Experience Of Staying In Backpackers Hostels In New Delhi
Being a frequent traveler, I have often visited Delhi for business and pleasure. From touring as a backpacker on a strict budget to staying in luxurious hotels, I have experienced both.
My first visit was in 2013, and coming from a small town, I was overwhelmed by the loudness of this city. But as time passed by, I fell in love with its dynamic culture, spectacular landmarks, and delectable food.
The love affair between Delhi and international travelers
Did you know that more than 18 million global travelers visited Delhi in 2019? But, just how significant is that number? Well, to give you an idea, the population of the Netherlands is 17 million. Yes! Incredible, right?
Even though Delhi is remarkably affordable, budget accommodation is still one of the most common concerns among tourists in the NCR. Backpackers’ hostels and low-cost motels are great options for budget trips. But, which one should you choose?
Well, keep reading to find out the best option for you.
My experience with backpackers’ hostels
It was around last October. I was planning to stay at the usual low-budget accommodation. But a friend of mine suggested that I try backpackers’ hostels. I was initially reluctant since I’m a privacy freak and the idea of a hostel and sharing a room freaked me out.
But traveling has taught me to have the courage to try new things, so I stayed in a dorm. It turns out that my experience was quite different from what I had imagined.
Here’s what I learned:
Backpackers’ Hostels vs. Low-budget Hotels
Value for money
The most critical point that makes a backpacker’s hostel such an exciting pick is the cheap accommodation. Yes, dorms are available at even lower prices compared to low-budget hotels.
For instance, the hostel I stayed at charged just ₹300, or $4, for one night. When you compare this to budget hotels, even the cheapest rooms will cost you at least ₹500, or $6.5.
Local knowledge
Another intriguing element about backpackers’ hostels was that most of the workers there were also backpackers themselves, meaning that they had extensive knowledge of the city and its locality. They also helped me explore underrated places and restaurants in the city.
Pro tip: Visit Deer Park, located in Hauz Khas, in the early morning or evening. It will offer you one of the most serene places in the city, which will make you feel connected to nature.
Social
One of the most significant advantages of hostels is that you meet fellow travelers and forge a social bond that hotels can never offer. While I rarely speak to other guests in hotels, it’s practically impossible to avoid fellow backpackers in a hostel. The communal kitchens and lounges allow you to bond with other tourists and soak in plenty of wisdom and hilarious stories.
One might get bored in a hotel room, especially when traveling solo, but hostels ensure you enjoy every moment you spend there.
Final Words
While there are many more advantages to backpacker’s hostels, it offers such rich experiences on a low budget, so I think every travel enthusiast must experience staying in a hostel at least once.
So the next time you visit the ‘heart of India,’ instead of going for hotels, try experiencing backpacking life in a hostel. It will make your travels more enjoyable!
