Hotel Hindusthan International, Varanasi

This hotel is often highlighted for its central location and its excellent breakfast buffet, making it a notable choice for various travelers. Its extensive conference facilities also stand out, attracting business travelers and those attending events. The property is well-suited for sightseers and pilgrims due to its proximity to key attractions, while families appreciate the accommodating nature of the staff and the spaciousness of some rooms. Solo travelers also find the staff friendly and supportive. However, guests should be aware that room quality can vary significantly, with some areas undergoing renovation. To ensure a more comfortable stay, it is advisable to request a room on a recently renovated floor, such as the second or fifth, and to be prepared to address any room-related concerns promptly upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, including a spa, swimming pool, and gym, though some guests noted the gym was not always operational or the pool had unusual issues. The lobby area is often praised for its pleasant ambiance, sometimes featuring live music, and is home to several shops, including souvenir and convenience stores. A travel desk is available to assist guests with their plans. The hotel also boasts significant event areas and banquet halls, such as the Crystal Hall, which are frequently used for conferences and programs, receiving positive feedback for their arrangements. The property offers wheelchair accessible entry and ample parking, adding to guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is notably mixed. While some guests found their rooms to be clean and spacious, particularly those on renovated floors, many reported significant issues. Common complaints include dirty rooms, a pervasive dampness or musty smell, and the presence of mould. Many rooms are described as old and in need of renovation, with worn furniture, chipped tiles, and broken fixtures such as non-functioning air conditioning units, leaky taps, or problematic flushes. Some guests experienced noisy air conditioning and issues with mosquitoes. Bathrooms are frequently cited as unhygienic, small, or poorly maintained, often lacking basic amenities or having old linen and stained towels.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet consistently receives high praise for its variety and taste, offering a wide selection of items from breads and cereals to traditional Indian dishes like idli and puri, along with pancakes and fresh fruits. The overall food quality in the hotel's restaurant is generally considered good, with many guests enjoying delicious meals, including specific dishes like butter chicken and biryani. However, some guests found the food to be below average, stale, or cold, with limited menu options for à la carte dining. Service in the restaurant can be slow at times, and some guests noted that the restaurant closes relatively early, around 10:30 PM.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing it conveniently near the market area and with main road access, making it easily found. It is well-situated for exploring the city, being approximately 3 to 3.5 kilometers from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat, which are accessible by local transport. The hotel is also close to the railway station and Cantt station. Guests appreciate that the hotel is outside the narrow, congested lanes closer to the ghats, allowing for easier vehicle access. Parking facilities are ample, providing convenience for guests traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for being friendly, polite, helpful, and attentive, with many guests highlighting their cooperative and hospitable nature. The quick check-in process is often appreciated, and room service is noted for its promptness and efficiency. Many individual staff members, particularly in the restaurant and front office, are commended for their excellent service and willingness to assist guests with their requests. However, there is mixed feedback, with some guests reporting instances of rude, unprofessional, or unhelpful staff, slow service, and a lack of coordination, particularly during busy periods or when addressing complex issues.

Additional Information
The hotel is undergoing renovations, with some floors, notably the second and fifth, having updated rooms, while others are still in their original, older condition. Guests should be aware that construction noise may be present due to ongoing work. The hotel has a specific policy regarding outside food, stating that cutlery will not be provided. Some guests reported issues with inconsistent hot water supply and challenges with receiving multiple key cards. The presence of souvenir shops within the lobby offers convenient shopping options for guests. There were also isolated reports of monkeys accessing the swimming pool, which some guests found concerning.