Domkhar Eco Homestay

Located in Domkhar Village in Sham Valley, Domkhar Eco Homestay is situated approximately 110 km from Leh, taking around 2.5 hours by road along the Leh–Kargil highway. The homestay is set within an agricultural landscape surrounded by apricot orchards and the Sham Valley mountain range. Its location provides access to nearby villages, monasteries and trekking routes within the region.

Domkhar Village lies in a lower-altitude region of Ladakh, making it suitable for farming activities and offering a base for exploring nearby cultural and historical sites, including ancient petroglyphs and routes towards Takmachik.

The space

The homestay is part of a traditional village home set within farmland and orchards. It is designed to accommodate guests while continuing daily agricultural and household activities. The setting provides open views of surrounding mountains, fields and village pathways.

Stay

The stay includes private guest rooms within the host family’s home. Rooms are maintained for functionality and comfort in a high-altitude environment. Heating during winter is provided using a traditional bukhari (wood stove).

Each room includes:

• Attached washroom (Indian or western-style)
• Dry/compost toilet system used during winter
• Solar-heated hot water
• Basic furnishings suited for short stays

The setup is practical and aligned with local living conditions.

Meals

Meals are prepared using locally grown ingredients, often sourced from the host’s farm and orchards.

Guests are provided:

• Breakfast and dinner
• Traditional dishes such as khambir and chutagi
• Seasonal produce including apricots and apples
• Simple home-style meals

Guests may also participate in food preparation and seasonal farming activities.

Experiences

Experiences at the homestay focus on farming, culture and local art.

• Participation in apricot farming and harvesting (seasonal)
• Thangka painting sessions with the host
• Village walks through Domkhar
• Visit to nearby petroglyph sites
• Trekking routes within Sham Valley
• Day visits towards Takmachik Village and monastery

Additional activities can be arranged on request.

Bathroom

The bathroom is attached to the room with Indian or western-style setup. During winter, dry or compost toilets are used due to freezing conditions. Facilities are basic and adapted to the local climate.

Outdoor area

The homestay is located within apricot orchards and farmland, offering open surroundings and views of the Sham Valley landscape. Guests can walk through fields, explore nearby trails and access village areas.

Host

Your host, Tsewang Dolma, manages the homestay with her family. The household is engaged in farming, apricot cultivation and traditional art practices. The family hosts travellers while continuing their daily routine, offering insight into agricultural life and cultural traditions of the region.

Good to know

• Located approximately 110 km from Leh (2.5 hours by road)
• Situated along the Leh–Kargil highway in Sham Valley
• Open throughout the year, including winter months
• Heating provided using traditional methods in winter
• Breakfast and dinner included; lunch available on request
• Additional activities such as farming experiences, painting sessions and trekking can be arranged

This stay is suited for travellers looking for a village-based experience with a focus on farming, art and local culture. It is not a luxury property but provides a functional stay within a traditional home.

Guest access

Guests have access to private rooms, attached washrooms, dining areas and shared spaces within the home. Experiences such as village walks, farming activities and cultural sessions can be arranged in advance.