Some parts of India are off-limits to locals. Minorities not often associated with Indian culture are usually allotted these locations. Kashmir, the Northeast, and the territories between Mumbai and Chennai are all possible examples.
Remember that although Indians are not permitted inside, visitors are still welcome. Nonetheless, visitors must be aware of the limits and bans. They should only go there with proper permission.
List of the 10 Famous Places In India Where Indians Are Not Allowed:
1. Free Kasol Cafe
The famed Free Kasol Cafe in the Himachal Pradesh hamlet of Kasol in the Kullu area does not accept Indian customers. Two years ago, a woman from India and her British companion reported being denied service at a café because of the woman’s race on a British news station and a social networking site.
The manager then told a TV network that he was in a terrible mood, which is why everything went wrong. This does not seem like a valid excuse to turn away a consumer.
What’s the Issue: This café in the popular backpacker haven of Kasol reportedly prioritizes serving foreign tourists, creating an unwelcoming atmosphere for Indian patrons.
Why the Restriction? The café claims to cater to a specific clientele, emphasizing a relaxed, international vibe.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Cafés: Try Evergreen Café or Moon Dance Café, both of which offer great food and views without any bias.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the charming Chalal Village or trek to Kheer Ganga for a serene escape.
2. Broadlands Hotel, Chennai
According to a report from the primary day-to-day in 2010, this odd British-style house in Chennai’s authorized part is based only on unusual foreign IDs. Most of their guests are still from other countries, even though many Indians are welcome, as seen by recent polls on booking.com.
One Indian consumer who provided feedback in February 2020 said that the personnel ignored him because he was an Indian. The innkeeper first refused to give him a bed for the night. The personnel recently validated his web-based reservation.
What’s the Issue: This colonial-era hotel is reputed to deny bookings to Indian nationals, reportedly catering exclusively to foreign backpackers.
Why the Restriction? Likely an attempt to maintain a niche market of budget-conscious international travelers.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Accommodations: Stay at Savera Hotel, a mid-range property with excellent amenities, or Taj Connemara, a luxury colonial-style hotel.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit Marina Beach, Fort St. George, or the Kapaleeshwarar Temple for a mix of history and culture.
3. Russian Colony, Kudankulam
Kudankulam, home to a Russian colony, is one of six areas in India that citizens of India are not permitted to visit. As a strategic outpost to monitor British operations in the area, the Russians founded this colony in the 1800s. The territory has been uninhabited since the 1940s when the Soviet Union was compelled to evacuate it.
People who want to escape the typical tourist traps go there now. However, without authorization from the Russian consulate, Indian nationals are not permitted entry into the colony.
What’s the Issue: This residential area, established for Russian engineers working at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, is inaccessible to the general public, including Indian visitors.
Why the Restriction? Security protocols around the nuclear facility.
What to Do Instead:
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the serene Vattakottai Fort or head to Kanyakumari, India’s southernmost tip, for stunning coastal views.
4. Foreigners Only Beach in Goa
There is no doubt that Goa, India, is one of the most popular tourist spots in all of India, and for a good reason. But learning that specific beaches don’t allow Indians to visit may make you angry.
This might be because many beachfront businesses in India are concerned about the curious and lustful looks they get from locals when they see foreigners wearing swimwear.
One such place where Indians are seldom seen is Anjuna Beach. In addition, the law does not impose this limitation. Locals defend the owners’ discriminatory actions. The proprietor justified this policy by explaining that it is unusual for Indian males to see women in swimwear. Hence, the foreigners staying there are at risk of being sexually harassed.
What’s the Issue: Certain beaches, particularly in North Goa (like Morjim and Ashwem), have establishments reportedly catering exclusively to foreign tourists.
Why the Restriction? These areas are dominated by private shacks and resorts aiming to attract international clientele.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Beaches: Visit Palolem Beach for tranquility or Arambol Beach, which is equally welcoming to locals and foreigners.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore Old Goa’s historic churches or indulge in water sports at Baga Beach.
