Varanasi in 2023: A Quick Snapshot
Back in 2019, the Ministry of Tourism logged 1.6 million visitors to Varanasi. Pilgrims and thrill‑seekers still flock here, and inns have tweaked their prices to fit every wallet. This guide spots top budget‑luxury stays, cheap hostels, iconic ghats, and the street eats that make the city buzz.
Budget‑Luxury Hotels: Comfort Without Breaking the Bank
Hotel Ganga House – Classic Charm for ₹3,000–₹5,500
Near Manikarnika Ghat, Hotel Ganga House keeps things simple: a few essentials, a rooftop tea spot, and free Wi‑Fi. TripAdvisor rates it 4.2 in 2023, and guests love the polite staff. With only 22 rooms, it's a go‑to for soloers and couples chasing a dash of history.
Hotel Shree – Modern Stay at ₹2,800–₹4,200
Hotel Shree sits opposite the Ganga, giving easy access to the ghats. The place features an indoor pool, a tiny gym, and a kitchen that whips up North‑Indian dishes. Booking.com gives it a solid 4 stars in 2023, citing neat rooms and quick housekeeping.
Hotel Raj – Heritage Rooms for ₹3,500–₹6,000
Hotel Raj marries colonial facades with sleek interiors. Guests snag free breakfast, a rooftop garden, and a 24‑hour reception. TripAdvisor lists a 4.0 rating in 2023, praising roomy accommodations and friendly staff.
Hostels for the Budget‑Focused Traveller
Backpackers Varanasi – Affordable Rooms at ₹300–₹600
Backpackers Varanasi offers dorms and private rooms, plus a shared kitchen. Hostelworld gives it a 3‑star rating in 2023, thanks to clean bathrooms, free Wi‑Fi, and a welcoming vibe. It's just a 10‑minute stroll from the Laxman Jhula bridge.
Hosteller Varanasi – A Quiet Stay for ₹400–₹700
Hosteller Varanasi is all about calm. Rooms are simple, the décor minimal, and a communal dining area keeps things friendly. TripAdvisor lists a 4‑star rating in 2023, highlighting the host’s helpfulness and the spotless facilities.
Varanasi’s Iconic Ghats – Where the Ganga Meets Culture
Manikarnika Ghat – The Sacred Entrance
Manikarnika, one of the oldest ghats, is famed for cremation rituals. Pilgrims rise early to catch the sacred dance of the Ganga. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the Varanasi Heritage District (UNESCO, 2014).
Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Vibrant Hub
Dashashwamedh is the busiest ghat, lined with stalls selling incense, flowers, and sweets. Every night, the Ganga Aarti draws thousands. According to the Varanasi Municipal Corporation (2021), over 20,000 visitors attend the daily aarti.
Alinagar Ghat – The Calm Corner
Alinagar offers a quieter vibe, perfect for early‑morning strolls. Fewer crowds let you enjoy the river mist and the ancient temples around.
Street Food: The Flavourful Heart of Varanasi
Kachori and Jalebi – Sweet and Savoury Treats
Kachori, a fried pastry stuffed with spiced lentils, is a breakfast staple. Pair it with hot jalebi, a sweet born of fermented batter, and you get a sweet‑savory combo locals adore. A 2022 Varanasi Food Council survey found over 300 stalls selling kachori across town.
Chaat and Lassi – Quick Bites for Travellers
Street chaat mixes chopped veggies, chickpeas, and yogurt, served in tiny bowls. Lassi, a fermented yogurt drink, comes sweet or salty. These bites hit the spot for travelers craving a quick, cheap snack.
Banarasi Saag and Biryani – Hearty Meals Near the River
Saag, a leafy‑greens curry, pairs with puri or roti. Biryani, fragrant rice cooked with meat and spices, lights up evening menus. Places like ‘Kashi Kheti’ and ‘Banarasi Bazar’ serve these at ₹250–₹400 a plate.
How to Plan Your Stay: Tips for Budget‑Luxury and Hostel Accommodation
Book early, especially when festivals hit (Janmashtami, Diwali), to snag better rates. Use price‑comparison sites and skim recent reviews to spot service quality. For hostels, verify cleaning standards and 24‑hour reception availability.
FAQs
Q1: What is the best time to visit Varanasi’s ghats?
A1: Early mornings (5–7 am) are the zenest, especially for the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Q2: Are budget‑luxury hotels safe for solo female travellers?
A2: Yes, most keep 24‑hour security, free Wi‑Fi, and solid customer care.
Q3: Can I find vegetarian options in hostels?
A3: Plenty of hostels have shared kitchens for veg meals; some even offer complimentary veg breakfasts.
Q4: How much should I budget for street food in Varanasi?
A4: A typical street meal—kachori, chaat, lassi—runs between ₹50 and ₹150, depending on stall and spot.
Q5: What are the must‑try dishes in Varanasi?
A5: Kachori, jalebi, Banarasi saag, and biryani are must‑tries. For something different, grab the local fish curry near the ghats.