Alakhnanda Guest House

Our booking through booking.com showed as confirmed, but on the day we arrived, the owner told us he couldn’t give us a room because the hotel was still under renovation, even though he had accepted the booking. When I pointed out that he’d taken it, he said he’d ask the app to cancel. We were traveling with my parents, who are over 60, and it was very hard to find somewhere else. I was really disappointed by this irresponsible behavior.

The room had a great view of the Ganga River through its window, and this is one of the best hotels nearby. The washroom was a little small, but manageable.

The only good thing is that it’s near the Ghat. The services were otherwise poor: no water bottle, no AC remote, and the TV wasn’t connected. There was no electronic safe or daily cleaning, and no dustbins. The washroom ceiling was very low, the drainage had problems, and the water flow in the bathroom wasn’t proper.

Rooms are small, but manageable, and the hotel is very close to Varahi Temple. I didn’t try the food because of dietary restrictions. Most activities are near the Ghat, so it’s handy to stay close by. When you arrive in Varanasi, it’s better to call the hotel. Traffic restrictions limit vehicle access, and the management can help you reach the property. My flight was late and I arrived at 1:30 a.m.; they answered my call and helped me get there.