Hotels in Varanasi

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Tonight
20 Jan - 21 Jan
Tomorrow
21 Jan - 22 Jan
This weekend
23 Jan - 25 Jan
Next weekend
30 Jan - 1 Feb

Where to stay in Varanasi?

Lobby sitting area

Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Taj Ganges, Varanasi
5.0 star property
Varanasi
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (485 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Serene luxury near sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple with spa and outdoor pool.
The price is AU$523
includes taxes & fees
1 Feb - 2 Feb
Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Restaurant

Avantika By The Ganges, IHCL Seleqtions

Avantika By The Ganges, IHCL Seleqtions
2.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is AU$680
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
Avantika By The Ganges, IHCL Seleqtions
Family Double Room, Air conditioning

Hotel Pvs Grand Varanasi

Hotel Pvs Grand Varanasi
3.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is AU$30
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
Hotel Pvs Grand Varanasi
Lobby

DoubleTree by Hilton Varanasi

DoubleTree by Hilton Varanasi
4.0 star property
Varanasi
7.8 out of 10, Good, (105 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Riverside Varanasi hotel with rooftop views and cooling outdoor pool.
The price is AU$191
includes taxes & fees
28 Jan - 29 Jan
DoubleTree by Hilton Varanasi
Building design

asar Varanasi Junction by Orion Hotels

asar Varanasi Junction by Orion Hotels
3.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is AU$45
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
asar Varanasi Junction by Orion Hotels
Family Quadruple Room

Pearl Courtyard

Pearl Courtyard
3.5 star property
Varanasi
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (67 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Historic hotel near Kashi Vishwanath Temple with attentive staff and essential amenities.
Pearl Courtyard
Exterior

HOTEL PUJA RESIDENCY

HOTEL PUJA RESIDENCY
3.0 star property
Mahmoorganj
  • cleanliness
    Stay in Varanasi with easy access to sacred temples and vibrant ghats.
The price is AU$54
includes taxes & fees
26 Jan - 27 Jan
HOTEL PUJA RESIDENCY
Reception

Prince Diamond Hotel

Prince Diamond Hotel
2.5 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is AU$33
includes taxes & fees
26 Jan - 27 Jan
Prince Diamond Hotel
Front of property

HOTEL NEW KASHI PALACE

HOTEL NEW KASHI PALACE
2.0 star property
Varanasi
The price is AU$25
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
HOTEL NEW KASHI PALACE
Deluxe Double Room, Air conditioning

Hotel Kashi Cottage Varanasi

Hotel Kashi Cottage Varanasi
3.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (2 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Only 15 minutes to the sacred temple and Ganges ghat, with free Wi-Fi and parking.
The price is AU$79
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
Hotel Kashi Cottage Varanasi
Exterior

Vallabh Villas Guest House

Vallabh Villas Guest House
2.0 star property
Varanasi
The price is AU$34
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
Vallabh Villas Guest House
Front of property

Goroomgo The Coco Cabana Varanasi

Goroomgo The Coco Cabana Varanasi
3.0 star property
Mahmoorganj
  • cleanliness
    Experience poolside relaxation near Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dasaswamedh ghat.
The price is AU$291
includes taxes & fees
22 Jan - 23 Jan
Goroomgo The Coco Cabana Varanasi
Exterior

The Maheshwar Hotel

The Maheshwar Hotel
3.0 star property
Varanasi
The price is AU$73
includes taxes & fees
3 Feb - 4 Feb
The Maheshwar Hotel
Family Room

Hotel Midcity

Hotel Midcity
3.0 star property
Varanasi
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (19 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Centrally located in Varanasi, just a short walk from Dasaswamedh ghat.
Hotel Midcity
Front of property

Shiv Ashray

Shiv Ashray
2.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is AU$81
includes taxes & fees
28 Jan - 29 Jan
Shiv Ashray
Restaurant

