Latest news with #TheHosteller
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Business Standard
13-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Himalayas to Berlin: Indian hostel brands go global for budget travellers
Hostels or a luxury hotel? Well, it all depends on your preference and, more importantly, budget. A growing number of young Indian travellers are now fulfilling their dream of travelling abroad by piecing together cost-conscious itineraries. That shift has triggered a clear trend: camps and hostels are in, not just within India, but in international destinations too. Seizing the moment, Indian hostel brands are now setting up shop beyond domestic borders, from Bir to Berlin, bringing their community-driven backpacker model to a global audience. 'At the heart of their success is a community-first approach. Take Zostel, for instance: there's a strong emphasis on crafting social experiences through shared spaces, curated activities, and a vibrant traveller community. This model is now being replicated internationally to appeal to like-minded global travellers,' said Dharamveer Singh Chouhan, CEO and co-founder at Zostel and Zo World. He added that their identity travels well. 'Their youth-friendly brand identity, shaped by social media-savvy communication, bold design, and culture-driven storytelling, makes these hostels instantly relatable across borders.' According to Chouhan, the average growth this year is up by 20–22 per cent for hostels when comparing six-month periods. Recently, Zostel, an Indian chain of backpacker hostels, marched into its first international location in Berlin. The Berlin hostel, which is part of its broader strategy to become a global brand, aims to offer curated travel experiences and community-focused stays, aligning with the evolving preferences of modern travelers. Affordability, flexibility, and a social vibe top the list. According to Pranav Dangi, CEO and founder of The Hosteller, 'Hostels offer immersive travel that hotels don't—ideal for solo trips, digital nomads, and spontaneous getaways.' Dangi said the primary age group is between 18 and 35. 'Students, young professionals, and digital nomads dominate, but we're also seeing a rise in 35+ travellers looking for social yet affordable options,' he added. Demand is clearly growing. 'The percentage rise is around 30–40 per cent year-on-year, driven by budget travel, remote work, and a growing preference for experiences over luxury,' said Dangi. Zostel's Berlin launch, he said, proves that there is space abroad for Indian hostel brands. 'Focus on niche storytelling, cultural relevance, and community engagement from day one,' he said. According to Dangi, hostels tend to be 40–60 per cent cheaper than basic hotels. 'They blend affordability with vibrant design, cultural storytelling, and a strong youth vibe,' he said. Why hostels appeal to Indians • Budget-friendly, clean, and well-maintained accommodation • Strong focus on community and social interaction • Greater freedom and flexible schedules compared to hotels • Curated local experiences like food walks, city tours, and cultural events • Co-working spaces and remote work-friendly infrastructure • Instagram-friendly aesthetics and themed interiors • Safety features such as female-only dorms and CCTV 'Ultimately, hostels offer more than just a place to sleep. They create a sense of belonging. For Indian travellers who seek openness, meaningful conversations, and spontaneous friendships,' said Chouhan. Expansion plans and strategy Indian hostel brands are carefully choosing their next markets—often prioritising destinations with a high number of Indian tourists or diaspora, which helps in building brand familiarity. 'A strong digital backbone, from app-based bookings to targeted social media marketing, enables leaner, more cost-effective international growth,' said Chouhan. To scale sustainably, many brands are using franchise or local collaboration models. These help them enter new markets without large upfront investments, while staying adaptable to local preferences and regulations. 'Having already dealt with the complexity and diversity of India has made us more agile. It's a real advantage when stepping into international markets,' Chouhan added. Where to next? The Hosteller is eyeing expansion across Asia, Eastern Europe, and well-known digital nomad hotspots—places with a solid backpacker culture and rising interest in Indian tourism. This growth coincides with a wave of first-time Indian travellers heading overseas. According to visa application platform Atlys, international visa requests from first-time applicants rose by 32 per cent over the past year. Of these, 56 per cent came from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities such as Chandigarh, Surat, Pune, Lucknow, and Jaipur. And it's not just one source. In May, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel released their 'India Holiday Report 2025', showing how travel aspirations are changing fast. Key findings from the report: • Over 30 million Indians travelled abroad in 2024, the highest ever • 85 per cent of respondents plan to take four-six holidays annually, up from two-three • 84 per cent expect to increase their travel spending by 20 per cent to 50 per cent this year 'The survey reflects a shift driven by rising disposable incomes and the growing aspirational value of travel, including experiential holidays,' the report said.
