The Indian Army has taken an innovative step to blend tourism with community development by inaugurating a tent-based Homestay in Garbyang, a picturesque border village in the Kumaon sector. Officially opened on 6 October 2025 by Lieutenant General DG Misra, GOC, Uttar Bharat Area, this initiative falls under Operation Sadbhavna and reflects a growing focus on sustainable rural tourism and community empowerment.
A Unique Travel Experience
The Garbyang homestay gives travelers a chance to experience village life firsthand. Visitors can stay in comfortable tents while immersing themselves in the culture, traditions, and daily life of the locals. This setup not only ensures an authentic travel experience but also provides economic opportunities for villagers, helping strengthen local livelihoods.
Aligned with the Government of India’s Vibrant Villages Programme, the initiative is a model of how tourism can support community-led development in remote border areas.
Garbyang: The Gateway to Spiritual and Adventure Tourism
Often called the “Gateway to Shivnagri Gunji,” Garbyang holds strategic and spiritual significance. The village is the starting point for two major pilgrimage routes:
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Adi Kailash, a revered spiritual destination
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Om Parvat and Kalapani, known for breathtaking natural beauty
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, Garbyang is emerging as a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts, trekkers, and spiritual travelers. Staying in the tent-based homestay gives visitors a front-row view of this enchanting landscape.
Community-Driven Tourism
The homestay has been developed under the Indian Army’s guidance and handed over to the Garbyang Village Committee for independent management. Travelers can enjoy the charm of rural life, while locals benefit economically by participating in the tourism operation.
This initiative is a prime example of community-led tourism, where local traditions and livelihoods are preserved while creating meaningful opportunities for residents.
Spiritual and Cultural Attractions
The Garbyang region is rich in spiritual and cultural landmarks, offering a mix of pilgrimage, trekking, and cultural exploration:
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Om Parvat
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Kailash Parvat (via Lipulekh Pass)
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Kalimata Mandir
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Rishi Vyas Cave
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Adi Kailash
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Parvati Kund and Gauri Kund
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Rang Community Museum at Gunji
With this diverse range of attractions, Garbyang is not just a stopover for pilgrims—it’s a destination for adventure, culture, and exploration.
Indian Army Ongoing Support for Border Communities
Beyond tourism, the Indian Army continues to develop border villages through several initiatives:
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Village electrification
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Hybrid solar plant installations
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Medical camps and health services
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Polyhouse farming
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Infrastructure projects to improve connectivity
These efforts aim to enhance living standards, create sustainable livelihoods, and integrate remote villages into India’s development framework.
A Model for Tourism and Development
The Garbyang tent-based homestay is more than just a tourism project—it is a vision for sustainable, community-driven development. Travelers gain an unforgettable experience amid serene landscapes, while locals enjoy economic and social upliftment.
By combining culture, nature, and community empowerment, the initiative shows how development and tradition can go hand in hand, creating a model for other rural areas across the country.
Final Thoughts
The tent-based homestay in Garbyang is more than just a tourism initiative—it is a bridge between culture, community, and development. By allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local way of life while exploring breathtaking landscapes and spiritual landmarks, the project offers a truly authentic experience.