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Dehradun: In a big step to support tourism and stop people from leaving border villages, the Indian Army has started tent-based homestays in Garbyang village, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, near the India-China-Nepal border. This beautiful Himalayan village is now ready to welcome tourists with a unique and traditional staying experience.
The project was launched under Operation Sadbhavna, an Army initiative that aims to support and develop border areas. The inauguration took place on October 6, 2025, and was led by Lieutenant General D.G. Misra, General Officer Commanding of the Northern Command. The event was attended by many excited locals who are hopeful this will bring new life to their village.
Army has handed over the management of the homestays to the local village committee
The Army has handed over the management of the homestays to the local village committee, which will now take care of bookings, visitors, and services. This gives locals a chance to earn money and develop their own businesses. The homestay plan is also part of the Government of India’s Vibrant Villages Programme, which promotes development in border areas to improve living conditions and reduce migration.
Travellers can explore spiritual sites like Adi Kailash, Om Parvat
Garbyang is not just another remote village. It is a place of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and religious importance. From here, travelers can explore spiritual sites like Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, and the Kalapani region. Known as the “Gateway to Shivnagri Gunji,” the village is a key point for pilgrims and adventure lovers heading toward Kailash-Mansarovar through the Lipulekh Pass.
About the homestays
The tent-based homestays are simple, eco-friendly, and comfortable. They offer tourists a chance to live like locals, enjoy traditional food, and experience village life. The cost is also affordable—INR 1,000 per person per night, including meals. Bookings can be made by calling the Garbyang Village Committee at these numbers-9410734276, 7579811930 and 9596752645. This type of tourism helps protect nature, keeps the environment clean, and gives direct income to villagers.
A smart security strategy
Besides promoting tourism, this initiative also has a security angle. Border villages like Garbyang are very important for national security. But many people are leaving these areas due to a lack of jobs and facilities. With fewer people living in these villages, it's harder to keep the area secure.
The Indian Army believes that encouraging people to stay and live here will strengthen border security. Locals act as "eyes and ears" for the Army and help during emergencies. Keeping the population stable in these sensitive areas is now seen as a key part of national defense.
According to Lt Col Manish Srivastava, Army PRO in Uttarakhand, “The Indian Army is committed to the welfare of locals. This homestay project will help reverse migration and build a better future for the people here.”
Bigger development plans
The homestay initiative is one part of a bigger plan under Operation Sadbhavna. In the past, the Army has worked on: Solar power projects, village electrification, medical camps, horticulture support (like polyhouses) and Road and water projects. These projects aim to make border life better and more sustainable.
Place is ideal for trekking, spiritual journeys, or simply relaxing in nature
Garbyang is surrounded by snowy peaks, rivers, forests, and has a peaceful charm. It's ideal for trekking, spiritual journeys, or simply relaxing in nature. Now, with the Army-supported homestays, tourists can stay safely and affordably, while also helping the local economy.
