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14 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The best places to visit in Varanasi give you the chance to experience the spirituality of India at its most vibrant. Head to the Banaras ghats to watch Hindu devotees wash away their sins in the Ganges River each morning and return for fire-fueled prayer ceremonies as the sun sets.

You can see perpetually burning funeral pyres at the Manikarnika Ghat, a holy cremation ground for Hindus. Feeling inspired? You can deepen your connection with this side of Indian culture by releasing your own floating offering, available from vendors along the ghats.

More than a spiritual center, Varanasi also has a strong artistic side . Visit the museum at Banaras Hindu University to see a fantastic collection of miniature paintings or try creating your own masterpiece in a hands-on workshop at Ruchika Art Gallery. When you need a pick-me-up, make your way to Vishnu Tea Emporium for a cup of the best chai in India (along with tea souvenirs to bring home).

Discover more of this ancient city with our list of the best places to visit in Varanasi.

1. Ganges River

2. dasaswamedh ghat, 3. assi ghat, 4. manikarnika ghat, 5. dhamek stupa, 6. shri kashi vishwanath temple, 7. banaras hindu university, 8. ruchika art gallery, 9. shri durga temple, 10. ramnagar fort, 11. darbhanga ghat, 12. shivala ghat, 13. sankat mochan hanuman temple, 14. vishnu tea emporium, map of places to visit in varanasi.

Sunset view of Varanasi from the Ganges River

Named after the Hindu goddess Ganga, the Ganges River is one of the most revered natural sites in India. The river extends southeast from the Himalayas in the north to the Bay of Bengal. Between 400 million and 600 million people rely on the Ganges River to provide water for daily bathing and drinking.

Hindus come to Varanasi from all around the world to purify themselves in the holy Ganges water and perform rituals along the dozens of ghats along the river . For tourists, the river helps provide a fixed point of orientation for navigating around the labyrinthine city, and you'll no doubt spend lots of time sightseeing and watching life happen around the Ganges.

Consider waking up early and taking a sunrise cruise along the river — negotiate with one of the countless boatmen hanging out along the ghats.

In the afternoon or early evening, one of the top things to do in Varanasi is to purchase a small floating offering filled with fresh flowers and a candle , and release it onto the Ganges River. The blissful experience will connect you more deeply with Hindu culture and stay in your mind for years to come.

Read More: Best Things to Do in India

Dasaswamedh Ghat

The lively atmosphere of the Dasaswamedh Ghat makes it one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. This tourist attraction is a swirling hodgepodge of flower sellers touting bright blossoms, boat operators hawking rides along the Ganges River, and sadhus (holy men) with face paint. You can spend hours people-watching in this area during the day.

Hindu priests put on the Ganga Aarti every night at the Dasaswamedh Ghat, starting at around 7pm. Donning saffron-hued robes, the priests spread out plates of flower petals and other offerings and blow a conch shell to signal the start of the spiritual ceremony.

Thousands of tourists gather to watch the priests chant and wave tiered plates of sandalwood-scented incense in intricate patterns for about 45 minutes. It's an extravagant sight and one of the top things to do here.

Hot tip: Get to the ghat at least a couple of hours early if you want to beat the crowds and score a great spot for the show. You can also get incredible views from boats along the river or from shop balconies above the ghat.

Address: Dasaswamedh Ghat Road, Bangali Tola, Varanasi

Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat

When it comes to famous places to visit in Varanasi, the city's southernmost main ghat regularly tops the list. Assi Ghat's star attraction is a Shiva lingam (phallic representation of the Hindu deity) beneath a sacred fig tree. It draws hundreds of pilgrims every day, who come to worship Lord Shiva after rinsing in the Ganges River.

Feeling a little stiff from traveling? Swing by Assi Ghat at sunrise, when you can get your downward-facing dog on with dozens of others during free morning yoga classes accompanied by live music every day. Tourists can also see another Ganga Aarti performance here in the evening, which is slightly smaller and more intimate than the one at Dasaswamedh Ghat. It typically starts around 6:30pm.

Funeral pyres burning at Manikarnika Ghat

Plumes of smoke swirl toward the sky at Manikarnika Ghat. No, it's not from a factory — it's from the perpetual cremations that happen on this ghat. Hindus believe that Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most auspicious places for the departed to reach moksha (emancipation from the cycle of spiritual rebirth). The funeral pyre at this ghat burns 24/7, and the flame that feeds it is believed to have been lit for centuries. Roughly 100 cremations take place at this site every day.

Priests or guides frequently offer to lead tourists through the fascinating ghat; however, some can be aggressive in their demands for money. You may see doms (members of an untouchable caste) carrying cloth-wrapped bodies on makeshift stretchers, along with piles of firewood stacked up, ready to feed the pyre.

You may also be offered the chance to see a cremation up close — for a fee, of course. While profound, the experience is not for the faint of heart, nor is it a tourist attraction in the traditional sense. Know your limits; be respectful; and avoid taking photos of the funerals, mourners, and the departed.

Hot tip: If you're interested in the ritualistic cremations, but can't stomach the idea of seeing them up close, consider passing by Manikarnika Ghat on a boat tour along the Ganges River . The distance dampens the effect while still giving tourists a sense of what's happening in this important place.

Dhamek Stupa

Hinduism certainly has a stronghold on Varanasi, but Buddhism has a major presence less than 12 kilometers away in the village of Sarnath . Here, you'll find the Dhamek Stupa, a massive stone and brick structure that's 43.6 meters tall and 28 meters in diameter. The stupa was built more than 1,500 years ago as a replacement for a structure that dated back to 249 BCE.

The devout believe that the Buddha came to Dhamek Stupa to give his first sermon, which revealed the Eightfold Path after he achieved enlightenment. Take a look at the elegant carvings of birds, people, and flowers that cover the walls of the stupa as you wander around the attraction.

Sarnath also has plenty of other tourist places that make it a worthwhile day trip destination from Varanasi. Check out the Chaukhandi Stupa (a Buddhist shrine that dates back to at least the 6th century), then make your way to the Sarnath Museum to see the Lion Capital of Ashoka , a sculpture that used to sit atop the Ashoka Pillar in 250 BCE and became the National Emblem of India in 1950.

Round out the day with sightseeing at the peaceful Tibetan Temple, located near the main market, before making your way back to Varanasi.

