Zostel, India’s largest backpacker hostel chain, has announced plans to expand its network to 10,000 beds as it celebrates 13 years of operations. The company, which began with a 24-bed property in Jodhpur in 2013, has grown to around 5,000 beds across India, Nepal and Thailand, recording more than five million journeys.
Founded by a group of seven graduates inspired by community-based hostels in Europe, Zostel entered the Indian market when backpacker hostels were still a relatively unfamiliar concept. Over the past 13 years, the company has contributed to the growth of hostelling as an established segment within India’s hospitality industry.
According to Aviral Gupta, CEO of Zostel and Zo World, the company’s growth has been driven not only by its expanding property network but also by its focus on building a community around travel. The company now plans to accelerate expansion towards its 10,000-bed target as demand for youth-focused and experience-led travel continues to grow.
Beyond its core hostel business, Zostel has diversified its portfolio through Zo Trips, its group-travel vertical operating across India, Southeast Asia and Europe. The company also operates Zostel Plus, focused on premium stays, Zostel Homes for nature-oriented accommodation and Zo House, a co-living and hacker-house concept.
Zostel continues to follow a franchise-led and locally operated model, allowing local teams to manage properties in destinations such as Kaza and Bir. Its international presence has also expanded, including the opening of its 100th property and first overseas location in Phuket, along with a European expansion through its partnership with Safestay.
With its next phase of growth, Zostel is positioning itself across hostels, premium accommodation, homestays, group travel and co-living. The company aims to strengthen its presence in the rapidly developing youth and experience-led travel segment while doubling its bed capacity in the coming phase.
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