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 462 districts in India.
|
Union Territories: |
Major Cities:
Religious sites:
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 Maharashtra
One of many hotels in Uttranchal
Location
Sarovar Portico, Badrinath, 246422
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Badrinath hotels
Sarovar Portico Badrinath:
located amid the snow capped gigantic Himalayas with gushing white waters, provides a magnificent view of the Temple and the valley. Sarovar Portico is our humble spiritual offering in this venerated...
One of many hotels in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Location
Beach No.7, Havelock Island, Havelock Island,
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Havelock Island hotels
The Andaman Islands-Indias best kept secret with stunning beaches, aqua marine coral lagoons, lush green rain forests, active volcanoes, swimming elephants and giant fish.
Experience the unexplored beauty of these islands at...
One of many hotels in Andhra Pradesh
Location
10-1-124, Masab Tank, Hyderabad, 500028
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Hyderabad hotels
Golkonda Hotel is located near Banjara Hills, right in the heart of Hyderabad. About a 15 min drive from the airport and 10 mins from the Hyderabad Railway Station.
One of many hotels in Arunachal Pradesh
Location
Near Budha Stadium,Bomdila,West Kameng, West kameng, 790001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for West kameng hotels
One of many hotels in Assam
Location
P.o : Jalan nagar,, Dibrugarh, 786005
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Dibrugarh hotels
Mancotta Chang Bungalow
Though located a little away from Dibrugarh town, Mancotta Chang Bungalow is conveniently accessible from both Dibrugarh railway station and Dibrugarh airport. It is just 4 kms away from Dibrugarh railw...
One of many hotels in Bihar
Location
Rajgir, Dist. Nalanda , Rajgir, 803 116
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Rajgir hotels
Rajgir : A fusion of Indo-Japanese culture, the Indo-Hokke Hotel welcomes you with a breath of freshness, Peace and Harmony greets you as enter the stupa - like red brick gate. Classical Indian architecture aesthetically blended with Ja...
One of many hotels in Chandigarh
Location
Sector 10, Chandigarh, 160011
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Chandigarh hotels
Welcome to the world of Hotel Mountview at Chandigarh - a city that is the hub of travel to the adjoining states of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. The Hotel is the only five star Hotel in the Region North of Delhi. Against the bac...
One of many hotels in Chhattisgarh
Location
Shrirang Motels Pvt.Ltd Mumbai-Goa Highway,1.5 Km Before Nagothane,Nagothane
Taluka:Roha , District:Raigad , Raigad, 402106
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Raigad hotels
Its a piece of paradise on earth. Just a 2-hour drive from Mumbai On The Goa Highway-55 Kms From Panvel, its natural, verdant and wooded, throughout the year.
Its picturesque cottages, set amidst landscaped meandering canopied...
One of many hotels in Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Location
Opp. Vandhara Garden Naroli Road, Silvassa, 396230
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Silvassa hotels
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
Fofrara, Fudam, Diu, 362520
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Diu hotels
To experience a Portuguese era, Kohinoor is the place for you.
Spread across 3.5 acres of land the 50 room hotel prides on its Portuguese influence of architecture. The first three star hotel on the island is a one stop shop for com...
One of many hotels in Delhi
Location
B-49, Connaught Inner Circle ,, Delhi, 110001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Delhi hotels
The Corus Hotel is one of the finest business hotels in New Delhi. We are located in the center of the Business Hub - Inner Circle Connaught Place and thus, are the prime choice of tourists and business delegations coming from all parts ...
One of many hotels in Goa
Location
After PDA Plots,Alto Porvorim,Near Catering College, Goa, 403521
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Goa hotels
Vista Do Rio at Goa, an elegant blend of Spanish and Indian architecture houses, a huge swimming pool with sunken bar, massage treatments and fine eateries, everything you need to relax and escape from the pace of life.The 40 air-conditi...
One of many hotels in Gujarat
Location
R.C.Dutt Road, Alkapuri, Vadodara, 390007
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Vadodara hotels
All rooms are cenrtrally Air-Conditioned with Internet Connevtivity, Individual thermostatic Control, Colour TV with Satellite Channels and 24 hours room service. In house laundry Service, In house travel Desk for booking of luxury taxie...
One of many hotels in Haryana
Location
B1A/1, Ashoka Crescent Road, DLF PH 1, Gurgaon, 122002
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Gurgaon hotels
Hotel Plaazaa 1 is a smart and sophisticated business hotel in Gurgaon. Close proximity to the Delhi Airport and railway station makes it very convenient for the business traveller. Soaring high above in the up-market Gurgaon famous ...
One of many hotels in Himachal Pradesh
Location
Chandpur Tea Estate, Palampur, 176061
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Palampur hotels
Meals and Timings
Meals and snacks are served at the Country Cottage. Guests, have the option to order meals and snacks as per their preference or avail of our menus for the day, the rates for which are as follows, per person:...
One of many hotels in Jammu and Kashmir
Location
No.11, Maulana Azad Road, Srinagar, 190001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Srinagar hotels
Srinagar, surrounded by hills from all sides is the crowning glory of the hill stations and amidst its luxuriant surroundings stands the brand new property of Hotel Grand Mumtaz. The hotel is an absolute place to relax after a tiring day...
One of many hotels in Jharkhand
Location
Kadru-By-Pass Road,Hinoo,Doranda, Ranchi, 834002
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Ranchi hotels
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
52, 5th Cross, 6th Block,Koramangala, Bangalore, 560095
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Bangalore hotels
Hotel Nandhana Grand:- A corporate business hotel launched on 6th march 2006 to cater to the business leisure needs of the garden city. The hotel is ideally located amidst the corporate and business giants of the IT city and is reachable...
