In a fast-paced urban environment marked by increasing local travel and changing lifestyle habits, NapTapGo is trying out a new kind of hospitality model, small, capsule-style hotels designed for people on the move, including office-goers, solo travelers, short-term visitors, and those looking for affordable stays.

Founded in 2023, the brand is managed by Nitin Malhotra (Founder & CEO) and Himanshu Shukla (Co-Founder & VP Ops) under the umbrella of StayPocket Pvt. Ltd. Presently, it offers pod-style stays in cities such as Noida and Amritsar. Though still a young company, yet it is introducing the idea of compact, capsule-like hotels, common in places like Tokyo and Singapore, to Indian cities, with a few adjustments to suit local travel patterns and preferences.

Capsule Hotels- The Model

First introduced in Japan as a response to high living costs and long commutes, capsule hotels have evolved into a global trend, blending space-saving design with short-stay convenience.

Taking the idea forward, NapTapGo introduced short-term, no-frills stays in small, self-contained units known as pods to India. These are typically booked on an hourly or nightly basis, with pricing designed to appeal to people who need a place to rest between meetings, layovers, or short city visits.

Key Takeaways

• Amenities Inside the Pod: A pod typically includes a bed, basic lighting, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi access. Bathroom options available in shared, private, attached ones.
• Self-Managed Guest Experience: No traditional front-desk interaction, bookings and check-ins are handled through kiosks or mobile apps
• Ergonomic Design for Rejuvenation: Each pod is thoughtfully designed with comfortable sleeping arrangements and a calming ambiance, so guests leave feeling refreshed and recharged
• Sound Insulation: To reduce disturbance from other pods
• Restaurant & 24/7 Cafe: Occasional bonfire/outdoor lounge in select properties

Target Audience

NapTapGo’s offerings are designed with specific user groups in mind:

• Business Travelers: Who need short-term, affordable accommodation close to metro stations, office hubs, or meeting venues
• Tourists and Pilgrims: Looking for a clean, convenient place to rest for a few hours or overnight during their visit to busy cities or religious sites
• Daily Commuters and Gig Workers: Who might need a quick, quiet space to rest between shifts, avoid long commutes, or freshen up during the day

Funding & Business Growth

In early 2024, NapTapGo secured ₹4 crore (approximately $500,000) in pre-seed funding from the venture studio T9L Qube. This early investment is aimed at helping the company expand its presence in more Indian cities, set up additional pod-style accommodations, and streamline its operational systems.

The company’s approach reflects a broader shift in the Indian hospitality sector, towards short-duration stays, compact and modular formats, and cost-effective travel options. If it gains traction, the model could serve as a blueprint for other small-format hotels, especially in high-density Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities where space is limited and affordability matters.

Read More: From Hauz Khas to London: How Gautam Sinha Built Nappa Dori