I stayed in US for less than 170 days in year 2011 ( from feb mid to July end) on L1 B and came back to india since then. My employer withheld federal tax (2880 USD)and state tax (1400 USD) during that period (it is mentioned in my W2.) I stayed at rented house with my friend on sharing basis and my friend was the one who initially got that house rented against his name. I don't have any bills with me as of now as I am in india.

I believe that my residency status was Non resident alien for 2011 so I'd like to know that filing 1040NR will benefit me or I should file normal 1040 for tax return?

Please advise.

You must file nonresident tax return. You can claim travel expenses which include transportation, lodging and meals. Use Form 2106 or 2106-EZ to figure your allowable expenses that you claim on line 9 of Schedule A (Form 1040NR). Your U.S. Tax Return: Itemized Deductions (http://taxipay.blogspot.com/2008/05/itemized-deductions.html)