The Advanced Homestay Training in Jagirdarwadi, conducted with the support of ASK Foundation, was held from 13th to 15th January in the Bhandardara region of Maharashtra. This training focused on improving homestay management, digital skills and hospitality practices for local communities.

Bhandardara is known for its natural landscape, including Mount Kalsubai, Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam, Ratangad and Sandhan Valley. It attracts travelers for trekking, nature and village experiences. However, many homestays in villages like Jagirdarwadi were not fully prepared to manage growing tourism demand in a structured way.

This training was designed to bridge this gap. It built on earlier efforts and introduced practical tools and systems to help homestay owners manage, promote and improve their services.

Arthur Lake in Bhandardara, one of the key attractions for visitors

Building on 2024 Training

This initiative builds on earlier work done in the region. In 2024, a basic homestay and guide training was conducted by GHE, where participants were introduced to the fundamentals of hospitality and homestay operations.

Alongside training, GHE also supported the development of tourism infrastructure in Bhandardara. This included two tented stays, Murshet Nature Camp and Panjare Nature Camp and two homestay named as Sahyadri Homestay. These setups created early models of structured rural tourism.

The Advanced Homestay Training in Jagirdarwadi expanded on this foundation by introducing more advanced skills and tools required for long-term growth.

Murshet Nature Camp set up in 2024 in the Bhandardara region

Why This Training Matters

Many homestay owners in Jagirdarwadi had the space and willingness to host guests but lacked structured knowledge in key areas. Challenges included limited marketing, low digital visibility, gaps in booking management and difficulty in guest communication.

The Training focused on solving these issues through practical learning. The goal was to help hosts understand how to improve their services and manage tourism in a more organized way.

Training materials and SOPs provided during the training

Marketing and Digital Skills

A major part of the training focused on improving online presence. Participants learned how to present their homestays through clear photos and descriptions.

The training covered the use of Instagram for promotion, including what content to post, how to write captions and how to use hashtags and location tags.

Participants were also introduced to WhatsApp Business tools such as automated replies, catalogs and business profiles. These tools helped improve communication and made homestays appear more professional to potential guests.

Trainees watching a session on marketing and promotion

Operations and Guest Handling

The Advanced Homestay Training in Jagirdarwadi focused on improving day-to-day operations. Participants learned how booking platforms work and how to handle inquiries and confirmations.

They were guided on collecting guest IDs, understanding C-Form requirements and maintaining records properly. The training also covered communication with guests, helping hosts interact in a clear and respectful manner. This improved trust and made the overall guest experience smoother.

Participants learning about current tourism trends training

Technology and Practical Skills

Participants were introduced to simple and useful technology tools. Also included the use of AI for writing house rules, creating cancellation policies, drafting guest messages and building homestay descriptions. The training also covered basic mobile photography. Participants learned how to use natural light, frame images and prepare spaces before taking photos. These skills help improve how homestays are presented online.

Participants coming together for a group photo

Hospitality and Sustainability

Hospitality remains central to any homestay experience. The training focused on hygiene standards, room preparation, food safety and guest privacy. It also emphasized sustainable practices such as reducing plastic use, managing waste, conserving water and promoting local food. These steps support responsible tourism while protecting the local environment.

Participants holding certificates on the final day of training

The Advanced Homestay Training in Jagirdarwadi showed how continuous learning can strengthen rural tourism. By building on the 2024 basic training and introducing advanced skills, this program helped homestay owners become more confident and prepared. With better knowledge of marketing, digital tools, operations and hospitality, hosts in Jagirdarwadi and the Bhandardara region are now better equipped to manage and grow their homestays.

To explore more about such initiatives and access the detailed training brochure, visit the GHE website and learn more about the homestay training programs.