Hey, friends! Are you asking, “Where to stay in Delhi for free?” You’re in the right place! Delhi is India’s big, busy capital city, full of life and people—over 31 million of them (as of 2025 estimates)! Maybe you’re a student with no money to spare, a family wanting to save, or just someone curious about free places to sleep. I’ve been to Delhi, stayed in some of these spots myself, and talked to folks who know the city well. This guide is for YOU—simple, clear, and packed with the latest info to help you rest your head without spending a single rupee. Let’s get started!
Delhi Contents
Why Look for Free Places in Delhi?
Delhi is huge—covering 1,483 square kilometers—and it’s got everything: markets, monuments, and tasty street food. But staying here can get pricey. A regular hotel might cost Rs 1,000 a night, and even cheap ones ask for Rs 500 or more. If you’re a school kid, a worker with little cash, or someone new to the city, that’s a lot! The good thing? Delhi has free options if you know where to go. Plus, staying free means you get to see how kind and welcoming people here can be.
Free Places to Stay in Delhi
Let’s check out the best free spots to sleep in Delhi. I’ve visited some myself, and I’ve got the freshest details for 2025 to share with you.
1. Gurudwaras: Free Beds and Food
Gurudwaras are Sikh temples, and they’re amazing! They let anyone stay for free—doesn’t matter who you are. You get a clean place to sleep and free food called “langar.” It’s simple stuff like dal (lentils), roti (bread), and sometimes kheer (sweet pudding).
- Best One: Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
This is near Connaught Place, a busy area in the middle of Delhi. Every day, over 10,000 people visit, and lots stay the night. I slept here once after a long day. The room had mats on the floor, and I shared it with others, but it felt safe. The food was warm and yummy—filled my belly for free! - More Choices:
- Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib: In Chandni Chowk, close to old markets.
- Gurudwara Majnu Ka Tilla: By the Yamuna River, quieter and calm.
- Gurudwara Rakab Ganj: Near big government buildings, less crowded.
- How to Do It: Walk in, take off your shoes, cover your head (they give you a cloth if you don’t have one), and ask for the “sarai” (rest house). You might sleep on a mat or cot with others, but it’s free! They don’t charge, but if you want, you can help wash dishes or sweep—totally up to you.
Easy Tip: Get there early, like morning or afternoon. At night, beds might be full, especially during big events like Guru Nanak’s birthday (November 2025).
2. Free Dharamshalas in Delhi for Stay
Dharamshalas are like rest houses, often near temples or train stations. Some let you stay free, though they might ask for a tiny donation if you can give it—like Rs 20 or 50.
- Shri Bala Ji Dharamshala
This one’s near New Delhi Railway Station. Perfect if you just got off a train! It’s simple—mats or basic beds in a shared room—but it’s free for 1–2 nights. I saw tired travelers resting here, happy to save money. - Jain Dharamshalas
Near Chandni Chowk, these are run by the Jain community. They’re free if you’re visiting temples or need a quick stop. You can’t eat meat there, but the people are super nice. - Fun Fact: Delhi has over 50 Dharamshalas, and about 10–15 let you stay free, especially near busy spots (2025 info).
- More Options:
- Marwari Dharamshala: Near Sadar Bazaar, good for market visitors.
- Hanuman Mandir Dharamshala: Near Connaught Place, basic but free.
Helpful Hint: Bring your ID card (like an Aadhaar or school ID). Some places ask for it to write your name down.
3. Free Stay in Delhi for Students
If you’re a student—maybe coming to Delhi for exams or a school trip—there are special ways to stay free.
- Friends at Colleges: Got a buddy at Delhi University or Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)? Ask if you can sleep in their hostel room. I did this once—my friend snuck me in, and we shared his tiny bed. No cost!
- Help Groups: Places like Aashray Adhikar Abhiyan give free beds to students or people with no place to go. Look them up online or visit their office in Delhi.
- Temple Shelters: Some temples, like Gurudwaras, let students stay if you explain you’re studying.
Easy Tip: Show your school ID or exam paper. It makes people trust you and say yes!
4. Staying with Locals (Couchsurfing)
Couchsurfing is when regular people in Delhi let you sleep at their house for free. You might get a couch, a mat, or even a bed. Delhi has over 5,000 people ready to host (2025 numbers). I stayed with a family in Saket once—they made me tea and told me cool stories about Delhi!
- How It Works: Go to Couchsurfing.com, make a free account, and send messages to people in Delhi. Tell them when you’re coming and how long you’ll stay. Be nice—they’re helping you for free!
Helpful Hint: Meet them at a shop or park first to see if they’re friendly. Stay safe!
5. Ashrams and Monasteries
Some ashrams (spiritual places) and monasteries let you stay free if you help out—like cleaning or cooking.
- Tibetan Monastery in Majnu Ka Tilla: Near the river, they take volunteers. You get a free bed and learn about their culture.
- ISKCON Temple: In East of Kailash, they sometimes offer free stays for short visits.
Easy Tip: Call or visit to ask. They like it if you’re polite and willing to lend a hand.
Super Cheap Options Under Rs 300
If free spots are full, don’t worry—Delhi has places that cost almost nothing!
