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The Dutch traveller was seen spending time with the family, enjoying tea, sharing conversations, and experiencing village life up close.
The family insisted she stay inside their home. (Photo Credit : Instagram/meikehijman)
The Indian belief of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (meaning “The Guest is God”) continues to come alive in everyday acts of kindness across the country. Ample videos by foreign tourists on social media platforms share how locals treated them with utmost respect, warmth, and care. In another heartwarming example that is now winning praise online, a rural family from Haryana welcomed a Dutch solo traveller into their home rather than simply allowing her to camp outside.
The traveller, Meike Hijman, who is exploring India on her motorcycle, was passing through a village in Haryana when she approached a woman working in a field. She requested permission to pitch her tent on their farm for the night. However, the woman did not understand English and called her nephew, Tushar Gujjar, to help translate. What followed was a touching display of Indian hospitality.
Haryana Family Invites Her Home
Rather than letting Hijman camp outdoors, the family insisted she stay inside their home for comfort and safety. In a full vlog shared on social media, Hijman is seen spending time with the family, enjoying tea, sharing conversations, and experiencing village life up close.
The family offered her a place to rest for the night before she continued her journey to Pushkar. She was also treated to a traditional meal and introduced to members of the local community.
Social Media Are Loving The Video
The videos, posted on platforms including Instagram and YouTube, quickly went viral, drawing widespread appreciation from users. Many praised the simplicity and sincerity of the gesture.
A user wrote, “Saw your reel on Instagram and had to check this out. Wishing you a beautiful journey across India!”
“I was 100% sure they didn’t allow you to set up the tent, but they must have given you space inside their house,” read a comment.
Another said, “Please don’t camp in the wild/outdoors in India! Find a place where there are enough people around. Good people, like this farmer family, will always help.”
“Haryana cannot be matched with any state in terms of love and warmth,” stated another user.
An individual remarked, “Most of the Indians will probably do the same. Once an Austrian couple stayed with my family for like 3 days they rested well. It was a good cultural exchange as well as a lot of talking, watching movies and food. They attended a local festival and got invited as guests too. Hope you have a good experience too.”
“From personal experience Haryana is the best place for great hospitality. They do take care of their guests with whatever they have with kindest of heart,” added another.
Taking to the comments section of the post, some users also advised foreign tourists to stay cautious while travelling and avoid camping in the wild/outdoors in India.
Delhi, India, India
February 16, 2026, 16:50 IST
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