Address: Dharmapala Road, Singhpur, Sarnath, Varanasi

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Hindu pilgrims and tourists alike travel for thousands of miles to reach the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple , a sacred attraction around four kilometers from the Varanasi Junction railway station near the Manikarnika Ghat .

The impressive structure, dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, has earned the nickname "The Golden Temple" for its striking spire — plated in some 800 kilograms of pure gold. The distinctive design of this temple has gone on to inspire the architecture of hundreds of other temples across India.

Strict security measures around the complex require that tourists stash their cameras, phones, bags, and other belongings in a rentable locker nearby. Foreigners will also need to get their passports and visas verified at the Darshan Booking Desk. Expect to ditch your shoes and wait in line with hundreds of other visitors, all eager to touch the 60-centimeter-tall, sin-absolving Shiva lingam in a silver alter . It's an intense, yet rewarding experience

Hot tip: Skip this attraction on Hindu holidays, when devotees wait in line for up to two full days to enter the temple.

Address: Lahori Tola, Varanasi

New Vishwanath Temple at Banaras Hindu University

Banaras Hindu University has been a central part of Varanasi's identity since its inception in 1916. The well-respected public university is home to more than 25,000 students, making it one of Asia's largest residential universities.

There are no hill stations near Varanasi, so if you're looking for an escape from the crowds and busy city, come to this lush 1,300-acre campus. The serene area is shaded by hundreds of tall trees and offers a breath of fresh air from the hectic atmosphere at the Banaras Ghats.

While on campus, swing by the New Vishwanath Temple, a famous temple that finally finished its decades-long construction in 1966. Standing 77 meters high, the temple is one of the tallest in India and draws architectural inspiration from the nearby Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Visitors to the university should also make a point to explore the on-campus museum, Bharat Kala Bhavan . The cultural institution features a spectacular collection of miniature paintings , along with over 100,000 other artifacts of archeological and artistic importance.

Want to take a piece of Varanasi home with you? Look no further than the Ruchika Art Gallery , just off Ravindrapuri Road . The gallery's namesake owner, Ruchika Mehrotra, has created a warm, delightful shop to display a vibrant collection of paintings that capture the energy of Varanasi and the ghats in a rainbow of colors.

While there are some larger works that would require shipping, many of the paintings are small enough to pack in a suitcase as souvenirs. There are also charming postcards available for purchase.

In addition to showcasing locally made creative works, Ruchika Art Gallery also invites tourists to pick up a paintbrush during artistic workshops . Get in touch with Ruchika to see what's on the calendar during your trip to Varanasi.

Address: 1 Ground floor, Shwetabh Building, near Sankat Mochan Mandir and Lanka Post Office, Lanka Road, Varanasi

Shri Durga Temple

Spiritual activities around Varanasi aren't solely confined to the ghats. Just a five-minute walk west of Assi Ghat , the Shri Durga Temple is a popular attraction for Hindus who wish to pay tribute to the goddess Durga. You can't miss the 300-year-old temple — it's painted bright red from top to bottom.

The temple's nickname, "Monkey Temple," gives you a clue about the creatures you might find swinging about in this area. You may also see a couple of graceful swans floating on the pool of water outside the temple.

Address: 27, Durgakund Road, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi

Ramnagar Fort on the banks of the Ganges River

There are few destinations in India without a fort, and Varanasi is no exception. About 14 kilometers from the city center, you'll find Ramnagar Fort.

The 18th-century sandstone fort and palace is no longer used as a defensive structure but instead houses a quirky museum brimming with vintage automobiles, elaborate hookahs, antique weapons, sedan chairs decked out in jewels, and a one-of-a-kind astronomical clock that's more than 150 years old.

After enjoying an archeological treasure hunt at the museum, check out the fort's temples, one of which honors Veda Vyasa, author of the Mahabharata and other important Hindu epics.

Address: Mirzapur - Varanasi Road, Purana, Ramnagar

Darbhanga Ghat

Photographers, take note: Darbhanga Ghat offers the best opportunity to get amazing shots of Varanasi. The stairs leading down to the riverbank are crowned by the ultra-luxurious BrijRama Palace , an old fort that has since been converted into a heritage hotel. The property's Greek pillars and rounded balconies give the area (and your photographs) a regal backdrop.

Plan to get here around dawn to capture unobstructed views of the incredible sunrise over the horizon of the Ganges River.

Location: Near Ahilyabai Ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi

Man praying in front of Shivala Ghat

While not as active as other riverfront spots in Varanasi, Shivala Ghat is a pleasant place to visit if you're looking for some peace and quiet along the Ganges.

The lack of crowds at the ghat makes it easier to respectfully observe the devout doing their ritualistic dips in the holy river and families gathering for prayers and tea in the morning. Don't be surprised if you wind up sharing the space with water buffalo, which are known to hang about in the area. You can also see a palace built by Nepalese king Sanjay Vikram Shah in the 19th century.

It's also worth devoting a few hours to wander the maze-like alleyways leading to Shivala Ghat. The densely packed neighborhood offers a glimpse at what everyday life is like for locals in Varanasi.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Situated on the banks of the Assi River, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple draws thousands of visitors a day, all eager to make an offering of sweets and flowers to the Hindu god Hanuman.

Legend has it that this temple was constructed exactly where Hindu saint and poet Goswami Tulsidas had a vision of the monkey god. Speaking of monkeys, keep your eye out for the mischievous creatures who are regularly spotted bouncing around the temple.

Hot tip: April or May can be a particularly great time to visit this Varanasi attraction. That's when the temple hosts its annual "Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh," a festival of classical music and dance recitals held over a series of five to six days. Performers come from all over the world to take part in the nearly 100-year-old event.

Address: Sankat Mochan Road, Padampuri Colony, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur, Varanasi

Masala chai in Varanasi

Tea is practically a way of life in India — you're almost never more than a few steps away from a chaiwala (tea seller) whipping up spicy, creamy masala chai from roadside stands.

Take a deep dive into this culinary ritual with a visit to the Vishnu Tea Emporium. Just a four-minute walk from Dasaswamedh Ghat, this casual shop offers up-close demonstrations of how to make masala chai from spices and fresh ingredients.

It also offers a curated selection of tasty tea and spice blends for tourists to recreate the classic Indian drink at home. There's no pressure to make a purchase, but this is one souvenir you won't regret buying.

