In a city as vibrant and visitor-packed as Delhi, finding affordable, authentic stays can feel like navigating the chaotic streets of Chandni Chowk. But here’s some exciting news for travelers and homeowners alike: The Delhi government is set to revive its Bed and Breakfast (B&B) scheme in 2025, drawing inspiration from Goa’s thriving homestay model. This revival isn’t just a nostalgic nod to a 2007 initiative—it’s a strategic push to combat the rise of platforms like Airbnb, promote local hospitality, and inject fresh life into Delhi’s tourism economy.
If you’re a Delhi resident eyeing extra income from your spare rooms or a tourist hunting for that perfect cultural immersion, this update is for you. Let’s dive into the details of this Delhi Bed and Breakfast scheme revival, its history, the planned changes, and why it could transform how we experience the capital.
A Quick Look Back: The Rise and Stagnation of Delhi’s B&B Scheme
Launched in 2007 by the Delhi Tourism Department, the Bed and Breakfast scheme was designed to turn ordinary homes into welcoming havens for tourists. The goal? Ease the strain on Delhi’s hotel infrastructure while offering visitors a slice of authentic Indian family life—think home-cooked parathas for breakfast and insider tips on hidden gems like the lesser-known alleys of Old Delhi.
By 2023, the scheme had registered over 2,200 rooms across 432 houses, providing a safe, government-vetted alternative to unregulated stays. Homeowners could rent out up to six double-bed rooms (no more than two-thirds of their home), with the stipulation that they live on-site to ensure a personal touch. Registration was streamlined in 2021, slashing the process from 90 days to just 30, complete with gold or silver classifications based on amenities like Wi-Fi, clean linens, and security.
Yet, despite these perks, the scheme faded into dormancy. The explosion of short-term rentals via apps like Airbnb and OYO overshadowed it, leaving many registered B&Bs struggling for visibility. As one tourism official put it, “The scheme has become defunct” amid fierce competition. Fast-forward to October 2025: With Delhi’s tourism rebounding post-pandemic—welcoming over 300 million domestic visitors annually—the government sees revival as a golden opportunity.
Why Revive Now? The Tourism Boom and Lessons from Goa
Delhi’s tourism sector is on fire. From the iconic Red Fort to the bustling markets of Sarojini Nagar, the city draws millions yearly, but affordable accommodations remain a pain point. The Delhi govt Bed and Breakfast scheme revival aims to fill this gap by empowering locals to participate in the hospitality boom.
Enter the Goa model: Known for its laid-back beaches and booming homestay scene, Goa has turned B&Bs into a tourism powerhouse. Their policy offers tax breaks, marketing support, and streamlined licensing, resulting in thousands of registered units that blend seamlessly with the local economy. Delhi officials are studying this blueprint closely, planning to adapt elements like community promotion and eco-friendly guidelines to suit the capital’s urban vibe.
This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about sustainability. By reviving the scheme, Delhi can distribute tourism revenue beyond five-star hotels, supporting middle-class families in areas like South Delhi or East Delhi. Plus, it aligns with the national “Incredible India Bed and Breakfast” push by the Ministry of Tourism, which emphasizes clean, affordable stays for both foreign and domestic guests.
What’s New in the 2025 Revival? Key Plans and Incentives
The Delhi government isn’t dusting off the old playbook—they’re rewriting it. Here’s a breakdown of the proposed updates for the revived Bed and Breakfast scheme Delhi:
- Financial Incentives for Owners: Expect subsidies on utilities (property tax, electricity, and water at residential rates) and possible grants for renovations. This mirrors successful models in Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, where such perks have spiked registrations.
- Aggressive Promotion: Government platforms, including the Delhi Tourism website and apps, will spotlight registered B&Bs. Imagine your homestay featured alongside Qutub Minar tours—visibility that Airbnb can’t match.
- Clear Categorization: To avoid confusion, properties will be tagged as “homestay” (more family-oriented) or “bed and breakfast” (structured stays with meals). This helps tourists choose based on vibe, from cozy cultural dips to quick urban pitstops.
- Simplified Registration: Building on the 2021 tweaks, the process stays at 30 days, with online portals for ease. A thorough inspection ensures safety—fire alarms, clean water, and hygienic kitchens—earning that trusted government seal.
These changes address past “gaps” like lack of marketing, making the scheme more competitive and homeowner-friendly.
Benefits Galore: Who Wins from This Revival?
The ripple effects of the Delhi Bed and Breakfast scheme 2025 are massive:
For Homeowners and Locals
- Extra Income Stream: Rent out rooms at ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night (based on current averages), turning your home into a side hustle without commercial hassles.
- Community Boost: Especially in underserved areas, this could create jobs in cleaning, guiding, and local crafts, fostering economic equity.
For Tourists
- Authentic Experiences: Ditch cookie-cutter hotels for home-cooked thalis and stories from Delhiites. It’s safer, cheaper, and culturally richer—perfect for budget backpackers or families.
- Peace of Mind: Government vetting means vetted hosts and secure stays, a big draw for international visitors wary of unregulated options.
For Delhi’s Tourism Ecosystem
- Decongestion: Spreads visitors beyond central hubs, easing pressure on spots like India Gate.
- Sustainability Push: Encourages eco-friendly practices, aligning with global trends toward responsible travel.
In short, this revival could add thousands of rooms, injecting ₹500–₹1,000 crore annually into local economies, per tourism estimates.
How to Get Started: Your Guide to Joining the Scheme
Eager to list your Delhi home as a B&B? Here’s a step-by-step for Bed and Breakfast registration Delhi in 2025:
- Check Eligibility: You must reside on-site, have 1–6 spare double bedrooms (up to 12 beds total), and ensure basic amenities like AC, Wi-Fi, and attached baths.
- Gather Documents: Ownership proof, ID, fire NOC, and health certificates for food service.
- Apply Online: Head to the Delhi Tourism B&B Portal. Submit and pay the fee (via DD to Principal Secretary, Tourism).
- Inspection and Approval: A team visits within weeks; pass for gold/silver status.
- Launch and Promote: Once registered, list on government sites and watch bookings roll in.
Pro Tip: Start small—offer a trial stay to friends for feedback. With the revival, early birds could snag prime promotion spots.
Challenges Ahead: Can Delhi Pull This Off?
No plan is perfect. Skeptics point to past implementation hiccups, like slow inspections and urban space constraints in high-rises. Competition from apps remains fierce, and awareness campaigns will be key to drawing owners back. Yet, with Goa’s roadmap and digital tools, Delhi has a fighting chance to make this a success story.
Wrapping Up: A Homely Future for Delhi Tourism
The Delhi government Bed and Breakfast scheme revival is more than policy—it’s a bridge between Delhi’s chaotic charm and its welcoming heart. By incentivizing locals and promoting authentic stays, this 2025 initiative could redefine budget travel in the capital, making it more inclusive and immersive.
Whether you’re a homeowner ready to host or a wanderer seeking that perfect paratha breakfast, keep an eye on updates from the Delhi Tourism Department. The revival is underway—will you be part of it? Share your thoughts in the comments: Have you stayed in a Delhi B&B before? Let’s chat!
