Find hotels in Varanasi from £11

Top reasons to visit Varanasi

• Sacred Ghats: Experience the spiritual essence of Varanasi at its famous ghats along the Ganges River, where you can witness mesmerizing rituals and stunning sunsets.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Discover ancient temples and historic sites that reflect the city's deep-rooted traditions and heritage.
• Sarnath: Visit the nearby site of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first teachings, offering a serene and reflective atmosphere.
• Delicious Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavours of Varanasi, sampling its renowned street food and traditional dishes.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodging options, from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to all budgets.

Find great hotels in Varanasi

Varanasi offers a diverse array of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to both business travellers and families alike. Whether you’re seeking a pet-friendly stay or a hotel close to the city's vibrant attractions, you'll discover top-rated places that promise a memorable experience. Explore the best lodging choices for your Varanasi holidays and enjoy the unique blend of comfort and culture that this ancient city has to offer.

• Taj Ganges, Varanasi: Nestled amidst lush gardens, Taj Ganges, Varanasi is a luxurious 5-star retreat ideal for families and pet lovers alike. This hotel prides itself on a family-friendly atmosphere, offering thoughtful amenities such as window guards, babysitting services, and complimentary cribs for little ones. The hotel is also pet-friendly, with designated areas for dogs and cats, ensuring that your furry friends can enjoy the stay as well. With its elegant design and attentive service, Taj Ganges provides a serene escape that caters to all ages and preferences.
• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi: A sophisticated choice for business travellers, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi offers a seamless blend of luxury and practicality. This 5-star hotel features a fully equipped 24-hour business centre, multiple meeting rooms, and versatile conference spaces, making it an excellent base for corporate events. The modern amenities and professional atmosphere ensure that business needs are met while indulging in the comfort of high-end accommodation. Guests appreciate the fine dining options and the exceptional service that enhances their stay.
• BrijRama Palace, Varanasi - By the Ganges: This 4-star hotel, set in a historic building by the Ganges, transports guests to a bygone era of royal splendour. BrijRama Palace offers a unique spa experience with a full range of treatments including massages and facials, all designed for ultimate relaxation. The hotel’s elegant architecture and traditional decor enhance its charm, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a luxurious and culturally enriching stay. The heritage ambience combined with modern amenities ensures an unforgettable experience in Varanasi.

Where to stay in Varanasi

Varanasi, a city steeped in culture and history, offers a captivating experience for every traveller. From the enchanting ghats along the Ganges to the vibrant markets, the magic of Varanasi is undeniable. Explore nearby towns such as Sarnath, known for its historical significance, or take a serene boat ride at sunrise. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly options or trendy vibes, Varanasi promises a unique holiday that immerses you in its rich heritage and spiritual atmosphere.

• Lanka: Nestled in the vicinity of Varanasi, Lanka is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its cultural richness and scenic beauty. The area experiences a steady flow of travellers year-round, with peak visits in February, July, and September. Visitors flock here for its educational institutions, such as historic colleges and universities, along with picturesque temples and monuments that reflect the local heritage. The blend of culture-themed experiences and serene landscapes makes Lanka a delightful spot for those seeking to immerse themselves in the essence of Varanasi.
• Sarnath: Just a short distance from Varanasi, Sarnath is a historically significant village where Buddha delivered his first sermon. It draws visitors keen on cultural exploration, particularly during peak months of February, September, and December. The area is rich in educational opportunities, alongside a shopping centre that caters to a variety of needs. Notable landmarks include impressive temples and monuments, making Sarnath an essential stop for those looking to delve into spiritual and historical experiences, all set against a backdrop of serene scenery.
• Mahmoorganj: Another charming neighbourhood in the Varanasi area, Mahmoorganj offers a unique blend of culture and spirituality. The flow of visitors remains consistent throughout the year, peaking in February, July, and November. This area is celebrated for its educational venues and proximity to stunning temples and monuments, making it a great destination for those interested in cultural themes. The tranquil atmosphere and local places of worship provide a deeper connection to the spiritual fabric of Varanasi, ensuring a memorable travel experience.

Things to do in Varanasi

Varanasi offers a rich cultural experience with a variety of activities, from educational tours and immersive experiences to culinary delights. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping centres and enjoy rowing on the Ganges. Consider booking a tour package to fully appreciate this historic city, which is well-suited for culture-themed and scenic vacations.

Shopping

Experience Varanasi's local charm at JVH Mall, a vibrant shopping centre offering an array of shops for gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the famous Vishwanath Gali market, renowned for its traditional handicrafts and silk sarees, located a short distance away.

Recreation

In Varanasi, the Ayurvedic Healing Centre offers authentic Ayurvedic treatments amidst serene surroundings, promoting holistic wellness. Experience rejuvenating yoga sessions by the Ganges River at the Sadhana Yoga Centre, where expert instructors guide you towards mindfulness and relaxation.

Adventure

Take a boat ride on the Ganges at dawn to witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti, where the river comes alive with lights and chants. For a thrilling experience, try paragliding at the scenic Ghats, offering breathtaking views of the city and the sacred river below.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Varanasi offers a unique blend of culture and vibrancy. Enjoy a riverside stroll along the Ganges, then savour local cuisine at a rooftop café, or immerse yourself in traditional music at a local venue. The atmosphere is lively, filled with the sounds of laughter and spirituality.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Varanasi

Varanasi provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Many attractions, such as Sant Ravidas Ghat and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, offer free entry. Use local transport options like auto-rickshaws and boats for cost-effective travel. The best time to visit for lower prices is between May to June and August, with Sundays being the cheapest days to stay. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or seek last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings, and explore eco-certified hotels for a sustainable option.

• 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 Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Varanasi is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results by price, from the lowest to the highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top of your list. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Varanasi with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Varanasi

Varanasi, a vibrant cultural hub, offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. Renowned for its temples, historic buildings, and sites, the city caters to those seeking cultural immersion and scenic beauty. While exploring Varanasi, don’t miss the chance to visit its iconic landmarks, which promise an enriching journey through this ancient city.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This sacred temple is a pivotal site for Hindu pilgrims, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its vibrant atmosphere, adorned with intricate architecture, immerses visitors in the spiritual essence of Varanasi, making it a profound cultural experience.
• Dasaswamedh Ghat: Renowned for its stunning views and lively ambience, this ghat is the perfect place to witness the Ganga Aarti at sunset. The serene waters and bustling activity create a picturesque setting that captures the spirit of Varanasi.
• Banaras Hindu University: As one of the oldest universities in India, it boasts beautiful architecture and lush gardens. The campus is steeped in history and culture, offering a glimpse into the academic heritage of the region.

Best time to go to Varanasi

The best time to visit Varanasi is dependant 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 (dry). January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry).

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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Varanasi

Varanasi is served by Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS), situated approximately 7.5km from the city. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the Taj Ganges, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi, and Taj Nadesar Palace, all boasting a 5-star rating and located around 6.8km from the airport. These hotels provide various transportation services, including airport shuttles available 24 hours, on request, and for a fee. Access to the airport is straightforward from these hotels, ensuring a convenient start to your stay in this culturally rich destination.