Pumah Eco Homestay

Located in the Umswai Valley in Assam, Pumah Eco Homestay is situated approximately 105 km (3–3.5 hours) from Guwahati. The journey transitions from highway roads into interior village routes, gradually opening into a landscape of lush green hills, dense forests and scenic valleys.

The homestay is based in Amsai Pinung village, part of a cluster of nearly 18–19 villages in the valley. The region is predominantly inhabited by the Hill Tiwa tribe, an indigenous community with a strong connection to nature, forest ecosystems and ancestral traditions.

The surrounding landscape supports rich biodiversity, including native forest vegetation, birdlife and small mammals, making it suitable for travellers interested in slow travel, nature walks and wildlife observation.

The space

The homestay is located within a traditional residential compound and reflects the architectural and functional layout of a Tiwa household.

The property includes:

• A worship space linked to local belief systems
• A grain storage area used for agricultural produce
• A traditional kitchen using firewood and local cooking methods

A separate guest section has been developed within the same compound, with recent improvements such as fencing, pathway access and upgraded interiors.

The accommodation features:

• 1 room with an attached western toilet
• 1 room with a non-attached private Indian toilet

The overall setup allows guests to experience daily village life within a structured and accessible environment, while remaining closely connected to the surrounding natural landscape.

Stay

The homestay offers 2 guest rooms in a dedicated guest area.

Room configurations include:

• Double occupancy
• Twin sharing setup

Each room provides views of:

• Forested hills and valley landscapes
• Village pathways and settlement areas

The rooms are simple and functional, designed for comfort while maintaining alignment with the rural and ecological setting.

Meals

Meals are prepared using locally grown and seasonal ingredients, reflecting the food culture of the region and rooted in Tiwa tribal cuisine.

Guests are provided:

• Breakfast and dinner (MAP plan)
• Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options

Food experiences may include:

• Rice and millet-based meals
• Bamboo-cooked dishes (slow-cooked inside bamboo tubes)
• Locally sourced vegetables, dry fish and meat
• Traditional rice beer and local brews (on request)

Cooking is typically done on traditional firewood stoves, adding a distinct flavour to the food and offering an authentic taste of Tiwa culinary traditions.

Experiences

Experiences at Pumah Eco Homestay are deeply connected to nature, biodiversity and indigenous culture.

Nature & Wildlife-Oriented Experiences

• Guided forest walks through Chongkhongsal Sacred Forest
• Birdwatching (presence of multiple native bird species)
• Spotting small mammals and forest biodiversity
• Nature trails and short hikes across the valley
• Visit to nearby streams, ponds and fishing spots

The sacred forest area is particularly significant for its dense vegetation, ancient monoliths and protected biodiversity, where extraction of forest resources is restricted.

Cultural & Village Experiences

• Village walk with the host
• Visit to Sacred Samadhi (traditional community space)
• Visit to Balakhangor temple (guardian deity site)
• Folklore storytelling sessions
• Local festivals (seasonal, if aligned with travel dates)

Hands-on & Lifestyle Experiences

• Traditional cooking sessions using firewood
• Rice planting and farming activities (seasonal)
• Bamboo handicraft and handloom demonstrations
• Tea experience (including smoked green tea)
• Rice beer tasting
• Traditional dress-up
• Bonfire evenings with local folklore

Bathroom

• Separate washroom for guests
• Basic and functional setup
• Designed to suit rural infrastructure conditions

Outdoor area

The homestay is surrounded by open natural landscapes, including:

• Forested hills
• Agricultural fields
• Tea patches and betel nut farms
• Water bodies like ponds and small lakes

Guests can explore:

• Walking trails through villages and forests
• Elevated viewpoints with valley views
• Trek routes such as Balakhangor Rock Mountain (approx. 3-hour trek) offering panoramic views

The outdoor environment is ideal for slow exploration, nature immersion and low-impact travel.

Host

The host is a local community leader and head priest, actively involved in:

• Village governance and traditional systems
• Environmental initiatives and plantation drives
• Community development work

He lives with his family in a multi-generational household, offering insight into Tiwa culture, traditions and daily life.

Good to know

• Located ~105 km (3–3.5 hours) from Guwahati
• Situated in a remote forested valley region
• Part of a cluster of 18–19 villages
• Rich in biodiversity and suitable for nature-based travel
• Breakfast and dinner included (MAP plan)
• Traditional meals available on request
• Experiences such as forest walks, birdwatching and cultural visits can be arranged
• Not a luxury stay; focused on community-based and eco-cultural experiences

Guest access

Guests have access to:

• Private room
• Dining area
• Common living space
• Outdoor village and forest areas

Experiences such as forest trails, cultural walks, wildlife observation and local activities can be arranged in advance.