Table of Contents
Quality Service Guarantee Or Painting Free
Get a rental agreement with doorstep delivery
Find the BEST deals and get unbelievable DISCOUNTS directly from builders!
5-Star rated painters, premium paints and services at the BEST PRICES!
Loved what you read? Share it with others!
Submit the Form to Unlock the Best Deals Today
✕
Check Your Eligibility Instantly
Experience The NoBrokerHood Difference!
Set up a demo for the entire community
Tenant Super Relax Plan
Enjoy Hassle-Free Renting
Full RM + FRM support Instant alerts & premium filters Rent negotiation & relocation helpDifference Between PG and Hostel: Living Facilities, Rules, Pros and Cons in 2025
Published : May 1, 2025, 11:00 PM
Updated : May 1, 2025, 11:00 PM
Author :
Simon
Table of Contents
The difference between a PG and a hostel is a critical consideration for students, backpackers, and budget-conscious travellers in India. When seeking accommodation, they often encounter a dilemma between the cost-effective, communal living experience of hostels and the home-like ambience and cultural immersion offered by paying guests. So, what truly sets apart a hostel from PGs in India, and which option suits you best?
In the quest for lodging, travellers in India are met with a plethora of choices, ranging from traditional hotels and guesthouses to homestays and serviced apartments. Amidst this variety, two options stand out for their popularity among students, backpackers, and budget-conscious individuals: hostels and paying guests. If you're still confused about what is the difference between PG and hostel then this article aims to provide clarity. Keep reading to explore these accommodation options further.
Also read: The Complete Guide to Paying Guests & Sample PG Rent Agreement
Quality Service Guarantee Or Painting Free
Get a rental agreement with doorstep delivery
Find the BEST deals and get unbelievable DISCOUNTS directly from builders!
5-Star rated painters, premium paints and services at the BEST PRICES!
What are Hostels?
A hostel is a budget-friendly accommodation option that typically offers dormitory-style rooms with several beds. Hostels are popular among travellers looking for a cost-effective and communal living experience. The price of a bed in a hostel is often much lower than the cost of a private room in a hotel, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers.
The shared living spaces in hostels also provide an opportunity to meet other travellers, make new friends, and learn about different cultures. However, hostels can lack privacy, as there are often multiple people sharing the same room.
According to recent reports, the popularity of hostels in India is on the rise, with many young travellers opting for this type of accommodation over more traditional options.
What is a Paying Guest?
PG means in hostel is a type of accommodation where a person rents a room in a private home. The cost of staying with a paying guest is typically lower than the cost of a hotel room, but higher than a hostel bed. Paying guests is popular among travellers looking for a more home-like environment and cultural immersion.
Staying with a paying guest allows travellers to experience the local culture and customs in a more personal way, as they are living in someone's home. However, this also means that travellers may have to adhere to certain rules and routines set by the host.
Recent reports indicate that the popularity of paying guests in India is also on the rise, particularly among travellers looking for a more authentic cultural experience.
What are the differences between PG and Hostel?
When it comes to knowing what the difference is between a hostel and a PG, several factors come into play, including cost, living conditions, and cultural immersion.
- In terms of cost, hostels are typically the more affordable option. However, paying guests offer a more home-like environment, which may be worth the extra expense for some travellers.
- Living conditions are also an important consideration. Hostels offer a communal living experience, but lack privacy, while paying guests provide a more home-like environment, but also less independence.
- Finally, cultural immersion is a crucial factor for many travellers. Staying with a paying guest provides a more personal and authentic experience, while hostels offer the opportunity to meet other travellers and learn about different cultures.
Ultimately, the choice between a hostel and a paying guest will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the traveller. Budget travellers may opt for a hostel, while those looking for a more authentic cultural experience may prefer a paying guest.
| Comparison Factor | Hostel | Paying Guest (PG) |
| Cost | Typically cheaper, ideal for budget travellers | May be more expensive, offering a homelike atmosphere |
| Living Conditions | Communal living, limited privacy | More home-like, less independence, shared facilities |
| Cultural Immersion | Opportunity to meet diverse travellers | Personal, authentic experience with local culture |
| Flexibility | Often flexible with check-in/check-out times | May have stricter rules and curfews |
| Community | Social atmosphere, chance to make new friends | Living with a local family, the potential for deeper connections |
| Amenities | Shared facilities like kitchens and lounges | Access to home amenities like kitchen and living room |
| Personal Freedom | People have higher freedom in a hostel and fewer restrictions | PG is more like a home, and due to some house rules, it has moderate freedom |
| Security | They have basic security with just locker facilities | It has a residential setting, so it has more security. |
| Period of Stay | Perfect for a short-term stay while travelling (a few days or a week) | Perfect for a long-term stay (preferably months) |
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Staying in a PG?
