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All eyes of the Hindu world are set on one city: Varanasi. This holy city built along the banks of the Ganges River has a history stretching back to the beginning of time. Just by wandering the chaotic narrow streets or sitting on the ghats overlooking the river, you can FEEL the rich culture and spirituality of Varanasi.
Even if you are not a follower of Hinduism, you can fully immerse yourself in the roots of the world’s most vibrant religion here.
But how can you be sure these cheap backpacker’s hostels will also provide you with a quality stay? I’ve made this list of the best hostels in Varanasi so you can rest at ease when choosing a hostel in India’s holiest city!
Bringing together all the best hostels in Varanasi, you’ll be staying in only the top places the city has on offer. Get your cameras ready and prepare to meditate in one of the world’s most spiritual destinations!
For adventure seekers, it won’t take much to inspire you to want to see all of the daily worship and ceremonies of Varanasi yourself. And being on the famous “hippie trail” you will find loads of budget hostels lining the Ganges River.
Let’s get into Varanasi!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Varanasi
- Best Overall Hostel in Varanasi – Moustache Hostel Varanasi
- Best Hostel in Varanasi for Solo Travelers – HosteLaVie
- Best Cheap Hostel in Varanasi – Mohit Paying Guest House
- Best Party Hostel in Varanasi – Vagabond Stay Hostel Varanasi
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Varanasi – Wander Station Varanasi
The 5 Best Hostels in Varanasi
Varanasi is a definitive stop on many Indian backpacking routes. But first, you will have to find THE perfect hostel for yourself. With each stay a little different from the next, keep your eyes open for the one that strikes your fancy!
1. Moustache Hostel Varanasi – Best Overall Hostel in Varanasi
- Dorm (mixed): From $13/night
- Address: B-1/128-23, Dumraon Colony, Assi, Varanasi, , 221005 Varanasi
To kick off my list of all the best hostels in Varanasi, let’s start by introducing the top-of-the-line: Moustache Hostel! This youth hostel will have you staying just a few steps away from the famous Assi Ghat. If you are feeling a bit lazy you don’t have to actually step outside your door to enjoy all the beauty of Varanasi.
From the rooftop lounge, you can simply pull up a cushion and bask in the undefinable wonder of the city! Feeling a bit hungry? Moustache Hostel is also home to its very own cafe, hooking you up with a delicious meal whenever the mood should strike you.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Rooftop Lounge
- On-Site Restaurant
- Hot SHowers
The best bit? you’re 300m away from Assi Ghat so the scenes are unreal and the people here appreciate it. There are breathtaking views and you can appreciate them from the rooftop balcony. Need I say more?
I will mention the digs, you can book a bed in a mixed or female only dorm and there are private rooms too. So you can your boo can still have some privacy AND be amongst the buzzing hostel scene in this Varanasi hostel.
The food here is great and there are self catering facilities if that’s your jam and the the staff here are beautiful. Whether you want a tuk tuk, a boat ride or restaurant recommendations, they’ve got you covered.
2. HosteLaVie – Best Hostel in Varanasi for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $12/night
- Private Room: From $24/night
- Address: B,3/97, near Chetsingh Fort, Shivala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India
Get ready to up your small talk game because Hostel La Vie is all about kicking back and chatting with the other backpackers. This youth hostel doesn’t just have one lounge to relax in, you will find several couches and games spread out throughout the hostel. This makes Hostel La Vie one of the best social hostels in India.
Other than the chill vibes of the hostel, you will also find a shared kitchen and a cafe. You can choose to cook your own meal or order one in. Top it all off with daily tours and events that will have you exploring all the best sites in Varanasi and nearby cities.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- Airport Transfers
- 24-hour reception
There is no better place to kick off your solo adventure along the Ganges, this Varanasi hostel is a 10-minute walk from Assi Ghat. So you can spend the entirety of your time here wandering around on foot and absorbing the city by osmosis. The staff are super kind too and will help you with any directions you’d like, whether it’s to nearby cities or finding the best boat ride.
