How to Pick the Best Hotel in Varanasi for a Comfortable Trip

When I planned my first trip to Varanasi, the biggest question was not what to see, but where to stay. The city has hundreds of hotels, from small guesthouses to big riverside resorts, and choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. After a few stays in Varanasi, I’ve learned that finding the best hotel in Varanasi is not about picking the fanciest one, but the one that matches your purpose of visit. Let me share what worked for me and what might help you too.

Location Makes All the Difference

The first time I stayed near Godowlia, close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It was perfect because I could walk to the temple early morning and also enjoy the nearby markets. Another time, I stayed near Assi Ghat, which had a calmer vibe with lots of cafés around. If your plan is to catch the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, book a hotel near the main ghats. For those who want easy transport, hotels near Varanasi Junction Railway Station are very convenient. So, think about what you want to experience and then decide the area.

Budget vs. Comfort

Varanasi is not just for luxury travelers. On my backpacking trip, I stayed in a simple guesthouse for under ₹1000 a night. It wasn’t fancy, but it was clean and safe. On another trip with family, I picked a mid-range hotel that had bigger rooms and proper dining. If you want something special, there are riverside heritage hotels that offer stunning Ganga views. My tip: don’t just look at the price, look at the value. Sometimes paying a little extra gives you peace of mind.

Amenities That Actually Matter

It’s easy to get carried away by long lists of hotel features, but in Varanasi, you only need a few basics. A clean room, working air-conditioning (trust me, summers are hot), good Wi-Fi, and helpful staff make a huge difference. One hotel I stayed in even arranged an early morning boat ride on the Ganga, which turned out to be the highlight of my trip. Little touches like this make a stay memorable.

Read Guest Reviews (But Smartly)

I used to blindly trust online reviews, but after a few trips I’ve learned to read them carefully. Look for repeated mentions of cleanliness, staff behavior, and location. If several people mention the same problem, like noise or poor service, it’s usually true. Reviews helped me avoid a few disappointing stays and also discover hidden gems.

Proximity to Transport Helps

If you’re coming by train, staying near Varanasi Junction or Manduadih Station saves a lot of hassle. The same goes if you’re flying into Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport. I once made the mistake of booking a hotel far from the center, and spent more time in traffic than sightseeing. Now I always check travel routes before booking.

Book Early for Festivals

Varanasi during Dev Deepawali or Mahashivratri is magical but also crowded. I learned this the hard way when I couldn’t find a decent hotel because everything was booked. Now, whenever I travel around festivals, I book months in advance. It saves money and guarantees better choices.

My Personal Recommendation

If I had to suggest one option, I’d say look for a place like Shree Shivay Namastubhyam. It’s comfortable, close to the main attractions, and has the homely feeling that makes you want to return. I’ve stayed there once and felt the mix of warmth and convenience was just right.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best hotel in Varanasi is really about matching your stay with your purpose. If you want to wake up to the sound of temple bells, stay near the ghats. If you’re on a family trip, look for comfort and safety. And if you’re a solo traveler, budget-friendly guesthouses can be just as rewarding. Whatever you choose, remember that in Varanasi, the hotel is not just a place to sleep—it’s part of the experience.