In a heartwarming story of grassroots transformation, Matholi village in the Chinyalisaur block of Uttarkashi district has emerged as a shining model of women-led rural tourism. Once an overlooked settlement, the village is now being fondly referred to as “Bwari Gaon” – a name that echoes the spirit of women empowerment it has come to represent.

Tourists who earlier flocked to well-known destinations like Harsil Valley or Mori-Sankri are now making a beeline for Matholi, drawn by its unique cultural experiences and the warm hospitality offered by local women. From managing homestays to leading guided tours, the women of Matholi are scripting a new narrative for the hills.

The driving force behind this change is Pradeep Panwar, a young local entrepreneur who returned to his village during the COVID-19 lockdown. With his background in tourism, Pradeep transformed an old cowshed—or chhani—into a rustic homestay in 2022. Alongside, he began training local women in hospitality, cooking, and trekking guidance, enabling them to run homestays and organize cultural village experiences for tourists.

“Today, tourists not only stay in our homes but also participate in traditional activities like the Ghasyari Competition, giving them a taste of real village life,” says Anita Panwar, a local woman who is now an active homestay host.

Thanks to Pradeep’s initiative and support from the tourism department, around 20 women have found employment through homestay services. His homestay, now officially registered, has already welcomed over 1,000 tourists since March 8, 2022.

According to tourism officials, a total of 5,331 homestays are now registered across Uttarakhand, with many of them run by women in remote rural areas. Under the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Homestay Scheme, the government is offering subsidies of up to 25% in the plains and 33% in hill regions to support the creation of such homestays.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami praised Matholi`s efforts, stating, “Matholi is a model for both rural tourism and women empowerment. Any family interested in starting a homestay will receive full support from the tourism department. Other villages should draw inspiration from Matholi.”

As Matholi continues to inspire change, it stands as a testament to how community-led tourism can uplift lives, especially when women are at the forefront.

Himalayan Live Bureau

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