Shree Ganesha Palace was first constructed in 1916, and at the time was the residence of a Bengali holy saint. But by 1938, it was already a participant in Varanasi's hospitality industry. That tradition continues to this day, as the hotel provides stately lodgings to travelers from all over the world. Each guestroom is elegantly decorated, fitted with stylish furniture and modern amenities. At 1916 Cafe, savor the richness and diversity of Varanasi cuisine, along with some familiar international flavors. Once you're rested and energized, head out and explore this ancient city; the concierge can help arrange heritage tours to temples and landmarks, and boat trips on the Ganges River, so you'll have plenty to do here.
Opposite Corporation Bank, Girjaghar, Godowlia, 221001 Varanasi, India
At first glance, Shree Ganesha Palace may look more like a luxurious home of some noble or political figure. That's not too far from the truth, as the hotel was originally built in 1916 as the residence of a holy saint from Bengal. The property changed hands sometime after and was acquired by a British officer. Sundar Das Lakhmani would later purchase the mansion from the officer and open it in 1938 as a bed & breakfast. Over the following decades, Shree Ganesha Palace provided lodgings to pilgrims and travelers from all over the world.
In 2019, Sundar's descendants gave the hotel a makeover, expanding it with modern facilities, a new restaurant, and a venue hall. The Lakhamani remains committed to not only improving their family business, but also imparting the beauty of Varanasi to their guests.
Since it was built in 1916, Shree Ganesha Palace has a more modern look compared to older traditional heritage houses and hotels in Varanasi. Its pristine exterior bears a sleek architectural style that incorporates elements of Western and native Indian design. The jaali lattice parapet fence on the porch and terrace, as well as arches accentuating windows and doorways, are familiar aspects of Indian architecture. These arches, along with pillars and pilasters, are decorated with intricate hand-painted filigrees and motifs.
The interior spaces of the hotel are just as lovely, featuring Victorian-style furniture set along walls decorated with murals and paintings. Instead of fully committing to a single aesthetic, Shree Ganesha Palace balances the old and new, creating a wholesome, modern vibe that embodies India's approach to honoring its heritage.
1916 Cafe
Named for the year the hotel was first constructed, 1916 offers a diverse selection of delectable dishes of Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine, representing Varanasi's role as a cultural melting pot. Savor bowls of chole and chokha with traditional breads such as litti and kulche, or try their take on Chinese chowmein made with local ingredients and Indian spices. They also offer special thali platters, a dining tradition once available only to the upper class.
With so many heritage landmarks close to Shree Ganesha Palace, the proprietors love recommending to their guests which place to visit and what activity to try.
The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the great temples of Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple features intricate architecture and a golden spire that symbolizes his jyotirlinga aspect, which is a pillar of radiant flaming light.
The Ganges is Hinduism's most sacred river, and every evening, priests and adherents flock to the ghats at its banks to celebrate with Ganga Aarti rituals. Dressed in robes and wielding oil lamps and incense, the priests perform in synchronized motions as they pay homage to the river goddess Ganga.
As for personal and private celebrations, you can approach the hotel's management and see if they can arrange a private table at the restaurant, 1916 Cafe. They may even be able to recommend special dishes for your birthday or anniversary.
Grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the patron god of Varanasi. (13-minute walk)
Open-air observatory built in the 18th century by the ruler of Jaipur, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. (9-minute walk)
Ancient village where Gautama Buddha performed his first sermons to his earliest followers. (44-minute drive)
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the closest airport to Shree Ganesha Palace, about 60 minutes by car from the hotel.
The nearest major railway terminal to Shree Ganesha Palace is Varanasi Junction, 21 minutes away by car.