J J Plaza JHV Cantonment Varanasi

The cockroach in the room was unacceptable and raised serious hygiene concerns. We had paid in advance, but our first room had no working AC, Wi-Fi, or refrigerator. The room phone was broken too, so we had to keep walking to reception to report problems, which the staff already knew about. They moved us to another room on the same floor, but it had the same issues. It became clear that the AC was out across the floor, effectively throughout the hotel. The property was mostly empty, yet rooms were still being sold despite the broken AC. With the outside temperature around 42°C, staying without air conditioning was extremely difficult and unsafe. At night the front desk wouldn’t connect us with a manager or anyone senior. They offered neither a refund nor alternative accommodation and kept telling us to wait until morning. The heat and stress kept us awake until 3:20 AM. We even called the police, but that did not lead to a meaningful solution. Selling rooms while basic services are broken across the property and hygiene is compromised is irresponsible and shows a complete lack of care for guests. I had an extremely distressing stay at Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi and strongly advise avoiding it until management addresses the maintenance and accountability problems.

The rooms were spacious and clean, and housekeeping and room service were good. The Aircon controls didn’t work, but the maintenance team fixed the cooling within minutes. Tadka restaurant’s bamboo biryani was simply delicious. At breakfast, Asif was a dream of a chef. He personally helped everyone, and you could tell he loved his work. I joked that I was missing rabdi with my morning jalebi, and within minutes he brought over a plate of both. His dedication and passion were much appreciated. Wi-Fi was the weak point. I couldn’t stay connected for more than 15 minutes, and that was my best stretch. Even when connected, it was very weak. I reported it to the front desk, but nothing improved. I guess that’s the best they can provide, though something needs to be done, especially for one of the city’s very best hotels. The Wi-Fi dampened an otherwise wonderful stay, and I hope it’s better when I return.

My booking was for 2 adults and 1 child, but Himanshu, the duty manager, refused to provide more than 1 dental kit. He rudely told me that since I booked through Booking.com, I should contact them and he could do nothing. Later, staff gave a different explanation, saying the storeroom was closed. It’s hard to believe a hotel charging full price can’t provide such a basic amenity. Things got worse when I began recording the interaction. Himanshu pushed me and tried to take my phone from my hand. That was aggressive and completely inappropriate conduct from hotel staff. No guest should be treated that way. The staff were highly unprofessional, especially Himanshu, who showed no concern for guests. This reflects terrible management, poor staff training, and a lack of hospitality. It was one of my worst experiences, and I strongly advise people to avoid this hotel.

The hotel offers guest rooms as well as banquet facilities, with amenities for weddings, events, and other celebrations. It’s a beautiful property in an excellent location, and the rooms come in a range of styles. Service was great, and cleanliness is carefully maintained throughout. My own experience here was excellent.