Yes, it is completely legal for unmarried couples to stay in a hotel together in India, provided both partners are adults. There are no specific laws prohibiting unmarried couples from booking a hotel room. Your right to privacy, protected under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, supports this. The Supreme Court of India also recognizes the legality of live-in relationships, so as long as you’re over 18 and have valid identification, you can check into a hotel without issues.
Your Rights as an Unmarried Couple
Contrary to some misconceptions, there is no law against single individuals staying together in a hotel. While certain hotels may have their own policies, these are private rules, not legal requirements. Therefore, you can legally stay in a hotel room with your partner if you are both adults and can provide valid identification.
The right to travel is enshrined in the Indian Constitution. When booking a hotel, simply ensure you have your IDs—such as Aadhaar card, passport, or driver’s license—ready for check-in.
Handling Harassment
In the event of harassment by hotel staff or police, remember that you are protected by the law. Public servants are prohibited from harassing or arresting individuals simply for staying in the same hotel room. Such actions fall under Section 166 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which penalizes public servants for misconduct. Offending officers can face imprisonment, fines, or both.
Stay calm and remember that being in a hotel room with your partner is not a crime. Section 294 of the IPC only criminalizes indecent acts in public, not merely staying together in a private space like a hotel room.
Tips for a Smooth Hotel Stay
If you’re planning to stay at a hotel with your partner, consider choosing a couple-friendly hotel that has relaxed policies. Online booking platforms can help you find hotels with favorable policies for unmarried couples. Check the hotel’s policy before booking to avoid any complications.
When checking in, approach the process with confidence and politeness. Have your ID ready, as hotels will need to verify your age and identity. If you encounter any issues with hotel staff, ask for a valid reason for any refusal and report any harassment to higher authorities.
For a pleasant stay, choose a hotel that suits your needs and ensure you are aware of your surroundings. Carry important documents and keep a booking confirmation handy, as it can be useful if any issues arise during your stay.
