With so much to see in Bangalore, you can bet your ass there’s an endless list of hostels awaiting travelers just like you. Bangalore, also known as “Bengaluru” is the capital of Karnataka, the southern Indian State and is a popular backpacking location. Bangalore opens doors to luscious greenery and flowing lakes, and is simultaneously a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis.
The amount of hostels in Bangalore has increased over the last couple of years. That tells me it’s time for us budget-conscious backpackers to stay a couple of days longer before moving on to other of India’s fine backpacker hubs.
With that in mind, backpacking trips can be SO time-consuming in India. If you’re the type who just wants to get up and go (me too), you can often overlook finding the best accommodation for your needs. This can result in unnecessary spending – and who wants that?
Therefore, I have taken the liberty to share the best hostels in Bangalore. All you have to do is book your favorite one. Thank me later!
From solo travelers to group trips and digital nomads, you’ll easily find a hostel in this list that totally fits your vibe. Let’s find you your jam.
Quick Answer: The 5 Best Hostels in Bangalore
- Overall Best Hostel in Bangalore – Locul.Uptown
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Bangalore – Woke Indiranagar
- Best Cheap Hostel in Bangalore – Zylo Hostel
- Best Hostel for large groups in Bangalore – Be Animal Hostel
- Best Hostel for couples in Bangalore – The Little Blue Window Hostel
What to Expect from Hostels in Bangalore
Get ready to immerse yourself in new cultures, taste new cuisines and live a completely different lifestyle. If you’ve chosen to go backpacking in India, you’ve chosen wisely.
The great thing about staying in a hostel in Balgalore is that it truly welcomes you to all different walks of life and pushes you out of your comfort zone. Some of the best conversations I have had have been with other backpackers in dorm rooms, getting to hear and share stories.
Plus, booking a hostel saves you a bunch of money. That can be spent actually experiencing India.
The hostels in Bangalore offer a range of mixed dorms, gender-only dorms, and twin and private rooms. Bathrooms are usually shared, so suck it up buttercup.
It goes without saying that if you book a dorm room, you’ll have little to no privacy. If that’s not your thing, book a private room instead. Sometimes it’s worth spending more money to make sure you feel comfortable.
The price of hostels range depending on location and the amount of services that they offer. Private rooms are, of course, the most expensive and the dorm options are roughly the same price as each other.
Here is what you can expect to pay per night:
- Private rooms – $14 – $26
- Group rooms – $6 – $13
The next thing to consider is the location. The last thing you want to do is save money on accommodation to spend even more money on transport. To prevent this, consider staying in one of these neighborhoods:
- Koramangala – For one of the coolest neighborhoods in India.
- The Center of Bengaluru – For a jam-packed trip of attractions.
- Karnataka – For spectacular national parks, ancient ruins and beaches.
Hostelworld is your best bet when finding somewhere to stay. On the website, you’ll find photos of the hostel, details of its facilities, location, and (most importantly) reviews from previous guests. Hostelworld also has a convenient star rating system that allows you to easily know which hostels are worth staying at.
Just like booking a hotel, you should also consider what you need out of the hostel. Are you happy to take it back to basics and embrace the off-grid feel? Or, are you a digital nomad who desperately needs a fast internet connection? Decipher just exactly what you need and keep that in mind.
Continue reading to discover the best hostels in Bangalore!
The 5 Best Hostels in Bangalore
No matter how much of a seize-the-moment type of traveler you are, it’s important that you’re choosing good hostels in India. We want somewhere safe and comfortable to return to.
It’s no secret that some hostels can be hit and miss. With that in mind, each hostel listed is highly rated and has a specific identifier to make finding your ideal accommodation as convenient as possible.
Locul.Uptown – Best Overall Hostel in Bangalore
Located in the upscale part of the city, Locul.Uptown is easily the best overall hostel in Bangalore. This hostel is probably about as close as you can get to a hotel – but with a vibe, you know. This hostel seriously exceeds expectations.
You can explore Bangalore (that’s got a nice ring to it, don’t it?) by foot. So no extra transport costs need to be spent and the facilities here are top-tier.