Paying guests are much like homestays, which emulate home-like environments. There are different kinds of PGs, which allow for single occupants or shared rooms. In the latter scenario, amenities like bathrooms, storage, kitchens, etc., are also shared. In simpler terms, staying in a PG is like renting a room in someone else’s home. Below, you will find some key points that aid in the discussion of PG vs. hostel.
Advantages
- It is an affordable option compared to renting a flat.
- The host provides homely meals.
- Convenient locations near workplaces or colleges.
- There are fewer restrictions compared to hostels.
Disadvantages
- Limited privacy due to shared spaces.
- The owner sets rules and restrictions.
- The costs are higher than those of hostels in some areas.
- Less freedom for personal customisations.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Staying in a Hostel?
Staying in a hostel has perks and drawbacks; it depends on the person's needs and lifestyle. Hostels are generally cheaper and affordable for students and travellers looking for a budget-friendly place to stay. They offer a social atmosphere where people can meet and interact with others. However, privacy is limited in hostels as they have shared rooms. On the other hand, PG rooms give a more homely environment with proper security and privacy.
A hostel should be your go-to option if you want more independence and social interaction. But if comfort and privacy are your priority, opt for a PG. Choosing between a hostel and a PG room depends on the affordability, lifestyle and kind of facilities available. Below are a few advantages and disadvantages of staying in a Hostel:
Advantages
- Cost-effective compared to PGs and flats.
- Opportunities to socialise and build connections.
- Basic amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry are included.
- Located close to colleges or workplaces.
- Flexible stay options with easy check-in and checkout
- Access to basic amenities like a kitchen, lounge, wifi, and laundry facilities
- Perfect for group activities like events and group outings
- Often located at the heart of the city for better connectivity to nearby places
- Travel guidance is easily available, and tips are too from the staff and other people
- It has a casual atmosphere with good relaxation facilities
Disadvantages
- Limited privacy due to shared rooms and bathrooms.
- Strict rules and curfews are in most hostels.
- Lack of personal space for customisation.
- The quality of food and facilities may vary.
- It can be a bit noisy as more people live in the same place
- Risk of theft as only lockers are available, which might not be safe all the time
- Hygiene issue due to shared facilities like the bathroom, kitchen and lounge area
- Lack of comfort as beds are generally not as comfortable and cosy as PG
- Not ideal for long-term stay due to constant new guests
- Personalisation is not available as per your choice, as it is a common room
Comparing Living Conditions: Hostel vs Paying Guest
When it comes to choosing between hostels and paying guests in India, several factors should be considered. If you are wondering what sets them apart and what the difference between PG and hostel is, the main distinctions between these two types of accommodation come down to cost, living conditions, and cultural immersion.
- Cost - PG vs. hostel: In terms of cost, hostels are generally the more budget-friendly option. They offer a range of room types, from shared dorms to private rooms, with prices to match. Hostels are also more likely to offer communal facilities like kitchens, lounges, and outdoor spaces, which can help keep costs down. On the other hand, staying with a paying guest typically costs more, as you'll pay for a private room with your own bathroom and kitchen facilities.
- Lifestyle - hostel vs PG: Regarding living conditions, hostels are a great option if you're looking for a communal, social living experience. Hostels often have large, shared spaces where you can socialise with other travellers, and some even have events and activities to help you get to know your fellow guests. However, hostels can also be noisy, with limited privacy and no control over who you're sharing with.
- Environment – which is better, a hostel or a PG? Paying guests to offer a more home-like environment, with private rooms and your own bathroom. You'll also have the chance to live with a local Indian family and experience the culture first-hand, making it a great option if you're looking for a more authentic experience. However, paying guests can also be less flexible, with restrictions on your movement and fewer communal spaces.
- Cultural immersion and exposure - is PG better than a hostel? For budget travellers, a hostel may be the better option, while for those looking for a deeper cultural immersion, a paying guesthouse is likely to be the better choice.
Hostel vs PG: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between a hostel and a PG depends on the people's lifestyle, budget and comfort. The hostel is perfect for a short-term stay and socialising with people, whereas PGs are better for long-term stays and a homely environment. Below are a few pointers which will help you decide in a better way:
- Cost: Hostels are cheaper and are perfect for short-term stays, while PGs are a bit costlier and are suitable for long-term stays.
- Privacy: PG has a little more privacy with a personal room, while hostels have shared space with limited privacy.
