Where to stay in India: Areas & booking tips

There are far more Indians traveling around their own country at any one time—whether for holidays, on pilgrimages, or for business—than there are foreign tourists. While most travelers choose mid-range hotels, there are also budget guesthouses and luxury heritage hotels to check out, depending on the experience you want. Here’s where to stay in India.

Where to stay in India: from budget to luxury

Accommodation in India can be as cheap as ₹200 ($2.50) per night for a basic dorm or as expensive as ₹30,000 ($360) per night for a luxury suite. For budget travelers, there are clean but basic rooms in hostels and dharamshalas, usually with ceiling fans and shared bathrooms. 

India’s star ratings are different from international standards. A five-star hotel here might feel more like a four-star hotel elsewhere. In more remote places, like the Himalayas or central India, the quality of accommodations can vary quite a bit. 

Prices also go up during peak season, especially in Goa, Kerala, and Rajasthan, where you can see price hikes of 30-100%. Keep in mind that many budget and mid-range accommodations don’t have online booking systems, so you might need to contact them directly or go through a local travel agent.
 

Best accommodation types in India

India has all kinds of places to stay, and where you sleep can shape your whole trip. Your options depend a lot on where you’re going—and how you like to travel.

Guesthouses

From ₹800 (USD $10) per night

Guesthouses are everywhere and usually the easiest way to find a budget-friendly place with a bit of personality. 

Most are small and locally run, and it’s common for the people running them to help with things like taxis or food recommendations. You’ll usually get a clean room with a fan, maybe air-con if you pay extra, and basic furniture. Some guesthouses have rooftop cafes or courtyards where you can relax. In cities, guesthouses might have things like cooking classes or live music in the evenings. This is where to stay in India if you are backpacking.

Mid-range hotels

From ₹3,000 (USD $36) per night

If you want a bit more structure and comfort, mid-range India hotels are an easy choice. These hotels usually have air conditioning, hot showers, Wi-Fi that works most of the time, and often a restaurant or included breakfast. 

Chain hotels like Ginger or Lemon Tree are consistent and easy to book, but independent accommodation in India might have a bit more local flavor. A lot of these hotels are geared toward business travelers too, so locations tend to be practical—close to stations, downtown areas, or tourist sites. If you don’t want to think too hard about logistics, they can be a stress-free choice.

Heritage hotels

From ₹6,000 (USD $72) per night

In some parts of India, especially Rajasthan and certain hill towns, you can stay in restored palaces or old family mansions. These India hotels still have traces of their original design—things like antique furniture, courtyards, or stone carvings—but with modern bathrooms and AC. 

Some are still run by descendants of the original owners, and a few even live on the property. You might come across a vintage car in the driveway or hear stories from staff about the building’s history.  This is where to stay in India if you are looking for somewhere with personality.
 

Ashrams and spiritual retreats

From ₹1,500 (USD $18) per night

If you’re curious about India’s spiritual side, staying in an ashram can give you a deeper look. These are found in Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Auroville, and the focus is more on daily practice than sightseeing. 

Rooms are basic—often with just a bed and a fan—and meals are vegetarian and communal. Days usually follow a schedule: early mornings, yoga, meditation, group meals, and sometimes lectures or group work. Some ashrams have stricter rules than others, so it’s worth checking what’s expected ahead of time. It’s less of a vacation and more of a structured pause from regular travel, and one of the best things to do in India for an immersive experience.

Wildlife lodges and eco-resorts

From ₹5,000 (USD $60) per night

Close to national parks and nature reserves, this is where to stay in India if you want to stay near the action while keeping things relatively low-impact. Some are built from local materials or set up like safari camps, while others are more like rustic cottages. 

Most arrange guided activities—jeep safaris, birdwatching walks, or visits to nearby villages—with someone who knows the landscape and India wildlife well. Food tends to be local and home-style. It’s a good way to spend time in nature without rushing.

Dharamshalas

From ₹500 ($6) per night

Dharamshalas are some of the cheapest places you can stay in India. They were originally built for religious pilgrims and are usually located near temples and sacred sites. 

These are very basic—simple beds or even floor mats, shared bathrooms, and a vegetarian canteen if meals are provided. You’re not here for luxury. It’s more about the experience: early morning temple bells, religious rituals, and chats with people who’ve come from all over India for spiritual reasons. 

Some have been modernized a bit with private rooms and attached bathrooms, but most still stick to the old-school dorm setup, often separated by gender. It’s a low-cost, culturally rich way to spend a night or two.
 

Houseboats

From ₹6,000 ($72) per night

Staying on a houseboat is a laid-back way to see India from the water. It's, for many, one of the best things to do in Kerala. These are converted rice barges with thatched roofs and wood interiors, usually set up with private bedrooms, a dining area, and a shaded deck. They cruise slowly through the backwaters during the day and dock at night. 

In Kashmir, houseboats are permanently anchored on Dal Lake and are known for their detailed wooden carvings. You reach them by small paddle boats called shikaras. Both styles come with a small crew who cook local meals—often fresh fish and vegetables from nearby markets. 

Luxury resorts

From ₹15,000 ($180) per night

If you’re looking for something more comfortable, India has a good range of high-end resorts, especially in Rajasthan, Goa, and Kerala. These usually have spacious rooms, pools, spas, and restaurants on site, and can often be found on the best beaches in India.

