Varanasi Hotels

Top reasons to visit Varanasi

• Spiritual Atmosphere: Experience the profound spirituality of Varanasi along the ghats of the Ganges, where daily rituals and ceremonies create a unique ambience.
• Historic Temples: Explore the magnificent temples that reflect the rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance of this ancient city.
• Local Markets: Indulge in vibrant shopping adventures, discovering unique crafts and local delicacies in bustling markets.
• Art and Culture: Immerse yourself in local art galleries showcasing talent and creativity, enhancing your cultural experience.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to charming hostels, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels in Varanasi

Discover a myriad of accommodation options in Varanasi, catering to every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a comfortable hotel, a charming bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly hostel, Varanasi has it all. Enjoy family-friendly amenities, pet-friendly options, and facilities tailored for business travellers. Renowned establishments like Hotel Varanasi Inn and Hilton Varanasi await to provide you with a memorable stay in this sacred city.

• Taj Ganges, Varanasi: Nestled in the heart of Varanasi, the 5-star Taj Ganges offers a sophisticated blend of family-friendly amenities and luxurious comfort. With a guest rating of 9.0, this hotel is ideal for both leisure and business travellers. Guests can enjoy a range of services designed for children, including babysitting options and a dedicated dog exercise area for pet owners. The serene surroundings make it a perfect getaway for families seeking a relaxing yet engaging experience amid the cultural richness of Varanasi.
• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi: The Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV is a 5-star establishment that stands out for its luxurious offerings tailored for the business traveller. This hotel is strategically located to provide access to the city's vibrant life while ensuring a tranquil environment for work and relaxation. Guests can take advantage of modern amenities and elegant accommodations, making it an excellent choice for those looking to combine work with leisure in a sophisticated setting.
• BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges - An IHCL brand: Housed in a national historic building, the 4-star BrijRama Palace offers a unique blend of history and luxury with a commendable guest rating of 9.2. This hotel is perfect for those seeking a theme of heritage and indulgence, featuring a full spa service that includes aromatherapy treatments and a steam room for ultimate relaxation. Its picturesque location by the Ganges enhances the experience, making it a remarkable choice for travellers interested in history and wellness.

Where to stay in Varanasi

Varanasi, a vibrant tapestry of culture and history, offers an unforgettable experience for travellers. Explore the enchanting ghats along the Ganges, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere, and indulge in unique shopping adventures at local markets. Discover the essence of this ancient city as you wander through its bustling streets and savour the delightful local cuisine. Nearby regions also beckon with their historical charm, making Varanasi a perfect base for an enriching journey.

• Sarnath: Sarnath, a tranquil village located near Varanasi, is famed as the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. This cultural hub attracts visitors year-round, with peaks in February, September, and December. Travellers flock here for its rich heritage, stunning scenery, and serene atmosphere. Notable landmarks include ancient temples and monuments, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a profound cultural experience. The nearby Dhamek Stupa and the archaeological museum are highlights that offer a glimpse into India's spiritual past.
• Mahmoorganj: Situated in the vicinity of Varanasi, Mahmoorganj is a bustling neighbourhood known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse cultural offerings. With visitor numbers peaking in February, July, and November, it provides an engaging experience for tourists throughout the year. The neighbourhood is replete with historical temples and monuments, perfect for culture enthusiasts. The local harbour adds to the charm, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views while soaking in the lively environment. Mahmoorganj is a great starting point for exploring the rich tapestry of Varanasi's heritage.
• Godaulia: Godaulia is a lively neighbourhood that offers a blend of culture and activity, making it a must-visit for those exploring Varanasi. With moderate seasonal peaks in visitor numbers from June to August, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. Godaulia is known for its educational venues, alongside numerous temples and monuments that reflect the region's historical significance. The neighbourhood serves as a gateway to local attractions, perfect for those interested in immersing themselves in the cultural fabric of Varanasi, all while enjoying the picturesque scenery it offers.

Things to do in Varanasi

Shopping

Explore the vibrant streets of Varanasi for unique souvenirs, especially at the bustling Vishwanath Gali market, renowned for its handwoven silk and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Mall of Varanasi, offering a mix of brands and modern shopping experiences beyond the city centre.

Recreation

Experience the serenity of Ayurvedic healing at a wellness retreat in Varanasi, where you can indulge in traditional therapies and yoga sessions. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while participating in meditation workshops along the banks of the Ganges, surrounded by the city's rich spiritual heritage.

Adventure

In Varanasi, explore the Ganges River on a sunrise boat ride, witnessing the ethereal beauty of the ghats. For a thrilling experience, try cycling along the riverbanks, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture and bustling markets that surround this ancient city.

Nightlife

In Varanasi, the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat offers a captivating spiritual experience with vibrant rituals and crowds. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit the local cafes along the ghats, where you can enjoy live music and engage with fellow travellers under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Varanasi

To save money on your trip to Varanasi, visit during the off-peak months of May to June and August for lower prices. Take advantage of free attractions like Sant Ravidas Ghat and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. Use auto-rickshaws or boats for affordable transport. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Mondays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are pricier. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for better savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Varanasi are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to October to December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Varanasi about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Varanasi is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Varanasi is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Varanasi with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Varanasi

Varanasi, a city steeped in culture and history, offers a plethora of attractions such as temples, historic buildings, and significant sites, making it ideal for those seeking a cultural getaway. Visitors can explore central Varanasi and its scenic landscapes, immersing themselves in the vibrant local traditions. With a perfect blend of spirituality and heritage, Varanasi promises an enriching experience for every traveller.

• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Nestled within Varanasi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It offers a serene atmosphere where visitors can immerse themselves in the spiritual ambience, often filled with the sounds of hymns and chanting. The temple is a hub for devotees seeking blessings and a glimpse into local cultural practices.
• Shri Kaal Bhairav: A significant historic site, Shri Kaal Bhairav is revered as the guardian deity of Varanasi. The temple's architecture and rituals reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region, making it a fascinating place to explore the spiritual traditions of India.
• Sultankeshwer Temple: This religious temple is noted for its unique architecture and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can engage in spiritual practices while appreciating the serene environment, which is often less crowded, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Best time to go to Varanasi

The best time to visit Varanasi is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	62.8°F (17.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	80.8°F (27.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	91.4°F (33.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
May	95.9°F (35.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	95.4°F (35.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	87.8°F (31.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	85.5°F (29.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	84.2°F (29.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
November	73.9°F (23.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	66.0°F (18.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Varanasi

Flying into Varanasi is convenient via Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS), situated 19km from the city. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the five-star Taj Ganges, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi, and Taj Nadesar Palace, all approximately 18km from the airport. These hotels offer various transportation services, including on-request airport shuttles and 24-hour shuttle availability. Alternatively, you may consider Gorakhpur Airport (GOP), located 166km away, with nearby hotels like Radisson Blu Gorakhpur and Shivoy Hotel providing free shuttle services. For those flying into Allahabad Airport (IXD), situated 126km from Varanasi, hotels such as Hotel Placid and Grand Continental Hotel  offer airport transfer options.