The Great Indian Petaway
The trend is undeniable: pets are now a central part of travel planning for many Indians. Driven by a deeper human-animal bond and a rise in pet ownership, a significant number of travellers are planning their entire itineraries around their animal companions.
Recent data shows a massive preference for road trips, with 93% of Indian pet owners choosing the flexibility of car travel over flights. In response, the hospitality industry is adapting, with a 43% jump in bookings for pet-friendly accommodations noted in early 2025. This has pushed destinations in Goa, Coorg, and Lonavala to become popular hubs for those travelling with four-legged family members.
Decoding 'Pet-Friendly' Policies
The biggest challenge for pet owners is the lack of a standard definition for "pet-friendly". For some hotels, it simply means your pet is tolerated, while for others, it means a suite of amenities like special bedding, water bowls, and dedicated play areas. Many establishments have specific rules that aren't always clear upfront. These can include restrictions on weight, breed, and the number of pets allowed per room. Some hotels only permit pets in designated rooms, which may be limited. Critically, many places have rules against leaving a pet unattended in the room, which can complicate your plans if you wanted to visit a non-pet-friendly restaurant or attraction.
The Hidden Costs of Four-Legged Guests
Beyond the logistics, travelling with a pet involves navigating a maze of fees. Many hotels and homestays charge a nightly pet fee or a one-time deep cleaning fee, which can range from ₹500 to over ₹2,000. These charges are often not included in the initial booking price. Airlines also have their own set of costs, with fees for in-cabin pets often running between ₹3,000 and ₹10,000 per flight sector. If your pet is too large for the cabin, they must travel in the cargo hold, which can involve different charges and booking procedures. Always be prepared for potential surprise costs, like cleaning fees for rental cars if your pet sheds excessively.
Navigating Skies, Rails, and Roads
Each mode of transport comes with its own rulebook. For air travel, airlines like Air India and Akasa Air have specific policies regarding pet travel, but they differ significantly. Most have strict weight limits for in-cabin travel (often around 7-10 kg including the carrier) and limit the number of pets per flight. Booking for a pet usually cannot be done online and requires calling the airline directly. For train journeys, pets are typically handled through the railway parcel office and require a fitness certificate from a vet. Documentation is crucial for all modes of travel, with up-to-date vaccination records (especially rabies) and a vet-issued health certificate being mandatory.
Your Pre-Travel Checklist
To ensure a smooth journey, preparation is everything. Before booking any hotel, call them directly to confirm their exact pet policy. Ask about specific fees, weight or breed restrictions, access to common areas, and their rules on leaving pets unattended. For flights, confirm the airline's carrier size requirements and whether you need an Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) No Objection Certificate for domestic travel. Pack a bag for your pet with their regular food to avoid stomach upsets, familiar toys and bedding to reduce stress, a first-aid kit, and cleaning supplies. Finally, ensure all their documents, including vaccination records and health certificates issued close to the travel date, are easily accessible.
