Varanasi—also known as Kashi or Banaras—is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Famous for its spiritual energy, iconic river ghats, ancient temples, and vibrant alleyways, visiting Banaras is a bucket-list experience for travelers globally.
Choosing the right place to stay is key to experiencing the city’s magic without feeling overwhelmed by its bustling pace. Whether you are looking for royal heritage luxury, modern business amenities, or cozy mid-range stays with great hospitality, here are the Top 10 Hotels in Varanasi to consider for your next trip.
| Hotel Name | Category | Highlights | Ideal For |
| BrijRama Palace | Heritage Luxury | Private ghat location, royal architecture, fine dining | Luxury seekers, heritage lovers |
| Taj Ganges | 5-Star Luxury | 12 acres of lush greenery, outdoor pool, world-class dining | Families, luxury travelers |
| Taj Nadesar Palace | Ultra-Luxury / Boutique | Historic royal residence, horse-drawn carriage, Jiva Spa | High-end luxury travelers |
| Hotel Castillo | Luxury / Mid-Range / Modern | Central location, prompt service, great in-house dining | Families, business travelers, budget-conscious guests |
| Radisson Hotel Varanasi | 4-Star Luxury | Outdoor pool, spa, proximity to transport hubs | Leisure & corporate travelers |
| DoubleTree by Hilton | Modern 5-Star | Modern rooms, heated pool, international standards | Business & family trips |
| juSTa Luxe Kashi Parampara | Boutique Luxury | Close to Assi Ghat, stylish interiors | Cultural enthusiasts |
| Avantika By The Ganges (IHCL) | Riverfront Boutique | Tranquil vibes, stunning river views | Serene getaways |
| Hotel Madin | Mid-Range | Exceptional food, modern accessibility, plush rooms | Families with seniors, food lovers |
| Hotel Surya, Kaiser Palace | Heritage Mid-Range | Colonial-era palace, sprawling gardens, lively cafe | Heritage budget travelers |
1. BrijRama Palace – By the Ganges
Located directly on Darbhanga Ghat, BrijRama Palace is one of Varanasi’s oldest and most iconic heritage structures, dating back to the 18th century. Accessible primarily by boat, this palace offers an unparalleled spiritual ambiance.
- Why Stay Here: Direct views of the morning Ganga Aarti, authentic Indian architecture, live classical music, and Ayurvedic spa treatments at Jiva Spa.
- Best For: Travelers wanting an authentic Banarasi experience right on the ghats.
2. Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Set across 12 acres of lush green gardens in the Cantonment area, Taj Ganges offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Why Stay Here: Impeccable Taj hospitality, expansive outdoor swimming pool, top-rated multi-cuisine dining at Chowk, and family-friendly amenities.
- Best For: Luxury travelers and families looking for comfort and tranquility.
3. Taj Nadesar Palace
For those who want to live like royalty, Taj Nadesar Palace is an exclusive boutique luxury retreat that has hosted royalty and celebrities since the 19th century.
- Why Stay Here: Only a handful of suites, personal butler service, horse-drawn carriage rides, and private dining in historic gardens.
- Best For: Honeymooners, VIPs, and high-end luxury enthusiasts.
4. Hotel Castillo
A hidden gem in the city’s hospitality landscape, Hotel Castillo is a standout choice for travelers looking for modern comfort, exceptional value, and a central location.
- Why Stay Here: Known for its clean, spacious rooms, courteous staff, and seamless connectivity to railway stations and shopping hubs like Godowlia and JHV Mall. The in-house dining options provide delicious local and North Indian cuisines in a warm, welcoming environment.
- Best For: Families, business travelers, and budget-conscious tourists seeking reliable hospitality.
5. Radisson Hotel Varanasi
Situated in the Cantonment district, Radisson Hotel offers contemporary luxury with easy access to major sightseeing spots and transportation hubs.
- Why Stay Here: Spacious accommodations, two fine-dining restaurants, outdoor swimming pool, and rejuvenating spa services.
- Best For: Corporate executives and leisure travelers wanting reliable upscale amenities.
6. DoubleTree by Hilton Varanasi
Located in the modern part of Banaras, DoubleTree by Hilton brings international luxury standards to the holy city.
- Why Stay Here: Stylish guest rooms, full-service fitness center, poolside lounge, and warm Hilton hospitality (complete with their signature chocolate chip cookie).
- Best For: International tourists and business visitors.
7. juSTa Luxe Kashi Parampara
Conveniently located near the vibrant Assi Ghat, this boutique property blends Varanasi’s artistic traditions with modern luxury.
- Why Stay Here: Walking distance to Assi Ghat for early morning Subah-e-Banaras and evening Ganga Aarti. Beautiful artistic decor celebrating local craftsmanship.
- Best For: Culture seekers, solo travelers, and food lovers who want to be close to Assi Ghat’s famous cafes.
8. Avantika By The Ganges (IHCL SeleQtions)
Part of the IHCL SeleQtions portfolio, Avantika By The Ganges offers a quiet, boutique riverfront stay with breathtaking views of the sacred river.
- Why Stay Here: Exceptional hospitality, cozy aesthetic, and undisturbed sunrise views over the Ganges.
- Best For: Couples and travelers seeking peaceful reflection away from city crowds.
9. Hotel Madin
Hotel Madin is an elegant luxury property that consistently earns rave reviews for its dining, hygiene, and accessible facilities.
- Why Stay Here: Outstanding multi-cuisine buffet, modern walk-in showers (great for senior citizens), and attentive service.
- Best For: Multi-generational families traveling with elderly parents.
10. Hotel Surya, Kaiser Palace
Housed in a 19th-century palace built by the Royal Family of Nepal, Hotel Surya offers colonial charm at mid-range pricing.
- Why Stay Here: Sprawling green lawns, an open-air swimming pool, and the popular Cactus Cafe, making it a lively hub for international backpackers and heritage enthusiasts.
- Best For: Budget-conscious heritage lovers and mid-range travelers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hotel in Varanasi
Ghat Area vs. City/Cantonment:
Ghat Hotels (e.g., BrijRama Palace, juSTa Luxe) offer immersive spiritual vibes and river views, but cars cannot reach them directly. Expect to walk through narrow lanes or take a boat.
City/Cantonment Hotels (e.g., Hotel Castillo, Taj Ganges, Radisson) offer full vehicle accessibility, parking, peace, and larger room spaces.
Best Time to Book: Varanasi experiences peak footfall between October and March. Book your stay well in advance, especially during major festivals like Dev Deepawali or Maha Shivratri.