5. Foreigner-Only” Beaches Of Pondicherry
Indians are not singled out for prejudice merely on Goa’s shores. The Pondicherry populace shares this sentiment toward Indians.
The proprietors of the shacks and restaurants have erected rope or wall barriers to keep the Indians out. Indian travelers account for being reprimanded so severely that they are eventually let in via the back door.
What’s the Issue: Similar to Goa, some private beach resorts in Pondicherry, particularly near Auroville, have been reported to restrict access to Indian visitors.
Why the Restriction? Exclusive clientele policies by private establishments.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Beaches: Spend time at Promenade Beach, a lively public area, or take a boat ride to Paradise Beach.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the French Quarter, Auroville, and the vibrant local markets.
6. Malana Village in Himachal Pradesh
The ancient Indian settlement of Malana was founded by Alexander the Great in 326 BC. Many Malanas trace their ancestry back to the injured troops who remained behind. The “Touch me not” community strictly prohibited any visitors.
No one was allowed to go beyond the designated limits. This community speaks Kansi, a language that is incomprehensible to anybody from outside the region. For them, foreigners are untouchables. Hence they are not welcome in their temple or their community.
Malana was connected to the rest of the world when a dam project, appropriately titled “Malana Hydropower Station”, was completed. When completed, the project will be Malana’s sole source of income.
What’s the Issue: Malana discourages interaction with outsiders, including Indians, to preserve its unique culture and traditions.
Why the Restriction? The villagers’ strict customs and isolationist approach.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Treks: Visit Kheer Ganga or Tosh Village for scenic views and welcoming locals.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore Manikaran Sahib and the hot springs for a blend of nature and spirituality.
7. Highlands Hotel in Chennai
The Highlands Hotel in Chennai greets guests with the words “Welcome, Namaste, pray to stay at this honorable lodge” on a signboard outside the lobby. You will only get this warm welcome if you are not an Indian citizen or an Indian citizen with a passport from another country.
Not only do many hotel and restaurant owners see Indians as too demanding of room service and noisy to be welcome at their establishments, but they also prefer business from out of the country.
What’s the Issue: Allegedly allows only foreign nationals, making it inaccessible to Indian travelers.
Why the Restriction? The hotel might be targeting a niche market of international visitors.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Accommodations: Choose from luxury options like Radisson Blu or ITC Grand Chola, or budget-friendly properties like Zostel Chennai.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit Elliot’s Beach, Santhome Basilica, or Guindy National Park.
8. Uno-In Hotel in Bangalore
Considering Bangalore’s reputation for diversity, the fact that this hotel was founded as a joint venture with Nippon Infrastructure Company to cater only to Japanese travelers may be a surprise.
However, the hotel was closed by authorities on the grounds of racial discrimination when the incidence of not admitting Indians was published in the media in 2014.
What’s the Issue: This hotel exclusively catered to Japanese clients before being shut down in 2014 for discriminatory practices.
Why the Restriction? It was designed to serve Japanese business travelers in Bangalore.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Stays: Stay at The Ritz-Carlton or ITC Gardenia, both offering a blend of luxury and inclusivity.
- Nearby Attractions: Enjoy a visit to Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace, or the bustling MG Road.
9. Red Lollipop Hostel, Chennai
The “No Indian” policy at the Red Lollipop Hostel is well-known in Chennai and Tamil Nadu. Their services are not geared toward Indian visitors. We strictly enforce our policy that only international guests may stay at our hostel. You’ll need to show your passport to check in, but once you do, you’ll have your pick of budget-friendly dorm rooms, all-female dorms, and mixed dorms.
Furthermore, Red Lollipop Hostel asserts that it is one of the few hotels in Chennai that focuses only on serving foreign tourists who are making their first trip to India.
