Two decades ago, during my early travels to remote destinations, I found inspiration in boutique hotels and gained my first insights into what an owner-run, offbeat hotel could be. What left a lasting impression on me was the happiness of the people and the deep respect they had for their workplace—the hotel and its owner. These homestays, bungalows, and small hotels embodied thoughtful ideas, such as conserving forest paths or restoring old colonial bungalows while integrating local cuisine, culture, and design from nearby villages.
Early pioneers of this approach included places like Sitla Estate, Ramathra Fort, Kipling Camp, and Shahpura Bagh. These owner-run hotels used the local community and environment as valuable assets, setting themselves apart by telling stories of conservation, heritage, rural life, and nature. I was fascinated by the creativity in local crafts, seasonal cuisine, building techniques, farming practices, and daily art and performances, all woven seamlessly into the hotel experience. When managed efficiently and integrated into tourism, it creates a win-win situation for everyone involved.