India is a popular destination among international travelers for a variety of compelling reasons. For example, its rich cultural legacy and diversified history make it an interesting destination for those interested in ancient civilizations, beautiful monuments, and holy sites. From the famous Taj Mahal to the bustling streets of Delhi, India has a multitude of architectural treasures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites that attract people from all over the world.

Furthermore, India's natural beauty is outstanding with breathtaking scenery spanning from the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa in the south. The country's varied landscape encompasses beautiful woods, quiet backwaters, and vast deserts, offering limitless options for adventure and discovery.

Also, tourists are impressed by India's well-known hospitality and kindness. Tourists are warmly welcomed and immersed in the complex tapestry of Indian life, from feasting on tasty cuisine to attending colorful festivals and cultural events.

Meanwhile, India has a variety of experiences to suit every traveler's interests and preferences, whether it's taking a spiritual journey along the banks of the Ganges River, going on a wildlife safari in one of its many national parks, or shopping for exquisite handicrafts and textiles in bustling markets.

Overall, India's attractiveness stems from its combination of old traditions and modern ideals, making it a riveting location that makes an indelible impression on those who come.

As an outcome, in this article, we will go over several types of accommodations in India that you might consider when scheduling your trip. Aside from strategic locations, you should consider additional accommodation things such as convenience and pricing for your stay.

Keep an eye out for additional details in this article!

These great buildings or mansions called havelis have tremendous architectural and historical value and often get converted into hotels. Many haveli owners are direct relatives of distinguished officials, royals, or powerful families, which enriches the experience with historical context and colorful storytelling. Havelis are classified into many categories, ranging from inexpensive to luxurious, and they usually have a central courtyard, which adds to their appeal.

Forts and palaces, as the names suggest, are grand, historic structures that have been completely or partially converted into unique hotel options. Some of these buildings, such as the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur and the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, have been named among the best hotels in the world. While these types of accommodations are more expensive, they provide a unique opportunity to enjoy a luxury experience fit for royalty.

Heritage hotels, on the other hand, are buildings constructed before 1950 that have architectural value and are designated as such. Staying in a heritage hotel allows guests to immerse themselves in the traditions and customs of India's vibrant past, offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich history.

Overall, whether you choose a haveli, fort, palace, or heritage hotel, each accommodation option provides a distinct and immersive experience that celebrates India's architectural and cultural past in its unique way.

A homestay or guesthouse in India provides an exceptional chance for cultural exchange and experience. Instead of a typical hotel room, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay in a private apartment decorated with traditional fabrics and furnishings.

During a homestay or guest house stay, tourists rent a room from a local family to learn more about the culture, language, and traditions. Owners often rent out one to six rooms or 12 beds while living on the property.

These accommodations must meet certain sanitation and facility criteria, such as adequate ventilation, private bathrooms, 24-hour hot and cold water supply, and a sanitary kitchen. Internet access, luggage assistance, and heating/cooling facilities are all possible optional options.

India is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and has a large number of ashrams. These simple accommodations are commonly found at religious locations, near spiritual teachers' homes, and at energy vortexes.

Ashrams are common in North India, particularly in Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dharamshala, whereas in South India, they are found in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, frequently concentrated around holy locations.

Ashrams normally require a minimum of one night's stay and may ask guests to participate in service or long-term volunteer obligations. Guests are typically expected to follow ashram norms and participate in events including meal times, spiritual practices, and educational sessions.

Accommodations might vary from free to low-cost, with communal restrooms and no air conditioning. Meals are primarily vegetarian, and most ashrams restrict alcohol.

Recently, the availability of trendy hostels in safe neighborhoods in India has increased. These hostels offer shared rooms, communal kitchens and lounges, free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, lockers, hot water, and air conditioning.

Some properties even provide female-only dorm rooms, private rooms, and attached bathrooms.

Catering mainly to backpackers and younger travelers, popular hostel brands in India such as Hoztel, Zostel, The Hostel Crowd, and Moustache Hostel. While there are many independently owned hostels, it's essential to verify the location and neighborhood before making a reservation.

Boutique and concept hotels in India offer intimate and personalized experiences centered around specific themes or interests. These hotels are characterized by their smaller size, typically ranging from 10 to 100 rooms, and feature uniquely Indian styles with abundant local flavor.

Staff members at boutique and concept hotels are renowned for their destination knowledge, often recommending immersive experiences over typical tourist attractions. The hotel menus also reflect the property's unique location, specializing in local favorites.

International hotel chains in India offer the comfort and familiarity of home, but some travelers feel that they create a disconnect from the local destination. However, others appreciate the westernised facilities, especially after immersing themselves in India's vibrant culture.

Brands such as Marriott, Hilton, Holiday Inn, and Hyatt are among the international chains available in India. Despite reservations about staying in a hotel that feels like any other, there are advantages.

These hotels often cater to foreign dietary preferences, making them ideal for travelers concerned about gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, they typically have backup generators, which are useful during India's frequent power outages.

Indian chain hotels vary in price and luxury level, catering to a wide range of travelers. While some are independently owned and operated, others may be part of larger conglomerates. Brands like Oyo and Treebo tend to attract domestic tourists, offering budget-friendly accommodations across the country.

On the other hand, chains such as Lemon Tree, ITC, CGH Earth, Taj Group, and Oberoi Group are favored by international travelers for their upscale amenities and renowned hospitality.

These Indian chain hotels provide diverse options for travelers, from affordable stays to luxurious experiences. Whether owned by local entrepreneurs or part of larger hospitality corporations, each brand offers its unique blend of comfort and service tailored to different preferences and budgets.

In the past decade, there has been a noticeable increase in travelers opting for vacation homes in India. This trend has been further amplified during the pandemic, as many travelers seek alternatives to crowded hotels. Staying in vacation homes provides an affordable option for longer stays and allows visitors to integrate with local communities.

When booking vacation homes, it's essential to thoroughly review customer feedback and check the neighborhood using tools like Google Maps for added peace of mind.

Popular platforms like Home to Go, Airbnb, and VRBO offer a wide selection of vacation homes across India.

Additionally, Signature Stays by Sodha Travel provides exclusive home rentals that include amenities such as a sanitized vehicle with a private driver, a curated itinerary with a private guide, and a custom menu prepared by a private chef.

India, the origins of yoga and Ayurveda, has a plethora of yoga retreats, vacation spas, and health facilities. Ayurveda, which focuses on holistic well-being, covers the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions of life.

Retreat facilities often demand a minimum of one night's stay, which generally includes a medical evaluation upon arrival to create a treatment plan. This regimen may include a Sattvic diet, treatments, and yoga/meditation sessions.

The majority of destination spas are centered in South India, specifically Kerala, with prominent alternatives in the north including Ananda in the Himalayas and Sattva near Rishikesh. Rishikesh, known as the home of yoga, conducts several multi-day yoga retreats.

Goa also has an abundance of wellness facilities and yoga retreats that appeal to a wide range of budgets and objectives, whether by the beach or in the highlands.

The last accommodation option involves staying on water, with river cruises gaining popularity in recent years, particularly along the sacred Ganges. These cruises offer luxurious amenities comparable to 5-star hotels, such as floor-to-ceiling glass doors, hand-painted murals, and high-quality bath products.

Houseboats are prominent in two main regions: the traditional kettuvallam in Kerala and the Shikara on Dal Lake in Srinagar. Luxury houseboats like the Oberoi Vrinda combine traditional elements with elegant touches for an unforgettable experience.

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