Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
At Harishchandra Ghat, dawn paints the Ganges in gold as priests chant hymns and fire pits burn offerings. It’s not just a view—it’s a sacred moment where life meets eternity, and you’re invited to witness the ritual that has shaped Varanasi for millennia.
This hotel is a perfect choice for both families and business travelers! The outdoor pool and kids' play area will keep the little ones entertained, while the fitness center and sauna offer relaxation for adults. Conveniently located just 10 minutes from the Golden Temple and Dasaswamedh Ghat, it also offers 24-hour room service and free WiFi. Planning an event? Their conference center and limousine service have got you covered.
Everything you need to know about Harishchandra Ghat
Ganga Ashram Hotel is a top choice, located just a 3-minute walk from Harishchandra Ghat along the sacred Ganges River. The boutique property offers traditional Indian-style rooms with panoramic views of the morning Ganges sunrise, and features complimentary yoga and meditation sessions daily. Its prime location makes it easy to reach major sites like Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Durga Temple within 10 minutes by car. Guests enjoy authentic vegetarian breakfasts made with locally sourced ingredients, making it an ideal base for immersing in Varanasi’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Near Harishchandra Ghat, one of the most profound experiences is participating in the daily morning Ganges purification ritual, where visitors witness local devotees performing Aarti ceremonies with chants and incense under the golden sunrise. For a deeper connection, join a guided evening riverwalk tour, walking along the ghats illuminated by lanterns while listening to stories of Varanasi’s mythological past. For an immersive experience, book a Ganges Puja workshop to learn how to prepare offerings and take part in a simplified ritual, creating a memorable cultural and spiritual journey.
It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to walk from Harishchandra Ghat to downtown Varanasi (near Kashi Vishwanath Temple), passing through scenic riverside paths and vibrant local markets. For faster access, a auto-rickshaw or taxi takes just 5 minutes, costing ₹50–80. Major roads connect the area to key attractions like Durga Temple and Bhagwanpur Temple, making it ideal for a full-day itinerary. Many nearby hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services, ensuring seamless travel between the ghats and central landmarks.
Harishchandra Ghat itself is a stunning photo location, especially during golden hour when sunlight bathes the Ganges and the stone steps, with devotees praying against a serene backdrop. Arrive before dawn for ethereal shots of mist-covered water and flickering oil lamps reflected on the river. Nearby small temples and intricately carved pillars offer rich detail for close-up and cultural photography. For dramatic imagery, set up your tripod during evening Aarti to capture silhouettes of worshippers holding flaming torches, rising smoke, and glowing lights—perfect for capturing the soulful essence of Varanasi.
Stay at Ganga Aarti View Guesthouse, a boutique property just steps from Harishchandra Ghat, offering breathtaking views of the morning rituals and fire ceremonies on the Ganges. Rooms feature traditional Indian décor and some have private balconies facing the river. The location is ideal for witnessing sacred rites firsthand, with easy access to major pilgrimage sites. For a more luxurious stay, consider Hotel Ganges Riverside, whose rooftop restaurant provides panoramic views of the ghat’s nightly illumination during Ganga Aarti—perfect for photographers and spiritual travelers alike.
Both properties offer personalized cultural tours, helping guests understand the deep religious significance of this ancient site.
From Harishchandra Ghat, walk 10 minutes to Maheshwari Ghat, passing through vibrant streets filled with devotees and morning prayers. To reach temples like Durga Temple or Kali Temple, take a short 15-minute boat ride along the Ganges, offering scenic views of multiple ghats and traditional riverside homes. Alternatively, rent a cycle rickshaw or bicycle to explore Varanasi’s narrow alleys and local life up close. All options are safe, affordable, and provide authentic immersion into the city’s spiritual heartbeat.
Many guesthouses also offer guided tours that include transport between key sites.
Before attending the evening rituals at Harishchandra Ghat, wear simple, modest clothing (avoid bright colors or revealing attire) and bring a small oil lamp or incense stick for offerings. The ceremony begins shortly after sunset and lasts about 45 minutes, featuring priest-led chants in Sanskrit. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot and avoid crowds.
Photography is allowed but avoid flash; maintain silence and respect during the ritual. Free water cups and clean towels are often available for ritual purification. No entry fee is charged, but donations are welcome to support ongoing ceremonies.
Remember: Do not touch sacred objects or move around freely during the ritual—observe quietly and respectfully.
Yes, many hotels near Harishchandra Ghat, such as Shangri-La Riverside Hotel and Gujarat House Guesthouse, offer professional cultural and religious guided tours. These include sunrise pilgrimages, explanations of Ganges bathing rituals, and in-depth visits to ancient temples. Tours cover Vedic scriptures, mythological stories, and daily spiritual practices, with customizable durations.
Some packages include private transportation and traditional vegetarian dinner experiences. Guests can request English or Chinese guides upon HopeGoo for clear communication. Tour fees are transparent, typically ranging from $100–200 HKD per person per hour, offering excellent value and educational depth.
See what other travelers say about Harishchandra Ghat
Stayed at Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi and couldn’t be happier! The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming—everyone had a smile, making the whole experience warm and memorable. It just so happened to be Halloween during our visit, and the restaurant was beautifully decorated with festive touches on every dish. Each meal looked like a work of art, perfect for photos and unforgettable dining. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and located in a convenient spot. From check-in to checkout, everything was seamless. I’ll definitely be back—this place truly delivers on comfort, service, and charm.
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.
Absolutely loved my stay! The room was spotlessly clean and the bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. The staff was available 24/7, which made everything so convenient. Even though the main road outside is busy with constant traffic, the rooms are positioned inward, so noise levels were surprisingly low. I was really impressed by how quiet it was inside. The value for money was outstanding—great quality at a very reasonable price. I’d definitely choose this place again if I ever return to Varanasi.
My stay at Fabhotel Super 3 Premium in Varanasi was extremely disappointing. The hotel was far dirtier than the photos suggested—there’s a major mismatch between what’s advertised and reality. To make things worse, they double-booked my room despite me paying in advance, leaving me without accommodation for a night. There’s no kitchen or restaurant on-site, and when I asked for towels, they didn’t have any until I escalated to customer service. The night receptionist was unfriendly and unhelpful. The location is also quite far from the main attractions, making it inconvenient to explore the city. Overall, this was by far the worst experience I’ve had with any Fabhotel property. I wouldn’t recommend booking here through the platform—poor service, lack of basic amenities, and a very poor value for money.
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 Tridev Grand in Varanasi was an absolutely delightful experience. The property itself is well-maintained, clean, and offers a peaceful atmosphere despite being centrally located. I was particularly impressed by the convenient access to Durga Kund, just a short walk away—perfect for morning walks or evening strolls. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, always ready to help with any request. The rate was very reasonable for the quality, and I felt completely safe throughout my stay. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this hotel strikes the perfect balance between comfort, value, and hospitality. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Varanasi.
Staying at The Art Hotel by Via Varanasi was an absolute delight. From the moment we arrived, everything felt professional and thoughtfully organized—every little detail was considered. The rooms are truly artistic, with a unique charm that sets this place apart. The back area is perfect for families, offering a quiet, spacious retreat. The food stood out—especially the dal and Kasturi Methi Paneer, both rich in flavor and beautifully prepared. The staff were incredibly courteous and always ready to help. Even the owner was down-to-earth and welcoming, making the whole experience feel personal and warm. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a memorable stay. Definitely worth every penny, and I’d happily return.
Explore more amazing destinations