The name India is derived from Indus, which is derived from the Old Persian word Hindu, from Sanskrit Sindhu, the historic local name for the Indus River. The ancient Greeks referred to the Indians as Indoi, the people of the Indus. The Constitution of India and common usage in various Indian languages also recognise Bharat as an official name of equal status. Hindustan , which is the Persian word for "Land of the Hindus" and historically referred to northern India, is also occasionally used as a synonym for all of India.
India is a federal republic of twenty-eight states and seven Union Territories.
All states, the union territory of Puducherry, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi have elected governments.
The other five union territories have centrally appointed administrators and hence are under direct rule of the President.
In 1956, under the States Reorganisation Act, states were formed on a linguistic basis.
Since then, this structure has remained largely unchanged.
Each state or union territory is divided into basic units of government and administration called districts.
There are nearly 600 districts in India.
The districts in turn are further divided into tehsils and eventually into villages.
Note: Inasra.com has hotels affiliated in over 465 districts in India.
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There is an huge variety in types of accommodation available in India. It does not matter if you are a back-packer looking for a budget hotel or a business tycoon looking for a luxurious and exotic hotel stay in India. Hotels and dormitories can be found from Rs 100 (per head tariff) in a large number of places. Even in cities like (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore..) hotel rooms can be booked for Rs 400 - 500 ($10-$12).
The sudden boom in the economy (non-agricultural) has lead to the average increase in house hold income for the middle class. As a result their spending has also increased, particularly for travel related activities. This has lead to a situation where demand for hotel accommodation far outstrips the supply. Indian Hotels have had and are having record occupancy rates in the recent times. The average occupancy rate for hotels in major cities are more than 70% and for some are hovering around 80%. This has lead to a dramatic increase in the price of hotel rooms. From 2003, the room tariffs have had a combined rise of almost a whopping 300%.
The price increase has not reached a plateau yet even though the hotel occupancy rate has hit a plateau. The interesting thing to watch out for is the fact that, even though the occupancy rates are no longer rising, the price is still seeing a yearly growth of at-least 50%. This suggests that there is still a severe shortage of rooms or that people are so enamored with the hotel industry that they are willing to pay higher and higher price for the same rooms. The former seems to be a more likely case. General advice for securing rooms is to plan and book early. [ Though some quarters assign the cause of price rise to increased international tourists, the numbers suggests otherwise. The number of International tourists has increased by 80% (provisional) from 2003 till 2007 (yet India's share in International Tourism market is un-palpable, hovering below 1%.) ]
The market in a predictable way is trying to provide some quick short term solutions while still investing and building a longer term solution. As the hotel industry requires a huge upfront capital to build the infrastructure (which also takes time to build), other innovative solutions have come to be the saviors at the moment. Lots of Serviced Apartments offering accommodation (and nothing else or limited service) have come up. These are usually small buildings or bungalows with many rooms, converted into a decent place for lodging. But some big real estate players have also entered into this field providing good rooms at good prices.
The drawback to serviced apartments is that, it is scalable and profitable mostly in the major cities as the capital required for starting and running this is by no means something to sneeze at. Smaller districts and other tourist spots have hit upon the idea of an Homestay. The Government of Kerala is actively promoting Homestays, with locals registering with them to get some respectability and trustworthiness in the eyes of the customers. The concept of Homestay is unique in that you get to experience the local culture first hand with a knowledgeable guide who also doubles up as your accommodation service provider and caretaker. This concept has been a major boon to lots of retirees who have found a great opportunity not only to make money but also to spend their time meeting and learning about new places and culture. Lots of bond created during this brief period live on for a long time.
There exists a couple of variations of the Homestay concept. In Coorg it has metamorphosed into an Estate stay. The customer gets to stay in a Coffee or a Tea estate and also has a chance to see the local culture and take part in it to a greater degree. Some of these estate accommodations have repeat customers who keep coming back for the peace, seclusion and the panoramic view. Though, it must be mentioned that Coorg also has its share of Homestays. In the North, particularly in Rajasthan, old palaces and in fact any old habitable building have been converted into Hotels with a classification of Heritage Hotels. These building have been renovated keeping in mind the historic value and cultural implications of the building.
Another variation has been the house-boats. These house-boats have been common in Kashmir for quite some time. Kerala, though a late adopter, has definitely promoted and executed this well to its great benefit. Majority of the gentry in Kerala who are into agriculture find that they have no work and therefore no income for as long as 6 months in a year. The concept of house-boats has provided an alternative source of income to them and employment to the agricultural laborers.