What stands out is how the design often draws on local styles—maybe Rajasthani arches or traditional Kerala-style architecture. You’ll usually get attentive service, and some places also arrange things like guided walks, camel rides, or early morning yoga sessions. Cooking classes and market visits are common too, especially in places known for their food. 

Homestays

From ₹2,000 ($24) per night

Homestays are a good option if you’re curious about everyday life in India. You stay in someone’s house—this could be a traditional home in the mountains or a more modern place in a village or town. 
You’ll usually have your own bedroom but eat meals with the host family, which can be a great way to try home-cooked food that doesn’t show up on restaurant menus. Some hosts like to show guests around their neighborhood, explain local customs, or even involve them in small community events. It’s a slower, more personal way to travel.

Average prices per night

Prices for places to stay in India vary a lot depending on where you are, the time of year, and what kind of experience you're looking for. You can find simple guesthouses for around ₹500 ($6) a night, while high-end hotels or heritage stays can go well over ₹30,000 ($360).

Expect rates to go up between October and March, especially in popular areas like Goa, Kerala, and Rajasthan. December and January are the most expensive months. If you're traveling during the monsoon (June to September), you’ll usually find lower rates, except in hill stations like Darjeeling or Shimla, which tend to be busier during the summer months.

In Mumbai and Delhi, prices are generally higher throughout the year. Mid-range to business-class hotels usually charge between ₹8,000–15,000 ($96–180) per night.

One thing to keep in mind: the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) often isn’t included in the price you see online, so the final bill can be noticeably higher. You might also see extra fees for things like air conditioning, hot water, or Wi-Fi. 

Even if a place says it takes cards, it's still pretty common for them to prefer cash—so it’s a good idea to double-check before you arrive.

 

Where to stay in India: best areas by region

Where you stay in India can really shape your trip. Each region has its own pace and personality, and that extends to where you’ll sleep. The mountains in the north have peaceful lodges and spiritual guesthouses, southern beaches lean toward casual resorts, and in the cities, you’ll come across everything from old restored mansions to modern high-rises.

Delhi

Delhi’s a huge, intense city, and picking the right base can make things a lot easier. Connaught Place is smack in the middle of New Delhi and close to the metro, so it’s a good choice if you want to be central—even if it costs a bit more. 

Paharganj, near the train station, is more budget-friendly and always buzzing with backpackers, shops, and street food. For something calmer, look at South Delhi neighborhoods like Greater Kailash or Defence Colony. They’re quieter, leafy, and still connected by metro, with plenty of good food around. For a more in-depth look, see our guide to where to stay in Delhi.

Rajasthan (Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur)

In Rajasthan, staying somewhere with a bit of character is half the fun. In Jaipur, the walled city puts you close to palaces, markets, and street snacks—great if you want to explore on foot. 
Udaipur’s great for the lake; so many people stay close to the water for the views and easy access to the old town. In Jodhpur, look near the clock tower market for a lively, walkable area. If you’re after something slower-paced, neighborhoods farther from the center can feel more relaxed.
 

Mumbai

Mumbai’s traffic is no joke, so staying in the right area saves you time. Colaba and Fort, in South Mumbai, are full of character and close to the city’s main sights. You’ll pay more here, but it’s convenient. 

Bandra is a popular pick for mid-range stays—it’s got a mix of old bungalows, cafés, and good nightlife, and it’s not as hectic. If you’re looking for a bit more space or beach access, Juhu and Andheri are quieter but farther from the center. No matter where you stay, there are plenty of great things to do in Mumbai.

Kerala (Kochi, Alleppey, Munnar)

Kerala’s pretty spread out, so where you stay depends on what you’re there to do. Fort Kochi is a good intro to the state—walkable streets, old buildings, and small hotels in restored homes.

Alleppey (Alappuzha) is your best bet for backwater trips. You can stay in a houseboat for a night or find a small guesthouse on the canals. If you’re heading into the hills, Munnar is a nice break from the heat, with tea plantations and walking trails just outside town.

Goa (North and South)

Picking between Goa and Kerala is already difficult, but on top of that Goa has two very different sides. North Goa is more social, with beach towns like Baga and Anjuna full of cafés, hostels, and nightlife.  If you’re after quiet, South Goa is a better match— Palolem and Agonda have slower rhythms and calmer beaches. Inland areas (Assagao and Siolim) have become popular too, with small hotels and homestays.
 

Booking tips and travel advice

Finding where to stay in India takes a bit of planning—but it can really make your trip smoother. The key is knowing what you're getting into before you show up.

• For budget places, don’t rely too heavily on the photos. Descriptions like “air-conditioned” or “hot water” can mean different things depending on the place. Reading recent reviews—especially ones that mention noise or cleanliness—can give you a better picture than the listing.
• It also helps to pay attention to where the place is located. A spot that’s technically only 3 miles (5 km) from a train station or major sight might still take an hour to reach in city traffic. And when listings say “walking distance,” it’s often a stretch. Check maps and look up nearby metro stations or transport hubs—especially in bigger cities.
• If you use a booking platform, it’s worth contacting the hotel directly afterward. Mistakes happen, and following up can help avoid any surprises. In some cases, you might even get a better room or a bit of a discount if you’re staying a few nights or traveling during a quieter time.
• Power cuts aren’t unusual, especially in summer or smaller towns. If that’s something you’re worried about, check if they have a backup generator. And if internet access is important, don’t assume “free Wi-Fi” means good Wi-Fi—it’s often limited to common areas or can be spotty. Reaching out to ask is your best bet.