Address: D 15/51 Manmandir, Dasashwamedh Road, Varanasi

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Crowd of people bathing in the Ganges.

Varanasi is the India of your imagination. This is one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, and one of the holiest in Hinduism. Pilgrims come to the Ganges here to wash away sins in the sacred waters, to cremate their loved ones, or simply to die here, hoping for liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Boats on River Ganges

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat, the main burning ghat, is the most auspicious place for a Hindu to be cremated. Dead bodies are handled by outcasts known as doms, and…

500px Photo ID: 130892773 - Photographed at Assi Ghat, Varanasi

The furthest south of the main ghats and one of the biggest, Assi Ghat is particularly important as the River Assi meets the Ganges near here and pilgrims…

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Varanasi’s liveliest and most colourful ghat. The name indicates that Brahma sacrificed (medh) 10 (das) horses (aswa) here. In spite of the persistent…

Harishchandra Ghat

Harishchandra Ghat

Harishchandra Ghat is a cremation ghat – smaller and secondary in importance to Manikarnika, but one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi.

The Golden Temple of Vishwanath, holiest temple in Varanasi (formerly Benares), entry forbidden to non-Hindus, Uttar Pradesh, India, Asia

Vishwanath Temple

There are temples at almost every turn in Varanasi, but this is the most famous of the lot. It is dedicated to Vishveswara – Shiva as lord of the universe…

Vishwanath Temple

Banares Hindu University

Long regarded as a centre of learning, Varanasi’s tradition of top-quality education continues today at Banares Hindu University, established in 1916. The…

Bharat Kala Bhavan

Bharat Kala Bhavan

On the Banares Hindu University campus, this museum hosts a wonderful collection of miniature paintings, as well as 12th-century palm-leaf manuscripts,…

Munshi Ghat

Munshi Ghat

Munshi Ghat – also known as Darbhanga Ghat – is one of the more photogenic ghats along the old town stretch of the Ganges in Varanasi.

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Complete List of Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days

Complete List of Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days

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This post is a Varanasi travel guide listing a suggested Varanasi itinerary that contains all the best places to visit in Varanasi in 2 Days. Let me know what you think of it in the comment section below!

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi is an ancient holy city in India. Set beside the mighty holy Ganges, Varanasi is an ancient city with a modern side to it as well. You must visit Varanasi if you wish to gain a deeper insight into Hindu customs, mythology and beliefs. Whether it's watching the famous prayer at a Varanasi ghat, going to one of the many Varanasi temples or enjoying the street food of Varanasi, there are lots of things to do and places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days or even more.

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Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days: Varanasi Itinerary

Varanasi got its name from tributaries of the river Ganga on two ends of the city - Varuna and Assi. In present-day Varanasi city, Varuna is a Ganga tributary whereas Assi is a ghat located on one end of Varanasi. While most Indians who visit Varanasi come here for a pilgrimage, there's a lot more to do in Varanasi than to just explore the many temples. This Varanasi travel guide contains a list of all the best places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days - giving you a suggested Varanasi itinerary along with lots of travel info to help you plan your Varanasi trip.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

  • Spring (March - April) : Varanasi can get either too hot or too cold. Thus the spring months of March and April are one of the best times to visit Varanasi .
  • Summer (April - June) : The summer months can get extremely hot in Varanasi. The heat can get too overbearing to handle. It's best to avoid visiting Varanasi during summer.
  • Monsoon (July - September) : While it doesn't rain a whole lot in Varanasi compared to the tropical regions of India, the combination of humidity and heat is terrible.
  • Fall (October - November) : This is, in my opinion, the best time to visit Varanasi . The weather is neither too hot nor too cold. The days are pleasant. Whats more, the famous Dev Diwali festival is celebrated in November in Varanasi. Read more on that below.
  • Winter (December - February) : The cold winter months are the best season to visit Varanasi if you like to avoid the crowds.

How to Reach Varanasi

1. by flight.

The Lal Bahadur Shashtri airport in Varanasi is well connected to the major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai. The airport is located roughly an hour's drive from the city. Upon exiting the airport, one can book a cab ride to the city centre using a ride booking app such as Ola.

2. By Train

The Varanasi junction railway station as well as Manduadih railway station are both located right in the middle of the city. In fact, both these railway stations are huge landmark in themselves. You will find trains to Varanasi from cities all over India.

In case you want to make a budget trip to Varanasi, you can get around using the Uttar Pradesh state transport buses. Not just that, you will even find private air conditioned buses to Varanasi from nearby major cities.

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Delhi to Varanasi

There are numerous ways to cover the 846 km distance between Delhi and Varanasi. You can get direct flights from Delhi to Varanasi and vice versa. Similarly, there are many trains running between Delhi and Varanasi. You can also get a night sleeper bus to reach Varanasi from Delhi. In case you are also planning a trip to Delhi, then you might find this Delhi travel guide useful.

Best Hotels in Varanasi - Near Ghats

If you're looking to enjoy all the places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days then it's advisable to stay near the Varanasi ghats since that gives you easy access to all the sightseeing places in Varanasi. Here you will find the best hotels in Varanasi as well as budget hotels and even hostels. It's advisable to stay close to Dashashwamedha ghat since it's the location of the famous Ganga aarti and it has a popular shopping market nearby plus lots of good restaurants and cafes.

Find hotels in Varanasi on Booking.com

Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days: A Suggested Varanasi Itinerary for 2 Days

Apart from a plethora of ghats and temples, there are lots of places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days. You can take a boat ride to view all the ghats, go temple hopping, shop for Banarasi silk clothing and sample the local street food among other things to do in Varanasi. Take a look at some of the top Varanasi sightseeing places, below, complied in the form of a suggested Varanasi itinerary.

DAY 1 OF VARANASI ITINERARY FOR 2 DAYS

1. kashi vishwanath temple.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple - Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days - 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary

Kashi Vishwanath temple is the most popular Varanasi temple which is dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva . There are two temples of the same name in Varanasi. One of them is the old Kashi Vishwanath temple (pictured above) located near Dashashwamedha ghat whereas the new one is located inside the Banaras Hindu University(BHU). The old temple was the target of a terror attack back in 2010 due to which there is heavy security and no electronic devices are allowed inside. The queue to get inside the temple can be hours long so it is recommended to book a VIP tour of the temple that costs Rs 300 per person and lets you visit by skipping the queue. It's a wildly popular pilgrimage site. On the other hand, the new temple inside BHU is a lot quieter.

2. Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort - Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days - 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary

Ramnagar Fort is an old fort on the outskirts of Varanasi located approximately 15-20 km from the city. This Mughal style fort was built back in 1750 by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh. Parts of the fort have been turned into a museum that holds artefacts and relics from the time that the Kashi Naresh lived in this sandstone palace. The magnificent fort looks over the river Ganga. It's a good place to spend the evening in Varanasi.

Must Read: Top Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal in India

3. Dashashwamedh Ghat for Evening Ganga Aarti

Dashashwamedh Ghat - Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days - 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary

If you had to visit just one place or ghat in Varanasi, Dashashwamedh ghat would be it. This is the ghat where the very famous Ganga aarti is performed. Every evening, just after sunset, a group of local priests gather to perform a grand evening prayer at the ghat. The sight is nothing short of spectacular! While you're at the ghat, be sure to take some time out to talk to a local priest about the legends and myths associated with the formation of the ghat.

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DAY 2 OF VARANASI ITINERARY FOR 2 DAYS

1. assi ghat.

Assi Ghat - Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days - 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary

Assi is a ghat which is located at one end of all the ghats in Varanasi. This is the place where all the nice river-side restaurants and trendy cafes are located. I suggest making your way to Assi ghat, renting a boat here to cruise along the ghats then return back and try local food at one of the many restaurants and cafes here. While you're at this ghat, do try the local masala chai. It's a unique chai that's exclusive to the Varanasi ghats.

2. Varanasi Ghats

Varanasi Ghats - Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days - 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary

Among all the places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days, the ghats occupy the top spot among all the sightseeing places. Ghat is a term for a riverside spot that has steps leading down to the river. Varanasi is world famous for it's many ghats. A trip to Varanasi is futile if you haven't done a boat ride along the Varanasi ghats . Personally, I found the best way to experience the Varanasi ghats was to take a one-way boat ride from Assi ghat to Dashashwamedha ghat and then walk back along the ghats back to where I started.

3. Kabir Math

Kabir Math - Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days - 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary

Did you know that Varanasi is also termed as a music city? Some of the most renowned musicians, artists and poets in India are born in Varanasi. Among all these artists, Kabir Das , a 15th century saint , is the most famous poet to be born in Varanasi. He was found floating in a lake as a baby by a local couple in Lahartara, Varanasi. Today, his remains have been kept near the very same lake. In-fact, his final resting place has been turned into a mansion cum temple.

Places to Visit in Varanasi - Sarnath temple

Sarnath is another one of the top places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days. While technically it is not within Varanasi city, it is located at a mere distance of 10 km from the city, making it a perfect day trip from Varanasi. Sarnath is believed to be one of the 4 pilgrimage sites that a dutiful Gautam Buddha follower must visit. This religiously-significant place has been known by many names such as Mrigadeva, Migadāya, Rishipattana, and Isipatana. Among the things to see in modern day Sarnath, you'll find various stupas , an archaeological museum , the Ashoka pillar , many ruins, and a Buddha statue .

Shopping for Banarasi Silk Clothing

Things to do in Varanasi - shopping at Godowlia market

The famous but crowded Godowlia market for shopping in Varanasi

Anyone planning a Varanasi itinerary for 2 days or even just 1 day can't leave without shopping some traditional banarasi silk clothing items. Varanasi or Banaras is famous for the Banarasi silk weave. For this reason, one can easily find lots of Banarasi silk clothing items are various shops across the city. However, Godowlia market is the most famous Varanasi shopping spot. Here one can very easily step find Banarasi dupattas , salwar kameez , sarees and fabric in various prints, colours and in any budget. Moreover, the market is located right near the Dashashwamedha ghat and even has a good local food scene going on.

Celebrating Dev Deepavali in Varanasi

Dev Diwali - Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days - 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary

Dev Deepavali or Dev Diwali is a festival celebrated with huge fervor in Varanasi. This festival takes place on the day of Kartik Purnima in accordance with the Hindu calendar. According to Hindu mythology, on this day, all Gods came together and defeated the demons Tripurasura and thus celebrated Dev Diwali i.e. Diwali of the Gods . On the occasion of Dev Deepavali in Varanasi, there are diyas (lamps) lit up on all ghats. Scores of people flock to the Dashashwamedha ghat to see the evening aarti and to take a boat ride to see the ghats.

The best way to enjoy Dev Diwali in Varanasi is to get to Assi ghat well before sunset and grab a good seat on a boat. Make sure you tell your boatman to stop at Dashashwamedha ghat during the evening Ganga aarti. It's the best way to beat the crowds and celebrate a hassle-free Dev Deepavali festival.

Places to Eat in Varanasi

Varanasi street food to try - Kachori sabzi

Varanasi is famous for the plethora of street food items. You just cannot skip out on trying the scrumptious food here while you're making your way through the places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days. Some of the must-try food in Varanasi is kachori , chole samosa , chaat , paan and baati chokha . You can find these food items almost everywhere. Kashi Bhandar located in Godowlia market is the go-to place for chaat items. Read about all the street food to try in Varanasi . On the other hand, if you're looking for western food, Assi ghat has many restaurants and cafes that specialise in both Indian and Western fare.

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What a great guide! Thanks for sharing it.

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The food is expensive and the taste is average but it’s recommended for its ambience. Also, this is perhaps one of the few places around the ghats where you can get non-vegetarian food.

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Varanasi, or Benaras, (also known as Kashi) is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Varanasi`s Prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrevealed. Mark Twain, the English author and literature, who was enthralled by the legend and sanctity of Benaras, once wrote : “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together. ”

The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals.

Ganges is said to have its origins in the tresses of Lord Shiva and in Varanasi, it expands to the mighty river that we know of. The city is a center of learning and civilization for over 3000 years. With Sarnath, the place where Buddha preached his first sermon after enlightenment, just 10 km away, Varanasi has been a symbol of Hindu renaissance. Knowledge, philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts have all flourished here for centuries. Also a pilgrimage place for Jains, Varanasi is believed to be the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar.

