Nestled just three kilometers away from the bustling
tourist hub of Khajjiar, lies a village with a remarkable tale of resilience
and innovation. Bhaloli, also known as the ‘Not on Map Mystic Village’, is a charming
hamlet situated near the popular tourist destination of Khajjiar in the
picturesque Chamba district. Part of the Singi gram panchayat, Mystic Village
stands as the first tourism-based community village of the Gaddi tribe. The
village is home to the Gaddi tribe and features five homestays managed by the
Gabdika self-help group.It has defied the odds by transforming from a place
lacking basic amenities to a thriving community through the power of homestay
tourism.

Five years ago, Shankar, who belongs to the Gaddi
tribe, decided to leave his catering business in Punjab and return home for
good. Shankar, who always missed the pristine climate of his village, made this
major decision in his life despite earning a decent living. However, starting a
new venture near the crowded Khajjiar was difficult, and Bhaloli itself
remained inaccessible by road.

Despite doubts from many, he decided to settle in
Bhaloli. The village not only lacked basic amenities but also sufficient means
of livelihood, as the landholdings were small and agricultural produce was
inadequate to sustain the residents.

Facing challenges such as limited livelihood
opportunities and inadequate amenities, the villagers of Bhaloli, predominantly
belonging to the Gaddi tribe, found hope in the form of homestay tourism. With
the support of ‘Not on Map’, a
Chamba-based organization promoting responsible tourism, the villagers opened
their homes to visitors, offering an authentic experience of Himalayan village
life.

NotOnMap: Empowering Villages and Redefining Travel

NotOnMap is a unique initiative that flips the
script on traditional tourism. Instead of large corporations profiting from
cultural experiences, NotOnMap empowers remote communities by placing them at
the center of the travel experience.

Here’s how NotOnMap uplifts the local
community in Bhaloli:

• Community-Run Homestays:
  Forget impersonal hotels. NotOnMap connects visitors with local families
  who offer homestay experiences. This provides a direct source of income
  for the Gaddi people and fosters cultural exchange.
• Preserving Traditions:
  Tourism can often erode cultural identity. NotOnMap works alongside the
  Gaddi community to ensure tourism promotes and preserves their traditions.
  Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the Gaddi way of life, fostering
  respect and appreciation.
• Sustainable Practices:
  NotOnMap prioritizes responsible tourism practices. Revenue generated goes
  directly back into the community, allowing for investment in
  infrastructure and environmental initiatives. This ensures a sustainable
  future for both the village and its visitors.
• Local Control:
  Bhaloli, through NotOnMap, has the power to decide how tourism functions
  within their village. This empowers the community to set their own terms
  and ensure tourism benefits them directly.

Through this innovative approach, Bhaloli has not only
flourished economically but has also preserved its rich cultural heritage.
Guests staying in the village’s homestays get a chance to immerse themselves in
the traditional cuisines, customs, and daily activities of the villagers,
fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the local culture.

Recognition
and a Model for the Future

Bhaloli’s homestay initiative proved to be a
resounding success. The resilience and innovative spirit of its residents paid
off. Their efforts to create a sustainable tourism model resonated with
travelers seeking genuine experiences. This success story was further validated
when Bhaloli received a Silver Medal in the Indian Responsible
Tourism category by Outlook Traveller.

A Legacy
for Generations to Come

Bhaloli’s journey from
lacking basic amenities to a thriving tourist destination is an inspiration. It
exemplifies sustainable tourism development that blends tradition, innovation,
and community collaboration. This model not only bolsters the local economy but
also safeguards the village’s cultural and natural heritage,
ensuring the preservation of its cultural and natural heritage for generations
to come.