Great location in the old town alleyways close to the ghats, small roof terrace, comfy dorm with AC & big beds with individual lights, fans & sockets. The hostel's nearby cafe is very good too

Stayed in April 2025

it should be clearly stated that rooms are accessed only by steep and long steps, for us it was not a problem, but it can be a surprise for few! Second thing to improve is the common space next to the counter, and especially the restroom - it is terrible :D just clean it a bit :)

you need to understand one thing, all properties in the area are old building in the old city, so it is hard to compare to modern western standard. also buildings create maze of narrow streets that you have to walk. said that the hotel provides clean rooms with private bathroom, fan and AC. it is close to the river and all ghats, you step down and you find yourself next to many shops, restaurants or market. we enjoyed our stay!

Stayed in April 2025

Nice place in the old town, maybe some more common areas would be nice, but everything else was very good, staff was friendly and nice, very committed to their job.

Stayed in April 2025

Everything is going well and perfectly aligns with my expectations and plans.

Stayed in March 2025

Really well located, right by the ghats and Aman is so helpful with anything we needed. Hosted us on a walking tour and learnt so much about the city.

Stayed in March 2025

Important info (especially for solo fem travellers during evening arrival/ departure): The hostel is located in the narrow alleys of the centre and cannot be reached by autoricksaw or taxi, only on foot. Would be good to pre-plan the transfer and reach out to the staff for support.

Excellent staff, friendly and accommodating with every need, from boat tour to transfer. Really close to the night arti ghat

Stayed in March 2025

intermittent loss of hot water

Great location Great view overlooking Ganges and rooftops of Varanasi.

Stayed in January 2025

Hospitality

Stayed in February 2025

All major tourist spots.& temple locations including famous Kashi Vishwanath temple are within the walkable distances Nice balcony view of river Ganges Boating point very close by and Hostel have arranged boating to enable us to visit Ganga Aarti in the morning session Just opposite to Hostel, there is Cafe where you can freshly prepared hot masala Chai (Tea) ...super taste Airport transfer was smooth...friendly staff carried our luggage up to Taxi point which quite a distance (about 15 to 20 minutes walk in narrow gali/alley) and ensured that we reach airport Within 50 metre distance, there is a multi cuisine restaurant run by Monalisa where one can breakfast or lunch or dinner. We had nicely prepared Veg Pizza

Stayed in February 2025

Monalisa Hostel is all about good experiences. If you are looking for a budget friendly hostel which is accessible from major tourist spots then this hostel is for you. Name anything and they will provide it to you. The staff is very humble and friendly. Also, a special mention to host Aman Bhaiya, for all his efforts towards every guest. Thank you Monalisa Hostel for such a memorable and great experience.

Stayed in January 2025

The host was super helpful and kind. The dorms were clean. Service was top tier. Very friendly people.

Stayed in December 2024

Staff and place feels safe and comfortable!!

Stayed in December 2024

No hot water

Stayed in December 2024

It was on top floor and view was great but not good for senior citizens since there is no lift , it's hard to walk upstairs, for youngsters it's fine.

Location is perfect, close to Dhashwmedh ghat and Vishwanath temple.

Stayed in December 2024

Just maintain the electrical work!

Great Stay for backpackers! The cafe are good too!

Stayed in December 2024

Beds were a little hard for our preference, but this didn’t affect us too much.

Cute place set back off the street. Room was simple but met our needs. AC was great. Close to the ghats which is what you want. Arranged great sunrise and sunset boat trips at good prices. Highlight was the staff - helpful when arranging taxis and trips to local atm and bought a cake for one of our birthdays and celebrated with us which was a lovely touch. Would recommend.

Stayed in October 2024

Bathroom could need maintenance - but its private - that's good. View from top-terrace - one more floor up is great.

It is a fine place, very basic - a hostel and with private rooms. Since last time MY rooms has been painted and there is a (noisy) air-con (but necessary in september). My Room is on 4th floor, stair is narrow and a bit steep. Shoes off downstairs (good idea!) Good service by staff - very kind. The restaurant - by same name i a 150 ms away - to the left. Quite good food and cakes - if you like this - I do.

Stayed in October 2024

I stayed at the Mona Lisa Hostel in the beautiful city of Varanasi for three days. The hostel is located in the best part of the city, just a few minutes' walk from the ghats, the Ganges River, and the local market. The staff are amazing, and Aman patiently guides you through everything. The hostel is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, and the room facilities are quite decent considering the price.

Stayed in September 2024

No elevator

Location, view, terrace, room

Stayed in August 2024

The location is great. The reception was very helpful every time I needed help. There is a roof top with a wonderful view at the Ganges river. I really enjoyed my stay at the Monalisa hostel.

Stayed in May 2024

The common area should be more so that one can interact with eachother

The terrace view

Stayed in August 2024

Simple bed and bathroom.

Great location and stuff. Good value for money.

Stayed in July 2024

There were hooks to hold the clothes( only one was there behind the door)

The view of ganges from the terrace,twin beds,and comfortable space in the room.

Stayed in July 2024

Less ventilation if you are not in AC room

So comfy )

Stayed in July 2024