As the summer heat approaches, many travellers seek a refreshing and eco-friendly escape. From the tranquil mountains of Himachal Pradesh to the lush greenery of Kerala, India is home to stunning mud homestays that offer natural cooling and a chance to connect with local culture. Here are ten beautiful mud homestays that promise a peaceful and sustainable retreat.
1. Afsana Homestay, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled near the Hadimba Temple in Manali, Afsana Homestay is a restored 50-year-old mud, wood, and stone house surrounded by forests and apple orchards. Founded by Heena Mahant, it reflects traditional Himachali architecture. With rooms starting at Rs 600 and curated nature walks, it offers a perfect offbeat escape for those seeking a connection to nature.
2. The Nanda Stone, Uttarakhand
Located in Jilling, Uttarakhand, The Nanda Stone offers breathtaking views of Nanda Devi. Built by Ashish Verma using traditional Kumaoni methods and natural materials, this mud homestay stays naturally cool and warm across seasons. With earthy interiors, no plastic usage, and delicious Kumaoni meals, it’s an ideal eco-friendly mountain retreat.
3. The Mudhouse, Marayoor, Kerala
Situated near the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, The Mudhouse in Marayoor offers an eco-friendly stay with a two-bedroom mud cottage and a traditional treehouse. Hosting up to six guests, it provides a shared kitchen, dining area, and lounge. Guests can enjoy outdoor barbecues and candlelight dinners, adding to its rustic charm.
4. Kundan Homestay, Himachal Pradesh
In Kais village near Kullu, Kundan Homestay is a 100-year-old mud and stone house run by Kundan Singh and his wife Kala. Built with traditional earthquake-resistant methods, it offers a warm pahadi (mountain) lifestyle. Guests can enjoy local hospitality and organic meals made from the family farm’s produce.
5. Greenara, Kerala
Located near Calicut, Greenara is a sustainable mud homestay built on a rewilded 6-acre former mining site. Transformed into a lush tropical forest by owner Mustafa PA, it features two mud cottages and a 12-bed dormitory made with natural materials. Guests can relish farm-to-table Malabari meals and experience slow, sustainable living.
6. Hodka Rann Stay, Gujarat
Hodka Rann Stay, situated in Hodka village, Gujarat, offers a cosy mud hut experience just 20 km from the Rann Utsav Tent City. With eco-friendly huts, starry skies, and peaceful sunrises, guests can enjoy vegetarian Kutchi meals, folk music, and interactions with local artisans known for embroidery and leatherwork.
7. Banasura Hill Resort, Kerala
As Asia’s largest mud resort, Banasura Hill Resort in Wayanad is built entirely from the earth it stands on. Tucked in the lush Banasura Hills, it offers cool mud rooms, forest trails, waterfalls, and fresh farm-to-table food. Perfect for slow, conscious travel, the resort blends nature, comfort, and sustainability.
8. Kashi Villa, Himachal Pradesh
Located in Kasauli, Kashi Villa is a 180-year-old mud and stone homestay restored by Rachna and Kapil Tandon. Surrounded by deodar and oak trees, it offers cosy rooms, fireplaces, and traditional Himachali food. With its colonial charm and local warmth, it’s a peaceful mountain escape.
9. Matirr Ghor, Assam
Translating to ‘The Mud House,’ Matirr Ghor in Guwahati, Assam, is a rustic, eco-conscious homestay focusing on traditional mud architecture and sustainable living. Offering an earthy, minimalist experience rooted in Assamese culture, it is ideal for those looking to disconnect and slow down.
10. Medini Homestay, Assam
Near Kaziranga National Park, Medini Homestay is built with bamboo, mud, and wood by Champak Deka and Anna Louise Meynell. It offers local food, silk weaving, and a deep connection to Assamese culture. Its proximity to the national park makes it a perfect retreat for wildlife enthusiasts and sustainable travel lovers.
Summing Up
These ten mud homestays showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re a nature lover or a conscious traveller, these eco-friendly retreats provide a refreshing and peaceful escape from the scorching summer heat.