What’s the Issue: Known to prioritize foreign guests, allegedly limiting Indian travelers from booking accommodations.
Why the Restriction? Aimed at fostering a backpacker-centric atmosphere.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Hostels: Stay at Backpackers Hostel Chennai, which welcomes all travelers, or opt for Broadway Lodge for a similar vibe.
- Nearby Attractions: Enjoy Chennai’s cultural richness at Marina Beach, Mylapore, or the Government Museum.
10. Norbulinka Cafe, Dharamshala
Norbulinka Cafe in Dharamshala is stunning, surrounded by gorgeous gardens and monasteries. Sad to say, Indians are not welcome in this beautiful restaurant. It has been stated that not anybody who looks like an Indian is allowed inside the café.
What’s the Issue: Located near the Norbulingka Institute, this café reportedly caters exclusively to foreign visitors.
Why the Restriction? Dharamshala’s significant expat population influences such preferences.
What to Do Instead:
- Alternative Cafés: Try Illiterati Café for cozy vibes and book-filled interiors or Common Ground Café for great food and views.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the Norbulingka Institute, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Dalai Lama Temple.
Conclusion
Indian culture, religion, and traditions are as varied as the nation. While many parts of India warmly welcome their fellow citizens, there are certain regions where they are not welcome. There are strict regulations on who may enter and for what purpose. These locations are off-limits to Indians for cultural and religious reasons.
During Covid-19, you may go to many different parts of India since practically all states are open to visitors. Shimla, Gulmarg, and Chilka Lake are three of the most picturesque destinations in India.
General Tips for Exploring These Areas:
- Know Your Rights: Public places in India cannot legally restrict access based on nationality. Private establishments, however, may impose their own policies.
- Research Before Visiting: Check reviews or contact the establishment directly to confirm their policies.
- Report Discrimination: If denied access, consider reporting the incident to local tourism authorities or consumer protection agencies.
- Explore Alternatives: Many destinations nearby provide similar experiences without restrictions.
- Respect Local Customs: Some restrictions, like those in Malana, stem from cultural preservation rather than bias.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Are there places in India where Indians are not allowed?
Yes, some places restrict entry to Indians and are accessible only to foreigners or specific groups.
2. Why are Indians not allowed in certain places?
Some places enforce such rules due to cultural, historical, or private property policies.
3. What are examples of such places in India?
Examples include Uno-In Hotel in Bengaluru, Free Kasol Cafe in Himachal Pradesh, and certain beaches in Goa and Pondicherry.
4. Why does Uno-In Hotel in Bengaluru not allow Indians?
The hotel was initially created to cater exclusively to Japanese clients. However, it faced legal actions and was eventually shut down.
5. Which beaches in Goa restrict Indian entry?
Certain private beaches and foreigner-focused beach shacks in Goa informally discourage Indian visitors to maintain a specific vibe.
6. Is Malana Village in Himachal Pradesh restricted for Indians?
Indians can visit Malana Village but are not allowed to touch or interact closely with its traditional structures or residents due to cultural beliefs.
7. What about foreigners-only cafes like Free Kasol Cafe?
Free Kasol Cafe has been alleged to deny service to Indian visitors, but this is not an official or legal restriction.
8. Are there any temples in India where Indians are not allowed?
Yes, the Jagannath Temple in Puri restricts entry to non-Hindus, while some temples in Kerala follow similar rules.
9. Can Indians visit Norbulingka Café in Dharamshala?
Norbulingka Café allows all visitors, but there is a misconception that it serves only foreigners due to its Tibetan exclusivity.
10. What should one do if they face discrimination at such places?
Report the incident to local authorities as it violates Indian constitutional rights.
11. Are these restrictions legal in India?
No, such restrictions are generally not legally enforceable, and discrimination based on nationality is against the law.
12. Can Indians challenge such practices?
Yes, Indians can report such incidents to legal authorities or consumer rights forums to address discriminatory practices.