HOTEL DOLPHIN GRAND

HOTEL DOLPHIN GRAND
3.0 star property
Varanasi
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (100 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Varanasi riverside stay with easy access to Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dasaswamedh ghat.
The price is AU$155
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
HOTEL DOLPHIN GRAND
Front of property

The Kashi Elegance Varanasi

The Kashi Elegance Varanasi
2.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is AU$22
includes taxes & fees
30 Jan - 31 Jan
The Kashi Elegance Varanasi
Hypo-allergenic bedding, in-room safe, soundproofing, free WiFi

Hotel Kashi Grand Varanasi

Hotel Kashi Grand Varanasi
3.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (6 reviews)
The price is AU$32
includes taxes & fees
18 Feb - 19 Feb
Hotel Kashi Grand Varanasi
Interior

Hotel Buddha Park

Hotel Buddha Park
3.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (2 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Riverside serenity just a short drive from Varanasi's sacred heart.
Hotel Buddha Park
Front of property

Shree Inn

Shree Inn
2.0 star property
Varanasi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (4 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stay close to sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple and vibrant Dasaswamedh ghat.
The price is AU$53
includes taxes & fees
21 Jan - 22 Jan
Shree Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Showing deals for:23 Jan - 25 Jan
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Sage Superior Rooms
Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village

Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village

Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village
4.5 star property
Varanasi
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (12 reviews)
AU$187 off
The price is AU$210
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$105 per night
includes taxes & fees
Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village
Showing deals for:30 Jan - 1 Feb
VIP Access
Sage Superior Rooms
Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village

Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village

Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village
4.5 star property
Varanasi
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (12 reviews)
AU$164 off
The price is AU$210
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$105 per night
includes taxes & fees
Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village
Showing deals for:18 Feb - 19 Feb
VIP Access
Courtyard
BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges

BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges

BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges
5.0 star property
Varanasi
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (216 reviews)
AU$296 off
The price is AU$1,156
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges

Check out hotels with a spa in Varanasi

Balcony
Kedareswar Bed and Breakfast

Kedareswar Bed and Breakfast

Kedareswar Bed and Breakfast
2.5 star property
Varanasi
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (71)
Kedareswar Bed and Breakfast
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You may also like hotels with pools in Varanasi

Lobby sitting area
Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Taj Ganges, Varanasi
5.0 star property
Varanasi
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (485)
The price is AU$523
includes taxes & fees
1 Feb - 2 Feb
Taj Ganges, Varanasi
View all properties

You can also stay at family-friendly hotels in Varanasi

Sage Superior Rooms
Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village

Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village

Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village
4.5 star property
Varanasi
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (12)
Kashi Anandam Spiritual & Wellness Vedic Village
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties

When is the best time to visit Varanasi?

Our prices for hotels in Varanasi are cheapest in August
Price trends for hotels in Varanasi
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in January
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for January.
Typical weather for Varanasi
January
High 23°C / low 12°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in January
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January, no crowd data, average high temperature 23 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 12 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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February, no crowd data, average high temperature 28 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 15 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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March, no crowd data, average high temperature 35 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 20 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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April, no crowd data, average high temperature 40 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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May, no crowd data, average high temperature 42 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 30 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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June, no crowd data, average high temperature 40 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 31 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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July, no crowd data, average high temperature 34 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 28 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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August, no crowd data, average high temperature 33 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 27 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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September, no crowd data, average high temperature 33 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 26 degrees Celsius. Partly sunny.
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October, no crowd data, average high temperature 32 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 23 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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November, no crowd data, average high temperature 29 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 18 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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December, no crowd data, average high temperature 25 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 14 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighbourhoods in Varanasi

Varanasi, India - March 07, 2025: Main ghat at Ganges river in Varanasi city, India

