Honored with the Travelersā Choice Award, ranking 5th among all hotels in Varanasi in 2022
Even before becoming a historic hotel, Amritara Suryauday Haveli was already an exemplar in hospitality as it provided lodgings for elderly travelers visiting Varanasi. The haveli was established and owned by the Royal Family of Nepal. They were quite discerning with the location, as the haveli offers scenic river vistas and is conveniently close to major temples such as Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Guests staying at the haveli hotel will find their needs addressed: rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern comforts, while the on-site restaurant features delectable Indian cuisine. The hotel also offers fun and engaging activities, such as yoga sessions and private candlelit dinners, both on the rooftop terrace.
B-4/25, Shivala Ghat, Nepali Kothi,, 221002 Varanasi, India
Although Amritara Suryauday Haveli is loved for its quality service and scenic location, it's more than just a historic haveli hotel. When Amritara Hotels and Resorts acquired, restored, and opened Suryauday Haveli in 2011, they envisioned an establishment that lived up to its heritage as a royal property. The haveli itself was constructed back in the early 20th century as a project of Nepal's Royal Family. At the time, it provided a restful and convenient retreat for elderly travelers, evidenced by its proximity to Varanasi's major temples and the ghats along the Ganges River.
The architecture of Amritara Suryauday Haveli perfectly reflects the aesthetics and conventions of the early 19th century, which was when the property was first built. Much like other havelis throughout India, Suryauday Haveli is something between a mansion and a townhouse, built as a residence for the nobility or royalty. As such, the hotel is embellished with ornate details such as jharokha portals and windows, carved walls and pillars, and venerable period furniture. Even the haveli's more modern elements, such as appliances and light fixtures, are integrated into the overall heritage aesthetic, creating a seamless and immersive old world charm.
Khana Pakana
The signature restaurant of Amritara Suryauday Haveli boasts fabulous Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine that is certain to impress your palate. Each dish is carefully prepared by a maharaj, an esteemed Hindu culinarian, and made with locally sourced ingredients. Dining service is offered in the main dining hall, but guests can also enjoy light meals and private dinners on the rooftop terrace.
Varanasi is famous not just in India, but also around the world, for being one of the oldest religious centers and pilgrimage destinations. The Ganges River, being the most sacred river to Hinduism, is the primary goal of the adherents visiting the city. You'll easily spot pilgrims and festival-goers bathing and celebrating in its waters throughout the day. Despite its sacred nature, the natives are also quite practical in using the river as a prime thoroughfare. Amritara Suryauday Haveli even offers tours and experience packages with sunrise river cruises and evening aarti boat rides.
Another major pilgrimage point is Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the patron god of Varanasi, it is one of the grandest temples in the region, decorated with intricate carvings and a golden spire meant to represent his sacred flame.
As for guests who would love to celebrate a special day while visiting Varanasi, the hotel can arrange a candlelit dinner on the rooftop terrace, along with personalized service.
Major temple in Varanasi dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is known for its gold-plated spires. (15-minute drive)
Open-air observatory built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur, who was also a dedicated astronomer. (10-minute drive)
Riverside fortress and palace built by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 1750, and is now home to a museum of royal collections, including vintage cars and medieval Indian weapons. (15-minute drive)
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the nearest airport to Amritara Suryauday Haveli, about an hour's drive from the property.
The closest railway station is Varanasi Junction, 25 minutes away from the haveli.