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banaras—simple in spelling, infinite in meaning. In the early light of Varanasi, as sunlight spills across the Ganges, you’ll understand why this city is said to be the center of the world. Walk its ancient lanes, listen to the chant and ripple of water, and you’ll find yourself caught in a moment so pure, so sacred, you might forget what it means to leave.
Everything you need to know about banaras
Ganga View Palace Hotel is a top choice, offering breathtaking views of the Ganges River from its private balconies. Guests can witness the sacred Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunrise and enjoy serene evenings lit by floating lamps. The hotel blends traditional Indian architecture with modern comforts and provides personalized guided tours to nearby temples and ghats. Located just 5 minutes' walk from the main Ghats, it’s perfectly positioned for immersive cultural experiences in one of India’s most spiritual cities.
Travel from Varanasi city center via auto-rickshaw or taxi, taking about 10–15 minutes to reach Dashashwamedh Ghats. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services. For a more immersive experience, walk along Sankat Mochan Road—a 20-minute stroll that passes local devotees bathing and praying, offering authentic glimpses into daily spiritual rituals. Visit early morning or late afternoon to capture the most vibrant riverfront atmosphere and golden-hour lighting.
Must-try experiences include attending the early morning Ganges ritual bath, visiting Sarnath to explore where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and joining a classical Indian music workshop led by local maestros. You can also book a traditional spice cooking class to master authentic Varanasi curries and dal puri. These immersive activities provide deep cultural insight and meaningful interactions with locals, transforming your visit into a profound spiritual journey beyond typical sightseeing.
Yes, hotels like The Oberoi Udayvilas and Hotel Shree Krishna offer family-friendly rooms, child-safe amenities, playrooms, and accessible facilities. Many provide family-guided tours tailored for children, including Indian mythology storytelling sessions and handmade mask-painting workshops. Nearby attractions such as Sankat Mochan Temple and Buddha Park are also ideal for family visits, ensuring a safe, engaging, and educational travel experience for all ages.
Start with the Ganges morning ritual at Dashashwamedh Ghats, followed by a visit to Sarnath to explore the ancient Buddhist site and Dhamek Stupa. In the afternoon, meditate at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and participate in a prayer offering ceremony. End the day with a vegetarian dinner at Assi Ghat, enjoying the evening lights and devotional chants. Arrange a local guide to explain each site’s spiritual symbolism and historical significance, crafting a deeply transformative soulful pilgrimage experience.
Yes! Iconic photo locations include the morning fire rituals at Dashashwamedh Ghats, the lantern-lit pathways of Assi Ghat, and the golden domes and red pillars of Sankat Mochan Temple. Golden hour offers stunning visuals: sunlight reflecting on the Ganges River, silhouettes of white-clad pilgrims, and floating diyas creating a dreamy, poetic atmosphere. Many hotels feature courtyard gardens and traditional mural walls, perfect for capturing culturally rich personal portraits.
See what other travelers say about banaras
Staying at New Hotel Broadway was one of the best experiences I’ve had in Varanasi. The hotel is incredibly clean, well-maintained, and located just steps away from major attractions—perfect for exploring the city on foot. The staff went above and beyond with their warmth and helpfulness; every interaction felt genuine and welcoming. From check-in to checkout, they made me feel at home. The value for money is outstanding—luxury amenities at a budget-friendly price. I’d highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for comfort, convenience, and kindness in Varanasi.
The booking process was extremely confusing and frustrating. I initially booked with a pay-at-property option, but later received a QR code asking for payment instead—there was no clear explanation or consistency. To make matters worse, my reservation was canceled by the hotel without any prior notice. Being left stranded at the last minute is incredibly stressful and unprofessional. The entire experience felt disorganized and unreliable. I wouldn’t recommend staying here under any circumstances. Save your time and avoid this place.
I had an excellent stay at this hotel—peaceful surroundings, great service, and a fantastic dinner served in-room. The breakfast was delicious too, and the staff were very attentive. It's a bit farther from the city center, but a short taxi ride makes it super convenient. I’d definitely recommend this place for anyone visiting Varanasi—it’s peaceful, comfortable, and offers real value. The only downside was the Wi-Fi in the room, which wasn’t very strong, but honestly, it didn’t bother me at all. Overall, a wonderful experience!
Staying at Hotel Four Element in Varanasi was an absolutely delightful experience. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, polite service—always smiling and ready to help. The food was exceptional, fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. Cleanliness truly stood out; every corner of the hotel felt spotless and well-maintained. Located right in the heart of the city, it's incredibly convenient—just a short walk to the railway station and perfectly situated near Dashwamadh Ghat, making early morning boat rides and sunrise views super easy. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed for comfort and ease. I’d highly recommend this hotel to any traveler visiting Varanasi—it’s not just a place to sleep, it’s a true home away from home.
