Sustainable tourism
for a forgotten valley.
Empowering the inhabitants of the Shara Valley through cultural preservation, responsible tourism and community development.
3 villages
Several hamlets
1,200 inhabitants
60 km from Leh
A development project rooted in the local community
The valley of Shara is situated in Ladakh, about 60 km from its capital, Leh. Cut off from tourist-flooded zones. Three villages Shara, Sharnos and Phuktsey and several hamlets form a community of 1,200 people.
The project focuses on local population involvement especially youth and women through a network of local partners, and the cultural, environmental and traditional richness of the valley.
The regional “Back to Village” programme, supported by the authorities of Ladakh, aims to encourage rural populations to remain in or return to their home villages by developing local economic opportunities. Tourism is one of the key drivers of this strategy.
Since the opening of Ladakh to tourism in 1974, the region has experienced a rapid transition from an ancestral culture towards a market-based economy. However, tourism activity remains largely concentrated around Leh, leading to mass tourism impacts that are increasingly harmful.
This project, carried out in partnership with local communities, associations, and authorities, offers an alternative based on sustainable tourism, with two main objectives:
Decentralise tourism activity towards remote and less-visited areas.
Ensure the empowerment and self-sufficiency of local communities through the local management of income-generating activities.
Two principal goals guide us: a complete immersion in local culture via homestays with local hosts, and the restoration of the old village of Phuktsey a treasure of Ladakhi architecture.
Homestay
Immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of Ladakh with a stay in a traditional family homestay, peacefully located in a beautiful valley surrounded by majestic mountains and terraced fields. This warm and welcoming home offers breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to experience the local way of life, traditions, and culture.
Savor delicious homemade meals prepared with fresh ingredients from the family garden, share meaningful moments with your hosts, and enjoy the genuine warmth of Ladakhi hospitality.
The peaceful atmosphere of the valley invites you to explore the surrounding landscapes through safe and scenic walks across the traditional mountain terraces. Along the way, you may meet local farmers tending their fields, irrigating crops, caring for their vegetable gardens, or grazing their cows and yaks. These authentic encounters offer unforgettable moments of connection with the local community and a chance to discover the customs, traditions, and everyday life of Ladakh.
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Welcome to Tashi & Norzom’s house
Welcome to Tashi & Chonzom’s Nestled in the heart of the Shara Valley, Tashi and Chonzom’s family home opens its doors with the warmth and generosity that define Ladakhi hospitality. Surrounded by a kitchen garden and terraced fields that gently slope down toward the valley, this home is a true haven of authentic living. Tashi,…
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Rigzen Hometsay
Tsomo and Nawang house Welcome to Rigzen and Sonam traditional village homestay, where warm hospitality and authentic local life come together. They have lovingly prepared 3 comfortable guest rooms, some with private en-suite showers and others with shared shower facilities. Great care has been taken to ensure your comfort, with each room offering quality bedding…
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Srangtsod Homestay
Welcome to Srangstod family house. Stay at Sherap and Dorje house in their traditional Ladakhi village homestay, where warm hospitality and authentic local life come together. They have lovingly prepared 2 comfortable guest rooms, with shared shower facilities. Great care has been taken to ensure your comfort, with each room offering quality bedding and a…
News
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Documentry “Rebuilding the future”
Nestled at the northernmost edge of India, Ladakh, with its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and unique way of life, embodies a distinct…
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Exhibition “Writing Peace” by UNESCO
The restoration project of the old village in the Shara Valley, initiated by the villagers themselves, reflects a strong awareness of the…
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Inauguration of Phuktsey old village on 1st August 2026
In the heart of Ladakh, high in the Indian Himalayas, the ancient village of Phuktsey is being brought back to life through…
Our initiatives
Empowering the 1,200 inhabitants of the Shara Valley through cultural preservation, responsible tourism and community development.
Restoration of the Old Village
Phuktsey embodies the architectural heritage of Ladakh. Over 70% of its houses are damaged. Restoration transforms the village into a living cultural and artistic centre.
Education
With an illiteracy rate of nearly 30%, investing in youth education is the foundation for any lasting change in the valley.
Local Heritage & Artisan
Ladakh is a renowned producer of pashmina wool. Tourists discover traditional weaving alongside the women of the valley — ensuring these practices are preserved and passed on.
Training Village Women
Professional training in hospitality and digital tools builds economic independence. Women become cultural ambassadors for the valley and active project leaders.