UP revamps homestay policies to boost tourism infrastructure
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Under the amended policy, urban homestays can now register between one and eight rooms with a maximum capacity of 16 beds. Notably, registered units can renew registration through the self-renewal portal before expiry.
With Uttar Pradesh witnessing record tourist arrivals and growing demand for affordable accommodation, the state government has amended its Bed & Breakfast and Homestay Policy 2025 to encourage greater participation in the hospitality sector. The revised policy allows registered units to offer up to eight rooms and introduces an online self-renewal facility for operators.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the changes are part of the state’s broader strategy to strengthen tourism infrastructure and create additional accommodation capacity across emerging tourism destinations.
“Uttar Pradesh has seen unprecedented growth in tourist arrivals in recent years. To support this growth, it is important to expand affordable and quality accommodation options. The revised policy will make it easier for homeowners and entrepreneurs to participate in the tourism economy while improving visitor experience across the state,” he said.
Under the amended policy, urban homestays can now register between one and eight rooms with a maximum capacity of 16 beds. Earlier, only up to six rooms could be rented out under the scheme.
The revised norms also clarify that homestays in urban areas must operate from residential properties owned by the applicant or built on land leased from development authorities. The owner or family members must reside on the premises.
For B&B units, owners can register up to eight rooms in residential or leased properties for providing accommodation and breakfast/meals to domestic and foreign tourists. A caretaker’s residence on the premises has also been made mandatory. Buildings taken on lease must have a minimum lease period of three years. The policy also recognises dormitory facilities of up to 16 beds under the eligible B&B category. Buildings with more than eight rooms, as well as hotels, motels and guest houses, will not be eligible for registration under the scheme.
A major reform under the amended policy is the introduction of an online auto-renewal facility. Registered units will be able to renew their registration through the portal before expiry, with the self-renewal window opening three months in advance of the registration expiry date.
ACS (Tourism) Amrit Abhijat said, “The policy amendments are expected to support the state’s efforts to significantly expand room capacity while promoting community-based tourism and creating new livelihood opportunities linked to the rapidly growing tourism sector.”
