Hostels

India is one of the most sought after destinations by the backpackers and those going on RTW trips. Hostels generally cater for these types of tourists but lately they also started to offer private rooms so families and couples can feel more welcomed and have the needed privacy.

Need to know

Although you’ll find a lot of hostel still bearing the name “youth hostel”, the age restrictions are pretty much extinct.

Not all hostels are created equal: some offer only basic facilities while some resemble a mini hotel. Read the descriptions carefully and don’t underestimate the travelers’ reviews either.

The cheapest beds are always in dorms but you have to take into account that you’ll be sleeping in the same room with persons you’ve never met. If you want your privacy you can always book a private room.

Book your bed/room in advance. Mostly during the high season it’s hard to find available rooms in the most popular hostels.

Budget hotels, inns and guesthouses are also listed under “hostels” in online booking systems.

Worth Trying

New Delhi

Home Away From Home is a hostel in New Delhi. Not exactly in the touristy area, the hostel is, however, perfect for women traveling alone. There is AC in each room; there are security lockers and a kitchen area which can be used by guests. Breakfast, linen and airport pick-up are included in the room price. There are both female dorms and private rooms available. The bed price in a dorm starts at 444 Rs/night, while the double room costs 666 Rs/night/person.

Hotel Bright is a budget hotel in New Delhi and is ideally located near many tourist sites. All rooms have AC. A double room costs 650 Rs/night/person if the bathroom is shared and 950 Rs/night/person if the bathroom is ensuite.

Goa

Hostel Goa Darshan offers female and male dorms (not mixed!) as well as private rooms. Each room has AC and security lockers. Breakfast, linen and airport pick-up are included in the room price. The bed in dorms starts at 350 Rs/night while the private double room with bathroom ensuite costs 750 Rs/night/person.

Leoney Resort is a budget resort which offers villas and cottages at very affordable prices. Each room has AC and security lockers. A double private room with bathroom ensuite costs 750 Rs/night/person.

Jaipur

The Explorers Nest is a very small bed and breakfast place in Jaipur and offers only 5 rooms (all private rooms). It’s considered one of the best hostels in Jaipur. Breakfast is included in the room price. All rooms are equipped with AC and there’s a kitchen area available to the guests. A double room costs 350 Rs/night/person (bathroom ensuite).

LandMark Residency is another small but nice hostel in Jaipur. It offers only private rooms. All rooms have AC, while the breakfast and airport pick-up are included in the room price. A twin double room with bathroom ensuite costs 750 Rs/night/person.