Himachal’s crackdown: Unregistered homestays face ₹1 lakh fine
Himachal Pradesh is tightening the screws on unregistered homestays. New rules mandate registration with the Tourism Department and local bodies. Failure to comply will result in hefty penalties.
Repeat offenders face a steep fine of ₹1 lakh, along with disconnection of essential utilities. This stringent action aims to bring these establishments under the regulatory ambit.
The move addresses concerns raised by registered hotels about unfair competition from unregulated homestays. The government seeks to create a level playing field for all stakeholders in the tourism sector.
The new regulations, effective August 5, 2025, are expected to significantly impact the burgeoning homestay industry in the state. This could lead to a surge in registrations and a more organised tourism landscape. However, concerns remain about the impact on smaller, independent operators. The government will need to strike a balance between regulation and supporting local livelihoods.