Godaulia

Godaulia buzzes with the energy of Varanasi's spiritual heart, where shoppers haggle for silks and religious trinkets in crowded bazaars. The iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands proudly amid narrow lanes packed with devotees and curious travellers. Nearby, evening aarti ceremonies light up Dashashwamedh Ghat as chanting voices echo across the sacred Ganges River. Traditional street food dominates the scene with mouthwatering kachori, chaat, and lassi available from dawn until midnight. Navigate the medieval maze by foot or hop on a cycle rickshaw to explore further, as the neighborhood's ancient lanes are too narrow for regular vehicles.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Many Boats moored on Ganga river near ghats. Hundreds of tourists and locals come in boats to watch Ganga Maha Aarti ceremony and the fire ceremony. Purple sunset sky

Sigra

Sigra lets travellers dive into authentic Varanasi life away from the tourist-packed ghats. The area hums with spiritual energy - ornate temples with intricate carvings, colourful shrines, and the constant symphony of prayer bells create an immersive cultural experience. Markets along Sigra Road burst with traditional silk sarees, brass artefacts, and religious items perfect for meaningful souvenirs. Local eateries serve vegetarian thalis and sweet shops offer traditional treats like malaiyo and rabri. Budget guesthouses and family-run homestays provide authentic accommodation options. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws navigate the narrow lanes easily, connecting you to the main ghats just a short ride away.

Historic Buddhist temple in Varanasi, India. Buddhist temples structure like Bangkok ,Thailand

Lanka

Lanka offers a peaceful retreat from Varanasi's busy ghats with tree-lined avenues and the scholarly atmosphere of Banaras Hindu University. The sprawling campus grounds feature historic buildings and the notable Bharat Kala Bhavan museum housing significant art collections. Small area temples dot quiet residential streets, providing glimpses into authentic local life away from tourist crowds. Budget guesthouses and paying guest accommodation make this area affordable for travellers. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws provide easy transport around the area and to Varanasi's famous sites. Student-friendly eateries serve delicious, affordable North Indian meals perfect for budget-conscious travellers seeking genuine experiences.

Ganga Aarti performed at dusk on the banks of the Ganges River in one of the oldest living cities in the world. Boats are filled to the brim with people wanting to watch the performance.
Photo by Tracy Glenn
Open Photo by Tracy Glenn

Varanasi Nagar Nigam

Varanasi Nagar Nigam's ancient stone ghats cascade down to the sacred Ganges, where pilgrims perform daily rituals amid floating marigolds and incense smoke. The golden spires of Kashi Vishwanath Temple pierce narrow lanes filled with saffron-robed sadhus and centuries-old havelis. Walking these labyrinthine streets, you'll hear temple bells and Sanskrit chants that have echoed here for thousands of years. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws navigate the narrow lanes while boats offer scenic transport along the Ganges. Traditional vegetarian thalis, lassi shops, and rooftop restaurants overlooking the ghats provide authentic local flavours. From budget ashrams to heritage havelis turned boutique hotels, accommodation cater to both spiritual seekers and curious travellers.

River Ganges, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India; 30-Jan-2019; Siberian migratory birds over river Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Mahmoorganj

Mahmoorganj buzzes with authentic market energy, where rainbow displays of textiles compete with electronics shops and the tantalising aroma of street food. Narrow lanes transform into a sensory maze of saris, handicrafts, and incense wafting from nearby temples. Scindia Ghat makes a worthwhile side trip when you need a break from bargaining. Budget guesthouses and family-run properties offer simple rooms for cost-conscious travellers exploring Varanasi. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws navigate the congested lanes better than cars, connecting you to the Ganges riverfront just a short ride away.

