Know the Bed and Breakfast Scheme in India

Are you intrigued by the idea of opening your home to travelers or staying in a cozy, family-run lodging instead of a hotel? The Bed and Breakfast Scheme in India might just be the answer. Launched by the Ministry of Tourism under the “Incredible India” campaign, this voluntary initiative has transformed the way tourists experience India while offering homeowners a unique opportunity to earn income and showcase Indian hospitality. Whether you’re a homeowner considering registration or a traveler seeking an authentic stay, understanding this scheme is key to making the most of it.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore every facet of the Bed and Breakfast Scheme as it stands in 2025. From its origins and objectives to the registration process, costs, benefits, and practical tips, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how this scheme works, why it matters, and how you can get involved—whether as a host or a guest. Let’s dive into the world of affordable, culturally immersive travel.

What is the Bed and Breakfast Scheme?

The Bed and Breakfast Scheme, officially known as the “Incredible India Bed & Breakfast/Homestay Scheme,” is a government-backed program initiated by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Introduced to promote tourism and cultural exchange, it encourages homeowners to offer clean, affordable accommodation to domestic and international travelers. Unlike hotels, these establishments provide a personal touch—guests stay in private homes, often with the host family, enjoying a bed for the night and a hearty breakfast in the morning.

The scheme, first formalized in 2002 and refined over the years (notably in 2016 and 2021), operates on a voluntary basis. It classifies registered properties into two categories—Silver and Gold—based on facilities and services. The core idea? Provide travelers with a budget-friendly alternative to hotels while giving them a chance to experience Indian traditions, cuisine, and family life firsthand. As of March 21, 2025, this initiative continues to gain traction, especially in tourist-heavy states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Kerala.

Objectives of the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

Why did the Indian government launch the Bed and Breakfast Scheme? Its goals are multifaceted:

Boosting Tourism: By increasing affordable accommodation options, the scheme addresses the shortage of budget lodging, especially during peak travel seasons.
Cultural Exchange: It offers foreign and domestic tourists a window into Indian customs, traditions, and home-cooked meals, fostering cultural understanding.
Economic Empowerment: Homeowners gain a supplementary income source without converting their properties into full-fledged commercial ventures.
Ease of Doing Business: Simplified registration processes and tax exemptions (in some states) make it accessible for residents to participate.
Sustainable Travel: Encouraging home-based stays reduces the need for large-scale hotel construction, aligning with eco-friendly tourism goals.

This scheme is a win-win: travelers get an authentic experience, and hosts earn money while sharing their heritage.

Who Can Participate in the Bed and Breakfast Scheme?

The Bed and Breakfast Scheme is open to a specific group of participants. Here’s who qualifies:

For Hosts

Homeowners: You must own a residential property and live there with your family. The scheme doesn’t apply to standalone commercial properties.
Room Limits: Offer a minimum of one room (two beds) and a maximum of six rooms (12 beds).
Eligible Applicants: Individuals not convicted of serious offenses or declared insolvent can apply. If you’re not the owner (e.g., a tenant), a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner is required.

For Guests

Domestic Tourists: Indians exploring their own country can enjoy affordable stays with a local flavor.
International Visitors: Foreigners seeking an immersive cultural experience benefit most, as the scheme was partly designed with them in mind.

State governments, like Delhi and Punjab, have also adopted similar versions, often with slight variations in rules or benefits.

How Does the Bed and Breakfast Scheme Work?

The Bed and Breakfast Scheme operates on a simple premise: stay, eat, pay, and leave. Here’s how it functions:

Stay: Guests book a room in a registered B&B property, typically within a family home.
Breakfast: Hosts provide a morning meal—often traditional Indian fare like parathas, idlis, or regional specialties—specified in advance.
Payment: Charges are set by the homeowner, displayed clearly, and inclusive of breakfast (unless it’s a homestay-only option).
Classification: Properties are inspected and rated as Silver or Gold based on amenities like cleanliness, room quality, and additional facilities (e.g., Wi-Fi, parking).

The Ministry of Tourism oversees the national scheme, while state tourism boards may run parallel programs with localized guidelines.

Benefits of the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

Participating in the Bed and Breakfast Scheme offers advantages for both hosts and guests:

For Hosts

Extra Income: Turn spare rooms into a revenue stream without commercial tax burdens (in many states).
Tourism Branding: Registered properties can use the “Incredible India” or state tourism logos for credibility.
Marketing Support: Promotion via government websites, travel fairs, and brochures boosts visibility.
Community Pride: Share your culture and traditions with the world.

For Guests

Affordability: B&B stays are typically cheaper than hotels, with rates often ranging from ₹1,000–₹5,000 per night.
Cultural Immersion: Live with an Indian family, join in festivals, and savor authentic meals.
Safety: Government registration ensures vetted, secure accommodations.
Personal Touch: Enjoy personalized hospitality unavailable in chain hotels.

This dual-benefit structure has made the scheme a hit across India.

How to Register for the Bed and Breakfast Scheme: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to join the Bed and Breakfast Scheme as a host? Here’s how to register under the Incredible India framework (note: state-specific processes may vary slightly):

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm you live in the property with your family and can offer 1–6 rooms.
Ensure your home meets basic standards (cleanliness, safety, functional amenities).

Step 2: Gather Documents

Identity Proof: Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, or Passport.
Ownership Proof: Property deed, allotment letter, or NOC (if rented).
Photographs: Images of rooms, kitchen, washrooms, dining area, parking, and main gate.
Undertaking: A declaration on stamp paper agreeing to scheme guidelines.
Construction Certificate: Proof of the property’s age (sometimes required).

