How it works
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Apply | Online on Kerala Tourism's service provider classification page |
| Inspect | A government-constituted committee visits the homestay |
| Decide | The committee recommends a category; the Director, Department of Tourism, issues the order |
| Categories | Diamond, Gold, Silver, based on facilities and quality |
| Validity | Three years |
Source: Kerala Tourism, classification criteria. Kerala publishes the list of approved homestays on its website.
Why classify
Unofficial counts put Kerala's homestays at more than 6,000, but only about 1,800 hold Tourism Department classification (Onmanorama). Classified homestays can be listed by the state, are often preferred by tour operators, and find it easier to access state support such as the K-Homes project announced in the 2025–26 budget (Kerala Tourism).
Before you apply
- Owner living on the property, with rooms for guests in the same home (check the current guidelines for the exact room limit)
- Local body licence or registration
- Clean, well-kept rooms with attached bathrooms, matching the category you apply for
- A guest register and, if you host foreigners, e-FRRO registration for Form C
Contact: Department of Tourism, Park View, Thiruvananthapuram 695 033, [email protected].
After classification
Keep good records: InnRow keeps your guest register, Form C reminders and bills in one place. See InnRow in Kerala.