Top landmarks in Varanasi

The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Guptakashi, believed to be constructed by the Pandavas during their Guptavasa, is located in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, India.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

4.6/5 (67 reviews)
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is 2.3 mi (3.8 km) from central Varanasi, and is a popular place to see during your stay.
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0_10158894

Dasaswamedh ghat

4.5/5 (72 reviews)
You might want to get your camera out and head to Dasaswamedh ghat – just one of the landmarks located 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from central Varanasi.
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Learn more about Varanasi

Dawn breaks with temple bells as pilgrims descend the ancient ghats to meet the sacred Ganges. Witness morning rituals at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform ceremonies with fire and flowers. The labyrinthine alleys of old Varanasi reveal silk weavers working traditional looms. Kashi Vishwanath Temple draws devotees amid incense and chanting. Evening boat rides offer views of the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony, where flames dance against the darkening sky. For cultural immersion, explore Banaras Hindu University or catch a classical music performance from the Benares gharana tradition. The city's spiritual energy is palpable whether sipping lassi or wandering markets filled with brass statues and handwoven scarves.

See all hotels in Varanasi
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Check out reviews of Varanasi hotels guests love

Check out reviews of Varanasi hotels guests love

Dwivedi Hotels Sri Omkar Palace

Dwivedi Hotels Sri Omkar Palace

10/10 Excellent
"Had a wonderful stay - was a little concerned, we had to shift to a cycle rickshaw, and hotel staff carried our bags through narrow alleys for about a km - but when we got inside, it was quaint & pretty, great view of Ganga from our balcony - Chausatti ghat is steps from the hotel, climb down to the river. Dasashwamedh ghat, where they do the Ganga Aarathi is literally 10 minutes by walk - we were there 3 nights, and saw Aarathi up close every night. Hotel staff was extremely helpful, wonderful manager, Neeraj was great - they arranged Pooja and Darshan at the main temple, we zipped trough queues, next day they arranged a trip to various other temples and Saranath- they also helped into a tuk-tuk at 4:30 AM to catch a 6:00 AM train "
Rajeevan 3-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Dwivedi Hotels Sri Omkar Palace

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Varanasi?
You can find top hotels in Varanasi from AU$22 with options to suit your budget and needs. goSTOPS Lite Varanasi is one low-cost option that's popular with our travellers. If you're after an affordable hotel in Varanasi that meets all of your requirements, set your filters and then sort the results by "Price: low to high".
How much does a hotel room cost in Varanasi?
You can find top hotels in Varanasi from AU$22 with options to suit your budget and needs. goSTOPS Lite Varanasi is one low-cost option that's popular with our travellers. If you're after an affordable hotel in Varanasi that meets all of your requirements, set your filters and then sort the results by "Price: low to high". If you're a member, don't forget to sign in to your account to unlock more savings.
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Varanasi hotels?
Discover great deals on Varanasi hotel stays with Hotels.com. Take a look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as to find those off-peak deals. If you're up for a spontaneous trip, don't forget to check out our last-minute deals on Varanasi hotels.
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Varanasi hotels?
Members can save up to 20% on select hotels in Varanasi. Plus, Silver, Gold and Platinum members earn extra rewards on VIP Access bookings, making each stay even more rewarding.

