The hype
Travelers love the pool and the spacious grounds but consistently complain about dated bathrooms in standard rooms.
Ramada Plaza By Wyndham Jhv Varanasi
$95-145/ night
Book this if You want a safe, pool-equipped sanctuary away from the sensory overload of the Ghats and don't mind a 20-minute commute to the action.
Why People Love It
- The massive outdoor pool is a legitimate oasis after a dusty day in the Old City
- Attached to JHV Mall for easy access to movies, ATMs, and familiar food
- Tadka restaurant serves some of the best North Indian food in the Cantonment area
Quick Take: A reliable but aging 5-star that's currently trading peace for progress with active renovations—book a club room or risk the 'vintage' wing.
Reviewed by @thatgirl_nikitaa: I stayed here during my Varanasi trip and it was the perfect escape from the city's hustle. The traditional welcome made me feel like royalty, and the Bamboo Biryani was the best meal I had. Definitely book a pool view room for that resort feel!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The '5-star' label feels like a stretch by international standards; think solid 4-star with some maintenance lags.
- You are traveling with kids and need a pool/safe space to decompress
- You prefer a quiet, orderly neighborhood over the chaos of the Old City
- You need reliable parking and easy access to the airport
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Generally responsive, but missed spots (dust on high shelves) are common in older rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: The biggest weak point. Older bathrooms have stained grout and cracked tubs. Renovated ones are spotless.
- Maintenance: Ongoing. You will see painters and workers in the corridors during the day.
- Linens & towels: Clean and white, but towels can be a bit scratchy/worn in standard rooms.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh (lemongrass usually); older rooms can smell musty/damp.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Renovation drills/hammers (08:00-20:00)
- Wedding music from banquet halls during marriage season
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is strictly non-smoking in rooms; designated areas only.
- Uber/Ola works well here, unlike in the narrow lanes of the Old City.
- Club Lounge access includes 'Happy Hours' (usually 6-8 PM) with drinks and snacks.
What to pack
- Earplugs (for the morning construction or wedding season)
- Swimsuit (the pool is the best amenity)
- Mosquito repellent (for the garden area in evenings)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Club Floor Rooms (ask for renovated/refurbished units)
- Pool View or Garden View rooms (quieter than City View)
Rooms to avoid
- Standard/Superior rooms facing the main road (traffic noise)
- Rooms near the service elevator (noise complaints)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a renovated room on the Club Floor, specifically facing the pool or garden to avoid road noise. Please ensure the bathroom has been updated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it close to the Ghats?
No. It is in the Cantonment area, about 6-8km away. Expect a 20-45 minute drive depending on Varanasi's legendary traffic.
Is the pool open year-round?
Yes, it's an outdoor pool. It's unheated, so it's best from March to October.
Does the hotel serve alcohol?
Yes, there is a licensed bar (Toxic Bar & Lounge) and alcohol service in restaurants.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, but check your specific rate. The spread is extensive but quality varies.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Yes, JHV Mall is next door with a food court, Barbeque Nation, and Wow! Momo. Hotel Surya is also walkable.
Is it safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, the Cantonment area and the hotel security are very good, making it a safe choice.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Varuna River' spot behind the mall is a local 'hidden gem' but can be smelly; approach with caution.
- ✨
Ask for a room *away* from the banquet halls if you are staying during wedding season (Nov-Feb).
- ✨
The 'Bamboo Biryani' at Tadka restaurant is not on the standard room service menu—go to the restaurant to order it.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Gym' is functional but often has broken AC or worn-out equipment.
💡Hot water can be sporadic in the older 'Superior' rooms—run the tap for 5 mins.
💡The 'Garden' has a nice jogging track, but it's mosquito central after dusk.
💡You can hear the train whistles faintly at night (Varanasi Junction is 1.7km away).
💡The 'Shopping Mall' access is a literal side gate, super convenient for sneaking out for a movie.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Ramada Plaza By Wyndham Jhv Varanasi is located and what's nearby.