Comparing hotel rates in India: room types, meal plans and fine print

EP, CP, MAP, AP, refundable or not, taxes included or not — what to check so you are comparing the same room at the same terms.

Hotel prices are harder to compare than flights. The same property can show several prices on the same night — because they're not quite the same product.

1. The room type

"Deluxe", "Superior", "Premium" and "Club" mean different things at different hotels, and different sites sometimes name the same room differently. Note the exact room name, bed type and view.

2. The meal plan

Indian hotels often quote with these codes:

  • EP (European Plan) — room only.
  • CP (Continental Plan) — room with breakfast.
  • MAP (Modified American Plan) — breakfast plus lunch or dinner.
  • AP (American Plan) — all three meals.

A CP rate that looks higher than an EP rate may be the better deal once you price breakfast for the family.

3. Cancellation terms

Non-refundable rates are cheaper for a reason. If your plans could change, a free-cancellation rate is often worth the difference.

4. Taxes and fees

Some listings show prices before GST and fees and add them only at the last step. Always compare the final amount for your full stay.

5. Similar names, different hotels

Many cities have several properties with near-identical names, or a brand with multiple hotels in one city. Check the area and address, not just the name — it's one reason our inquiry form asks you to pick the exact hotel from the search results.

Found a hotel you like? Send us the exact property and dates — we'll reply with our rate for the same room and terms.