In Hyderabad, it has become common to see students bent over textbooks and laptops in cafés or reading rooms. Whether they are revising for exams, preparing group presentations, or working on college applications, many are choosing cafés, co-working spaces or reading rooms over studying at home. What’s fuelling this trend?

For some students, home is not always the most conducive environment to focus. It may come with distractions — siblings, shared spaces, or simply the mental association with relaxation rather than productivity.

“There is something about working in a space where other people are focused too,” says Myra Goenka, a high school student who frequently studies with friends at Black Fuel Roastery, Jubilee Hills. “It puts you in that same mindset, and the change of setting helps.”

However, the café culture comes at a cost. Most students spend over ₹500 per visit on food and beverages, although access to Wi-Fi and power outlets is included.

“It’s not sustainable to go every day,” says Anya Reddy, a high school senior. “But when we have an important exam, need to work in groups or just need a different environment to get out of a rut, these spaces are good options.”

While the cafe trend largely prevails among students from affluent backgrounds, there are other options too.

Affordable reading rooms

Government-supported public libraries as well as paid student reading rooms offer air-conditioned study spaces at lower rates, often on a monthly basis.

Deepa’s Reading Room, which has 32 branches across Hyderabad, offers individual cabins, high-speed internet, and lockers. Aspirants Reading Room, with branches in SR Nagar and Kushaiguda, provides 24/7 access and break lounges, with plans ranging from ₹4,000 for three months of non-AC space to ₹21,600 for a year’s worth of air-conditioned study area. Another option is Bhuvan’s Reading Room, a reading room/library located in Alwal and Kapra, Secunderabad.

Café owners, meanwhile, are increasingly open to student patrons, particularly during non-peak hours. “We see a lot of students coming in the afternoons,” says a member of staff at True Black, which has several branches in the city. “The coffee tends to be a pull point — they come in for a cup, and many end up staying for hours. We are happy to accommodate that.”

Some cafés have even adapted their layouts to cater to this demand by adding long tables, ensuring multiple charging points, or creating quieter corners for extended stays.

Starbucks, too, is among the study spots for students. With outlets in various locations, the chain offers free Wi-Fi, ample plug points, and relatively relaxed seating policies. “I like that no one rushes you,” says Diya Mittal, a 11th grade student. “You can order once and stay for hours, which helps during exam time.”

As academic demands grow and students seek environments that balance focus, comfort, and collaboration, these alternate study rooms show no signs of slowing.

(The writer interned with The Hindu)