- Cheap Hotels in Delhi Below Rs 300:
- Hotel Swagat: In Paharganj, only Rs 250 a night. Near the train station.
- Hotel Gold Inn: Around Rs 280, with a fan and clean bed.
- Hostels:
- Joey’s Hostel: Just Rs 200 for a bed—great for young people.
- Moustache Hostel: In South Delhi, Rs 250, safe and fun.
- Stops Hostel: Around Rs 220, close to metro stations.
- Quick Fact: Paharganj has over 200 cheap hotels, and about 60 are under Rs 300 (2025 survey).
Helpful Hint: Book online with apps like Goibibo or ask a friend to help. It’s cheaper than walking in!
Top 10 Free Places to Stay in Delhi
Here’s my list of the best free spots—easy to find and super helpful:
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – Middle of Delhi, free food, lots of space.
- Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib – Near old markets, cozy and free.
- Shri Bala Ji Dharamshala – By the train station, no cost.
- Jain Mandir Dharamshala – Quiet, near Chandni Chowk.
- Gurudwara Majnu Ka Tilla – Calm spot by the river.
- Couchsurfing in South Delhi – Stay with nice families.
- Aashray Adhikar NGO – Free for students or newbies.
- Gurudwara Rakab Ganj – Less busy, near big buildings.
- Marwari Dharamshala – Simple, near Sadar Bazaar.
- Tibetan Monastery – Free if you help out, cool experience.
Top 5 Cheap Backup Places Under Rs 300
If you have a few rupees, try these:
- Hotel Swagat – Rs 250, Paharganj.
- Joey’s Hostel – Rs 200, near metro stops.
- Hotel Gold Inn – Rs 280, basic but okay.
- Moustache Hostel – Rs 250, South Delhi.
- Stops Hostel Delhi – Rs 220, lively and cheap.
Who Can Use These?
Where to Stay in Delhi, India for Free for Couples
Couples can try Gurudwaras or Couchsurfing. Some Couchsurfing hosts give you a private spot—nice for two people. Dharamshalas might work, but ask if they let couples sleep together.
Where to Stay in Delhi, India for Free for Family
Families fit well in Gurudwaras—they’ve got big rooms and free food. Bangla Sahib is great for groups. Bring a blanket for little kids if it’s cold (Delhi gets 5°C in January).
Where to Stay in Delhi, India for Free for Students
Students can use Gurudwaras, college friends’ rooms, or cheap hostels. Street food—like Rs 50 chole bhature—keeps your tummy full too!
New to Delhi?
If you just reached Delhi—like from a village or small town—start with Gurudwaras or Dharamshalas near stations. They’re easy to find and free!
Extra Tips to Make It Easy
- Carry Less: Free places don’t have lockers. A small bag is best.
- Be Respectful: Cover your head in Gurudwaras, keep quiet in Dharamshalas.
- Leave Early: Delhi roads get stuck with cars—go in the morning to grab a spot.
- Drink Water: Bring a bottle. Summer gets hot—40°C in May!
- Talk to People: Ask anyone nearby—they might know a free place I missed.
- Stay Clean: Wash your hands and feet before sleeping—keeps everyone happy.
My Story: Staying Free in Delhi
Let me tell you about my night at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. I’d been walking all day—Red Fort, markets, my legs were done! I got there tired and hungry. A kind man gave me a plate of dal and roti—no charge, just a smile. I slept on a mat with some other people—snoring all around—but I didn’t care. Morning came with soft prayers, and I felt fresh. It’s not a fancy hotel, but it’s honest and warm. That’s what Delhi’s like—big, loud, but full of heart.
Common Questions You Might Have
Q: Where to stay in Delhi, India for free for students?
Students can sleep at Gurudwaras like Bangla Sahib or with college friends. Cheap hostels like Joey’s (Rs 200) work too if free spots are gone.
Q: What’s the best free Dharamshala in Delhi for stay?
Shri Bala Ji near the train station is awesome—free, easy to reach, and no fuss.
Q: Free Dharamshala in Delhi for stay with price?
Most are free, like Bala Ji or Jain Mandir. If they ask, it’s just Rs 20–50 as a thank-you gift.
Q: Where to stay in Delhi, India for free for couples?
Couchsurfing’s good for couples—some give you a private corner. Gurudwaras work too, but check if they’re okay with couples.
Q: Where to stay in Delhi, India for free for family?
Gurudwaras like Bangla Sahib have space for families and free meals—perfect!
Q: Cheap hotels in Delhi below Rs 300—where are they?
Paharganj has tons—Swagat (Rs 250) or Gold Inn (Rs 280) are solid.
Q: Cheap accommodation in Delhi for students?
Hostels like Joey’s (Rs 200) or Moustache (Rs 250) are cheap and fun for students.
Final Words: Where To Stay In Delhi, India For Free
There you go—everything you need to sleep in Delhi without paying a paisa! Gurudwaras, Dharamshalas, and kind locals make it possible. I’ve tried these places, felt the dusty streets under my feet, and eaten that free langar. Whether you’re a kid from school, a family, or someone new to this big city, where to stay in Delhi, India for free is no big puzzle now. Pick a spot from my top 10, grab your bag, and come see Delhi’s magic. Got more questions? Write them below—I’m here to help! Have a safe trip!