Zostel - First Chain of Branded Backpackers' Hostel in India | Fusion - WeRIndia

Zostel, India’s first chain of branded backpackers’ hostel is established to help travelers who need accommodation facilities. It was founded by seven young people out of whom four are alumni of IIM, Kolkata. Backpackers’ hostels are currently becoming popular in India which provide safe and hygienic accommodation at reasonable prices to travelers.

Though anyone can stay at Zostel, it is mainly intended for people between 18 to 35 years of age. Guests under the age of 18 years are also permitted but they have to show a valid identity proof. If they are under the age of 16 years, they will have to provide the consent from their parents along with a copy of signed personal identification by a parent.

The concept of Zostel has won several awards. At present, Zostel is operating in Jodhpur, Jaipur and Udaipur of Rajasthan, Agra and Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Goa. The founders are planning to extend their services in 65 more cities in the near future. The number of foreign tourists to Indian has been increasing recently. Two-thirds of the guests of Zostel hostels are foreigners.

Check-in and check-out at any time is allowed. Two types of tariffs are available based on the duration of the stay – fixed and flexible. Zostel hostels have several dorms and private rooms with air conditioning in these locations. They contain storage luggage lockers, community kitchen which is fully stocked throughout the day, telephone facility and a common room with books and games for the relaxation of travelers. Furthermore, all these rooms are Wi-Fi enabled. Using Wi-Fi is free of cost, but visitors have to pay for the telephone calls.

At Zostel, guests can use washing machines as well or they can request the staff for laundry services at a specified rate. There are some dorms which are exclusively meant for women guests. Booking is done via debit or credit card by paying 10% of the total amount in advance.