Vaishnavism and Shaivism have co-existed in Varanasi harmoniously. With a number of temples, Mrs. Annie Besant chose Varanasi as the home for her ‘Theosophical Society’ and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, to institute ‘Benares Hindu University, the biggest University in Asia. Ayurveda is said to be originated at Varanasi and is believed to be the basis of modern medical sciences such as Plastic surgery, Cataract and Calculus operations. Maharshi Patanjali, the preceptor of Ayurveda and Yoga, was also affiliated with Varanasi, the holy city. Varanasi is also famous for its trade and commerce, especially for the finest silks and gold and silver brocades, since the early days.

Varanasi has also been a great center of learning for ages. Varanasi is associated with promotion of spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga and Hindi language and honored authors such as the ever-famous novelist Prem Chand and Tulsi Das, the famous saint-poet who wrote Ram Charit Manas. Aptly called as the cultural capital of India, Varanasi has provided the right platform for all cultural activities to flourish. Many exponents of dance and music have come from Varanasi. Ravi Shankar, the internationally renowned Sitar maestro and Ustad Bismillah Khan, (the famous Shehnai player) are all sons of the blessed city or have lived here for major part of their lives.

Arts, Crafts and Architecture of Banaras: You will be amused to see that Varanasi is a Museum architectural designs. It presents changing patterns and movements in course of history. It has a rich and original variety of paintings and sculptor styles and equally rich treasures of folk art. During the ages Varanasi has produced master craftsmen and Varanasi has earned name and fame for its Sarees, handicrafts, textiles, Toys, ornaments, metal work, clay and wood work, leaf and fibre crafts. With ancient crafts, Banaras has not lagged behind in Modern Industries.

The Capital of all knowledge- Discover the most ancient seat of education in India World the famous scholars and their `Shastrarthas’, the great scholars, universities, college, schools, Madarsas and Pathshalas and Guru Shishya traditions, the epics, famous literary works, languages and dialects, journalistic traditions- newspapers and magazine, and famous libraries.

Organisation of sacred complex and social spaces, the cultural pluristic, linguistic and ethnic groups. Discover the city of affluence, intellectuals, oral traditions, castes and customs, personalities, professions, communal harmony . Discover the rural Varanasi. And finally (and with deep insight) peep into, the pleasure of Pans, Thandai, Gamcha, Bahri Alang and Mauj Masti.

Banaras has been famous for its Music both vocal instrumental, it has its own dance tradition. Add to this a very rich stock of folk Music and drama (esp. Ramlila), the tradition Musical soirees, fairs and festival the rich tradition of Akharas, games and sports.

Discover the ancient College of Plastic Surgery, Sushruta, Dhanvantri (God of Medicine), Divodas, and practice of all the ancient and modern systems of medicine in action.

Discover the spots around Varanasi, instituions, story of freedom struggle and the martyrs, history of Kashiraj, history of Sarnath, history of Bhadohi (Carpet town), of Mirzapur, of Ghazipur, know about the famous travellers and tourists, of the `Nijam’. And finally having seen the Panorama of Banaras, its continuity of culture, discover the identity of Banaras.

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Varanasi is another sacred city in India with a very old history. It could possibly be the world's oldest inhabited city. Known as the city of Lord Shiva, the god of creation and destruction, it's believed that anyone who dies in Varanasi will be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation. Even a wash in the Ganges River is said to cleanse away all sins.

Varanasi was originally called Kashi during Vedic times. It was officially named Varanasi in 1956, although it was known as Benaras before that (said to be a variant of Varanasi). The name is derived from the meeting of the Varuna and Assi rivers.

The fascinating thing about this mystical city is that its rituals are revealed openly to along the many riverside ghats , which are used for everything from bathing to burning the bodies of the dead. Yoga, blessings, massages, shaves, and games of cricket are among the other activities you'll find performed by the river's edge.

Planning Your Trip

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March are the best months to visit Varanasi. This is when the weather is at its coolest. Winters are refreshing and pleasant, albeit chilly at night. The temperature gets uncomfortably hot from April onward, easily reaching 35 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This is followed by monsoon rain from July to September.
  • Language: Hindi and English.
  • Currency: Indian rupee.
  • Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. India does not have daylight saving time.
  • Getting Around: Streets are very narrow in the old part of the city along the ghats , so walking is the only option in many places. It's possible to hire a bicycle at Assi Ghat. Further out, auto rickshaws and Ola cabs (the Indian version of Uber. Uber is yet to start operating in Varanasi) are convenient ways of getting around. There are prepaid booths for auto rickshaws and taxis directly outside Varanasi Junction railway station.
  • Travel Tips: If you're not familiar with Varanasi and think you might be overwhelmed, or you want to gain deeper insight into the city, taking a tour is highly recommended. Keep in mind that taxis and auto rickshaws can't reach the Dashashwamedh Ghat area between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. because of the crowds. You'll be dropped at Godaulia Crossing, where auto rickshaws line up.

Getting There

Varanasi is in Uttar Pradesh, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) southeast of capital Lucknow. The city has an airport and is connected by direct flight from major cities in India including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Lucknow, and Khajuraho.

Many people choose to travel to Varanasi by train. It takes a minimum of eight hours from Kolkata, 10 to 12 hours from Delhi, and around 30 hours from Mumbai. Most trains run overnight. The main railway station in Varanasi is called Varanasi Junction or Varanasi Cantt (the code is BSB). However, there are two other railway stations in the vicinity of the city -- Manduadih (MUV) and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya/Mughal Sarai Junction (MGS). This is important to note if all trains to Varanasi Junction are booked up. Manduadih is within the city, while Deen Dayal Upadhyaya/Mughal Sarai Junction is about 20 kilometers away. Mughal Sarai is a large station that receives a lot of trains, so you may be able to get one with availability. It was officially renamed Pandit Deen Deen Dayal Upadhyaya in 2018.

Bus services to Varanasi tend to be very slow and uncomfortable, and are generally avoidable unless you're on a super strict budget.

Things to Do

People visit Varanasi for a brush with the divine. One of the best things to do is to simply soak up the atmosphere and observe what's going on. The most interesting part of the city is its ghats (steps leading down to the river). Take a walk beside the river and watch life flow by.

A quintessential Varanasi experiences is a boat trip along the river at sunrise or dusk. It's worth going twice, at both times, because the atmosphere is different and you'll see different things. If you don't fancy hiring a simple row boat, the new luxury Alaknanda cruise operates twice a day (morning and evening) between in the south Assi Ghat and Raj Ghat in the north. The cost is 750 rupees per person.

