In the pine-covered hills of Tangmarg, Kashmir, where mist lingers over deodar trees and every sunrise feels sacred, The Cheese Cottage Homestays offers more than a place to stay — it offers a story. Behind this immersive hospitality experience is Insha Qazi, a woman who turned a crumbling estate in the woods into a beacon of sustainable tourism, cultural pride, and personalized luxury.
It was when Insha took the decision to nominate herself in the 4th Edition of Women Listed’s Celebrating Excellence Awards, we came across this amazing entrepreneur and the venture she is building, and want to share her story with you.
From Classrooms to Cottages: Insha’s Unlikely Pivot
Insha’s journey didn’t begin in hospitality. With a background in civil engineering and a marketing degree from the UK, she returned to Kashmir in 2015 with a bold mission: to create meaningful, local employment.
She founded SSMD School of Fashion & Design, Kashmir’s first fashion institute, and taught entrepreneurship at elite institutions like IIT Jammu, IIM Jammu, and City Business School Bangalore.
But her pivot to hospitality wasn’t just a business decision — it was personal. “By creating a homely atmosphere for my guests, I wanted to offer more than just accommodation — I wanted them to connect with Kashmir,” Insha shares.
What Makes The Cheese Cottage So Unique?
Started in 2019, The Cheese Cottage quickly grew into one of India’s most talked-about boutique stays. But this isn’t your standard tourist spot. It's handcrafted, literally — from locally sourced walnut wood and Kashmiri copperware (traam) to custom wicker décor made by regional artisans.
“We sourced a local wicker man to design plant holders and baskets,” she says. “We also used handcrafted Kashmiri copperware — because this place had to reflect who we are.”
What makes it even more distinct? Personalization. Guests don’t just check-in — they’re welcomed like family, with custom menus, curated outings, and attention to detail that feels hand-stitched.
From high tea by the brooke to Gujjar-Bakarwal thalis and pit-cooked Central Asian dishes, every experience is crafted with care. “We focus on making meals not just delicious, but a visual experience,” she emphasizes.
Overcoming the Odds: Innovation in the Wild
Building luxury in the middle of a forest was no easy feat. “Creating world-class infrastructure in the middle of the jungle was a challenge — logistics, manpower, materials… everything,” Insha admits.
But instead of outsourcing, she leaned in locally. Her approach was rooted in sustainability — upcycling, working with Kashmiri artisans, and using eco-friendly resources to create a premium European-standard experience with a Kashmiri soul.
Insha’s vision is proving contagious. Within just one year, she launched six unique homestays, each with its own charm. In the past year alone, her business has generated ₹50 lakhs in revenue and created 12 new jobs — a significant impact in a region that often lacks opportunity.
Going Viral with Word-of-Mouth
Her growth has largely been organic — driven by exceptional guest experiences. Take Shweta Agnihotri, a guest who chose The Cheese Cottage for her pre-wedding proposal. “The fireworks in the forest, the cozy ambiance, the setup — it was the best proposal in the world,” she wrote.
Each visit is crafted this way — not a stay, but a story.
Recognition & Influence
In 2024, The Cheese Cottage was named “Most Unique Homestay” by MakeMyTrip, and Condé Nast Traveler listed it among India’s Best Homestays. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Insha’s work during his address highlighting pioneering young entrepreneurs.
These accolades aren’t just symbolic — they validate her belief that hospitality can be transformational. “Nowadays, homestay do not just mean a bed for the night. Today, it’s about immersion in food, nature, stories, and connection,” she says.
Looking Ahead: A Bigger Vision
Insha’s next steps include wellness retreats, expanded collaboration with Kashmiri artisans, and even deeper investments in eco-friendly practices.
“Sustainable tourism isn’t just about protecting the environment. It’s about preserving identity, tradition, and community,” she explains.
The Legacy She’s Building
Insha Qazi is building more than a business — she’s building bridges. Between visitors and locals. Between tradition and innovation. Between a valley often misunderstood and the global travelers eager to understand it better.
Her work is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship isn’t just about scaling profits. It’s about scaling impact. And with every new homestay, every handcrafted meal, and every glowing review, she’s proving that Kashmir isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience waiting to be lived.
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