Solo travellers will appreciate the budget-friendly private double room on offer and also the intimacy of the four-bed dorm. There’s also the option to store your luggage and hang out if you’ve got a late departure from Varanasi Airport or train station. This Varanasi hostel is big enough that you can always find a pocket to enjoy your own space which is important.
3. Mohit Paying Guest House – Best Cheap Hostel in Varanasi
- Dorm (mixed): From $4/night
- Private Room: From $8/night
- Address: Sarnath Ashram Road, 221007 Varanasi
I mean, let’s be honest, the average price of travelling in India, let alone the price of Varanasi hostels is pretty minimal to say the least. And Mohit Paying Guest House takes the cake for the best cheap hostel in Varanasi by a long shot. This hostel is a little outta town but you get that on the big jobs eh.
This is a great Varanasi Hostel to base yourself at long term, there’s plenty of space around and every room comes with a desk. There’s also a shared kitchen and lounge so it’s safe to say it’s social here too which takes the bite out of not being SO central.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Vifi
- Airport Transfers
- Self Catering Facilities
There’s a 24hour front desk which is great if you ever need anything in this bumping city. The lovely family that run this Varanasi hostel can help you arrange visits to nearby cities, and give you insider tips on where to go. Dasaswamedh Ghat and Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and a variety of Bhuddist, Thai and Korean temples are nearby – great sightseeing and out of the hustle… Sign me up!
The food available at Mohit Guesthouse is sensational and definitely worth indulging in but don’t let this stop you from trying everything Varanasi has to offer. Make the most in being away for the tourist hustle with a slightly more authentic, local experience staying at this Varanasi hostel. Do make sure you try the in house chai – it’s the business!
To top it all off, there are hot showers, a backup generator so they’re guaranteed. When you’re feeling fresh and fabulous enjoy the lush second story terrace to get a different perspective on Varanasi.
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View on Osprey4. Vagabond Stay Hostel Varanasi – Best Party Hostel in Varanasi
- Dorm (mixed): From $6/night
- Private Room: From $20/night
- Address: D-54/16-D, Aurangabad, Luxa Rd, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010, India
As you may have already guessed, Varanasi is not the proper place to get trashed in India. As one of the country’s holiest cities, alcohol is pretty hard to find. But just because you can’t find a beer doesn’t mean you can’t also find ways to have a great night out in Varanasi!
This being said, where there’s a will there’s a way and when you’re on the ground you’ll be able to find a vibe. If you talk to the right people you can party anywhere but on the flip side, you could just make the most of chilling out. Enjoy the stunning view from the rooftop cafe at this Varanasi as the sunsets with whatever beverage you choose.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Luggage Storage
- Board Games
- Rooftop Cafe
There are self catering facilities but honestly, eat the street food or at least get into the local food scene – just do it safely! Talk to the lovely staff at the 24hour reception about local insights on where to let loose and have a good time. Varanasi is constantly evolving and these guys have their ears to the ground and will be able to give you the hottest updates.
Then there are the practical bits like airport transfers and luggage storage on offer at this Varanasi hostel. There are mixed dorms or private rooms with ensuite bathrooms available and it’s in a pretty handy location.
5. Wander Station Varanasi – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Varanasi
- Dorm (mixed): From $16/night
- Address: D21/24 Ranamahal Near Dasawamedh Ghat, 221001 Varanasi
Open up your laptop and get to work writing that new article or edit in one of the most laid-back hostels in Varanasi. Wander Station may be a couple of rupees more than some of the other hostels along the Ganges, but you will be freeeee! Enjoy tons of space and spreading out to work as well as some of the best views of the city and river from the rooftop terrace.
