Himachal Pradesh Implements New Regulations on Homestays

New Homestay Regulations in Himachal Pradesh

Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh government has introduced a significant policy change aimed at regulating the tourism industry by prohibiting the operation of homestays in leased properties and apartments. The updated Homestay Rules 2025 stipulate that only independent houses owned by individuals, as confirmed in revenue records, will qualify for homestay registration.

The newly established regulations, now officially published in the state gazette, represent a considerable tightening of existing norms. All current homestays and bed-and-breakfast (B&B) establishments throughout the state are required to re-register via a newly created online portal. Registration will only be permitted under the name of the actual property owner, with certificates issued based exclusively on jamabandi (land ownership) records.

Key Points of the Revised Guidelines

• Homestays are not allowed in leased houses, flats, or partial units such as one-room or two-room sets.
• The property must be a standalone building or an entire floor designated for guest accommodation.
• A separate entry point is essential to ensure privacy for visitors.
• Registration will be refused if the property is not entirely owned by the applicant.

Previously, the 2008 Homestay Scheme did not clearly address leased properties, resulting in widespread use of rented flats, particularly by individuals from outside the state, for commercial purposes in popular tourist areas.

The Tourism Department of the state has been directed to rigorously enforce the ownership requirement, declaring all leased operations as illegal. This crackdown is in response to growing concerns regarding unregulated tourism infrastructure and the exploitation of homestay licenses by non-resident investors.

A representative from the Himachal Pradesh Homestay Association expressed support for the new regulations, stating, “The earlier rules lacked clear guidance on leased properties. We had urged the government to ensure that local residents benefit from the scheme, and these new directives reflect that goal.”

According to Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, individuals who are not residents of Himachal Pradesh must obtain permission to purchase land or construct homes in the state. However, previously, flats could be acquired without this approval, creating a loophole for outsiders to operate homestays in leased apartments. With the enforcement of the revised rules, the state government aims to safeguard local livelihoods, enhance regulation, and maintain ecological balance in sensitive hill regions.