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Banaras (Varanasi), also known as the Sacred City of the Ganges, is one of the oldest and most sacred cities in Uttar Pradesh, India, situated along the banks of the Ganges River. Renowned for its deep spiritual significance and religious culture, the city attracts thousands of devotees daily who come to bathe in the holy river, seeking purification. The Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous riverside steps, where the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place every evening, blending lights, chants, and devotion into a unique spiritual experience. Additionally, Varanasi's narrow alleys are dotted with ancient temples and markets, offering a vibrant glimpse into India's cultural and spiritual heritage, making it a must-visit destination for seekers and travelers alike.
Everything you need to know about Banaras
In Varanasi, one of the most renowned luxury hotels is the Taj Ganges Varanasi, situated on the banks of the Ganges River, offering a prime sunrise viewing spot. Another top choice is BrijRama Palace, a restored 19th-century palace with unparalleled Ganges views. These hotels not only provide luxurious accommodations but also allow guests to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of this Hindu holy city. For the best experience, book a river-view room and arrange an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness the sacred sunrise rituals.
For an immersive spiritual experience, Ganges-facing heritage hotels are ideal. Top picks include:
Beyond hotels, immerse in Banaras' spiritual core:
Varanasi's Ghat-side hotels offer unique cultural experiences. The heritage Taj Nadesar Palace blends royal elegance with modern amenities, just 500m from Dasaswamedh Ghat. For boutique stays, Alka Hotel's rooftop restaurant overlooks the eternal Ganga Aarti ceremony. Budget travelers favor Palace on Ganges with its hand-painted frescoes. Pro tip: Opt for east-facing rooms to witness sunrise rituals, and check boat tour availability through hotel concierges to avoid scams.
Top hotels with Ganges River views in Varanasi include:
See what other travelers say about Banaras
Staying at Pristine Hotel in Varanasi was an absolute delight. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. The hotel’s location is perfect: just a short walk from key attractions and easily accessible by local transit. Our room was spacious, clean, and beautifully designed with modern touches. The bed was incredibly comfortable—woke up feeling refreshed every morning. The on-site restaurant exceeded expectations: great atmosphere, delicious food, and yes, they even serve beer! A real highlight for travelers looking for quality, comfort, and a touch of local charm. Highly recommended.
Staying at The Amayaa in Varanasi was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from the Ganges ghats and bustling local markets, making it easy to explore the city’s spiritual heart. I booked a suite, and it was spacious, well-appointed, and spotlessly clean. The room had a lovely view and felt like a peaceful retreat after a long day of sightseeing. What truly stood out was the staff—they were warm, attentive, and genuinely helpful. From recommending local restaurants to assisting with transportation, they went above and beyond without ever feeling pushy. Their kindness made me feel welcome and cared for throughout my stay. If you're visiting Varanasi, this hotel is not just a place to sleep—it's part of the experience. Highly recommended!
Staying at Sugar Stars Inn was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was spotlessly clean and thoughtfully designed, offering exceptional value for the price. The staff went above and beyond to make our visit comfortable—friendly, responsive, and always willing to help. Location-wise, it's perfectly positioned for exploring Varanasi’s vibrant streets and spiritual landmarks, with easy access to public transport and local eateries. What stood out most was the warm, personal touch—the kind of hospitality you don’t often find in bigger hotels. It truly felt like coming home. Without a doubt, one of the best stays I’ve had in Varanasi, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
The host and staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive—staying here felt genuinely safe and comfortable. We’d leave our keys at the front desk during the day while exploring the city, and every time we returned, the room was spotlessly clean and neatly made up. It’s clear they take pride in their hospitality. The location is excellent—just a short walk from the metro and right near the Ganges River, making it super easy to catch the morning rituals or explore nearby temples. What stood out most was the homely atmosphere—it felt less like a hotel and more like staying with a kind local family. Every detail, from the warm smiles to the thoughtful touches, made the experience unforgettable. I already know I’ll be coming back here on my next visit to Varanasi. Truly one of the best stays I’ve had in India.