News18
28-05-2025
- News18
Off the Beaten Path: Why Second-Tier Hill Stations Are the New Summer Getaways
Last Updated: In 2025, the heart of Indian tourism seems to beat not in the buzz of the big hill stations, but in the calm of second-tier destinations like Jibhi, Tawang, Chakrata, and Coorg. As the mercury rises and urban fatigue peaks, the great Indian summer getaway is undergoing a quiet yet meaningful transformation. Forget the throngs in Shimla or the traffic snarls of Ooty—today's travellers are veering away from the tried and tired. In 2025, the heart of Indian tourism seems to beat not in the buzz of the big hill stations, but in the calm of second-tier destinations like Jibhi, Tawang, Chakrata, and Coorg. A Shift in Summer Sensibilities The pattern is clear: travellers are actively seeking less commercialised, more authentic escapes. According to Rikant Pittie, CEO and Co-founder, EaseMyTrip, 'We're definitely seeing a shift this summer. As the usual hill stations get more crowded, travellers are looking for quieter, less commercialised places to unwind. Second-tier hill stations like Shangarh in Himachal Pradesh, Coorg in Karnataka, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghamalai in Tamil Nadu are drawing attention. These destinations are rich in natural beauty and have much lower footfall." This shift is not just anecdotal—EaseMyTrip's data reveals that nearly 60% of travellers this year are opting for lesser-known destinations over traditional favourites. The trend is driven by a desire for slower, more mindful experiences. 'It's not just about escaping the heat anymore," says Pittie. 'People want slower, more meaningful experiences, and the second-tier destinations offer exactly that." From Crowds to Calm: The Rise of Offbeat Travel Echoing a similar sentiment is Pranav Dangi, CEO and Founder of The Hosteller, who has noticed a tangible shift in traveller behaviour across their properties. 'One of the most prominent changes we've seen is the way people have started travelling compared to previous patterns," he notes. 'Guests are now open to not just locations in the South but also offbeat and lesser-known places in the North for a summer break." The change is visible in booking trends too. While southern hotspots like Goa remain popular, there's a clear uptick in occupancy in North India, especially in offbeat locations like Jibhi, Khajjiar, and Chakrata. Dangi adds, 'Travellers are looking out for locations beyond Goa in the South and Shimla in the North to avoid extensive crowds at accommodations, tourist spots, and transport hubs." Interestingly, this shift is not limited to Gen Z backpackers. Millennials, often balancing work and wanderlust, are also flocking to quieter corners of the country. Weekday bookings have risen, indicating a new kind of mindful, crowd-conscious travel. 'This in itself is a direction toward mindful travelling," Dangi observes, 'instead of rushing to the same famous locations and the same weekends when everyone would be too." Conscious Choices and Authenticity Beyond escaping crowds, there's a philosophical turn in how people travel. Rikant Pittie points to the rise of conscious travel, where authenticity matters more than popularity. Today's travellers are rejecting cookie-cutter itineraries in favour of immersive experiences—whether that's sipping filter coffee in a Coorg homestay or hiking through the misty trails of Shangarh. 'There's a growing shift toward conscious travel," Pittie says. 'Travellers are now choosing calm over chaos, and these hidden gems are meeting that need perfectly." What's Next? Both hospitality brands and booking platforms are evolving to meet this demand. From community-based stays in Fort Kochi and Wayanad to digital-nomad-friendly hostels in Kasol and Chakrata, second-tier destinations are stepping into the spotlight. And while there may be no single pattern to this shift, as Dangi puts it, 'Travellers are now open to newer and more offbeat locations." Whether it's for the affordability, the authenticity, or simply the quiet, this new wave of Indian travel is as refreshing as the mountain breeze in these hidden havens. First Published: May 28, 2025, 12:41 IST
India.com
25-05-2025
- India.com
Explore Pune: The Perfect Spot for Adventurous Backpackers
