How to Apply For Kerala Homestay Classification? (Licence)

How can I start a homestay business in Kerala? 

Starting a homestay business in Kerala requires you to follow certain guidelines and regulations set by the state government. Here are the steps to follow:

Determine the location: Identify the location where you want to set up your homestay. Kerala has several tourist destinations, and you can choose a place that is in demand. Prepare the infrastructure: The homestay should have adequate space, amenities, and facilities to provide a comfortable stay for guests. It should also be aesthetically pleasing and reflect the local culture. Obtain necessary licenses: To operate a homestay, you need to obtain necessary licenses from the Kerala Tourism Department. You can either collect the application form for Homestay Registration from the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) office / Tourism Directorate or Regional Office (Norka Building, 4th Floor, Thycaud. Phone 0471 2335571) Thiruvananthapuram or apply online.  Meet the requirements: Ensure that your homestay meets the minimum requirements set by the government. For instance, you need to have a minimum of two rooms for guests and provide basic amenities such as clean drinking water, electricity, and sanitation facilities.

 Promote your homestay: Once your homestay is registered, you can start promoting it through online and offline channels. You can list your homestay on popular travel websites, social media platforms, and local directories to attract tourists. In summary, to start a homestay business in Kerala, you need to obtain the necessary licenses, meet the minimum requirements, and promote your homestay through various channels. 

How much can I earn from homestay? 

The potential earnings from a homestay can vary greatly depending on several factors such as location, amenities, size, competition, marketing efforts, and seasonality. While some homestay owners may earn 50k-80k per month, others may earn more or less than that. It's essential to do market research and determine the average rates of similar homestays in your area before setting a price. Providing unique and high-quality amenities and services can help you attract more guests and increase your income. Additionally, creating a strong online presence and marketing your homestay through various channels, such as social media, travel websites, and word-of-mouth, can help you increase your occupancy and revenue. Ultimately, the earning potential of a homestay depends on various factors, and it's challenging to provide a precise estimate without considering specific details. 

Is homestay a good business?

 Whether homestay is a good business or not depends on various factors, such as location, market demand, competition, and the quality of the homestay experience offered. If the homestay is located in a popular tourist destination with high demand for accommodations, and the homestay offers a unique and memorable experience to guests, then it can be a profitable business. However, if there is stiff competition from other homestays and hotels, or if the homestay is located in a less popular tourist destination with low demand, it may not be as profitable. It is also important to consider the costs involved in running a homestay, such as maintaining the property, providing amenities, and marketing the business. While the maintenance charges may be low, there may be other costs that need to be considered. Overall, the success of a homestay business depends on various factors, and it is important to do thorough research and planning before starting such a business. 

How to classify Homestay in Kerala?  

To classify a homestay in Kerala, you would need to follow the government's certification process, which involves the following steps:

 Check if your homestay meets the minimum requirements for classification, such as having basic facilities like clean bedding, sanitation, and safety measures.  Apply for certification through the Kerala Tourism Department or a registered Homestay association.  A team from the Tourism Department will visit your property and evaluate it based on a set of predefined score criteria.  The evaluation team will assign a score to your homestay, which will determine its classification as either Class A (Diamond House), Class B (Gold House), or Class C (Silver House).  Once your homestay is classified, you will be issued a certificate by the Tourism Department, which you can display on your property to indicate its classification.  It's important to note that the classification is valid for three years and will need to be renewed after that period.