Step 3: Apply Online

Visit the Ministry of Tourism’s website (tourism.gov.in) or your state tourism portal (e.g., tourism.delhi.gov.in).
Fill out the application form with details like:
- Number of rooms and beds.
- Breakfast type and pricing.
- Property address and contact info.

Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee

Silver Category: ₹3,000.
Gold Category: ₹5,000.
Renewal: ₹1,000–₹2,000 every two years (varies by state).
Payment is made online via card, net banking, or UPI.

Step 5: Inspection and Approval

A Regional Classification Committee inspects your property within 30–90 days (Delhi reduced this to 30 days in 2021).
They evaluate facilities, hygiene, and compliance with guidelines.
Post-inspection, you receive a Silver or Gold certificate.

Step 6: Start Hosting

Once approved, your property is listed on official tourism platforms, and you can begin welcoming guests.

Pro Tip

Apply 3–6 months before peak tourist seasons (e.g., winter in North India) to maximize bookings.

Costs Associated with the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

The Bed and Breakfast Scheme involves minimal government fees, but additional expenses may arise:

Government Fees

Initial Registration: ₹3,000 (Silver) or ₹5,000 (Gold).
Renewal Fees: ₹1,000–₹2,000 every two years.
State Variations: Some states like Uttar Pradesh charge as low as ₹100 for registration.

Other Costs

Upgrades: Renovations or furnishings to meet Silver/Gold standards (₹10,000–₹50,000).
Utilities: Increased water, electricity, and food costs based on guest numbers.
Professional Fees: ₹10,000–₹50,000 if you hire a consultant (optional).

Compared to hotel setup costs, this is a low-investment opportunity.

Guidelines and Standards of the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

To ensure quality, the Bed and Breakfast Scheme enforces specific standards:

Residency: The owner/family must live on-site.
Room Limits: 1–6 rooms (2–12 beds).
Breakfast: Must be offered (for B&B units), with type and cost disclosed upfront.
Cleanliness: High hygiene standards for rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Safety: Fire exits, first-aid kits, and secure locks are recommended.
Inspection: Properties must be ready for unannounced checks.
Reclassification: Apply for renewal three months before expiry; no deferrals allowed.

Non-compliance can lead to cancellation of registration, so adherence is critical.

State-Specific Bed and Breakfast Schemes

While the Incredible India scheme is national, states have tailored versions:

Delhi

Registration Time: Reduced to 30 days (2021).
Rooms Registered: Over 2,200 across 432 homes by 2023.
Focus: Affordable stays for tourists visiting the capital.

Uttar Pradesh

Fee: ₹100 registration/renewal.
Aim: Promote heritage tourism in cities like Agra and Varanasi.

Punjab

Managed By: Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board (PHTPB).
Benefits: Marketing via tourism fairs and Punjab Tourism branding.

Madhya Pradesh

Launch: 2009, modeled after the national scheme.
Tax Relief: Exempt from commercial taxes.

Check your state’s tourism website for localized rules and incentives.

Challenges of the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

Despite its appeal, the Bed and Breakfast Scheme has hurdles:

Awareness: Many homeowners and travelers remain unaware of the program.
Inspection Delays: Some regions take longer than promised for approvals.
Competition: Platforms like Airbnb offer similar experiences, often without government oversight.
Maintenance: Keeping up with standards requires ongoing effort and investment.
Guest Expectations: Balancing cultural authenticity with modern amenities can be tricky.

Awareness campaigns and streamlined processes are addressing these issues.

Tips for Success in the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

For Hosts

Highlight Local Flavor: Offer regional dishes and cultural activities (e.g., cooking classes).
Maintain Standards: Invest in cleanliness and comfort to earn a Gold rating.
Market Smartly: Use social media alongside government promotions.
Set Fair Rates: Price competitively (₹1,500–₹3,000/night is typical).

For Guests

Book Registered Properties: Look for Silver/Gold certificates for safety.
Ask Questions: Confirm breakfast options and house rules upfront.
Embrace the Experience: Engage with hosts to maximize cultural immersion.

Real-Life Experiences with the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

Online forums and news reports offer insights:

A Delhi host shared earning ₹50,000 monthly from two rooms, calling it “a lifeline during the pandemic.”
A tourist in Punjab praised a B&B for its “warm family vibe and delicious parathas,” preferring it over hotels.
Some hosts note initial setup costs but say government branding boosts bookings.

These stories highlight the scheme’s practical impact.

The Future of the Bed and Breakfast Scheme in 2025

As of March 21, 2025, the Bed and Breakfast Scheme is poised for growth:

Digital Push: Online registration and marketing are expanding reach.
State Adoption: More states may lower fees or offer incentives.
Sustainability Focus: Eco-friendly B&Bs could gain prominence.
Tourism Boom: With India targeting 20 million foreign visitors annually, demand for B&Bs will rise.

This scheme is evolving into a cornerstone of budget tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

1. What is the minimum requirement to join the scheme?

You need one room with two beds and must live in the property with your family.

2. How much does it cost to register?

₹3,000 for Silver, ₹5,000 for Gold, plus optional setup costs.

3. Is breakfast mandatory?

Yes, for B&B units; homestays can exclude it with mutual agreement.

4. How long does registration take?

30–90 days, depending on the state and inspection schedule.

5. Can foreigners stay at B&Bs?

Absolutely—it’s designed with them in mind, alongside domestic travelers.

Conclusion: Embrace the Bed and Breakfast Scheme

The Bed and Breakfast Scheme is more than a lodging option—it’s a bridge between cultures, a boost for local economies, and a testament to Indian hospitality. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to earn extra income or a traveler craving an authentic stay, this initiative offers something special. As of March 21, 2025, it remains a vibrant part of India’s tourism landscape, blending tradition with modern convenience.

Ready to explore or join? Visit tourism.gov.in or your state tourism portal to get started.