Capsule Hotels in Mumbai
About Mumbai
Mumbai the city of dreams, Bollywood, beaches, and a million honking rickshaws — is unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s noisy, colourful, chaotic, and bursting with energy at every street corner. From the colonial charm of Colaba to the glitzy skyline of Bandra, from the spicy vada pav on a street cart to luxury rooftop lounges Mumbai has something for everyone.
But amid the fast-paced life and soaring hotel prices, there’s a clever, cozy, and surprisingly stylish solution for modern travellers capsule hotels!
I first discovered capsule hotels in Tokyo, but experiencing them in Mumbai is a whole different story. Here, the pods come with a touch of Indian warmth, local food nearby, and a melting pot of backpackers, digital nomads, students, and explorers. Whether you’re passing through the airport for a quick stopover or planning to stay longer, these compact pods are clean, comfortable, and perfect for resting your feet after a long day of navigating Mumbai’s madness.
Capsule Hotels in Mumbai
1. Urbanpod – Andheri
Location: Off Western Express Highway, Andheri East, Mumbai.
Overview:
Tucked into the energetic neighborhood of Andheri East, Urbanpod was Mumbai’s first capsule hotel and remains a standout for modern travelers. The moment I stepped inside, I felt like I’d been transported into a sleek sci-fi movie set. The air smelled fresh, the lighting was warm and minimal, and everything was spotless — a rare luxury in the hustle and bustle of Mumbai.
Accommodations:
- Classic Pods: These are cozy, single-occupancy capsules equipped with everything you need — a soft mattress, personal reading light, power socket, mirror, and a sliding door for privacy. It’s minimal, yet so thoughtfully designed.
- Private Pods: Slightly larger and designed for couples or those wanting a bit more space. My favorite touch? The soothing white light and adjustable ventilation. It never felt stuffy.
- Ladies-Only Pods: Urbanpod offers a secure, ladies-only section. A few female friends stayed here and said they loved the sense of privacy and safety, especially after late-night flights.
Amenities:
- Complimentary Breakfast: Simple but satisfying. The poha and masala tea gave just the right start to the day.
- Shared but Spotless Bathrooms: Immaculately clean, with constant hot water and separate sections for men and women.
- Workstations: Surprisingly spacious, with fast Wi-Fi. I actually wrote most of this article from their quiet lounge area!
Note: Urbanpod is just 10 minutes from the capsule hotel mumbai airport, making it an ideal stopover for flyers.
Website: Urbanpod India
2. The Pod Hotel – Mumbai Central
Location: Grant Road, near Mumbai Central Station.
Overview:
The Pod Hotel is a futuristic haven in the heart of South Mumbai. I stayed here during a monsoon trip — the kind where streets turn into rivers. But inside the Pod Hotel, it was all warm lights, polished interiors, and a calm that I didn’t expect right next to a major train station.
Accommodations:
- Single Pods: Neat, enclosed spaces with soft bedding, smart lights, and a pull-down shade for privacy. I loved the built-in screen that displayed the current temperature, time, and even gentle rain sounds to help me sleep.
- Double Pods: Ideal for budget travelers exploring the city together. You still get that capsule-style privacy but with space for two.
Amenities:
- Secure Keycard Access: Each pod opens with your personalized card. It feels incredibly safe, even though you’re in a shared space.
- Mini-Lounge & Pantry: I spent an evening chatting with travelers from Japan and Germany here. The common space is minimal but well-lit and welcoming.
- Daily Housekeeping: Fresh towels, clean floors, and well-stocked toilets. They maintain hotel-level cleanliness.
Note: It’s walking distance from some of Mumbai’s best street food joints in Girgaum and a short cab ride from Marine Drive!
Website: The Pod Hotel Mumbai
3. Qubestay Capsule Hotel – Kurla
Location: Nehru Nagar, Kurla East.
Overview:
I stumbled upon Qubestay while looking for an affordable place near Bandra-Kurla Complex for a conference. What a surprise it was! This place doesn’t just offer pods — it offers personality. Neon colors, comic-book murals, and music in the background give it a vibrant, hostel-meets-space-station vibe.
Accommodations:
- Capsule Beds: These pods come with USB charging, reading light, and air vents. The mattress was plush enough that I forgot I was in a capsule.
- Curtained Dorms: For those who prefer traditional bunk beds with privacy curtains.
Amenities:
- Movie Lounge: One evening, I joined a small group of travelers watching Dil Chahta Hai. Bean bags, free popcorn, and lots of laughter — it felt like home.
- Board Games & Books: They’ve got shelves full of quick reads and classic games. A great way to unwind after a long day.
- On-Site Café: Don’t miss their masala chai and grilled cheese toasties — the perfect midnight snack.
Note: Close to Phoenix Market City and the U.S. Consulate, making it convenient for shopping or visa appointments.
Website: Qubestay Capsule Hotel
4. Galaxy Apartment Dormitory – Marol
Location: Marol Naka, Andheri East.
Overview:
Tucked away in a quiet bylane of Marol, Galaxy Apartment Dormitory is not your typical hotel. It’s more of a budget-friendly home with capsule-style beds that cater especially to backpackers and solo business travelers. The vibe is informal and friendly — the kind of place where people actually greet each other in the hallway.
