We Are Live Free
Born from a restless love for wandering, and the beautiful truth that home isn't a place—it's a feeling we share.
From a Dream to a Backpacker's Home
Every great journey begins with a simple idea. For LiveFree Hostels, that idea was born in 2017—to create a space where travelers could find more than just a bed for the night. The founders envisioned a place that was vibrant, welcoming, affordable, and community-driven; a place where strangers could become friends and every traveler could feel at home.
The story began in Rishikesh, a town nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and blessed by the sacred Ganga River. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh attracts seekers, adventurers, backpackers, and explorers from every corner of the globe. Recognizing the growing need for quality backpacker accommodation, LiveFree Hostels opened its doors with a mission to combine comfort, culture, adventure, and meaningful human connections.
Located near Laxman Jhula in Tapovan, the hostel quickly became a favorite among travelers. Unlike conventional hotels, Live Free offered open common spaces, rooftop hangout areas, community dinners, music sessions, and opportunities for guests to share stories and experiences.
Today, LiveFree Hostels represents much more than accommodation. It stands for a style of travel that values experiences over itineraries, friendships over formalities, and stories over schedules. Whether guests arrive seeking adventure in the rapids of the Ganga, spiritual growth through yoga and meditation, or simply a break from routine life, Live Free provides a space where journeys begin and memories are made.
What started as one property in Rishikesh grew into a community across three cities. Each hostel carries the same soul: warmth, design, and the belief that the best conversations happen when strangers share a table. From a single vision in 2017 to a recognized hostel brand across India, the journey of LiveFree Hostels reflects the spirit of its name itself—to travel freely, live openly, and create connections that transcend borders.
Live Free recognises that preserving the environment and the well-being of local communities are crucial to its long-term success. We are dedicated to prioritise environmental sustainability through responsible resource management practices.
Our Sustainability Policies
The Live Free Philosophy
People First, Always
Our staff are travelers too. They know what matters — a genuine smile, local tips, and a door that always feels open. At LiveFree Hostels, People First, Always is more than a philosophy—it is the heart of everything we do. Because at the end of the day, hostels are not just buildings—they are collections of stories, friendships, and experiences shared by people from around the world.
Inclusivity
At LiveFree Hostels, inclusivity means creating a space where every traveler feels welcome, respected, and valued—regardless of their nationality, culture, language, gender, age, or travel style. Across our locations in Rishikesh, Varanasi, and Dehradun, we celebrate diversity and promote a culture of openness, kindness, and mutual respect. For us, inclusivity is not just a value—it is the foundation of the Live Free experience, where every journey is enriched by the people we meet along the way.
Affordable Exploration
Meaningful travel should be accessible to everyone, not just a privilege for a few. Accessibility, for us, means offering comfortable, safe, and community-driven stays at affordable prices, allowing more people to explore new destinations and experiences without financial barriers. Through affordability, we empower travelers to stay longer, discover deeper, and create unforgettable memories—proving that great experiences dont have to come with a high price tag.
Safety & Trust
From maintaining clean and well-managed spaces to fostering a respectful and welcoming community, we prioritize the well-being of our guests at every step. Our team is dedicated to providing support, guidance, and assistance whenever needed, ensuring that every traveler feels cared for and valued. When travelers feel safe and supported, they are free to experience the world with confidence.
People First, Always
Our staff are travelers too. They know what matters — a genuine smile, local tips, and a door that always feels open. At LiveFree Hostels, People First, Always is more than a philosophy—it is the heart of everything we do. Because at the end of the day, hostels are not just buildings—they are collections of stories, friendships, and experiences shared by people from around the world.
Inclusivity
At LiveFree Hostels, inclusivity means creating a space where every traveler feels welcome, respected, and valued—regardless of their nationality, culture, language, gender, age, or travel style. Across our locations in Rishikesh, Varanasi, and Dehradun, we celebrate diversity and promote a culture of openness, kindness, and mutual respect. For us, inclusivity is not just a value—it is the foundation of the Live Free experience, where every journey is enriched by the people we meet along the way.
Affordable Exploration
Meaningful travel should be accessible to everyone, not just a privilege for a few. Accessibility, for us, means offering comfortable, safe, and community-driven stays at affordable prices, allowing more people to explore new destinations and experiences without financial barriers. Through affordability, we empower travelers to stay longer, discover deeper, and create unforgettable memories—proving that great experiences dont have to come with a high price tag.
Safety & Trust
From maintaining clean and well-managed spaces to fostering a respectful and welcoming community, we prioritize the well-being of our guests at every step. Our team is dedicated to providing support, guidance, and assistance whenever needed, ensuring that every traveler feels cared for and valued. When travelers feel safe and supported, they are free to experience the world with confidence.
Meet Our Founders
Arpan Dabas
Co-Founder
Arpan leads the Live Free vision with a deep understanding of what travelers truly need. An avid traveler himself, he has shaped the Live Free experience from a guest-first perspective, ensuring that every detail enhances comfort, convenience, and connection With a background in Mechanical Engineering and hands-on experience in HVAC systems setup and maintenance, Arpan brings a meticulous eye for detail and operational excellence. His ability to blend technical expertise with a passion for travel has helped create thoughtfully designed spaces where guests can feel at home while exploring the world.
Dharmendra Kumar Sharma
Co-Founder
Dharmendra drives the technological vision of Live Free, ensuring that innovtion and efficiency remain at the core of its operations. With a strong background in the IT industry, he brings extensive expertise in technology, systems management, and process optimization. His tech-driven approach helps streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and build reliable systems that support the growth of Live Free. By combining technical knowledge with strategic thinking, Dharmendra plays a key role in creating a seamless and modern hospitality experience for both guests and teams.