On the Darbhanga Ghat, overlooking the Ganges, BrijRama Palace occupies one of Varanasi's most distinctive historic buildings. Arrival is by traditional boat from a private landing: a scene that faithfully captures the river-bound identity of India's holiest city.

Why stay here

The palace was built in 1812 at the initiative of Shridhara Narayana Munshi, minister of the Nagpur territory. Constructed in Chunar sandstone, it blends Maratha and Bengali styles, with carved floral motifs and massive columns that punctuate the facades and courtyards.

In 1915, the Maharaja of Darbhanga acquired the palace, which then took its present name and became a reception venue for the royal family. The building's position on one of Varanasi's central ghats made it a focal point of the city's cultural and spiritual life.

After a long quiet period, the palace was restored and converted into a hotel. Inner courtyards, frescoes, antique mirrors and stone staircases have been preserved.

Atmosphere

The rhythm of the house follows that of the river. In the morning, the air vibrates with bells and chanting from the neighbouring ghats; in the evening, warm light bathes the sandstone columns. The central courtyard, the Bada Aangan, regularly hosts classical Indian music concerts and dance performances, open to residents.

The establishment embraces a deliberate restraint consistent with Varanasi's sacred character: the cuisine is 100% vegetarian and alcohol is not served. This creates an atmosphere closer to a patrician home than an international hotel.

Rooms and suites

The palace has 32 rooms and suites, arranged around courtyards and galleries. The décor emphasises carved wooden furniture, Indian textiles and original architectural elements. Some rooms overlook the courtyards, others open onto the Ganges; the superior suites offer more generous spaces and marble-lined bathrooms.

All rooms feature air conditioning, WiFi and private en-suite bathrooms.

Dining and services

Dining is organised around three spaces:

• Darbhanga restaurant, for main meals, serves vegetarian Indian cuisine, featuring thalis and regional specialities.
• Chota Angan, a more intimate interior courtyard, hosts intimate gatherings and meals.
• Udayan terrace offers dinner with views over the Ganges.

For cultural activities, the hotel offers sunrise yoga sessions, mehendi workshops (henna), vegetarian cooking classes led by the house chef and introductions to the bansuri flute.

Location

BrijRama Palace sits directly on the Darbhanga Ghat, overlooking the Ganges. With the old city closed to vehicle traffic, arrival involves two stages: a car journey to a river access point, then a transfer by traditional boat to the private landing.

Allow approximately three-quarters of an hour from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, and about twenty minutes from Varanasi Junction railway station; river transfer not included.

Nearby

The location makes the main Varanasi sites accessible on foot or by boat:

• Dasaswamedh Ghat, the daily setting for the Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset;
• Kashi Vishwanath temple, dedicated to Shiva, one of Hinduism's most sacred sites;
• Man Mandir Ghat, home to a 17th-century astronomical observatory;
• Assi Ghat, the classic starting point for sunrise boat excursions;
• Ramnagar Fort, the former royal palace on the Ganges' opposite bank.

To extend an itinerary through northern India, several heritage guesthouses offer a similar appeal: Alsisar Haveli in Shekhawati, Alsisar Haveli Jaipur, Bassi Fort in Rajasthan and Ahilya Fort on the banks of the Narmada.

Planning your stay

BrijRama Palace fits naturally into a circuit dedicated to northern India, between Delhi, Rajasthan and the Ganges valley. To build a bespoke itinerary including Varanasi and the river ceremonies, explore our India journeys.