Lucknow is expected to see nearly 800 new homestays under the Uttar Pradesh Bed & Breakfast (B&B) and Homestay Policy 2025. The initiative will provide tourists with affordable alternatives to hotels, alongside the warmth of a family-like atmosphere. Under the scheme, residents can register 1–6 rooms of their homes, with a maximum of 12 beds, as homestay. Property owners must continue living on-site but can rent out up to two-thirds of their residence.

Officials say the enthusiastic response from Lucknow residents highlights how the policy addresses a real demand. The move will help tackle accommodation shortages during peak tourist seasons while creating new income opportunities for local families.

The scheme offers two classifications:

• Gold Category: Higher standards, with spacious rooms, quality fittings, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and cable TV.

• Silver Category: Urban homestays with 1–6 rooms (up to 12 beds), registered with a fixed fee of ₹2,000.

Both categories include financial incentives, subsidies and exemptions to encourage more residents to participate.

Interested homeowners can register directly through the UP Tourism Department’s official portal (up-tourismportal.in). Committees headed by the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police will oversee approvals.

The surge in registrations comes as Uttar Pradesh recorded 65 crore domestic tourist arrivals in 2024–25, the highest in India. With foreign tourist inflows also on the rise, homestays are expected to play a crucial role in meeting accommodation demand while offering visitors authentic experiences of Lucknow’s culture, cuisine and traditions.

Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh said the initiative reflects the state’s vision of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, combining affordability with genuine hospitality.