With its colourful art and tastefully decorated lounges, you will feel right at home at Wander Station! Feeling a bit hungry? Wander Station also has its very own cafe, the perfect place to fill up before heading out to explore or getting down to work.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- Free Adaptors
- Air Conditioning
Wander Station Varanasi is less than 500 metres from Dashwamedh Ghat when you’re ready to clock off and do some sightseeing. These streets are the perfect place to unwind after a big day of being a digital nomad if you ask me. Then there’s all the entertainment offered on-site too – think board games, a Netflix room, there’s even Talk Happy Therapy on offer.
The dorms here sleep between four and fourteen and they’re all mixed. This is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow wanderers at this Varanasi hostel – Wander Station Varanasi is all about connection after all. Many hostels in Varanasi are good to crash for a night but wouldn’t want to stay long but Wander Station is the antithesis to this.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Varanasi Budget Stays
Varanasi hostels are a great way to bring down the average price of your trip and a great place to base yourself for visiting nearby cities. That being said, if you haven’t found one that feels perfect for you, read on amigo… I’ve got a few more Varanasi hostels and budget hotels for you to peruse.
Live Free Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $10/night
- Private Room: From $43/night
- Address: N 1/3-D 1-2, Nagwa, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, 221005 Varanasi
Live Free Hostel has a stunning big open air courtyard where live music goes down, socialisiing and good food shared between new (and old) friends. Getting to this Varanasi hostel is a breeze too since they offer transfers from Varanasi Airport. The AC is running 24/7 at this joint so you’re guaranteed a cool, blissful rest inside too.
This Varanasi hostel is out of the hustle and bustle of the city but close to Assi Ghat – just a 10 minute walk! This is one of those hostels where you meet people and fall in love with a spot and remember it forever so book yourself in. This is another great option for solo travellers – the staff are super helpful and the people around are generally friendly.
International Travellers Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $15/night
- Private Room: From $25/night
- Address: C-32/4, Vidyapeeth Road, 221002 Varanasi
International Travellers Hostel is a bangin’ place to post up in Varanasi, there are various types of rooms – including a tent option! This Varanasi hostel is epic for female travellers in India, there’s 24/7 security at the gate and the hosts are super thoughtful… They’ve been known to offer to walk to the train station to pick up guests and guide them to the hostel.
The cost per night is a bit on the higher than the average price side but still super affordable and sometimes it’s nice to splash out. Sacrificing a few rupees in the name of stacking some Z’s in a comfortable bed and resting up for the next leg is an investment. This Varaanasi hostel also will hook you up with transfers to and from Varanasi airport so stress less and book a night here.
Stay Banaras
- Private Room: From $80/night
- Address: C 33/52 – 9A – 1A, Chittupur, Sigra, 221010 Varanasi
Ok so Stay Banaras is spenny but there’s a free breakfast and if there’s a few of you sharing a room (they sleep up to three)… It’s whatever – you choose whether the price is a dealbreaker for you or not, this place is beautiful. It’s so clean, the aesthetic is lovely and the garden is huge, plus there’s a pretty good social vibe here.
Enjoy being tucked in a quiet pocket away from the business of Varanasi at this Varanasi Bed & Breakfast. The friendly staff about ordering you a taxi if you need to get around to visit tourist tings like Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Dashashwamedh Ghat. If you’re luck you may catch some live music in the evening as you enjoy a delicious meal from the onsite restaurant.
Azure Family Paying Guest House
- Private Room: From $18/night
- Address: B 30/232 Assi Nagwa, Ravidas Ghat Crossing, Near Assi Ghat, 221005 Varanasi
Check in to Azure Family Paying Guest House and let Sona and her family look after you. Sona is synonymous with hospitality and is enthusiastic about making sure you have the best time possible in her city. Enjoy comfortable rooms complete with air conditioning.
I reckon this is one of the best places to stay if you want an intimate insight into the holy city. From the homecooked meals to the cooking classes to the tours. How many hostels can offer this level of dedicated tourism?
Monu Family Guest House
No matter if you are a solo traveller or a couple wanting to find a place to cosy up for a few nights… Monu Family Guest House will hook you up with some brightly coloured private rooms for just a few rupees more than a hostel.