Firstly, breakfast is served at a price but is often cheaper than eating out at a cafe. The hostel also features special activities such as on-site yoga sessions – ideal if you’re on a mission for yoga retreats in India. They also have a library to spend time lounging after a busy day of sightseeing.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Private single and twin rooms with ensuites
- Hot showers
- Cafe
The dorms are a stand-out feature with both safety and security. You can choose from single, twin and private rooms. It’s more than ideal if you’re traveling with a buddy or even for solo female travelers.
On your doorstep, you’ll find an eccentric list of activities and attractions just waiting to be explored. Big foodies often get lost in the local restaurants which serve both authentic and international dishes.
This is also the best hostel in Bangalore for first-time visitors to India. The staff are overwhelmingly helpful and more than happy to arrange trains and point you in the direction of tourist hot spots. – What more could you want?
Woke Indiranagar – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Bangalore
Backpackers flock to Woke Indiranagar. Why? This is one of the best hostels for solo travelers in Bangalore.
This hostel is in a great location to easily explore the modern city while simultaneously experiencing the rhythmic pulse of the culture that is unbelievably present here. Get ready to feel completely at home and safe while traveling, with each common need taken care of.
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, free water bottles, and bedside power points are all standard at this hostel. You can also cook your own meals or purchase dishes on-site for a small price.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Private and group rooms
- Currency exchange services
- Housekeeping
Whether you are a lone wolf or an avid mingler, you’ll have the option of a chic private single room or a group dorm. The private rooms are higher in price than most other hostels in the area but the value for money is well worth the extra cost.
The hostel itself is surrounded by greenery which provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center. However, you won’t be missing out on all the action as attractions are within walking distance and the Metro station is also nearby. Plus, the friendly staff at the travel desk are always happy to offer advice on the best tours.
You seriously might struggle to find other hostels in Bangalore that are in such a great location while also offering private rooms. So snap this one up while you can!
Be Animal Hostel – Hostel for Large Groups in Bangalore
Ignite your inner child and book a stay at the Be Animal Hostel. This hostel nurtures a safe place to meditate, reconnect with nature, and nourish your body through a selection of delicious vegan dishes. This is a total home away from home vibe that you and your friends will definitely appreciate.
Additionally, you’ll honestly never be bored here. Find yourself in the heart of Koramangala, the largest (and coolest) neighborhood in Bangalore and discover many popular restaurants, co-working spaces, and guided tour opportunities.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Travel desk
- Hot showers
- Laundry facilities & Housekeeping
Be Animal Hostel has large rooms with both a 12-bed mixed dorm and separated female and male 8-bed dorms with en suites. However, if you’re someone who likes your own space, even when traveling as a group, don’t worry! Private rooms are available too.
You’ll be impressed by the modern amenities in this traditional hostel. Charge your phone or laptop at your own personal plug point. Sleep enthusiasts will buzz over the luxury Flo memory mattress too.
In the morning, before speaking with the friendly staff to arrange complimentary travel planning around India, indulge in their vegan breakfast with speciality coffees. The coconut masala chai is a firm favourite.
Zylo Hostel – Most Affordable Hostel in Bangalore
The Zylo Hostel is an adorable hostel located in Karnataka. This is one of the best hostels in Bangalore simply due to its dainty features and affordable price tag.
You’ll be pleasantly greeted by a well-maintained hostel, fast internet access, air conditioning, and all the kitchenware you’ll ever need (almost). There are also additional communal rooms to ignite the digital nomads or simply get to know fellow backpackers.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Security lockers
- Hot showers
- Ideal location for sightseeing in Bangalore
Due to its affordability, only group dorms are available. However, there is a female-only dorm.
This hostel is ideal for those that have their entire trip planned already and need little assistance from staff. Or, if you’re up for the challenge of navigating the local area, you’ll do great here too.
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIThe Little Blue Window Hostel – Great Dorms for Couples in Bangalore
Undoubtedly, one of the best hostels for couples in Bangalore is The Little Blue Window Hostel. Seriously, these guys have perfected the hostel experience with a sublime combination of comfort, fun, and a friendly price tag.
