FAQ’s

General Questions

Planning a trip to Ladakh or already booked your stay with Mountain Homestays? This FAQ page is your complete guide to understanding what staying in a homestay in Ladakh really means. Here, you’ll find answers to all your travel questions, from how to book and what to pack, to acclimatization tips, meals, facilities and local experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a solo traveller or planning a family trip, these FAQs will help you prepare for a comfortable and meaningful journey.

What comes to your mind when you hear “homestay in Ladakh”?

Homestays in Ladakh are community or family based accommodations where travellers stay with local families to experience authentic Ladakhi life, culture and traditions. This supports local livelihoods and offers a deeper, more personal travel experience beyond typical hotels or resorts.

Are these family-run homestays?

Yes, homestays in Ladakh are family-run and personally managed by trained local hosts. Staying in these homes allows travellers to experience authentic Ladakhi culture, traditions and daily life while enjoying warm local hospitality.

What makes Mountain Homestays unique?

All our homestays are eco-friendly, offering travellers a real taste of village life in Ladakh.
Each homestay provides a unique way to connect with local culture, nature and traditions.

Here are some of the special homestays you can explore in Ladakh:

AstroStays & Bhukpa Retreat at Pangong – Stargaze under one of the clearest night skies at 14,000 ft.

Sakti Eco Homestay – Experience village farming and witness vibrant monastery festivals.

Nubra Eco Homestay – Stay near the historic Silk Route and the beautiful Nubra dunes.

Basgo Eco Homestay – Enjoy stunning views of Basgo Palace and Monastery.

Spituk Riverside Homestay – Stay by the banks of the Indus River with views of Spituk Monastery.

Likir Potter’s Homestay – Learn traditional pottery from one of the last potter families of Ladakh.

Domkhar Eco Homestay – Experience the art of traditional Thangka painting.

Kurambik Eco Homestay – Spot the elusive Snow Leopard and other wildlife in Kurambik village.

Beyond the stays, travellers can also join immersive experiences such as Leh Old Town walks, morning prayer sessions with monks and Pashmina Nomad experiences.

What are the check-in and check-out timings?

Standard check-in is from 12 PM and check-out by 11 AM, though timings are flexible depending on travel schedules and region.

How should I acclimatize after reaching Ladakh?

your body to acclimatize gradually to the low oxygen levels to prevent acute mountain sickness (AMS). Spend the first two days resting and drinking plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and smoking and eat light meals. Start with short walks around Leh before heading to higher places like Nubra or Pangong. Plan your journey to gain altitude slowly and sleep at lower elevations whenever possible. Consult your doctor before travel for preventive medicines like Diamox and consider carrying an oximeter or portable oxygen for safety.

What kind of washrooms are available?

In Ladakh, washrooms range from traditional eco-friendly setups to modern facilities, depending on the location. All the homestays by Mountain Homestays are equipped with eco-friendly toilets. Most homestays offer Indian, Western or dry compost toilets, the latter using soil or ash instead of water, helping conserve resources in the high-altitude desert.

Do guests get private rooms?

Yes, each guest or group is provided a private room within the host family’s home. While other travelers may stay in separate rooms, your space and privacy are always ensured.

What heating arrangements are available?

Our rooms are equipped with basic heating options such as traditional Bukhari (wood stoves) or electric heating pillars where electricity is available. These heating arrangements are used mainly during the winter months to keep rooms warm and comfortable.

Are homestays open in winter?

The overall winter season in Ladakh is harsh with very low temperatures and some homestays close during this time due to extreme weather and road conditions. However, a few remain open year-round, especially those near main towns or equipped with heating facilities. It’s recommended to book in advance, confirm availability and ask about winter-specific amenities before your visit.

How can I reach the homestay?

All our are listed on Google and can be easily located through Google Maps. They are accessible by car, though some routes may include uneven or unpaved roads. Detailed directions and travel assistance are provided by Mountain Homestays Team once your booking is confirmed.

Do you provide airport transfers or local transport?

Yes, we can assist with airport pickup, drop-offs and local sightseeing transport on request and additional charges.

How do I book a homestay?

You can book a homestay through our official website, directly with our team, or via select booking platforms. Payments can be made securely through our payment gateway, directly to Mountain Homestays. All bookings are confirmed on a prepayment basis, and detailed information will be shared once your reservation is complete.

What is the payment, cancellation or refund policy?

Full prepayment is required to confirm the booking. We have a 7 days cancellation policy. In case of weather or road closures, we offer rescheduling (subjective to availability) but no refunds are made in such case. For the details refer to our refund policy in website.

What’s included in my stay?

Each booking includes a comfortable private room and two home-cooked meals daily for two guests, offering an authentic local experience during your stay.

How is cellular connectivity in Ladakh?

Cellular connectivity in Ladakh varies by location. While Leh town and some nearby villages have decent coverage from Jio, Airtel or BSNL (postpaid only), remote areas like Pangong Lake and parts of Nubra Valley often have limited or no signal. It’s best to carry a postpaid SIM card and download offline maps for smooth navigation.

What’s the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Ladakh is from April to July, when the weather is pleasant and most roads are open. June to September is ideal for family trips and road travel. For a quieter, offbeat experience, you can visit between November and February but be prepared for extreme cold and possible road closures due to snowfall.

How many guests stay in one home?

Most of our homestays hosts 2–6 guests, depending on room availability and family capacity.

Who prepares the meals?

All meals are freshly prepared by the host family using local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Are dietary restrictions or special requests accommodated?

Yes, please inform us in advance and hosts will do their best to accommodate your needs.

What should I pack for Ladakh?

Pack warm, layered clothing as temperatures can vary greatly between day and night. Carry thermals, fleece jackets and a windproof/waterproof outer layer along with woolen socks, gloves and a hat. Essentials include sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, a reusable water bottle and personal medication. Bring sturdy walking or trekking shoes, a power bank, cash (as ATMs are limited) and all required IDs or permits. Don’t forget a basic first-aid kit, toiletries and snacks for energy during your travels.

How do my stay and activities support the local family?

By staying with Mountain Homestays, your visit directly benefits local families. Each homestay is owned and managed by locals, ensuring that tourism income stays within the village. Your stay helps preserve traditional architecture, crafts and cultural heritage while promoting livelihoods in remote areas. Additionally, experiences like pottery, farming and stargazing are led by trained local hosts, empowering them with new skills and creating meaningful connections between travelers and the family.

Do you organize local experiences or activities apart from homestays?

Yes, Mountain Homestays offers a range of local experiences beyond accommodation. Travelers can join cultural walks, handicraft workshops, monastery visits, farming sessions and village experiences, all led by local hosts. These activities can be booked separately, even if you’re not staying at a homestay.

Can I customize my itinerary or extend my stay?

Absolutely, our team can tailor your travel plan based on your interests and schedule. We customize end to end trips for travelers.

Are homestays suitable for solo travellers and families?

Yes, they’re ideal for solo travellers, couples and families seeking safe and welcoming stays.

What medical facilities are nearby?

Basic medical help is available in most villages but the main hospital is located in Leh only.

Do I need any special permits?

Yes, permits are required for certain restricted areas. We can help guide you through the process or arrange for you (additional charges applicable).

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