- Freedom: Hostels offer more independence and no restrictions, while PGs have curfews and restrictions imposed by the landlord families.
- Lifestyle: Hotels let you socialise with people and create a lively space, while PGs are quieter.
- Amenities: PGs usually have home-like amenities and comfort. Whereas hostels have basic shared facilities like a lounge and a kitchen
- Security: PGs have more security because they are generally in residential areas, while hostels offer limited security and just locker facilities, which are not always safe.
The Final Verdict: Hostel or PG, which is better?
The difference between PG and hostel in India boils down to crucial factors like cost, living conditions, and cultural immersion. Hostels provide an economical, communal living setup, while PGs offer a homelier atmosphere with opportunities for cultural immersion. Regardless of your choice, NoBroker is your ally in finding the perfect accommodation.
Our platform facilitates direct connections between property owners and tenants, streamlining your search for the ideal Difference between a PG and a hostel. We invite our readers to share their own experiences and inquiries about hostels and PGs in India. NoBroker remains dedicated to assisting property owners in finding renters and aiding students and professionals in their quest for suitable lodging. We're committed to ensuring your hunt for student housing in India is as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: A hostel is a type of accommodation that offers budget-friendly rooms to travellers. Hostels often have shared facilities, like kitchens and lounges, and may also offer events and activities to help guests socialise.
Ans: PG hostel means paying guest hostel, is a type of accommodation where individuals rent a room within a shared facility, typically in a residential area. It offers a blend of hostel and home-like environment, often providing meals and basic amenities for a fee.
Ans: Pros: cost-effective, communal living, social atmosphere. Cons: limited privacy, noise, no control over whom you're sharing with.
Ans: Pros: home-like environment, cultural immersion, privacy. Cons: less flexible, fewer communal spaces, higher cost.
Ans: For budget travellers, hostels are often the best option as they offer a range of budgets.
Ans: Generally speaking, hostels are the cheaper option as they offer dormitory-style rooms at a lower cost. However, the cost of staying with a paying guest can vary depending on the location and amenities offered.
Ans: Both solo travellers and those travelling in a group can find hostels to be a suitable option. Hostels often have an intense sense of community, making it easy to meet other travellers and make new friends.
Ans: Hostels are known for their cost-effective and communal living, while paying guests offer a home-like environment and an opportunity for cultural immersion. The right choice depends on individual preferences and travel goals.
Ans: PGs provide shared living spaces, meals, and additional services. At the same time, rented rooms offer more privacy but typically do not include meals or extra services, allowing tenants more freedom and responsibility.
Ans: No, staying in a hostel is not mandatory for PG students. Many prefer PGs or rent rooms for greater flexibility, privacy, and comfort, better fitting their needs and lifestyle.
Ans: The complete PG form is "Paying Guest." It refers to a living arrangement where individuals pay rent to stay on someone's property, usually with shared or private rooms, and meals are often provided.
Ans: Yes, many PG accommodations offer single rooms for individuals who prefer to stay alone. These rooms may come at a higher cost compared to shared accommodations, but they offer more privacy.
Ans: It depends on personal preferences. Hostels are cheaper and foster social interaction, while PGs offer more privacy, meals, and additional amenities but typically come at a higher price for greater comfort and convenience.
Ans: Some PGs either are boy-only or girl-only, while a few are mixed, depending on the allowance of the landlord. Be sure to check what rules guide the settlement of the PG before making a reservation.
Ans: Yes, PG hostels in Bangalore are good for students because they are convenient, cheaper, and modern. They also offer Wi-Fi, food, and laundry services.
Loved what you read? Share it with others!
Most Viewed Articles
Bangalore Metro Map: Route, Timings, Lines, Stations List and Updated News 2025
May 4, 2025
317243+ views
Top 12 Richest Cities in India: GDP and Ranking in 2025
March 13, 2025
260797+ views
Purple Line Metro Bangalore: Route, Map and Timings and Fares in 2025
May 1, 2025
137843+ views
Top 20 Posh Areas in Delhi: Connectivity, Amenities, Property Rates and Localities to Live in 2025
May 13, 2025
114271+ views
The Yellow Line Metro Bangalore: Route, Map Timings and Fares in 2025
May 2, 2025
111450+ views
Author
Recent blogs in
May 14, 2025 by Suju
May 13, 2025 by Suju
Delhi Cantt Metro Station: Map, Routes, Parking, Facilities and Nearby Localities to Live in 2025
May 13, 2025 by Suju
May 13, 2025 by Siri Hegde K
Join the conversation!