Our stay at Stay Banaras was nothing short of extraordinary—truly a highlight of our trip to Varanasi. After navigating the vibrant, bustling energy of the city, this boutique hotel felt like a peaceful sanctuary. The room itself was stunning, with an abundance of natural light that made it feel bright and serene—an instant retreat from the chaos outside. Everything was immaculate, from the sleek bathroom to the charming terrace where we enjoyed morning coffee and evening relaxation under the stars. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome, like family. And let’s talk about the on-site restaurant, Behind Yellow Doors—it’s a must-visit. The food is exceptional, beautifully plated, and bursting with flavor, while the ambiance strikes the perfect balance between elegant and intimate. If we ever return to Varanasi, there’s no doubt in our minds where we’ll stay. This place isn’t just a hotel—it’s a true haven for travelers seeking comfort, charm, and a moment of calm in a magical city. Five stars? Absolutely deserved.
Tucked away in a quiet alley of Banaras' Bengali Road, Trilok Residency offers a wonderfully authentic experience with clean, well-organized rooms and a truly local vibe. No common hassles here—no dirty spaces, no noisy neighbors, no pushy vendors or constant upselling. Hot showers work perfectly, and the staff are genuinely helpful and professional. Whether you're shopping for souvenirs, craving local street food, exploring the Ganges ghats, or wandering through the vibrant lanes, this hotel is the perfect base to enjoy Varanasi at your own pace. The team stands out—hardworking, friendly, and deeply committed to guest comfort. They offer excellent local insights and budget-friendly tips, always ready to assist via WhatsApp. Communication is smooth in English, and while they don’t speak Japanese, that actually adds to the genuine, immersive feel. It’s clear these staff members care—not just about service, but about making your stay meaningful. A standout choice for anyone wanting a real, hassle-free taste of Varanasi.
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.
This property is not worth being listed on any platform. The room descriptions are completely misleading—every single room is designated as smoking only, yet there’s no clear indication during booking, so you might accidentally end up with a smoking room thinking it’s non-smoking. To make matters worse, basic amenities like drinking water and towels in the bathroom were missing upon arrival. I reached out to the platform regarding these issues, and they did offer some compensation, but that doesn’t fix the poor experience. If you’re considering this hotel just because the price seems competitive, please think twice. There are far better options out there. You’ll thank me later for steering you away from this one. Don’t waste your time or money—this place simply doesn’t deliver.
The hotel's location was excellent—most tourist attractions were within a 0.5 to 4 km radius, making it super convenient to explore on foot or by local transport. It’s just steps away from a lively market, perfect for grabbing snacks or souvenirs. The rooms were spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, calming vibe. Staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to help. Overall, this was a fantastic stay with great value and a welcoming atmosphere—I’d definitely return.
Staying at Hotel Aadesh Palace was an absolute delight. Located just a short walk from Gate No. 4 of the Kashi Vishvanath Temple, it’s perfectly positioned for spiritual travelers and sightseers alike. While vehicles can’t go beyond 500 meters due to restricted access in the temple area, the walk is manageable and part of the experience—offering glimpses of authentic Varanasi life. The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. What truly stood out was the staff—warm, attentive, and genuinely helpful. I especially want to thank the restaurant team (I’m sorry I didn’t catch your name!) for taking the time to explain local attractions and even helping me plan my sightseeing itinerary. Their guidance made my trip so much more meaningful. With excellent food, thoughtful service, and a peaceful atmosphere, this hotel offers great value and a memorable stay. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Varanasi.
Staying at The Century Plaza Hotel in Varanasi was a solid experience overall. The location is excellent—right in the heart of the city, making everything easily accessible by foot. The room was clean and well-equipped with all the basics you’d expect. However, there was a persistent sewer smell coming from the bathroom that required keeping the exhaust fan on for long periods—unfortunately, it’s quite noisy, which disrupted rest. This issue also affected my friends’ room during their stay, and neither room had windows, so ventilation was limited. I didn’t request daily cleaning as I picked up a stomach bug and needed to isolate myself for days. That said, the staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating—they arranged early check-in and late checkout without hesitation, which made things much easier. The hotel has its own restaurant offering only vegetarian cuisine, perfect for those with dietary preferences. While not ideal for longer stays due to the ventilation and odor concerns, it’s a convenient and practical choice for a 2-3 night visit. I’d recommend this hotel for short trips, especially if you’re prioritizing location and service.
The Triumph Hotel is an absolute gem in Varanasi. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality that made me feel right at home. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, with a mattress so comfortable I fell asleep like a king. The staff went above and beyond—especially the male team, whose kindness and smiles genuinely brightened my day. Breakfast was a highlight: perfectly cooked omelettes and a buffet full of fresh, delicious options. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated. I left feeling refreshed and already planning my next visit. This is more than a stay—it’s an experience.
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