In a heart-warming moment that has captured attention online, a Dutch solo traveller and motorbike enthusiast was welcomed into a rural Haryana household after she asked for a simple place to pitch her tent during her journey through India.
The traveller, identified as Meike Hijman from the Netherlands, was exploring rural parts of Haryana on her own when she reached a village and approached a woman working in a field, seeking permission to camp for the night. Due to a language barrier, the woman called her nephew, Tushar Gujjar, to assist with communication.
Hospitality beyond camping
In a video shared on social media, a relaxed Meike can be seen interacting with her hosts, who did far more than offer a camping spot. Instead of letting her sleep outdoors, the family invited her into their home for safety and comfort. They offered her tea, homemade food and a proper place to rest for the night — embodying the ancient Indian ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava (“The guest is God”).
Meike shared the moment on her Instagram account, captioning it: “I asked a family in rural India if I could camp in their garden.” Her post, which has resonated with thousands of followers, illustrates how a simple request transformed into an evening of cultural exchange and generosity.
Social media reaction
The video quickly went viral, drawing praise for the family’s kindness. Many viewers appreciated the gesture as a genuine example of rural Indian hospitality, with comments highlighting the welcoming nature of local communities and the warmth shown to a foreign traveller.
While some online users also advised caution for travellers and suggested safer camping alternatives, many echoed admiration for the family’s generosity and the cultural value it reflects.