Pune, eloquently christened the 'Cultural Capital of Maharashtra, is a pretty city that fuses heritage with contemporary styles. Located in the western belt of India, Pune has become a favored spot for backpackers in search of authentic and rich places to visit. Travelers will deeply appreciate dipping into Pune's history, culture, and nature as well as its affordable cost of living. Here are seven compelling reasons why Pune is propitious for backpackers. 1. Backpacker Friendly Living Conditions and Accommodation Options The foremost reason that attracts backpackers to Pune is its inexpensive living conditions. While traveling, it's much easier to budget an entire trip to Pune rather than other metropolitan cities like Mumbai or Delhi. Pune has numerous hostels, guesthouses, and homestays that are not heavy on the pocket. While navigating through Pune, you will have access to clean, safe, and social 'The Hosteller' and 'Madpackers' hostels. In addition to these budget-friendly accommodations, food in Pune is also priced reasonably with street vendors and local joints offering delicious meals at friendly rates. Because of this affordability, backpackers can enjoy the cheapest accommodation options and rustle up a comfortable trip without stretching their budgets. 2. Historical and Cultural Significance Pune is packed full with historical sites and cultural contributions which can be seen on its landmarks and museums. The city served as the capital of the Maratha Empire and was the center of the Peshwa dynasty. Notable sights are Shaniwar Wada, a former fort that was the seat of the Peshwas; Aga Khan Palace which is famous for its association with Mahatma Gandhi and architectural beauty; and Lal Mahal, the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj's palace. These locations allow backpackers to get a glimpse of India's history and culture. 3. Nearby Areas of Tourist Interest Pune is also well-known among the nature-loving people of Maharashtra because of the amazing locations available with just a few hours of driving. The Western Ghats is a UNESCO recognized heritage site that is filled with towering hills, abundant vegetation, and offers camping as well as trekking. Lonavala and Khandala are popular spots near Mumbai as they offer picturesque hills and waterfalls; alongside, the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which has a variety of plants and animals or Sinhagad Fort for the trekking enthusiasts. These places enable backpackers to enjoy natural beauty without leaving the city boundaries. 4. Food Culture Pune's traditional foods are based on Maharashtrian cuisine, but the city also offers a range of different cuisines for its residents and visitors. Street food lovers can savor vada pav, misal pav, and pithla bhakri. If you fancy a taste of other countries, Pune malls and restaurants have cafes serving Italian pasta and Japanese sushi. The city also boasts a phenomenal health-centered organic vegan food culture, and is an ideal place for travelers who want to stay healthy. 5. Arts and Music Culture Pune is also termed the 'Eastern Oxford' and is famous as an education center along with a booming art, music, and theatre scene. Several festivals like the Pune International Film Festival, Sawai Gandharva classical music festival, Jehangir Art Gallery, and Bharat Natya Mandir are held and opened to the public throughout the year. Arts and culture backpackers have the chance to watch performances, go to exhibitions, and attend workshops while in the city. 6. Easier Connectivity and Accessibility All modes of transport including air travel, rail, and roads are easily available in Pune. It is a delight for backpackers seeking adventure as this city has a central location in Maharashtra. Pune International Airport connects the city to other parts through domestic and international flights. Between auto rickshaws and buses, public transport is sufficient with little hassle. Tourists visiting the city can also take short trips to nearby attractions. 7. Friendly People and Warm Environment The residents of Pune are extremely hospitable and make the city warm and inviting. The local community is very supportive of tourists so one can easily ask for assistance and get tips about the city. You are likely to be greeted with a warm smile while taking a stroll, shopping, or even haggling at the market. Such a welcoming environment gives a sense of comfort to travelers, greatly enhancing the trip experience. Conclusion The tailored mix of cutting-edge development and historical richness of Pune render it one of the most preferred locales for backpackers. The city not only houses famous landmarks but is also surrounded by valleys and mountains. In addition, the city is known for its flourishing heritage. It's easily accessible for people with different hobbies; be it sports, arts, or anything in between. The citizens of the city are friendly and welcoming which motivates tourists to explore more. Now, history enthusiasts, nature admirers, and foodies can all experience the extremely diverse city of Pune. There is always room for thoughts to explore more in every corner of the city. So grab your gears and set forth on a journey to Pune.
