In the lush valleys of Kashmir, a unique homestay called The Cheese Cottage invites visitors to experience the warmth and beauty of the region through the vision of civil engineer Insha Qazi. Reviving a centuries-old estate once belonging to the last Maharaja of Jammu & Kashmir, Insha has created a welcoming space that celebrates local traditions, artisanal craft, and the region’s natural splendor.
- Historic estate rejuvenated with local wood and crafts
- Homestay blends vintage charm with modern comfort
- A platform for creative youth and sustainable tourism
What happened
Insha Qazi, a civil engineer with a marketing background from the UK, returned to Kashmir in 2015 with a mission to promote creativity and provide opportunities for local youth. Her family had acquired a vast estate in Tangmarg in 2000, a property with royal heritage but deteriorated structures. Inspired by the land’s beauty and tradition, Insha initially planned to launch a cheese factory, utilizing Kashmir’s rich dairy culture and natural resources.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted these plans, prompting Insha to reimagine the estate’s potential. She transformed the space into The Cheese Cottage, a homestay that marries classic elegance with rustic charm. Using native materials like deodar and walnut wood, combined with elements inspired by European industrial design, the cottage was crafted to offer guests a warm and immersive valley experience.
Why it feels good
Beyond its inviting ambiance and scenic setting, The Cheese Cottage embodies a purposeful vision to uplift Kashmir’s young talents. Insha’s earlier establishment of SSMD School of Fashion & Design in Parihaspora laid a foundation for nurturing local artisans and designers, and this homestay continues that legacy by celebrating regional craftsmanship and culture.
Guests can enjoy a peaceful mountain retreat surrounded by orchard-laden landscapes and fresh air scented by pine trees. The careful attention to design details—such as handcrafted wicker items and native woodwork—creates a fairytale-like atmosphere that reflects both the history and heart of Kashmir. This thoughtful combination of heritage, artistry, and hospitality makes every visit meaningful and memorable.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors to The Cheese Cottage can look forward to peaceful days by the stream, bonfires under starry skies, and savor authentic Kashmiri cuisine like hot yakhni kofta. The estate’s location offers opportunities to explore local traditions and the spectacular natural beauty of Tangmarg’s snow-capped peaks and fruit orchards.
For those inspired by Insha’s journey, keeping an eye on the evolving creative landscape of Kashmir promises more exciting developments. As local artisans and entrepreneurs continue to gain platforms and visibility, the region is poised to shine as a destination that blends culture, craft, and sustainable tourism all in one.