Budget friendly stay options now available for transit travelers
Travelers heading towards South India via Andhra Pradesh have a new reason to rejoice. South Central Railway has officially operationalised a state-of-the-art "Sleeping Pods" facility at Guntur Railway Station. This initiative transforms the transit experience, offering passengers a blend of privacy, hygiene, and affordability right on Platform No. 1 near Gate No. 3.
Designed to cater to the modern traveler, this facility moves away from the traditional, often crowded waiting halls. It introduces the concept of capsule hotels—compact, self-contained spaces optimized for rest—making it an ideal stopover for those traveling from Odisha and other eastern states toward southern destinations like Bengaluru or Chennai.
Top-Tier Amenities on a Budget
Developed under the Non-Fare Revenue (NFR) scheme, the facility hosts 64 beds. This inventory includes 52 single pods and 12 double pods. Recognizing the diverse needs of Indian families, specific sections have been reserved exclusively for women and families to ensure safety and comfort.
Inside the facility, guests are treated to amenities that rival budget hotels:
Pricing That Fits Every Pocket
Indian Railways has ensured that luxury doesn't break the bank. The tariff structure is highly competitive:
The Rise of Pod Culture in Indian Railways
While Guntur is the latest addition, the concept of sleeping pods is rapidly reshaping Indian railway travel. This trend first kicked off in November 2021, when the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) launched the country's first pod hotel at Mumbai Central Railway Station.
Since that pioneering launch, the popularity of sleeping pods has surged. Travelers prefer them over retiring rooms because they offer complete privacy - a luxury often missing in dormitory-style station accommodations - without the high cost of booking a private hotel room outside the station.
Where Are These Pods Most Popular?
Following the massive success in Mumbai, the model has been replicated in high-traffic zones. Stations with heavy passenger footfall, such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai, Varanasi Junction (popular for spiritual tourism), and Visakhapatnam, have seen high occupancy rates.
Travelers appreciate the "pay-by-the-hour" flexibility, which is perfect for layovers. With the Guntur facility now live, Indian Railways continues to prove that affordable travel does not mean compromising on comfort.