The spectacular Ganga Aarti (prayer ceremony) takes place every evening at Dasaswamedh Ghat. You can either be part of the audience or watch it from the river. There's also an early morning sunrise Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat. It's not as formal and provides a less touristy experience.

A look at the cremation ghats, where dead bodies are openly burned on funeral pyres, is eye-opening. It's best that you don't try and go there yourself, due to the prevalence of scams and touts (see below). Instead, take this Learning and Burning walking tour offered by Heritage Walk Varanasi or Death and Rebirth in Banaras walking tour offered by Varanasi Walks.

The magnificent Vishwanath Temple, built in 1776, is an important Hindu holy place of worship in Varanasi.

Varanasi is an excellent place to shop for silk (including saris ). However, be sure to check the quality as many items are actually made of fake silk or silk blend. Musical instruments are also a good buy in Varanasi.

Varanasi is well-known for classical dance and music, and yoga as well.

Varanasi Tours

Want to see immerse yourself in Varanasi or see it without the hassle? Experience Varanasi , Varanasi Magic , and Varanasi Walks conduct informative experiential and offbeat tours around the city.

Manjeet is an outstanding personal guide who provides customized heritage walks of Varanasi.

GoStops Hostel offers inexpensive walking tours and activities in Varanasi.

Uttar Pradesh Tourism's early morning heritage walk of Varanasi covers the ghats and famous temples.

If you take a walking tour, you'll be able to explore the bazaars and unusual attractions, such as the flower market and Ayurvedic herb market. You can also visit artisans, a community of boatmen, and Juna Akhara where an unusual sect of naked sadhus live.

Festivals and Events

The biggest festival of the year in Varanasi is Dev Deepavali (or Dev Diwali). Not to be confused with Diwali, this festival happens 15 days later, on Kartik Purnima (in October or November). The gods are believed to come to earth to bathe in the Ganges River on this day, and the ghats are decorated with rows and rows of lamps. Their glow creates an evocative spectacle. A five-day Ganga Mahotsav festival is also held in Varanasi at the same time. The focus is on live classical music and dance.

The world's oldest Ramlila performance, which narrates the life story of Lord Ram, takes place at Ramnagar near Varanasi for a month in the lead-up to Dussehra.

Other important occasions in Varanasi include Maha Shivratri and Buddha Purnima (Buddha's birthday). The five-day Dhrupad Mela music festival happens at Tulsi Ghat, usually in March after Maha Shivratri. It's organized by the Sankat Mochan Foundation.

Maha Shivratri is also an extraordinary time to visit Varanasi to see the many sects of sadhus, who come to celebrate the great festival of Lord Shiva in the city.

It's worth setting aside a day to take a side trip to Sarnath , about 30 minutes away. This is where the Buddha gave his first discourse. In contrast to the craziness of Varanasi, it's a peaceful place where you can wander around the grassy gardens and ruins of Buddhist stupas .

If you're interested in handicrafts, you may like to visit the weaver villages around Varanasi. These include Sarai Mohana (supported by the Taj Hotel Group), Kotwa and Ayodhyapur. Tours are conducted by Holy Voyages and Walks of Varanasi.

What to Eat and Drink

Those who want a break from Indian food will find it at Assi Ghat. Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe and Aum Cafe are very popular. The Open Hand Cafe and Shop serves great coffee and yummy light meals and retails their quality ethically-made products.

Head to the Dosa Cafe or Niyati Cafe, in the lane behind Man Mandir Ghat, for simple yet tasty Indian fare.

Blue Lassi is famous for its traditional fruit-flavored lassi yoghurt drinks (some say they're the best in India). This hole-in-the-wall shop has been in business since 1925 enroute to Manikarnika Ghat.

It's wise to avoid trying the street food in Varanasi, due to hit-and-miss hygiene.

As Varanasi is a holy city, alcohol isn't permitted around the ghats and temples. Many rooftop restaurants do discreetly serve beer to tourists though. You'll only find bars in mid-range and luxury hotels away from the ghats.

Where to Stay

Ideally, stay in a hotel that faces the Ganges River so you can watch all the goings-on along the ghats . However, do be aware that most of these hotels are only accessible on foot. Be sure to factor this in if you have a lot of luggage. Here's the pick of hotels in Varanasi for all budgets.

Culture and Customs

Varanasi is a challenging destination for inexperienced travelers. There are many scams to watch out for. The most common one involves touts who will take you to see Manikarnika Ghat (the main cremation ghat) and ask you to donate wood for the funeral pyre -- you'll be paying at least 10 times more than what the wood's worth. If you offer a small amount, it will be declined. Either say you don't have any money or don't feel comfortable giving so much.

Although the government has noticeably cleaned up Varanasi in recent years, it's still very polluted and dirty. Most tourists find it to be an intense city that confronting and off-putting, yet intriguing. This is a place that will really overwhelm your senses, and not always in a good way. So, do be ready for it! It's not wise to take a dip in the Ganges River due to the pollution. If you go on a boat ride, avoid getting wet.

When taking photos, do be discrete and considerate of people who are performing rituals. Especially avoid photographing the cremation ghats.

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1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

4 km from city center 1 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Situated on the western bank of holy river Ganga in Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas or temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main deity of Kashi Vishwanath Temple is Lord Shiva, also known as Vishwanatha or Vishweshwarar meaning 'the ruler of the universe'. The city of Varanasi, the cultural capital of India, is thus known as the city of Lord Shiva. The temple has 800 kg of gold plating on its tower.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat

4 km from city center 2 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Dashashwamedh Ghat, situated on the Ganges River in Varanasi, holds immense religious significance and cultural vibrancy. Renowned for its daily Ganga Aarti, it offers a mesmerizing experience with spiritual rituals, pilgrim activities, and a lively atmosphere. Every evening, Dashashwamedh Ghat hosts the renowned Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony featuring priests conducting rituals with brass lamps and hymns.

3. Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

4 km from city center 3 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Ganga Aarti is an important ritual held on a grand scale every morning and evening on the banks of the holy Ganges. The priests perform the Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The entire Ghat gets illuminated with a divine light that can be felt strongly. The magnificent ritual involves huge brass lamps lit with oil and the priests chant the holy mantras that reverberate in the entire location.

4. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat

5 km from city center 4 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

The Assi Ghat is placed at the confluence of the Rivers Assi and Ganga and is famous for the large Shiva Lingam installed under a peepal tree. It has immense religious importance and has been mentioned in the Puranas and various legends as well. Assi Ghat is the heart of Varanasi and the locals, as well as, the tourists flock there to enjoy the amazing view of the sunset and sunrise at the Ganges.

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Varanasi Holy Ganges Tour Package with Ganga Aarti

Experience varanasi tour package with sarnath, kashi yatra tour package, pilgrimage special package: varanasi, bodh gaya, allahabad, super saver delhi-agra-jaipur-varanasi tour package, buddhist pilgrimage tour: varanasi & bodhgaya, 5. sankat mochan hanuman temple.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

4 km from city center 5 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is situated by the River Assi and was built in the 1900s by the freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya. It is dedicated to Lord Rama and Hanuman. Varanasi is always related to Sankat Mochan Temple and is an essential part of this holy city. Every person visiting Varanasi visits this temple and pay their respects to Hanuman.

6. Ganga Mahotsav, Varanasi

Ganga Mahotsav, Varanasi

6 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

The Ganga Mahotsav is celebrated every year to display the cultural heritage of the Gangetic plains, especially that of the ancient city of Kashi, which is now known as Varanasi. The festival is celebrated for five days and is organised by the Mahotsav Samiti of the Department of Tourism of the Government of Uttar Pradesh.

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7. Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir

Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir

4 km from city center 7 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Constructed in 1964, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is named after the saint poet Tulsi Das. It displays the Shikhara style of architecture and exhibits various inscriptions from the Ram Charit Manas on the walls of the temple. Various episodes of Ramayana have also been depicted on the upper storey of the temple in the form of carvings.

8. Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort

7 km from city center 8 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Located on the Eastern banks of River Ganga, opposite to Tulsi Ghat, Ramnagar Fort is a stunning historical monument in Varanasi. It was built by Raja Balwant Singh in 1750 according to the Mughal style of architecture. Even though the system of Kings was abolished in the region, the current Maharaja, Pelu Bhiru Singh, resides in the Fort.

9. Vishwanath Gali

Vishwanath Gali

4 km from city center 9 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Vishwanath Gali is famous for street shopping in Varanasi. A variety of items are sold in the bustling gali at affordable rates. One can easily find modern or traditional apparel, household items, home decor items, brass idols of deities, etc. The Gali is also well known for local snacks and sweets.

10. New Vishwanath Temple, BHU

New Vishwanath Temple, BHU

6 km from city center 10 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

The New Vishwanath Temple is every pious man's go-to destination to feel overwhelmed by the presence and power of the great Lord Shiva. Not only is it located in the heart of the cultural capital of India - Varanasi, but its divinity is multiplied by the holy river Ganga that flows by its side. Banaras Hindu University is hence home to one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city of Varanasi.

11. Ramnagar Ramlila at Varanasi

Ramnagar Ramlila at Varanasi

11 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Ramlila is a traditionally performed set of plays that depict Lord Ram's journey as told by the Ramayana. The 200-year-old Ramlila grew under the patronage of the Royal House of Benaras. Organized on a grand scale, around 10,000 people take part in the celebrations. The performance usually happens over ten days, but in Ramnagar, it stretches on for more than a month.

12. Durga Temple, Varanasi

Durga Temple, Varanasi

4 km from city center 12 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Durga Temple, nestled in the vibrant city of Varanasi, is a unique Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga built in the 18th century. Renowned for its vivid red color and intricate architecture, the temple exudes a spiritual aura. Devotees visit to seek blessings, especially during the festive fervor of Navaratri, when the temple comes alive with religious celebrations.

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13. Banaras Hindu University

Banaras Hindu University

6 km from city center 13 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Established by Madan Mohan Malviya in 1916, Banaras Hindu University is a 5.3 square kilometre campus in the city. It has about 30,000 students residing in the campus and is the largest residential university in the continent. The University has a long list of notable alumni and faculty. The Indo-Gothic architecture and the sprawling lawns add to the beauty of the place.

14. Nepali temple

Nepali temple

4 km from city center 14 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

One of the oldest temples in the city, Nepali Temple is a 19th century shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was established by the King of Nepal and is a spitting image of the Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu. The traditional architecture of the structure made of stone, terracotta and wood carvings attracts visitors in large numbers.

15. Shivala Ghat

Shivala Ghat

4 km from city center 15 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Shivala Ghat is quite famous religiously and historically too. There are a number of historic monuments around the Ghat. The mansion of the King of Nepal, King Sanjay Vikram is situated right next to the Ghat, also the Chet Singh Fortress. The view of the river from the Ghat is worth a visit.

16. Kedar Ghat

Kedar Ghat

4 km from city center 16 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Kedar Ghat is one of the oldest Ghats in Varanasi and is considered cleaner for bathing in the holy River Ganga and offering prayers to Lord Shiva at the Kedareshwar Temple. It is often visited for the beautiful surroundings and the spiritual vibe.

17. Batuk Bhairav Mandir

Batuk Bhairav Mandir

2 km from city center 17 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Famous for being a place of worship for Aghoris and Tantriks, Batuk Bhairav Mandir is considered to be of immense religious importance. The temple is dedicated to Batuk Bhairav who was an incarnation of Lord Shiva. An interesting feature of the temple is the sacred Akhand Deep which is believed to be burning for ages. The oil from this lamp is said to have healing powers.

18. Gyan Vapi Well

Gyan Vapi Well

4 km from city center 18 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Gyan Vapi Well is a sacred well for the Hindu community located inside the premise of Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The water of the well was considered to be holier than the water of River Ganga before it was polluted by the offerings made by the pilgrims. It is said that when Aurangzeb attacked the old temple, the temple priest threw the Shivalinga in the well and jumped in it to protect it.

19. Bharat Mata Mandir

Bharat Mata Mandir

2 km from city center 19 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique shrine dedicated to our country, Mother India. The temple does not have any deity, but a relief map of the country carved in marble. The temple was the brainchild of Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, a freedom fighter. It was built in 1936 and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi and has ever since been the only one dedicated to a country in the World.

