Garbyang, Uttarakhand: In a significant move to promote tourism and support sustainable development in remote border regions, the Indian Army inaugurated a tent-based homestay in the scenic village of Garbyang, located in the Kumaon sector of Uttarakhand. The initiative, part of Operation Sadbhavna, was officially launched by Lieutenant General DG Misra, General Officer Commanding, Uttar Bharat Area.
This unique tourism project aligns with the Government of India’s Vibrant Villages Programme, aiming to encourage community-led tourism while preserving the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region. The homestay provides an authentic local experience for visitors while generating livelihood opportunities for residents.
Garbyang, known as the “Gateway to Shivnagri Gunji”, is a key junction for two sacred pilgrimage routes—one leading to Adi Kailash and the other to Om Parvat and Kalapani. Surrounded by majestic peaks and pristine valleys, the village holds both strategic importance and deep spiritual relevance, making it an emerging hub for cultural and religious tourism.
The inauguration ceremony saw enthusiastic participation from local villagers, who welcomed the initiative as a step forward in economic empowerment and regional development. The homestay, developed by the Army and now operated by the local community, is fully managed by the Garbyang Village Committee.
Key Details:
Tariff: ₹1000 per person per night (inclusive of meals)
Bookings: Garbyang Village Committee
Contact Numbers: 9410734276 / 7579811930 / 9596752645
Visitors to Garbyang can explore several nearby sites of religious and cultural interest, including Om Parvat, Adi Kailash, Parvati Kund, Gauri Kund, Kalimata Mandir (source of the Kali River), Rishi Vyas Cave, and the Rang Community Museum in Gunji. The area’s unique blend of spirituality and natural grandeur offers a compelling experience for trekkers, pilgrims, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Beyond tourism, the Indian Army continues its broader developmental work in the border regions of Kumaon. Initiatives include village electrification, installation of hybrid solar power systems, medical camps, construction of polyhouses, and essential infrastructure upgrades—all aimed at enhancing the quality of life and integrating remote communities into the national development framework.
The Garbyang homestay project exemplifies the Army’s enduring commitment to nation-building and the socio-economic upliftment of border villages.
