Homestay

Top choice in Varanasi


This homestay in a 1936 colonial home in a residential neighbourhood 1.5km from the old town is a true catch. Good-hearted host Harish, a 37-year veteran of the textile industry – the reputable shop, Paraslakshmi Exports, is on the premises – has six well-maintained rooms that come with antique furniture and are shielded from light, noise and mosquitoes. You'll appreciate the rest.

Harish can arrange reasonably priced local transport and walking tours, and his wife, Malika, whips up home-cooked meals in the communal dining room. If you don't mind being a bit away from the heart of the ghats action, it's a delightful choice full of family charm. It's also signed 'Malika's Guest House'. It's hard to find the first time, so ring ahead.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Varanasi attractions

2. Vishwanath Temple

1.01 MILES

There are temples at almost every turn in Varanasi, but this is the most famous of the lot. It is dedicated to Vishveswara – Shiva as lord of the universe…

3. Pandhey Ghat

1.02 MILES

Lots of laundry is spread to dry at this ghat along the Ganges.

4. Munshi Ghat

1.03 MILES

Munshi Ghat – also known as Darbhanga Ghat – is one of the more photogenic ghats along the old town stretch of the Ganges in Varanasi.

5. Ahalya Bai's Ghat

1.04 MILES

This minor ghat was named after the female Maratha ruler of Indore.

6. Gate 2

1.04 MILES

Foreigners should enter gate 2 (the Hindu exit) for access to Vishwanath Temple.

7. Dashashwamedh Ghat

1.04 MILES

Varanasi’s liveliest and most colourful ghat. The name indicates that Brahma sacrificed (medh) 10 (das) horses (aswa) here. In spite of the persistent…

8. Man Mandir Ghat

1.07 MILES

Just north of Dashashwamedh Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat was built in 1600 by Raja Man Singh and later housed an observatory. The northern corner of the ghat has…