Most hotel owners we speak to have heard a different number – 25%, 30%, sometimes 40%. The figure that matters for a new hotel under the Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2024 is in clause 14.4.1: 20% of eligible capital investment, up to ₹20 crore, for Accommodation (A) units – hotels, motels and resorts.
Restaurants, cafés and dhabas are not hotels for this purpose. They fall under food and beverage at 15% up to ₹15 crore, as do homestays, agro-tourism units and lodges in Accommodation (B). Women, SC/ST and divyang owners get an extra 5%.
Where people lose the incentive
The rate is rarely the problem. The problem is sequence. The policy expects you to register with the Directorate of Tourism and obtain provisional eligibility before major construction and purchases. Owners who build first and apply later often find that the expenditure before registration is not counted.
What else is on the table
Beyond the capital incentive, eligible units can claim SGST reimbursement for a number of years, interest subvention of up to 5%, and stamp and electricity duty relief that depends on the zone. Registered hotels meeting the standards also pay electricity, water and property tax at industrial rates.
If you are planning a hotel, resort or restaurant, start with a free eligibility check or read the full scheme page.