Accommodations:
- Sleep Capsules: Standard capsule pods with charging points and night lights. Not fancy, but surprisingly comfortable.
- Mixed and Female-Only Dorms: Segregated spaces offer peace of mind for solo women travelers.
Amenities:
- Homestyle Meals: For a small fee, the manager arranges delicious local lunches and dinners. I had a thali meal one night fresh chapatis, sabzi and dal that reminded me of home.
- Laundry Services: Handy for longer stays.
- Quiet Workspace: A compact table and chair near the window let me answer emails without distraction.
Note: Not ideal for tourists looking for luxury, but a great find for those on a tight budget.
Website: Check listings on Booking.com and Hostelworld.
5. Nap Manor Hostels Bandra
Location: Pali Hill, Bandra West.
Overview:
Nap Manor blends the intimacy of capsule sleeping with the social energy of a youth hostel. When I visited in early spring, bougainvillea bloomed around the compound walls, and the air smelled like salt from the nearby sea. This place is artsy, boho, and full of life.
Accommodations:
- Deluxe Capsules: Each capsule has a cooling fan, adjustable reading light, and thick curtains for privacy. The bedding is so soft you could mistake it for a boutique hotel.
- Private Rooms Available: If you’re traveling in a pair and want a bit more space.
Amenities:
- Rooftop Chill Zone: Overlooking the leafy streets of Bandra, this was my favorite evening hangout. I met travelers from Spain, Indonesia, and Rajasthan in one night!
- Community Events: From game nights to cooking classes. When I was there, they hosted a poetry night under fairy lights.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: They use reusable water bottles and biodegradable toiletries.
Note: Perfect for young travelers, digital nomads, and creatives who want to explore the artistic side of Mumbai.
Website: Nap Manor
6. Backpacker Panda Colaba
Location: Near Gateway of India, Colaba.
Overview:
Colaba is where old Bombay meets new Mumbai. And Backpacker Panda places you right in the middle of it. Just a 5-minute walk from the Gateway of India, this hostel offers capsule-style dorm beds that are both functional and photogenic.
Accommodations:
- Pod-Style Dorm Beds: More open than true capsules but still offer individual lighting and privacy curtains.
- Private Double Rooms: Some of these overlook the busy Colaba Causeway — great for people-watching!
Amenities:
- Travel Desk: I booked an Elephanta Island tour and Dharavi walking tour through them — both were excellent and ethical.
- Common Kitchen: You can cook your own meal if you’re craving something homemade. There’s even a small spice rack!
- Relax Zone: Books, travel magazines, and indoor plants make it feel cozy and calm.
Note: The location is unbeatable if you’re looking to explore South Mumbai on foot.
Website: Backpacker Panda Mumbai
Conclusion
Staying in a capsule hotel in Mumbai is like sleeping in your own private bubble, even when the city outside is buzzing at full volume. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a digital nomad, or just passing through, these capsule stays offer a mix of privacy, affordability, and a bit of futuristic charm.
Personally, I love how these spaces bring together people from around the world. One night, in a capsule lounge in Kurla, I ended up chatting with a German photographer, a Japanese student, and an Indian startup founder all over chai and Parle-G biscuits. It’s moments like these that make capsule hotels feel less like temporary stays and more like little homes.
If you’ve never stayed in a capsule before, Mumbai is a great place to try it. And who knows? You might leave with more than just memories maybe a few new friends, a book recommendation, or even a hidden street food spot you wouldn’t have found otherwise!
FAQs
Q1: How much does it cost to stay at a capsule hotel in Mumbai?
Prices vary based on location, amenities, and season:
- Budget options: Starting from ₹499 per night (e.g., DG Pods near Lokmanya Tilak Terminal)
- Mid-range capsules: ₹800–₹1,500 per night (e.g., Qubestay Airport Capsule Hotel & Hostel)
- Premium pods: Up to ₹2,000 per night, offering enhanced privacy and amenities
On average, capsule hotels in Mumbai cost around $13 per night, with weekend rates averaging $49 and weekday rates around $33 .
Q2: Where are capsule hotels located in Mumbai?
Capsule hotels are strategically situated across Mumbai
Tourist hubs: Urbanpod Hotel in Andheri, close to shopping and dining venues
Near airports: Qubestay Airport Capsule Hotel & Hostel in Andheri East, approximately 3 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Near railway stations: DG Pods at Lokmanya Tilak Terminal
Business districts: Snooze House in Navi Mumbai’s Belapur Business District
Q3: Do capsule hotels in Mumbai offer female-only accommodations?
Yes, many capsule hotels provide female-only dorms or pods to ensure safety and comfort. For instance, Forrest Hostels in Bandra offers gender-specific accommodations with privacy curtains and secure lockers .
Q4: What are the check-in and check-out times?
Standard times are:
- Check-in: 12:00 PM
- Check-out: 11:00 AM
Q5: Are capsule hotels in Mumbai clean and safe?
Generally, capsule hotels maintain high cleanliness standards and prioritize guest safety. Many properties implement regular sanitization, temperature checks during check-in, and provide secure storage options .
Q6: Are capsule hotels suitable for long stays?
Capsule hotels are primarily designed for short-term stays. While some offer amenities like laundry services and common areas conducive to longer visits, the compact nature of the pods may not be ideal for extended stays. For longer durations, consider properties that provide additional facilities and space .