“ Good Hotel, Great Service, Excellent Location ”

Reviewed Apr 13, 2013

by dreamchasers (18 reviews) Regina , Canada

Varanasi is overwhelming, as any traveller or travel guide will confirm, so the excellent guidance provided at this hotel was very much appreciated. Although all of the hotel staff were commendable, it is the hotel's guide, Mannu, who made our stay in Varanasi so enjoyable. After a nine hour train journey getting there, followed by a half kilometre walk carrying our heavy luggage just to get to the hotel, we were exhausted and had no idea how to take on this city of extremes. But then Mannu introduced himself, and immediately sensed our need, first, for rest.

He returned early the next day, however, with his warm welcome and itineraries that allowed us flexibility, but also included his personally guided driving and walking day tour, which gave us broader insights into the ancient and modern cultures of Varanasi than we could ever have had on our own. Mannu is a man who loves his work, and it comes across in his passionate delivery. When we were leaving Varanasi a few days later Mannu also took care off all transport arrangements to pick up our next train when we were leaving, including arranging for porters to carry our substantial luggage to the vehicle, the ride to the train station, and assistance carrying luggage right to the train, as I had fallen ill the day before leaving and was barely able to carry myself, let alone any luggage.

The hotel is situated between two of the busiest ghats in Varanasi, walking distance to each, but far enough away to have a peaceful sleep. The rooms in this budget hotel can accommodate all budget ranges, but we felt it worthwhile to select one of the higher priced rooms on the top floor with a balcony view, facing the river. From it, you could watch life on the river and see the entire shoreline of Varanasi. This same view was also available from the hotel restaurant, which we ate at many times.

We definitely recommend this hotel if you are looking for a good budget hotel with great service situated on the banks of the Ganges River, in the heart of ancient Varanasi. Be aware, however, that whatever hotel you choose on the banks of the Ganges, you will need to have some form of guide assist you in locating your hotel, as all of them require wandering through a maze a very narrow streets that tuks and taxis cannot navigate.

This review is the subjective opinion of a TravelPod member and not of TravelPod.com.