Naptapgo secures INR 2 crore funding in Pre-Seed round, Hospitality News, ET HospitalityWorld

Pod hotel startup Naptapgo, has secured INR 2 crore funding in Pre-Seed round from Inflection Point Ventures. The funds will be used to drive growth across key areas like franchise development, marketing, technology enhancements, and developing innovative techniques to enhance customer experience. This strategic investment will accelerate Naptapgo’s expansion across urban and religious hubs, strengthening its commitment to offering clean, affordable, and flexible accommodations at affordable prices.

Naptapgo is pioneering a new hospitality model by providing affordable luxury through compact, efficient spaces. The startup operates in the NCR business city vertical and will expand to religious cities like Katra and Amritsar in FY26, aiming to reach 20 properties by FY27. Its innovative approach, including flexible check-ins, hourly stays, and sustainability-driven operations, sets it apart in the competitive hospitality market.

Vinay Bansal, founder & CEO, IPV, says ‘The hospitality industry is at its peak with globalisation and digital connectivity, yet customer satisfaction has not kept pace. Over the time, hotel prices have surged while service standards have remained stagnant. NapTapGo is changing this by offering an innovative pod-hotel experience at an economical price without compromising on quality. Its accessibility and affordability for luxury spaces connects with millions of travelers seeking short-stay accommodations. At IPV, we believe NapTapGo is poised to tap into a massive market of travellers looking for smart, cost-effective lodging solutions.”Nitin Malhotra & Himanshu Shukla, co-founders of NapTapGo, says, “We have had an incredible journey with the IPV team, receiving constructive feedback that has strengthened our business framework. At Naptapgo, our goal is to be a significant player in the $1300 billion global hotel market, starting with India, and to redefine the perception of the Indian affordable hotel segment. Customer experience remains our key differentiator as we strive to create value for both our franchises and shareholders.”

Naptapgo’s rapid expansion is fueled by its unique operational model. Currently active in NCR, the startup plans to launch properties in Gurugram, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Katra and Amritsar, with a goal of 20 properties by FY27. The company’s ability to achieve 65 per cent direct bookings through its website and WhatsApp channel underscores its customer-centric approach and operational efficiency, said a company release.

Founded by Nitin Malhotra (founder & CEO) and Himanshu Malhotra (co-founder & VP ops), Naptapgo is backed by their extensive industry experience. Malhotra, an MBA graduate from Symbiosis and incubated at IIML, previously founded 247around (acquired) and held leadership roles at Texas Instruments and ST Microelectronics. Malhotra, also incubated at IIML, brings deep hospitality expertise from his tenure at Chaayos, Taj, and Jaypee Resorts, supported by his hotel management background from IHM Lucknow. Together, they aim to disrupt the hospitality industry with innovative, guest-centric solutions.

Naptapgo has garnered significant industry recognition, including a strategic investment from Government of India PSU Balmer Lawrie and a notable endorsement from Anand Mahindra, who highlighted how the startup addresses the affordable hospitality challenge, the release added.

• Published On May 15, 2025 at 08:00 PM IST

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