
Varanasi/Gandhi ashram Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
At Gandhi Ashram, every step echoes with history—where Gandhi lived, meditated, and fought for change. Sitting on his old wooden chair, touching the spinning wheel he once used, you’re not just visiting a place—you’re feeling the pulse of a revolution that reshaped a nation.

Everything you need to know about Gandhi ashram
Stay at Gandhi Ashram Guest House, a heritage property just steps from the historic Gandhi Ashram in Varanasi. This eco-friendly boutique accommodation offers traditional Indian décor, vegetarian meals, and daily workshops on nonviolence and sustainable living inspired by Mahatma Gandhi. The guest house is within walking distance of the Ganges River ghats, with easy access from Varanasi Railway Station via local auto-rickshaws. Perfect for travelers seeking cultural immersion and spiritual reflection in a serene, authentic setting.
After visiting Gandhi Ashram, immerse yourself in the Ganges morning ritual at Manikarnika Ghat, where pilgrims perform sacred bathing ceremonies. Then, head to the on-site Charkha (hand-spindle) workshop to try spinning cotton by hand—a direct homage to Gandhi’s promotion of self-reliance. Weekly Saturday evenings feature storytelling and philosophy sessions on nonviolence and civil disobedience, delivered in both Hindi and English by local guides. These experiences offer profound insight into Gandhi’s legacy and the enduring spirit of peaceful resistance in modern India.
Yes, transportation from Gandhi Ashram to downtown Varanasi is highly convenient. Local auto-rickshaws and bicycle rentals are readily available on-site, reaching the city center in just 10 minutes. For public transit, the nearest Varanasi Junction Bus Stand is a 15-minute walk away, served by numerous buses connecting major landmarks. Alternatively, explore the scenic Ganges riverside path—a peaceful walking route lined with ancient temples and ghats—offering both cultural views and eco-friendly travel options throughout the day.
Near Gandhi Ashram, participate in daily morning gatherings and silent meditation sessions held in the central hall, featuring talks on nonviolent resistance and social reform. Join community-led riverbank clean-up initiatives, where visitors help remove waste along the Ganges—directly embodying Gandhi’s environmental ethics. Some guesthouses also host handmade cotton bag workshops, using yarn spun on traditional Charkhas to create sustainable accessories, supporting local craftsmanship. All activities are free and led by trained guides, offering meaningful ways to live out Gandhi’s principles of simplicity, self-reliance, and peace through active engagement.
Sankalp Ashram is highly recommended for its authentic spiritual atmosphere and proximity to Gandhi Ashram, just a 5-minute walk away. The guesthouse offers simple, locally crafted rooms with traditional Indian decor, a meditation hall, and a vegetarian restaurant serving organic meals. It’s an ideal base for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in nonviolence principles and simple living, while also offering guided tours of Gandhi’s former study and memorial museum.
Yes, access to Gandhi Ashram is excellent. From Varanasi Railway Station, a short 15-minute taxi ride or cycle rickshaw journey brings you directly to the site. Nearby accommodations like Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya Hotel provide complimentary shuttle services and blend traditional Indian architecture with modern comfort, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the spiritual heart of Varanasi.
Near Gandhi Ashram, visitors can participate in daily nonviolence workshops and handloom weaving sessions, directly experiencing Gandhi’s vision of self-reliance. The on-site museum displays original artifacts including Gandhi’s spinning wheel, personal letters, and photographs. Weekly silent meditation nights with chanting and breathwork offer deep insight into his philosophy of inner peace and mindful living.
Absolutely. Most hotels around Gandhi Ashram follow Gandhi’s strict vegetarian and plant-based principles. For example, Sarvodaya Guest House serves a fully vegetarian breakfast featuring local ingredients like brown rice, lentils, vegetable curries, and fresh juices sourced from nearby organic farms. Some host special "No Meat Days" with nutritionist-led talks, helping guests understand the health benefits of plant-based living as advocated by Gandhi.
Yes, expert-led cultural tours are available, including visits to Gandhi’s original hut replica, his wooden desk, and personal belongings. Guides share insights into his freedom movement and social reforms. Some tours extend to the Ganges Riverbank, where Gandhi delivered speeches on nonviolence, allowing travelers to connect with history through the very spaces he once stood in.
Yes, Gandhi Ashram Family Stay is specifically designed for families, offering connected rooms with child-safe features and a dedicated kids’ activity corner. Facilities include solar power and rainwater harvesting systems, reflecting sustainable living values. Parents can join nonviolent communication workshops, while children engage in hands-on activities like pottery-making and natural dyeing, learning Gandhi’s teachings through creative, meaningful experiences.
See what other travelers say about Gandhi ashram

The staff were incredibly professional and friendly—always attentive without being intrusive. The hotel was spotlessly clean and well-organized, making the whole experience feel seamless. They’d check in gently to see how I was doing or if I needed anything, but never overstepped. I felt safe and comfortable throughout my stay, especially as a solo traveler. The location is fantastic—right in the heart of Varanasi, just steps away from key sights and local charm. It’s rare to find such a welcoming, secure, and thoughtfully-run place. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting this incredible city.

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.

My stay at De Costa Palace was absolutely fantastic. The staff were incredibly friendly and went out of their way to help me reach my next destination—truly a highlight of the trip. The hotel was spotlessly clean, with attention to detail that made the room feel fresh and welcoming. Located in a prime area, it’s super convenient for getting to both Vishwanath Temple and the railway station, whether by auto-rickshaw or taxi. I appreciated how easy it was to navigate around the city from here. This place truly delivers on comfort, cleanliness, and hospitality—definitely one of the best stays I’ve had in Varanasi.