One of many hotels in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
One of many hotels in Andhra Pradesh
Location
Thumkunta Village, R R Dist,shameerpet Mandal, Hyderabad, 500078
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When one thinks of relaxation and total comfort in the lap of Mother Nature, then one thinks of. Aalankrita. Promoted by a couple, Dr.D.S.Deenadayal and Dr Mamta, this stunning marvel of nature and manmade creation is the very epitome of...
One of many hotels in Arunachal Pradesh
Location
Zero Point, Tinali, Itanagar, 791111
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Room service, H/C running water, Telephone,
One of many hotels in Assam
Location
A. T. Road, Guwahati, 781 001
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About Us : Situated in the heart of the Guwahati City, this well-appointed, top-of-the-line hotel, is nearest to the LGB Airport in its category. Vishwaratna Hotel is close to the city's prime commercial and shopping centre. It is ten mi...
One of many hotels in Bihar
Location
Veer Chand Patel Path, Patna, 800001
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No pick up drop. Patna stands on the historic site of Pataliputra, a city founded nearly 25 centuries ago. Hotel Pataliputra Ashok also has unique low-tariff day-rooms especially designed for those making a brief stop-over in this capit...
One of many hotels in Chandigarh
Location
Himaliya Marg Sector 22-B, Chandigarh, 160022
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The warm hospitality, exceptional services, and modern facilities make the Picaddily Hotel in Chandigarh, the most preferred accommodation alternative with the business and leisure visitors arriving at the city. The ideal location of th...
One of many hotels in Chhattisgarh
Location
Kawardha Dist, Opp Raj Mahal, Kawardha, 491995
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One of many hotels in Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Location
Opp. Vandhara Garden Naroli Road, Silvassa, 396230
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The Damanganaga Valley Resort is a luxury resort of International Standard, set on 23 acres of lush garden and river front. DGVR creats the magic and romance of a luxury boutique hotel while having the amenities and vibrant attraction o...
One of many hotels in Daman and Diu
Location
Devka Beach, Daman , Daman, 396210
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One of many hotels in Delhi
Location
5/47, W.E.A., Saraswati Marg Karol Bagh , Delhi, 110005
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A luxurious and leisurely family vacation, a quick corporate assemblage, a base camp for sight-seeing tours - all find a veritable recourse in the name Clark International. In the midst of the bustling shopping arcade at Karol Bagh, in t...
One of many hotels in Goa
Location
Baga Beach,Calangute, Goa, 403516
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Setting pretty where a calm Baga river unites with the mighty ocean in harmony, which can be felt from our beautiful resort. This place will leave you with memorable holiday. Baia do sol is also close to world famous club Tito's and othe...
One of many hotels in Gujarat
Location
Opp Le Meridien,Laldarwaja,Khanpur , Ahmedabad, 380001
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Hotel Host-Inn is Situated in the heart of the city on the bank of Sabarmati, 8 kms. from the Domestic & International Airport, 2.5 kms. from Railway Station & 1 km From Down Town Area.
Ideally Suited for Mid-Segment & Corporate Tr...
One of many hotels in Haryana
Location
353-357, Sector 29, City Center
, Gurgaon, 122001
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Welcome to Park Premier Hotel Gurgaon:
Introducing Park Premier Hotel Gurgaon, the newest Four Star Business Hotel in Gurgaon, the ever growing corporate hub in the National Capital Region of New Delhi, India. Located in Secto...
One of many hotels in Himachal Pradesh
Location
NH.21 Rangari Dist Kullu, Manali, 175131
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Newest luxury Resort at Manali, located 1 km off the Main Crowded Mall overlooking the River Beas. Offers independent Cottages, Duplex Suites, Suites, a Bar & Lounge, Multi Cuisine Restaurant, Health Club, Discotheque and Conference faci...
One of many hotels in Jammu and Kashmir
Location
Chulung Old Road, Leh Laddakh, 194101
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Enjoy the glories of wonderful Ladakh by staying with Us!
The hotel is located in the calm green garden area with splendid view of Himalayan Mountains. The hotel embodies best of local traditions in its decor and architecture...
One of many hotels in Jharkhand
Location
Kadru-By-Pass Road,Hinoo,Doranda, Ranchi, 834002
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The graceful ambience of Ranchi is amply reflected in this Hotel. One of the finest luxury hotels in the city. The hotel, which is centrally air-conditioned, offers everything from elegant rooms with a picturesque view, efficient service...
