and prepared with ingredients of the highest quality. (Dine With Us!)
Our fruit orchard is a mix of forest trees and fruit trees planted by us. Delicious organically grown fruits now await our guests in the fruits’ season. (Fruit Orchard at Maini’s Hill Cottages)
In Sync with Nature …
At the heart of our efforts lies a deep reverence for nature, which serves as our ultimate guide. Our orchard pathways, for instance, are a result of organic foot traffic and have been thoughtfully integrated into our design. Likewise, we discovered a patch of dense oaks in a corner, which provided welcome shade in the summer and ample sunshine in the winter, and it soon became a favored spot for rest. In response, we created a cozy sitting area here. Our farming and gardening practices are also informed by the natural world, as we strive to work in harmony with it every step of the way. (Learning Farming from Nature).
Life at Maini’s Hill Cottages
Our cottages may be simple, but they offer all the essential comforts needed for a truly relaxing stay. While we don’t provide televisions, we firmly believe that the sweeping views of the valley and mountains in front more than make up for it. Our décor features a delightful mix of mismatched cups, comfortable chairs, and rewilded gardens, imbuing our homestay with a charming rustic feel. Guests can enjoy a warm cup of chai in the cool breeze or savor fresh juice made from local flowers and berries on a summer afternoon. Although we don’t offer computer games, we do have a selection of board games and books to enjoy, complemented by the perfect setting: a cozy crackling fire in the winters or a gentle cool breeze under an old tree in the summers.
Come, Enjoy our Hospitality
For us, hospitality is much more than just a business; it’s a passion rooted in our family values and traditions. When guests come to stay with us, we welcome them with open arms, treating them like cherished family or friends. In fact, many of our past guests have become lifelong friends, returning to visit us time and time again. For us, the joy of meeting new people, sharing stories and ideas, savoring delicious food, and exploring the natural beauty of our surroundings is what makes running a homestay so rewarding.
While we may not be a large, professional resort or hotel, we pour our hearts and souls into our small homestay. We believe that it’s the little things that truly matter and that leave a lasting impression on our guests. So come and join us in the ‘devbhoomi,’ the land of the Gods, and experience the warmth and hospitality that sets our homestay apart. We look forward to sharing unforgettable moments with you.
Come as our guests and leave as our friends.
Maini's Hill Cottages 