Using tradition for transformation: How Himalayan women are redefining rural livelihoods

Among the snow-covered mountains, lush forests, and breathtaking rivers of the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, a story of transformation is quietly unfolding - led by women, rooted in tradition, and driven by purpose.

In the remote Himalayan villages, women-led groups (SHGs) have been crafting herbal teas, rose water, millet-based snacks, and other natural products using traditional farming methods, indigenous practices, and local knowledge. These are not just products—they’re pieces of culture, health, and heritage.

Most of these women worked in silence, and the unique products they made were limited to local markets and weekly ‘haats’. Their labour didn’t get the recognition it deserved due to poor visibility and non-existent branding. Without access to urban markets, even the highest quality goods were undervalued.

That’s where House of Himalayas (HoH) stepped in—a flagship initiative by the Government of Uttarakhand through its Department of Rural Development. The House of Himalayas is more than a government program—it’s a platform for change. Ideated to bridge the gap between rural producers and urban markets, HoH helps women gain access to:

• Fair pricing structures that ensure consistent income

• Skill development in hygiene, packaging, and market preferences

• Branding support to position products as premium and authentic

• Market linkages through exhibitions, retail tie-ups, and e-commerce

Due to this initiative, the perception of Himalayan products and the amazing women who craft them is getting the recognition it deserves. For the first time, the rural women of Uttarakhand are being seen not just as producers, but as entrepreneurs. These products are now available across multiple cities in India and are commanding better value. The impact of this initiative goes beyond income. It is evident in children attending better schools, in homes with improved nutrition, and in communities that now believe in what women can achieve.

Through the House of Himalayas, tradition has found a new voice—and it’s confident, proud, and thriving.