One of many hotels in Karnataka
Location
Hoscodu Estate, Via � Sangameshwarpet, Between Bhadra and Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, Kadavanthi Post, Chikmagalur, 577136
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About Hotel:- The Eagle Eye Holiday Home is located deep in the lush western ghats. This Holiday home offers more than your average getaway with the comforts of home away from home plus the convenience and beauty of being in Mother Natur...
One of many hotels in Kerala
Location
Vattiyar P.O,Mankulam Road, Kallar, Munnar, 685611
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About Hotel:-
Have you ever taken a dip in the refreshing mountain streams?
or have you ever been enchanted by the soft murmur of the mountain breeze flirting with the giant trees? ever awakened to the cheery chirping of the b...
One of many hotels in Lakshadweep
Location
Agatti Island,Agatti,Lakshadweep, Lakshadweep,
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Agatti Island Beach Resort presents a breath taking spectacle of sparkling coral reefs, turquoise blue lagoons, silvery beaches and lush green coconut palms. The resort is located in the most serene spot of the Island. Agatti I...
One of many hotels in Madhya Pradesh
Location
Opposite Madla Gate, Panna Tiger Reserve,, Khajuraho, 488001
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The Jewel of The Jungle: Going on a Safari or a wildlife holiday has always been known as roughing it- we have changed that forever!
Welcome to India’s finest Luxury Three Star Wildlife resort offering International standard facili...
One of many hotels in Maharashtra
Location
Behind Sitladevi Temple, Kelva, Taluka Palghar, Thane District, Palghar, 401403
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Away from the hustle & bustle world, sitting in natures lap, where the spaced out thick forest trees eye the long untouched beach. One resort offers a view to this beautiful mystic treat.
The Kelva Beach Resort. Situated am...
One of many hotels in Meghalaya
Location
Thana Road, Shillong, 793001
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In the heart of the city, within walking distance of its business, shopping and entertainment areas, surrounded by beautiful landscape views, the hotel is equipped with all modern amenities, so essential for the discerning travellers.
One of many hotels in Mizoram
Location
Kolasib, Kolasib, 7968001
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One of many hotels in Nagaland
Location
Circular Road, Dimapur, 797112
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One of many hotels in Orissa
Location
Chakratirth Road, Puri, 752001
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Holiday Resort is a luxurious respite in a vibrant city, which offers home away from home hospitality,with the finest cuisine around, with well-experienced staff, every ready to serve.
At Holiday Resort you will find that pe...
One of many hotels in Pondicherry
Location
23, Goubert Avenue Opp To The Gandhi Road, Pondicherry, 605001
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The Promenade, a Sarovar Premier Hotel, is a luxury boutique hotel, aptly named, as it overlooks the Bay of Bengal. It lies along the beautiful Boulevard, and is situated beside the old lighthouse and opposite the Gandhi statue, in the m...
One of many hotels in Punjab
Location
EH-192, Civil Lines, Jalandhar, 144 001
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Standing in commanding elevation in prime location of Civil Lines, Jalandhar, Hotel Kamal Palace is only a few minutes drive from Railway Station and Bus Stand.
It is a prestigious property with snow white walls, arched and turrete...
One of many hotels in Rajasthan
Location
Near Head Post Office, Chittorgarh, 312001
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Hotel Pratap Palace is located in Chittaurgarh (Rajasthan - INDIA) just minutes away from the Railway station.
It offers fourteen well appointed rooms for accommodation and traditional Indian and Rajasthani Food is served in...
One of many hotels in Sikkim
Location
Rai Cottage Complex, Church Road (Arithang) , Gangtok, 737101
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ABOUT US : Cherry guest house is located in the heart of the city and within walking distance from the local taxi stand. Tourist Information Center, Banks, Travel Agencies and Airlines Booking.
FACILITIES : • In the heart of the ci...
One of many hotels in Tamil Nadu
Location
Opp. Union Office, Salem Main Road,, Yercaud, 636601
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Star Holidays Inc Resorts
Only nature can bring the silence so pure fills the sixth sense with a peace, broken only by the voice of song bird or chilling breeze combing its way through tall silver oak trees. The resort and its env...
One of many hotels in Tripura
Location
P.O.Choumuhami, H.G.B. Road,Agartala, Agartala, 799001
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he Hotel Welcome Palace is a unique way to experience Agartala, where hospitality is redefined. The architecture of City Centre is a blend of ancient and modern times. Hotel offers good services to both business class and tourists with...
One of many hotels in Uttar Pradesh
Location
8, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow, 226 001