One of many hotels in Kerala
Location
T.B. Road, Wayanad, 673122
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Wayanad hotels
Green Gates Hotel
Green Gates Hotel is ideally located on a hillock in Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad. An exquisite hotel with all comforts befitting a luxury hotel.
All our cottages & rooms are elegantly appo...
One of many hotels in Lakshadweep
Location
Agatti Island,Agatti,Lakshadweep, Lakshadweep,
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Lakshadweep hotels
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
City Centre, Civil Lines, Narsinghpur, 487001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Narsinghpur hotels
hotel situated at the heart of the city and business market. Its proximity with all government offices and other institutions makes it an ideal stopover for tourists and travellers.
Whether you come to Narsinghpur ready for busines...
One of many hotels in Maharashtra
Location
Off Satara Rd., Mahabaleshwar Dist. Satara, Mahabaleshwar, 412806
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Mahabaleshwar hotels
Formerly known as the Lord's Mahabaleshwar Club
With 64 A/C Luxury Cottages & Rooms Misty Woods is situated at a distance of 12 kms from the Mahabaleshwar Market, offers a very relaxing and joyous atmosphere. A unique blend of...
One of many hotels in Meghalaya
Location
Thana Road, Shillong, 793001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Shillong hotels
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
Bara Bazar , Aizawl, 796001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Aizawl hotels
One of many hotels in Nagaland
Location
Circular Road, Dimapur, 797112
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Dimapur hotels
One of many hotels in Orissa
Location
Chandipur On Sea,, Chandipur, 756019
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Chandipur hotels
Serving since 1985, ANANDAMAYEE involves itself towards nourishing the tourism in Chandipur- On-Sea to be more modern, more entertaining and enchanting.
Today Chandipur -On-Sea , considered as one of the most important and popular...
One of many hotels in Pondicherry
Location
Pudhukuppam, Keelputhupet, Pondicherry University (via), Pondicherry, 605014
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Pondicherry hotels
A thematic hotel designed to cater to the growing demand for long stay destinations with soul and comfort. A 30 acre eco-friendly beach hotel with aesthetic bungalows, villas, swimming pool, tennis court, sea boating and 700m of sea fron...
One of many hotels in Punjab
Location
Near Golden Temple, Opp Jallian Wala Bagh, Amritsar, 143006
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Amritsar hotels
About Hotel City Heart Amritsar
We have pleasure in introducing our HOTEL CITY HEART, a 3-Star Hotel with 35 rooms. It has been serving the travelling and business Community/fraternity well over 10 years and from the tes...
One of many hotels in Rajasthan
Location
Sansar Chandra Road, Adjoining Hotel Man Singh Palace , Jaipur, 302001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Jaipur hotels
MANDAKINI CASTLE (3-star luxury hotel) Hotel Mandakini Castle is the right place for tourist and business travelers; in midst of all tourist attractive places yet located in a calm locale only 12 kms away from the domestic airport and no...
One of many hotels in Sikkim
Location
Yangtey, Gyalshing, West Sikkim, Gangtok,
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Gangtok hotels
A warm welcome awaits you to this jewel of the east, at the Tashigang Resort, which is your best choice for a memorable stay in West Sikkim. The Tashigang Resort is located at Deecheling, Gyalshing( Geyzing), West Sikkim, merely one and ...
One of many hotels in Tamil Nadu
Location
4/17/70, Convent Road,, Kodaikanal, 624101
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Kodaikanal hotels
The Woodlands Heritage
A pioneer in the hotel and restaurant business, Woodlands has grown to become a legendary name in the hospitality industry.
Founded by the late Shree K. Krishna Rao over 80 years ago, Woodlands has ...
One of many hotels in Tamilnadu
Location
No 12, Dr.Durgabai Deshmukh Road, Opp to Sathya Studio, R.A.Puram, Chennai, 600028
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Chennai hotels
Our AMS Raj Palace Sundar designed for your comfort is a stylish and distinctive hotel with an ambiance that is undeniable. We are known for our romantic and relaxing atmosphere while recreating the graciousness that contemporary lifesty...
One of many hotels in Tripura
Location
Hari Ganga Basak Road , Madhyapara Lane , , Agartala, 799001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Agartala hotels
One of many hotels in Uttar Pradesh
Location
8, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow, 226 001
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Lucknow hotels
Towering amidst the grandeur of the erstwhile City of Nawabs , the Hotel Clarks Avadh offers you more than just a stay. The Tehzeeb of the Nawabi Kitchen with its speciality Avadhi cuisine, Standard Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Executive Suites,...
One of many hotels in Uttarakhand
Location
The Mall, Opposite to Ropeways, Mussoorie, 248179
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Mussoorie hotels
Hotel Hill Queen is located on Mail Mall Road, Opp. Ropeways, Mussourie's Shopping and Entertainment area. Only a brisk five minutes walk from Picture Palace and Library can take you to Hotel Hill Queen.
One of many hotels in Uttarkhand
Location
Nainital District, Sattal,
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Sattal hotels
Uncluttered, verdant and soulful, Sattal, at an altitude of 1370 meters, is a cluster of 7 lakes placed amongst oak forests in the Kumaon Hills.
Country Inn Sattal offers a fabulous view of the blue lakes and the green hills f...
One of many hotels in West Bengal
Location
15 Shakespeare Sarani, Kolkata, 700071
Rooms & Tariffs
Find price and availability for Kolkata hotels
The Astor is one of the best-known hotels in Kolkata, with a reputation for warmth and hospitality.
The hotel which is located in the heart of the city is housed in a 100-year-old building and has been given a heritage status. The ...