Sir Sunderlal Hospital

Sir Sunderlal Hospital Varanasi Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Varanasi Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Sir Sunderlal Hospital (SSH), situated on the prestigious Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a landmark in both healthcare and education. Established in 1926 under the vision of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya and named after Sir Sunderlal, BHU’s first Indian Vice Chancellor, the hospital has evolved into a multi-specialty tertiary care institution. Today, SSH serves millions from Varanasi and neighboring states, combining advanced medical care, research, and community outreach. This guide delivers comprehensive information about visiting SSH, including hours, entry protocols, registration, amenities, and how to blend your hospital visit with exploration of Varanasi’s renowned historical sites (Sir Sunderlal Hospital Visiting Hours & Visitor Information | Varanasi Hospital Guide; Significance and Role in Regional Healthcare).

Historical Foundations of Sir Sunderlal Hospital
Evolution and Expansion
Significance in Regional Healthcare
Modernization and Digital Transformation
Visitor Information
Exploring BHU and Varanasi Historical Sites
Visitor Experience and Practical Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Facts and Figures
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Foundations of Sir Sunderlal Hospital

Founded in 1926, SSH began as a modest facility to serve the BHU community and local residents. With Malaviya’s vision, it was named after Sir Sunderlal, a pioneering physician and the university’s first Indian Vice Chancellor. Over nearly a century, SSH has grown into a leading center for advanced multi-specialty care, with a particular focus on serving the healthcare needs of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and neighboring areas (Wikipedia).

Evolution and Expansion

Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, SSH expanded in tandem with the Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS-BHU), adding specialized departments and state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities. The hospital was recognized as an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2018, further enhancing its funding, capacity, and role as a premier referral center (PrognoHealth).

SSH now boasts over 1,500 beds and a comprehensive spectrum of specialties, serving as the largest tertiary referral hospital in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and catering to patients from neighboring states and Nepal (Hospaccx Consulting).

Significance in Regional Healthcare

SSH is not only a teaching hospital for IMS-BHU but also a backbone of regional healthcare delivery, providing affordable access to advanced medical services. It played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic as a designated treatment and vaccination center, underscoring its importance in public health emergencies (Hospaccx Consulting).

Modernization and Digital Transformation

OPD Online Registration

SSH has embraced digital innovation with the launch of a BHU OPD Online Registration Portal, enabling patients to book appointments, check fees, and access multilingual support. This system has streamlined patient flow, reduced waiting times, and improved the overall experience (BHU Express).

Infrastructure and Research

The hospital features a state-of-the-art Trauma Centre, advanced diagnostics, telemedicine, and ongoing research programs targeting regional health challenges. SSH remains at the forefront of medical education and research, training future healthcare professionals and conducting clinical studies (Hospaccx Consulting).

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

SSH is located on Semi Cir Road within the BHU campus, in the Lanka area of Varanasi. It is approximately:

2.2 km from Bhulanpur railway station
7–10 km from Varanasi Junction railway station
30 km from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport

Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses provide reliable connectivity. Clear signboards inside BHU direct visitors to the hospital (Yappe.in).

Visiting Hours

General Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily
Inpatient Visiting: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM (check department-specific and COVID-19 protocols online)

Ticketing and Entry

Entry Fee: None. SSH does not charge entry fees or require tickets for consultations.
Identification: Carry valid photo ID and previous medical records if seeking treatment.
OPD Registration: Strongly recommended via the online portal to minimize queues.

Registration Process

Walk-in Registration: Available at the OPD counters from early morning; arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds.
Online Registration: Enables selection of department, doctor, and preferred time slot.
Emergency Services: Open 24/7 without prior registration.

Facilities and Amenities

Waiting Areas: Designated zones (can get crowded during peak hours)
Pharmacy: On-site, with extended hours
Diagnostics: Labs, X-ray, MRI, CT, and ultrasound
Food & Refreshments: Basic cafeterias and stalls on campus; more eateries nearby
Restrooms: Public restrooms available; carry sanitizer/tissues for comfort
Parking: Available within the campus; public transport is recommended due to limited space
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; information desks for assistance
Languages: Hindi, English, Spanish (for OPD registration); translation support via embassies or local agencies

Exploring BHU and Varanasi Historical Sites

SSH is set within the culturally and architecturally rich BHU campus, offering visitors opportunities to explore:

BHU Vishwanath Temple: Iconic Shiva temple within campus grounds
BHU Museum: Showcases Indian historical artifacts and art
Botanical Gardens: Lush greenery and serene landscapes
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Major pilgrimage site nearby
Sarnath Archaeological Site: Renowned Buddhist heritage site a short drive away
The Ghats of Varanasi: Experience the spiritual heart of the city along the Ganges River

Some campus museums may charge nominal entry fees, but campus and hospital areas are generally free to enter (Visiting Sir Sunderlal Hospital and BHU Campus).

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

Language: Most doctors speak English; support staff primarily use Hindi. Translation apps or local guides can help.
Payment: Primarily cash; international cards may not be accepted.
Safety and Hygiene: Carry sanitizer and bottled water. Secure valuables and avoid unnecessary items.
Attendant Policy: Usually one attendant per patient; additional restrictions may apply during health emergencies.
Dress Code: Modest attire is expected; respect local customs.
Photography: Prohibited inside hospital areas.
Accommodation: Options range from budget to luxury near BHU and the city center.
Emergency Protocols: 24/7 emergency department and ambulance access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the visiting hours at Sir Sunderlal Hospital?
A1: General hours are 8:00 AM–8:00 PM; inpatient visits usually 4:00 PM–7:00 PM.

Q2: Is there an entry fee?
A2: No. The hospital and campus are free to enter; some museums may charge a nominal fee.

Q3: How can I register for OPD?
A3: Register online via the BHU OPD portal or in person at the OPD counter.

Q4: Are international credit cards accepted?
A4: Generally, no. Carry cash in Indian Rupees.

Q5: How do I reach SSH from major transport hubs?
A5: By taxi, auto, or bus from Varanasi Junction (7–10 km) or Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (30 km).

Q6: Are guided tours available?
A6: No guided hospital tours; local guides can arrange BHU campus and city tours.

Key Facts and Figures

Established: 1926
Affiliation: BHU, IMS-BHU
Beds: Over 1,500
Annual Patient Footfall: Millions
Specialties: Cardiology, Oncology, Pediatrics, Surgery, Trauma, Neurology, Nephrology, Ayurveda, and more
Languages Supported: Hindi, English, Spanish (registration)
Contact: +91-542-2368547, +91-542-2369169
Website: bhu.ac.in/ims

Conclusion and Call to Action

Sir Sunderlal Hospital is a beacon of compassionate care and academic excellence, seamlessly integrating medical innovation with the spiritual and cultural heritage of Varanasi. Whether you are seeking treatment, accompanying a patient, or exploring Varanasi’s historical treasures, understanding SSH’s facilities, visiting hours, and practical tips will ensure a smooth and enriching experience.

Stay updated with hospital news and Varanasi travel tips by downloading the Audiala app and following official BHU channels. For further information on medical services, visiting protocols, and local attractions, consult the references below.

References

Visual suggestions: Include high-resolution images of Sir Sunderlal Hospital, the BHU campus, Vishwanath Temple, and Sarnath; embed interactive maps for visitor orientation.