Putting you just a short walk away from the very same ghat where the nightly Aarati ceremony is held, you couldn’t ask for a better location. Not wanting to wander the streets to find a place to eat? Monu Family Guest House is also home to its very own restaurant serving you breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
La Vaca India
Wake up every morning by stepping out onto the rooftop terrace taking in views of the breathtaking Ganges River, downing a delicious free breakfast. You can do this at La Vaca India! With some of the cheapest dorm beds and private rooms in all of Varanasi, this hostel is perfect for all kinds of travellers!
With its colourful and artsy atmosphere, La Vaca has everything you could ever want from a Varanasi hostel. Putting you just a few steps away from the river, this backpackers hostel is one of the top places to base yourself in Varanasi. You’ve heard of the leaning tower of Piza but have you heard of Varanasi’s equivalent, Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple? Check it out!
Zostel Varanasi
Pull up a bean bag chair and get ready to stay in one of the cheapest hostels in Varanasi! Zostel Varanasi will have you saving rupees left and right and calling one of the most popular and laid-back spots in the whole city home. With massive lounges, you just need to simply recline and enjoy all the comfort of feeling like you have found your long-lost home away from home!
Other than the social element, Zostel Varanasi will also keep your belly full of the delicious food served at their onsite cafe. Putting you right smack in between the river and the heart of the city, this is a hostel that will check all of the boxes. Check out the cremation ghats while you’re here – it’s a massive touristic draw card for Varanasi.
goStops Varanasi
goStops Varanasi will have you staying in one of the trendiest hostels in the entire city. The laid-back vibes and artsy atmosphere will blow you away. This hostel will also point you in the right direction for all the best local music and art shows held in the city!
With its cosy lounges and boutique decor, there are not many places on this list that can top goStops Varanasi in terms of style and atmosphere.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Varanasi
Cow got your backpack? Nothing you can do now! Just kidding – get good hostel travel insurance before your trip to Varanasi – thank me later.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Varanasi
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Varanasi.
What to Pack for your Varanasi Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Varanasi?
Staying in Varanasi is very cheap. For as low as $4 you can book a hostel dorm and expect to pay around $8 for basic private rooms.
What are the best hostels in Varanasi for couples?
The most relaxing place to stay in Varanasi is Moustache Hostel Varanasi. The rooftop for sunset is romantic and there are sweet private rooms too.
What are the best hostels in Varanasi near the airport?
Most hostels are just under an hour’s ride to Varanasi airport. My favourite hostel which also offers an airport transfer service is Moustache Hostel Varanasi.
Final Thoughts on Varanasi’s Hostels
Down the winding alleyways of Varanasi, you never will know what is hiding behind the next corner. Will you run into a vibrant, lively celebration in the streets or escape all the noise of the city at a tranquil temple? The spirituality of Varanasi can be felt in every corner of this holy city.
From the banks of the river to the lawless streets, travelling to Varanasi is an adventure in every sense of the word! After diving into all the culture and life of Varanasi, you might want a relaxing hostel, an island in the middle of this sprawling city. With everything from private quiet single rooms to social terraces, there are so many ways to explore and enjoy Varanasi.
In that case, I’d suggest staying at HosteLaVie – the vibes here are so mellow but there are always people to kick it with too. This is what makes it my top choice for solo travellers looking for a Varanasi hostel.
Wander Station Varanasi is my number-one pick for digital nomads in Varanasi but I wanted to mention it again here because the vibes are immaculate. No matter what you’re in this great holy city for, if it’s within your capacity budget-wise, I highly recommend a stay at Wander Station Varanasi.
Wherever you stay, enjoy yourself with a boat ride, visit the Ghats and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this city.
Have you ever travelled to Varanasi and stayed in a great backpackers hostel? I would love to hear about your trip! Let me know if there are any great hostels I may have missed in the comments below!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in India for a wealth of info!
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for India to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
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