Staying at Hotel City Palace in Varanasi was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request, big or small. Breakfast was served right on time, and the variety and quality were impressive. What truly stood out was the option to store luggage after check-out—huge convenience for travelers like me who had to catch a train later. It made my journey so much smoother. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered, and the overall experience earned every single point of the 10/10 rating. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at VNS Luxury Hostel in Varanasi was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is perfect—just a 3-kilometer ride from Cant Railway Station, making travel into the city super easy. The staff are genuinely humble and always ready to help without being overbearing. The room interiors are beautifully designed, with a modern yet authentic touch that makes you feel right at home. Food? Absolutely top-notch—the chef prepares fresh meals daily and serves them with care. Every bite was delicious and satisfying. From start to finish, this place exceeded all expectations. It’s not just ideal for travelers, but also a hidden gem for locals looking for a peaceful staycation. 5 out of 5—would recommend to anyone visiting Varanasi.

Staying at Hotel Janki Inn in Varanasi was an absolute delight. The rooms are spotlessly clean and comfortably furnished, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring the city. Its location is excellent—just a short walk from major attractions like the Ganges River Ghats, ancient temples, and the historic old town. Public transport options are nearby, and getting around the city is easy whether you're walking or taking a local taxi. Check-in and check-out were both quick and friendly, with staff who made me feel welcome right away. The attention to detail and warm hospitality truly set this hotel apart. For travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and value, this is a top choice in Varanasi.

Dear makemytrip team, I’m Debarshi Bhattacharya, and I’d like to sincerely thank you for making our recent trip an unforgettable experience. From the moment we booked through your platform, everything was smooth, well-organized, and truly thoughtful. The hotel accommodation was excellent—clean, comfortable, and perfectly located in Varanasi, offering easy access to key attractions. Our customer service representative went above and beyond, offering prompt, friendly, and helpful support throughout our journey. Their assistance made a big difference, especially when we had last-minute changes or questions. The deals were fantastic, and the overall experience felt personalized and caring. Thanks to your attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction, our trip wasn’t just a visit—it was a joyful, stress-free adventure from start to finish. We’re already planning our next trip and will definitely be booking with you again.

Staying at The Olivia was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome—friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful. The food was a highlight: fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared with care. Every meal felt special, and my family especially loved the local touches in the dishes. The rooms were immaculate—clean, well-organized, and beautifully decorated with a calming ambiance that made it easy to unwind. It's clear the management takes pride in every detail, from the seamless service to the overall atmosphere. The hotel feels both serene and well-run, offering a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. I couldn't have asked for more. This experience was truly memorable, and I'm already planning my return. If you're looking for a peaceful, authentic stay in Varanasi with outstanding hospitality, this is the place.

We stayed at Hotel Sri Balaji in Varanasi for three nights in March 2024 with two sets of parents, and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience. The rooms were spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly well-maintained—truly impressive for a budget-friendly stay. While the hotel’s location isn’t easy to find by car, the staff are proactive: just call ahead when you arrive, and they’ll send someone to pick up your luggage and guide you right to the door. It’s super helpful, especially if you’re navigating the narrow lanes of Old Varanasi. The landmark nearby is Gol Ghar Saree Market, which makes it easier to locate. The hotel sits in the heart of the city—Bhairavnath Temple is just a 2-minute walk away, and Kashi Vishwanath Temple is only a 10-minute stroll. Perfect for spiritual visits or simply soaking in the local vibe. The team here is warm, attentive, and always ready to assist. Even the in-house food surprised us—delicious, authentic, and well-prepared. The owner is genuinely approachable and often seen at reception during the day, adding that personal touch. And then there’s the chai—right outside the hotel, a little street vendor serves what might be the best chai I’ve ever had. Must-try! A few minutes’ walk around Gol Ghar brings you to some incredible local eats: kachodi wala, jalebi wala, and litti/baati bhaji—each stall is worth a stop. Just talking about these flavors makes me want to pack my bags and head back to Banaras already!

I was really surprised by how welcoming and helpful the owner was—despite some negative online reviews and concerns after the festival, I was worried about the place. When I arrived, they initially said there were no rooms available, but after showing my booking confirmation, they offered a room upgrade at extra cost. I politely declined, explaining my budget constraints and asked for a standard dorm instead—even suggesting a sofa if needed. To my relief, they upgraded me to a clean, comfortable room for free and even gave me a bottle of water. The room itself is quite nice for India, though there were a few mosquitoes. Also, the breakfast option listed on the website wasn’t actually available, so I’d recommend booking without breakfast. Overall, despite the initial confusion, the staff went above and beyond to help, and their kindness made a big difference. That’s why I’m giving such a high rating—but just wanted to mention the small hiccups so others know what to expect.

I can't recommend this hotel enough! From the moment I arrived, everything was spot-on. The location is perfect—just a short walk from major attractions and local markets, making it easy to explore Varanasi without hassle. The food exceeded my expectations: fresh, flavorful, and authentic, with generous portions. Staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, always ready to help with any request. My room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with modern amenities that made my stay truly enjoyable. What stood out most was the genuine hospitality—the kind you don’t often find in busy tourist areas. It’s no wonder my friend recommended it; it lives up to every bit of the hype. I’ll definitely be returning on my next visit to Varanasi.
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