Review of Ganpati Guest House 3*

Varanasi can only be enjoyed by staying at the River Ganga Ghats and walking the myriads of lanes. Thats where the vibe of the city is felt. Ganpati hotel is exactly what I was looking was. Its next to the famous ghats, its on the ghat and one can reach either through the lanes or from the ghat side. The hotel is budget and its feel is of boutique and quaint. Cleanliness is world-class and I observed that the staff was continuously cleaning every nook and corner. The rooms are colourful, extremely clean with all the amenities I needed. I stayed in the budget room, which does not have a TV (and I didn't need one). As this is a budget hotel, you can buy your water supplies and tea/coffee from them. The tours provided by hotel are reasonably priced. The river boat rides early morning and evening are a must. I hired a guide for local sights through the lanes. You will need a guide to understand what these lanes are about. Ask the reception on what to eat and where to eat. They will suggest some good and hygienic places. The hotels roof top restaurant is nice. I had most of my meals at this place. The views of river Ganga from the restaurant are fantastic. You can even view the evening Puja from here, with a binoculars or your cameras telephoto lens. The airport pickup and drop is a must. The drivers and the car are very nice. And they will provide baggage portage through the lanes to the hotel. Its 10-15 mins walk through the traffic madness. The car cannot reach the hotel! Free Wifi is provided but it was sketchy. Luckily I had my own data. Carry your Alcohol, eg wine, as hotel does not have a bar. The hotel wasn't able to supply tea/coffee early in the morning, before 7am but not a deal breaker. The credit card machine didn't work during my stay. They can inform the guests to carry cash with them as most people don't carry cash in current days world. To summarise, a five star experience at a budget hotel. Will be back soon.