Resting pods have become increasingly popular worldwide, with Japan leading the way in embracing this trend. In Japan, people can access a diverse range of resting pods, including standing sleep pods for quick naps, sleep pods in train stations for weary commuters, and capsule hotels offering compact yet comfortable accommodation options for travellers. Resting pods caters to different needs and preferences, providing individuals with convenient and rejuvenating resting experiences. Some places in India have also started offering pods for travellers. The latest is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, which has introduced cost-effective resting pods for transit passengers.
These innovative pods offer travellers a peaceful and rejuvenating break and aim to enhance the overall travel experience for transit passengers, ensuring they can rest and recharge before continuing their journey. These innovative pods, offered by JPOD Hotels Pvt. Ltd., boast a remarkable combination of comfort, practicality, and affordability. Designed to cater to travellers seeking respite between flights, these pods provide a cosy space for relaxation and a functional area for work. Whether passengers want to unwind, catch up on work, or take a break, these pods offer a convenient and comfortable solution within the airport premises.
The pods are located within the airport in Hyderabad, allowing travellers to stay inside the terminal and reduce the risk of missing their flight. This is especially beneficial for passengers with long layovers who prefer to remain in the airport and avoid the hassle of finding accommodation outside. You can choose from a diverse range of pods, such as six private twin-occupancy pods, eight pods exclusively designated for female travellers, and one pod specifically tailored to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.
The resting pods are open to all airport visitors, not only transit passengers. Moreover, individuals without flight reservations can also secure a pod, emphasising this service's versatility for anyone at the airport. The pods are remarkably cost-effective at INR 500 per hour, providing an affordable solution for individuals looking to save on accommodation costs. Moreover, discounts are available for extended stays, with a three-hour booking costing approximately INR 1,400, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Apart from Hyderabad airport, you can find resting/sleeping pods at several other places. Chennai airport launched a sleeping facility known as Sleepzo in 2022 to make travelling easier and more comfortable while waiting for flights. These sleeping pods can be accessed by domestic travellers. The sleeping pods offer reading lights, charging points, USB chargers, space to keep luggage, ambient lights, blower control, and more.
Not just airports, resting pods are also being introduced in railway stations. Prayagraj Junction Railway Station, one of the busiest transit hubs in India, also offers sleeping pods for travellers. The initiative, spearheaded by Indian Railways, aims to revolutionise the passenger travel experience by providing a novel resting solution. In Delhi, the Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 3 features pods equipped with beds, TVs, and Wi-Fi for short-term rentals for travellers. Similarly, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has something called "Snooze at My Place," providing pods with amenities like reading lights, and charging points in Terminal 2.