Hotel Dolphin International — Hotel in Uttar Pradesh

Terrible Experience – Avoid at All Costs!

We recently stayed at Hotel Dolphin Grand in Varanasi during a business trip and had the worst hospitality experience imaginable. Due to the wedding season rush, we were left with limited options and had to settle for this property, paying a hefty price of ₹30,000+GST (twin sharing) for 2 rooms with a CP plan. While the price was steep, what followed was truly unacceptable.

Mandatory Full Payment at Check-in: Upon arrival, we were rudely asked to make the full payment upfront. While we questioned this unusual policy, the receptionist bluntly stated it was "hotel policy." This set the tone for the rest of the stay—poor communication and an unwillingness to accommodate guests.

Language Barrier & Miscommunication: The staff, particularly the receptionists, lacked basic English communication skills. For a hotel charging such premium rates, this was shocking. A miscommunication regarding a dinner discount became a major issue. We were told there would be a ₹1,000 discount per room, but later they claimed it was ₹1,000 off the total bill. Despite numerous discussions involving the receptionist, restaurant staff, and even top management, they refused to honor their original promise.

Constant Harassment for Money: Every time we stepped out or entered the hotel, the receptionist would hound us with comments like “money, money,” even though we had paid in full. He was asking for other property which we were supposed to stay for a day.

Basic Amenities Denied: Asking for a simple necessity like water was met with the response, “Your quota for the day is finished.” For a hotel charging nearly ₹90,000 for a 4-member stay, this was utterly disgraceful.

Poor Service at Their Sister Property: We also stayed for a day at their other property, Hotel Dolphin International, hoping for a better experience, but it was just as bad. Their staff couldn’t even handle something as simple as adding 4 names to a bill. Initially, they outright refused, and only after an argument did they grudgingly comply.

Verdict: This hotel is plagued by unprofessional staff, poor communication, and terrible service. They prioritize money over customer satisfaction and make no effort to create a hospitable experience. The glowing reviews you see online are either fake or bought, as our experience starkly contrasts those claims.

Rating: If I could give negative stars, I would. Avoid this place at all costs—there are far better options in Varanasi, even during the...

Planning a trip with parents, both above 65 comes with its share of necessary requirements. This was my first trip to Varanasi, with no local aquaintances. Decided on this hotel online after quite a bit of research. The decision factor was a 24/7 open South Indian restaurant in the lobby. (More about that in another review). It proved to be a great decision. The hotel is well maintained. Proximity to most of the ghats (8-10 minutes in auto). The staff is very courteous. Special thanks to Ms.Lakshmi, front desk. I just sent her our requirements for 3 day travel and she gave me all the options possible. From arranging multiple airport pickups to local travel with Guide, Lakshmi's support was superlative. Our travel dates coincided with Ms. Lakshmi's annual vacation, so we couldn't meet her. In spite of being on vacation she was always available over phone and went above and beyond to make our stay and travel comfortable. Big Thank you! Special thanks also to the Travel desk executive, Mr.Rajesh Kumar. His ideas and suggestions for our travel and darshan are highly appreciated. If you'd like to experience Varansi along with its history, do consider taking a Guide along at least for the Ganga Aarati. Havign a knowledgeable guide with us, Mr. Abhay Srivastava made a huge positive impact for our trip. One last input to all those bitten by the travel bug - please do consider tipping those in the service industry and definitely those who serve you with a smile. It is not an easy job. Great...

I had booked this hotel for stay of my guests to attend wedding function of my daughter at nearby hotel diamond on 28 Nov.19. We stayed here from 24th to 30th of Nov. without any difficulty. We enjoyed the courteous behaviour of the staffs Mr. Kishore who guided and helped me in arranging local needs of music band, beauty parlour, photographer, fooding plan etc. beyond his role. Mr. Neeraj Neotia, the owner , personally gave attention to our comfort level with discount offering , Mr. Jitendra Tiwary, Mr. Anugrah, G.M. all were so courteous and helpful that I will not forget them ever. Superb and memorable stay in homely atmosphere, with peace of mind, good hospitality we received and we recommend everyone to have a look before going anywhere in Varanasi. Location on main route, spacious roads and parking also available. At the last ,I will mention the services of housekeeping staffs as extraordinary and great. Last but not least, Thanks to Mr. Kishore, for his experience under Mr. Sanjiv Kapoor, renowned chef, who made our foods so tasty and healthy that we are fan of him.Mr. Kishore is wedding planner also who can guide and arrange any local needs for marriage/parties and that also with open heart without any lust or greed. I wish all the success of business of Hotel Dolphin and it's team and I convey thanks to all for their support and help. I recommend that stay at Hotel Dolphin will always be mesmerizing and memorable...