0 | Page C H A P T E R - 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N Homestay is a popular form of hospitality and lodging whereby visitors sleep at the residence of a local of the city to which they are travelling. The length of stay can vary from one night to multiple days and can be provided, in exchange of monetary compensation. e. Homestay is examples of collaborative consumption and sharing. It allows visitors and host family to experience social taboos of each other. In North Sikkim especially in rural sides there are three main areas where homestay get its gravity. “The first one is lachen with the altitude of 8500 ft lachen retains a freshness which is very appealing” (Paul, 2018, p. 17). The village comprises of less than 200 houses. As it is the straight point for some of the most interesting treks in north Sikkim as well as the gateway to the holy Gurudongmar and Tso lhamu Lakes. It provides the sustainable tourism village under the guidance of the Pipon (Head) of the Dzumsa and DC, North Sikkim. Around 25 houses provide homestays facilities. The second is Dzongu Homestays with reserved Lepcha tribe of Sikkim. Bordering the Kanchendzonga biosphere reserve, it offers panoramic views of mount Kanchendzonga and is particularly rich in flora and fauna. They will be provided clean comfortable rooms and attached bathrooms and traditional Lepcha meals in homely style. The Dzongu homestays offer the best of Lepcha hospitality and cultural traditions amidst luxuriant landscape and spectacular mountain scenery. All visitors must book through a registered travel agent from Dzongu who will take care of all permits and other formalities. No individual can visit the area without inner line permit. Kabi Homestays offers a very simple but those that meet the basic amenities required and very hygienically maintained. The owners are given proper training on providing hygienic food and ensuring a comfortable stay for the visitors. One can take a glimpse into the village lifestyle while staying closely with different families. At present there are some houses offering homestay facilities or tourists.