The initiative aims to transform homestays into holistic cultural hubs where guests can savour not only the natural beauty of the islands but its indigenous flavours and folk narratives. While much of the region’s tribal culinary heritage has faded over time, officials say a number of unique and flavourful dishes continue to thrive and will be included in curated experiences for visitors.
“The whole idea is to promote homestays as a complete package where guests can have lifetime memories, starting from a comfortable stay, exotic cuisines, experience of the countryside, to clean sustainable tourism,” an official from the tourism department told PTI.
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“It will also give impetus to the local economy through community engagement. The islands have also gained national recognition, with 86 per cent of hotels in Port Blair receiving Swachhata Green Leaf Ratings. Storytelling sessions organised by the homestay owners for the tourists about the history of Andaman and Nicobar Islands would be a great value addition in the package,” the official added.
The announcement was made during an orientation-cum-interaction programme for registered homestay owners, hosted by the Tourism Department on Friday. The event focused on enhancing the quality and appeal of homestays across the islands.
Tourism Commissioner-cum-Secretary Chanchal Yadav, who presided over the event, emphasised that modern travellers increasingly seek meaningful cultural connections, not just a place to stay. “Tourists booking homestays look for more than just accommodation — they seek cultural experiences, local cuisines such as Nicobari Kinsola (sweet steamed Gujia), Sabaline tea (black tea with lemongrass), Hilu-o Hipu (steamed banana and coconut sweet confectionery), and a meaningful interaction with local people,” she said. “We need to focus on the unique experiences we are offering to our tourists related to this place, so that it prompts them to visit again and again.”
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Currently, the islands are home to over 100 registered homestays, a number that continues to grow as interest in experiential and eco-conscious travel rises. Information, Publicity and Tourism Secretary Jyoti Kumari, also present at the event, noted that the interaction marked the first official initiative to bring together homestay owners under one platform to understand their challenges and collect feedback.
She announced that a new, visually appealing website is in development, where all homestays will be featured on a dedicated page to improve accessibility and visibility for prospective visitors.
The initiative reflects a broader effort by the administration to position the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a destination where tourism goes beyond sightseeing — offering authentic experiences that engage visitors in the local way of life.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