Can I book Varanasi hotels with free cancellation?
To book a refundable Varanasi hotel on Hotels.com, just filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". The majority of hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Varanasi?
Some of the most popular luxury hotels in Varanasi are Taj Ganges, Varanasi, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi, and BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges. Taj Ganges, Varanasi is a luxury hotel with a high guest rating amongst our travellers, and it offers an outdoor pool, a full-service spa and a steam room. Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi and BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges are two more favourite luxury stays in great Varanasi locations.
What are some top pet-friendly hotels in Varanasi?
Our travellers' top pet-friendly hotels in Varanasi include:You can check "Pet friendly" on the Hotels.com "Amenities" filter in your search to find even more pet-friendly hotels in Varanasi.
What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Varanasi?
Some of the best Varanasi hotels for kids include Taj Ganges, Varanasi, Amritara Suryauday Haveli, and Rivatas. Taj Ganges, Varanasi is a kid-friendly hotel with a guest score of 9 out of 10 offering family-friendly amenities like an outdoor pool and free parking, plus free cots in guestrooms. Check out Amritara Suryauday Haveli with a guest score of 8.6. This popular hotel has a barbecue grill and more. Rivatas is another good option with an outdoor pool, free babysitting, and free valet parking. Find even more kid-friendly hotels in Varanasi by using our "Family friendly" filter on Hotels.com when you search.
What are the top Varanasi hotels with a pool?
For a little extra luxury, discover some of the best Varanasi hotels with a pool. Taj Nadesar Palace is a great hotel with an outdoor pool and a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. Taj Ganges, Varanasi is a popular hotel that features an outdoor pool along with a full-service spa and 2 restaurants. To find more stays in Varanasi with a pool, use the "Amenities" filter on Hotels.com in your search and select "Pool".
What are some of the best Varanasi hotels with free parking?
If you're arriving by car, choosing a great Varanasi hotel with free parking is a plus. Our travellers' favourites include:
What are some popular hotels in central Varanasi?
For hotels in central Varanasi, check out Hotel Kashi Grand Varanasi and Hotel Aastha Inn. Travellers love Hotel Kashi Grand Varanasi for its location, as well as the restaurant, free parking and concierge services this hotel offers. Hotel Aastha Inn is another popular central hotel with concierge services, plus free WiFi in the guestrooms. Stay at one of these hotels for easy access to top sights like Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dasaswamedh ghat. Lanka and Mahmoorganj are some of the most central areas for your Varanasi holiday.
Can I book a refundable accommodation option in Varanasi?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Varanasi, most hotels offer refundable* rates that you can book. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.

Find out more about Varanasi

Whispers of the Ganges: Unveiling the Sacred Treasures of Varanasi

Nestled along the sacred banks of the Ganges, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a vibrant tapestry of spirituality and culture. Known as the spiritual heart of India, this ancient city enchants visitors with its labyrinthine alleyways, ornate temples, and mesmerizing ghats where life and death intertwine. Witness the ethereal Ganga Aarti, explore the historic Sarnath, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local traditions. Varanasi is a captivating destination for cultural explorers, offering an unparalleled glimpse into India's soul, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic experiences and spiritual awakening.

Discover great hotels in Varanasi

Varanasi offers a diverse range of accommodations, from budget hotels to premium establishments, catering to various preferences and budgets. Many hotels feature modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, restaurants, and wellness facilities. Whether you seek luxury or a cosy stay, Varanasi’s hotels provide a comfortable base for exploring this vibrant city. Here are some of the best hotels in Varanasi that our travellers love:

  1. Hotel GrapevineOpens in a new window: Hotel Grapevine offers an exquisite blend of luxury and business facilities, ideal for discerning travellers seeking a sophisticated retreat. This property features multiple meeting rooms, a dedicated business centre available 24 hours, and extensive conference space to cater to professional needs. The architectural design exudes elegance, complemented by high-end dining options and seamless express check-in services. With outstanding sentiments highlighting the comfort and distinctive experiences, this hotel is perfect for those who value both style and functionality during their travels.
  2. Ramada by Wyndham Varanasi KatesarOpens in a new window: Ramada by Wyndham Varanasi Katesar is a delightful choice for families looking to create unforgettable memories in a welcoming environment. This property offers ample amenities for children, including onsite babysitting services, ensuring a stress-free stay for parents. The hotel provides a vibrant atmosphere with spacious family rooms and engaging activities tailored for younger guests. Positive reviews emphasise the warmth of the experience, making this hotel a family-friendly haven where comfort and enjoyment reign supreme.
  3. Hotel ClarksOpens in a new window: Hotel Clarks presents an upscale experience tailored for business travellers who appreciate luxury and sophistication. With features such as a state-of-the-art conference space, a well-equipped business centre, and multiple meeting rooms, every aspect is designed for optimal productivity. The hotel boasts refined architectural details, high-end dining options, and thoughtful amenities to ensure a seamless stay. Review sentiments reflect a strong appreciation for the comfort and convenience provided, making this hotel an excellent choice for professionals seeking a distinguished environment.