Staying at Hotel Zion Inn with my partner was an absolutely delightful experience. The moment we arrived, Mr. Shivesh at the front desk made us feel right at home—warm, welcoming, and genuinely attentive, like family. He handled our check-in with care and professionalism, making the whole process smooth and stress-free. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and well-maintained—exactly what you’d want after a long journey. What truly stood out was the manager’s dedication; his kindness and proactive support made our stay incredibly comfortable and memorable. If you’re visiting Varanasi, don’t hesitate to book here. This place isn’t just a hotel—it’s a home away from home. Highly recommended!
Staying at Square Inn in Varanasi was an absolutely delightful experience. The room was spotlessly clean and well-maintained, with just enough space for a comfortable night’s rest. The staff were incredibly polite and welcoming—especially Ms. Mahima, who was cheerful, helpful, and always ready to assist with any request. Her positive attitude really made the stay more enjoyable. The location is excellent—right in the heart of the city, steps away from major attractions and local eateries. I loved how quiet and peaceful the inn felt while still being close to everything. It’s rare to find such a cozy, well-run place with such great value. I’d definitely recommend this gem to anyone visiting Varanasi.
Staying at this hotel in Varanasi was an absolute delight! The staff were incredibly kind and helpful—always smiling, ready to assist with anything from navigating local transportation to recommending nearby restaurants and organizing guided tours. The room itself was spotless, comfortable, and perfectly peaceful, offering a nice escape from the bustling city streets. The only minor issue was some music from a wedding celebration late at night, but the team responded quickly and made sure it didn’t disrupt our rest. Breakfast was delicious and satisfying, a perfect start to the day. I can’t recommend this place enough—seriously, if I ever come back to Varanasi, this will be my first choice again. A truly memorable stay.
I traveled solo to Varanasi, India, and stayed at Moustache Varanasi—truly one of the best experiences! The staff was incredibly kind and never pressured me for money like some other places do. No pushy taxis or guides trying to upsell services—just genuine hospitality. I especially loved Mani, the adorable hostel dog who greeted me with wagging tail every time I came back. He added so much warmth and charm to the stay. The vibe is cozy, authentic, and welcoming—perfect for solo travelers looking for a meaningful connection with the city and its people. This place feels like home, and I’ll definitely be returning.
We stayed at Hotel Silk City for two nights and had a generally excellent experience. The room was spotlessly clean with all the essentials—hot water, shampoo, toilet paper, and a working hairdryer. What stood out was that housekeeping cleaned our room daily, which isn’t always the case in other hotels across India. Dinner was served at the hotel restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and continental options—we found the food to be tasty and reasonably priced. The only downside was the surrounding area, which felt a bit chaotic, but honestly, that’s part of the authentic Indian experience. Despite that, we’d definitely stay here again if we’re back in Varanasi. Great value, good service, and a comfortable base for exploring the city.
My stay at Hotel Raj Kamal Palace was truly comfortable and enjoyable. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and had a peaceful vibe that made it perfect for relaxation. The staff were consistently polite, attentive, and went out of their way to assist with local recommendations and travel tips. Dining at the hotel was a highlight—food was flavorful, freshly prepared, and served quickly. Located in a convenient area, it's just a short walk from key attractions, making exploration easy. For travelers seeking a quiet, clean, and well-priced stay in Varanasi, this is an excellent choice. I’d definitely recommend it and plan to return.
My stay at Hotel Satya Inn was absolutely wonderful. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—perfect for a relaxing night's sleep. The food served at the hotel was delicious, with authentic local flavors that really stood out. Staff were attentive and friendly, always ready to help with recommendations or assistance. While the neighborhood is in a predominantly Muslim area, it didn’t affect our experience at all—it was safe, quiet, and well-kept. I appreciated how easy it was to get around using public transport. Overall, this was a great value-for-money choice, and I’d definitely return if I’m back in Varanasi.
If you're visiting Varanasi and planning to stay near the Ganges River, this is absolutely the place to book. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the riverfront, with easy access to all the spiritual and cultural highlights. The rooms are clean, spacious, and thoughtfully designed, making it feel like home. The staff go above and beyond with their warm, genuine hospitality—always ready to help with tips or recommendations. But the real highlight? The rooftop terrace. Sitting there at sunset, overlooking the Ganges with the sound of chants in the background, is an unforgettable experience. It’s peaceful, serene, and truly magical. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a moment you’ll remember. Highly recommend for anyone seeking authenticity and comfort in Varanasi.
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