Friends Hostel by Backpackers Heaven- New Delhi Railway Station – Paharganj

Friends Hostel by Backpackers Heaven- New Delhi Railway Station – Paharganj Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Friends Hostel by Backpackers Heaven- New Delhi Railway Station – Paharganj, you immediately get that “we’ve got this figured out” vibe that seasoned backpackers create. It’s tucked right in the heart of Paharganj’s Main Bazar — honestly, you can’t get more central than this without actually sleeping on the platform. The hostel sits directly opposite Khanna Cinema, which makes it ridiculously easy to find even when you’re jet-lagged and confused. I mean, the location alone explains why couples rate this place so highly for romantic getaways to New Delhi.

The Paharganj Experience

This three-star spot puts you right in the thick of Old Delhi’s most vibrant backpacker district. You know what’s great about staying here? You’re literally steps away from the railway station, but far enough into the maze of streets that you don’t hear the constant train announcements. The narrow lanes around Ram Dawar Road buzz with activity — street food vendors, fabric shops, and that constant hum of travelers from every corner of the world planning their next move over chai.

Room and Comfort

The room setup is exactly what you’d expect from a well-run hostel — clean, functional, and designed by people who actually understand what backpackers need. The beds are sturdy (no midnight squeaking when your bunkmate rolls over), and there’s enough space to spread out your gear without feeling cramped. What I really appreciated was the attention to basics — proper reading lights, individual power outlets, and lockers that actually work. The shared bathrooms stay surprisingly clean considering the constant turnover of guests.

Local Connections

The staff here actually knows the neighborhood inside and out, which makes a huge difference when you’re trying to navigate Delhi for the first time. They’ll point you toward the best street food (skip the touristy spots and head to the tiny stalls the locals use), help you figure out the metro system, and — this is key — they know which rickshaw drivers won’t try to take you on a scenic tour when you just want to get somewhere. The hostel’s position in General Market means you’re surrounded by everything from money changers to travel agencies, all within a two-minute walk.

Why Guests Love It

Recent guests consistently highlight the location as the standout feature, and honestly, they’re not wrong. You’re close enough to New Delhi Railway Station that you can literally roll out of bed and catch an early train to Agra or Rishikesh. But you’re also perfectly positioned to explore the chaos and charm of Old Delhi — the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and Jama Masjid are all easily reachable. The hostel strikes that sweet spot between being in the action and having a place to retreat when the sensory overload of Delhi gets to be too much. Plus, there’s something reassuring about staying somewhere that’s clearly been fine-tuned by years of hosting travelers who know what they want.

Best hotels in Delhi blend marble spas, rooftop infinity pools, and butler-hosted chai ceremonies.

Friends Hostel by Backpackers Heaven- New Delhi Railway Station – Paharganj Accommodations

Reviews of Friends Hostel by Backpackers Heaven- New Delhi Railway Station – Paharganj

• Nancy from Canada – 25 October 2024 (8/10)

  I really appreciated how helpful staff were in helping me sort out money exchange, a SIM card, and train ticket. Also picking me up from the airport with a custom name card was a nice touch. I planned to stay in a dormitory room, but ended up with a private one with a giant bed and cozy sleeps. The entrance is hard to find as it goes through a little alley, but luckily someone came out to meet me from the taxi drive and carried my bag in. Was also allowed to chill after check out time while I waited for my train departure time. Felt very well cared for and looked after.

• Rachel from Australia – 3 March 2024 (8/10)

  I had a problem with the room that I was first given and the staff quickly moved me to another room, no questions asked. I liked the new room a lot more. I was very impressed with how much they cared for my comfort.
  
  What could be improved: Clean, comfortable bed, and super hot water (which is very rare in Delhi).

• Sakib from India – 15 February 2024 (7/10)

  Service is good,
  
  What could be improved: All the staff are very polite and supportive.

• Martin from United Kingdom – 28 November 2023 (8/10)

  Staff were helpful and friendly, spoke good English and accommodated my needs when i had a 10pm flight, they let me stay in the room for half price rather than full day. Rooms were clean and good quality, slept like a baby. Can be noisy but the sound of the room fan cancels it out. All good
  
  What could be improved: Neighbourhood is chaotic but always felt safe, I really enjoyed it but worth noting for some as it is very intense, definitely wouldn't be for everyone.

• Ezio from Italy – 14 November 2023 (8/10)

  The hotel is well located with nice clean private rooms. The owner is very friendly and very helpful. Probably one of the best options in the area
  
  What could be improved: A bit too noisy during the night, due to children cracking firecrackers in the streets. My room had a problem with the shower as it was leaking.

• Govinda from Brazil – 23 August 2023 (8/10)

  What could be improved: They sent us to another hostel without ask us. We took suttle service of hostel, otherwise we was lost. The location wasnt good.

• Ramasamy from India – 11 April 2023 (8/10)

  Rooms are clean and maintain well. Ac available since I am not used to not knowing about the condition. Hot water available on the demand basis.
  
  What could be improved: No comments

• Shekhar from India – 12 March 2023 (8/10)

  Quite place and comfy bed individual light and fan along with ac

• Martina from Spain – 3 March 2023 (8/10)

  The matress is super soft and we slept like babies. There was hot water and a nice rooftop to chill and desconnect from the crowded street. Also the personal was very nice and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: The amount of stairs, but it's good cardio.

• Bl4ck_sl4yer from India – 18 July 2022 (8/10)

  What could be improved: Washroom is too small, but it's adjustable.

Surroundings

Facilities