NapTapGo, an innovative Indian pod hotel startup, has successfully raised Rs 2 crore in a pre-seed funding round led by Gurugram-based angel investment firm Inflection Point Ventures (IPV). This fresh capital injection will fuel the company’s ambitious plans to expand its footprint beyond the National Capital Region (NCR) into religious and urban hubs such as Katra and Amritsar, aiming to operate 20 properties by FY27.
Revolutionising Affordable Hospitality with Pod Hotels
Founded by Nitin Malhotra (Founder & CEO) and Himanshu Shukla (Co-Founder & VP Operations), NapTapGo is redefining budget hospitality in India by offering clean, hygienic, and affordable accommodation options tailored for modern travellers. The startup’s pod hotel concept draws inspiration from Japan’s capsule hotels but is customised to meet Indian travellers’ needs, especially solo travellers, pilgrims, working professionals, and transit passengers.
NapTapGo’s unique model includes flexible check-ins, hourly stays, and sustainability-driven operations, providing guests with affordable luxury in compact, tech-enabled spaces. This approach not only makes travel economical but also enhances convenience and customer experience, setting NapTapGo apart in India’s competitive hospitality sector.
Strategic Expansion into Religious and Urban Markets
Currently active in NCR business cities, NapTapGo plans to broaden its presence to key locations including Gurgaon, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Katra, and Amritsar. The inclusion of religious cities like Katra and Amritsar aligns with the growing demand for affordable, hygienic lodging near pilgrimage sites, where traditional accommodation options are often limited or expensive.
The startup’s goal is to scale to 20 properties by FY27, leveraging franchise development, marketing initiatives, and technology enhancements to accelerate growth. NapTapGo’s digital-first booking system, which includes direct reservations via its website and WhatsApp, already accounts for 65% of its bookings, reflecting strong customer preference for fast and simple booking experiences.
Backing from Industry Leaders and Government PSUs
NapTapGo’s innovative approach has attracted strategic investments not only from IPV but also from Government of India PSU Balmer Lawrie. The startup has also received an endorsement from billionaire industrialist Anand Mahindra, who praised the capsule hotel concept as a game-changer for budget travel in India.
Vinay Bansal, Founder & CEO of IPV, highlighted the startup’s potential to disrupt the hospitality industry by offering smart, cost-effective lodging solutions without compromising quality. He noted that while hotel prices have surged globally, service standards have often lagged, creating a gap that NapTapGo aims to fill with its affordable luxury pods.
Market Potential and Industry Trends
India’s hotel industry is valued at over $30 billion and is projected to grow to $55 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of around 10.8%. Globally, the hotel market is estimated at $1300 billion, and the pod hotel segment is witnessing rapid growth driven by urbanisation, budget-conscious millennials and Gen Z travellers, and the rising popularity of experiential travel.
Pod hotels appeal especially to solo travellers and those seeking short stays, offering a blend of affordability, hygiene, and convenience. Sustainability is another key focus, with many pod hotels adopting eco-friendly designs and operations, which resonate well with environmentally conscious guests.
Why NapTapGo’s Model Works for India
Affordable Luxury: Compact yet comfortable pods provide a premium experience at budget prices.
Flexible Stays: Hourly bookings and flexible check-ins cater to travellers with diverse schedules.
Tech-Enabled Operations: AI-powered systems improve efficiency and reduce manual workload, enhancing service quality.
Strategic Locations: Focus on business hubs and religious cities meets high demand for short-term stays.
Direct Booking Channels: Website and WhatsApp bookings reduce costs and strengthen customer relationships.
Looking Ahead: NapTapGo’s Vision for India’s Hospitality Landscape
Nitin Malhotra and Himanshu Shukla envision NapTapGo as a significant player in India’s affordable hotel segment, aiming to transform perceptions by prioritising customer experience and operational excellence. With strong investor backing and a clear growth roadmap, NapTapGo is well-positioned to tap into the booming budget travel market and expand its footprint across India’s urban and spiritual centres.
As India’s travel and tourism sector continues to grow, startups like NapTapGo are innovating to meet evolving traveller needs, making quality accommodation accessible to millions. The pod hotel concept, once niche, is now emerging as a mainstream solution to India’s accommodation challenges, especially for short-stay and budget-conscious guests.