Top locations to stay in Varanasi

When visiting Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, consider staying in Kakarmatha, Sarnath, and Muradev. Kakarmatha offers a vibrant local atmosphere, while Sarnath is rich in Buddhist history with its stunning temples and archaeological sites. Muradev provides a serene retreat with its scenic beauty. For first-time visitors, Sarnath is the ideal choice, given its cultural significance and proximity to Varanasi's main attractions.

  1. SarnathOpens in a new window: Sarnath is a must-visit for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in India's spiritual heritage. Known as the site where Buddha gave his first sermon, it’s home to stunning temples and the impressive Dhamek Stupa. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens make it a perfect place for reflection. You can explore ancient ruins, including the Ashoka Pillar, and visit the Sarnath Museum, which houses incredible Buddhist artifacts. Stay here for a serene experience, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.
  2. KakarmathaOpens in a new window: Kakarmatha offers a unique blend of local culture and spirituality, making it a great place to stay while exploring Varanasi. The area is close to several temples and shrines, allowing for easy access to spiritual experiences. The vibrant local markets are perfect for those looking to shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals, as you discover the rich tapestry of traditions that define this region.
  3. MuradevOpens in a new window: Muradev is a charming spot for travellers seeking a quieter retreat in Varanasi. This area is known for its picturesque landscapes and is close to several local temples, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of the region. Though smaller than other areas, its tranquillity is a welcome change, perfect for those wanting to escape the busier parts of the city. Enjoy leisurely walks and engage with the friendly locals, who are always eager to share stories about their culture and traditions.

Things to do in Varanasi

Varanasi is a vibrant tapestry of life, where ancient temples meet the tranquil flow of the river. Expect serene mornings filled with yoga and stunning sunrises, along with the thrill of rowing and boating on the water. This unique city invites you to explore its rich heritage while soaking in its natural beauty.

  • Scindia GhatOpens in a new window – Experience the spiritual heart of Varanasi at Scindia Ghat, a beautiful temple located along the banks of the sacred Ganges River. Witness the vibrant rituals and ceremonies that take place here, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the ghat is illuminated by the soft glow of lamps and the sounds of chanting fill the air.
  • Sankat Mochan Hanuman TempleOpens in a new window – Visit the revered Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This enchanting site is a hub of devotion, where you can observe local devotees performing rituals and offering prayers. The temple's serene atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and peace.
  • Mulagandha Kuti ViharaOpens in a new window – Make your way to Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, a tranquil monastery that showcases stunning frescoes depicting the life of Buddha. Take a moment to sit in the peaceful gardens surrounding the vihara, where the gentle sounds of nature create a calming environment.
  • Sarlath MuseumOpens in a new window – Explore the Sarlath Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts, sculptures, and ancient relics. This insightful journey through history allows you to appreciate the rich heritage of Buddhism and its influence on the region.
  • Dhammek StupaOpens in a new window – Marvel at the magnificent Dhammek Stupa, a monumental structure that marks the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon. The intricate carvings and towering presence of the stupa are awe-inspiring, making it a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Varanasi

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Varanasi is during May, June, and August, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a comprehensive exploration of the city's historical landmarks and cultural attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, visitors can enjoy budget-friendly experiences such as visiting ancient temples, admiring significant monuments, rowing on the Ganges, and participating in yoga sessions at sunrise. This journey offers great value for money, allowing you to immerse yourself in Varanasi's rich heritage without breaking the bank.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover enticing last-minute deals for Varanasi, consider exploring the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com can help you stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, ensuring you’re more likely to seize opportunities for savings. Furthermore, the Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you can make informed decisions and be the first to know about any price drops or room availability for your ideal accommodation.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in Varanasi. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. Should the price be on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Varanasi's excellent public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those eager to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Varanasi

Varanasi experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 62.8°F (17.1°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 95.9°F (35.5°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Varanasi are January, February, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no to moderate rainfall. In contrast, May, August, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to frequent rainfall and sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

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