Alongside having access to Wi-Fi and 24/7 hot water, guests are welcomed with colourful rooms and a combined common area to mingle with other travelers and make new friends. They also feature twin rooms for you and your partner to stay in.
You’ll honestly be surprised at the great value for money you receive here. The hostel has glowing reviews online which exclaim they will happily re-visit this accommodation and boast about the friendly ambience.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Housekeeping services
- Fully functional kitchen
- Private dorms available
This hostel has both two-bed dorms and private dorms available upon request. Plus, if spontaneity creeps in and your plans change, you’ll be glad to know that they have a 2-day cancellation service.
The Little Blue Window Hostel also offers an outdoor terrace and is in an ideal location for exploring popular restaurants and accessing nightlife entertainment. Bicycles are also available to hire to easily get around Bangalore and will save you even more money on transport.
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It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Other Hostels in Bangalore
YES, there are MORE amazing hotels in Bangalore to choose from. Okay, they didn’t make the cut for top 5. But it was a close call…
You may yet find one of the best hostels in the world for you! Here are some more seriously sick hostels in Bangalore to consider.
Locul.Midtown
Just missing out on the best overall hostel in Bangalore is the winner’s sibling, Locul.midtown. Found within the prominent commercial entertainment center, Church Street, your itinerary will quickly fill up with some of the best attractions and activities.
You’ll seriously be in awe of the facilities at this hostel. Tuck into a delicious breakfast (for a small price), take part in one of the donation-based tours and get to know the staff as they teach you where the best and most mysterious spots to see India are.
Habitat 15 @ Airlines
Find yourself encased in a safe neighborhood just moments away from popular attractions when you stay at Habitat 15 @ Airlines Hostel. Just a short distance away from this hostel are the vibrant Church Street, Cubbon Park, and multiple Metro stations in Balgalore. Not only that but this hotel is equipped to make your stay as self-sufficient as possible.
So, if you’re the type who likes to keep themselves to themselves, this hostel is perfect for you. Take advantage of their self-catering services, catch up on work in one of their studies, and if you feel like socialising, head to their delightful common area.
Draper Startup House For Entrepreneurs Koramangala
The Draper Startup House is a digital nomad’s dream hostel. Pack your appetite for entrepreneurialism and spend time in the co-working spaces innovating and bringing ideas to life.
Be invited in by clean and stylish decor and be greeted by interesting people all working on achieving their goals – the atmosphere here is truly alive with ambition and curiosity. This is a great area to network, meet new people and discuss ideas with intelligent individuals. The rooms are also well-kept with separated female and male dorms.
What to Pack for your Bangalore Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Bangalore Hostels FAQs
How much do hostels in Bangalore cost?
Hostel prices in Bangalore can range from $8 – $ 25 per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Bangalore for couples?
The Little Blue Window Hostel is the best budget-friendly hostel for couples in Bangalore. It’s cozy, clean, and has hot water.
What is the best hostel in Bangalore near the airport?
Locul.Uptown is the best hostel near Kempegowda International Airport. It’s clean and has a superb location in the upscale part of the city, where guests can explore Bangalore on foot.
Travel Safety Tips for Bangalore
Before setting off on a trip around India, getting solid travel insurance is a good place to start.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Bangalore
What are you waiting for?! Now you have your favorite hostel, it’s time to grab your backpack and get going!
If you are still on the fence, my top pick is Locul.Uptown. While this hostel is slightly more pricey, they do not scrimp on quality. Locul.Uptown is in a fantastic location, has a breakfast menu served in a cafe and both group and private rooms. Locul.Uptown is also the closest you will get to a hotel experience.
The main factors to keep in mind when booking a hostel are your budget, the location, what your non-negotiable facilities are and the type of experience you want to have.
Remember though, the huge advantage of booking a hostel over a hotel is the money you save that can be spent on experiencing everything India has to offer instead. And even though there are some hostels in Bangalore you might want to stray away from, this list has accommodation that is both highly rated and centrally located.
With all that being said, India is such a spectacular location, so no matter where you rest your head, your day will be filled with making the most unforgettable memories. You’re in for a trip of a lifetime!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in India for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places to visit in India covered.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