20. Tibetan Temple, Varanasi

Tibetan Temple, Varanasi

8 km from city center 20 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

A shrine with stunning Tibetan Architecture, Tibetan Temple was where Lord Buddha taught his disciples the four truths of life. The edifice has a beautiful statue of Shakyamuni, prayer wheels and is decorated with traditional Buddhist paintings also called Thangksa. The unique feature of the temple is the prayer wheels that release strips of paper with chants written on them when rotated clockwise.

21. Alamgir Mosque

Alamgir Mosque

4 km from city center 21 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Alamgir Mosque is a 17th century structure built by Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, on a land which once had a Shiva Temple and was demolished by him. The mosque is an architecturally stunning building built according to the Indo-Islamic style with beautiful minarets and high domes.

22. Manmandir Ghat

Manmandir Ghat

4 km from city center 22 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Manmandir Ghat was built by Maharaja Mann Singh in the early 17th century. The Ghat is famous for a palace built by the Maharaja and an Observatory built in 1710 by Savai Jaisingh II. On the northern side of the Ghat is a stone balcony from where visitors can get a beautiful view of River Ganga.

23. ISKCON Varanasi

ISKCON Varanasi

4 km from city center 23 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

ISKCON was established by Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada to promote Krishna Consciousness and educate people with the teachings of Lord Krishna as per the Bhagwad Geeta. Regular poojas, kirtanas and chanting sessions are very popular here. Everyone is welcome to join these sessions without discrimination.

24. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

6 km from city center 24 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

An archaeological and art museum, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum exhibits a beautiful collection of sculptures, artefacts, paintings, jewellery, pottery, textiles, etc. ranging between the 1st and the 15th century. The total artefacts on display are over 100,000 including their rare collection of miniature paintings and manuscripts.

25. Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat

4 km from city center 25 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Considered as a gateway to the next life, Manikarnika Ghat is a highly sacred riverfront in India. It is believed that spending the last few days of life at the Ghat and completing the rituals of cremation here ensure a painless passing and also a way to attain freedom from the endless cycle of birth and death.

26. Chunar Fort

Chunar Fort

24 km from city center 26 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Chunar Fort is an 11th century fort important for its history and architecture. With a part of the might fort extending on the rocky and uneven banks of River Ganga, Chunar Fort is a stunning structure to explore. It has an aesthetic appeal that draws tourists. The fort has also been featured in a famous Bollywood movie "Gangs of Waseypur".

27. Chinese Temple

Chinese Temple

9 km from city center 27 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Chinese Temple is a colourful shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha and built according to the Chinese/Buddhist architecture. The temple has a spacious meditation hall where visitors can meditate in silence and soak in the serene vibe.

28. St Mary's Church, Varanasi

St Mary's Church, Varanasi

9 km from city center 28 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

St. Maryês Church is a 200-year-old architectural marvel, the oldest church in the town and the oldest standing garrison church in the southern part of Asia. It was established in 1810 by Reverend George Weatly and was an important church for the European and British community residing in Varanasi.

29. Yoga, Varanasi

Yoga, Varanasi

4 km from city center 29 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Yoga Training Centres at Varanasi are the best centres to learn Yoga in its true form that involves the body, the mind and the spirit. The trainers are highly experienced professionals or Yoga Acharyas who guide students through the accurate postures and the science of Yoga.

30. Varanasi Fun City

Varanasi Fun City

5 km from city center 30 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Varanasi Fun City is one of the most popular water parks in the city. The park bustles with activity and vibrancy especially during the weekends owing to its exuberant swings, magnanimous roller coaster and the like. Ideal for all age groups, the park also has a food court to tend to your hunger pangs once you are done chilling in the waters.

31. Aqua World

Aqua World

9 km from city center 31 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Situated on the Varanasi- Allahabad highway, Aqua World is another one of the popular water parks in Varanasi. With a plethora of fun rides and slides, the theme park is the perfect way to spend an entertaining day with family and friends.

32. Vindham Waterfalls

Vindham Waterfalls

32 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Vindham Waterfalls is a gorgeous waterfalls in MIrzapur, 90 kms from Varanasi. The waterfalls are also in close proximity of other popular tourist attractions like Tanda fountains, caves and temples. The mesmerising waterfall is a famous picnic spot and attracts a large tourist influx.

33. Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall

Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall

40 km from city center 33 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall is situated at a distance of around 48 kms from Varanasi in Latifpur in Varanasi. The waterfalls are a hidden gem away from the din and chaos of the city. Especially popular among trekkers and adventure enthusiasts, the falls can be reached through a small trek in the hills.

34. Rajdari Waterfalls

Rajdari Waterfalls

46 km from city center 34 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Rajdari Waterfalls is situated in Chandauli, 60 kms from Varanasi. The beautiful waterfalls are a popular picnic spot among the city dwellers. The huge waterfalls gushing down the cliffs are a visual delight to the eyes. The top spot of the falls also offer beautiful views of the valley below.

35. Devdari Waterfall

Devdari Waterfall

45 km from city center 35 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 65 kms from Varanasi in Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, Devdari Waterfalls is a beautiful spot with cascading silvery water amidst lush green surroundings. Falling down a height of 58 metres, the waterfalls are a popular spot of tourism and attracts a large tourist influx.

36. Mukkha Falls

Mukkha Falls

36 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Situated at a distance of 60 kms from Varanasi, Mukkha Waterfalls is a gorgeous mesmerizing waterfalls in the Sonabhadra district of Uttar Pradesh. The waterfalls are also in close proximity of Lakhaniya Cave Paintings and look the best during the rainy season.

37. Tanda Falls

Tanda Falls

54 km from city center 37 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Tanda Falls is another one of the beautiful waterfalls in Mirzapur district, 80 kms from Varanasi. The spot offers a very rejuvenating break from the hustle bustle of the city. The waterfalls especially come alive during the rainy season when the gushing waterfalls is sparkling in all its glory and fervour.

38. Sita Samahit Sthal

Sita Samahit Sthal

38 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Located in the Bhadoi district of Uttar Pradesh, around 54 km from Allahabad and 44 km from Varanasi, Sita Samahit Sthal is a revered Hindu temple and a popular pilgrimage spot. Enshrined by Goddess Sita, the temple is said to hold mythical as well as historical importance. It is believed that the temple is the place where Goddess Sita descended into the earth.

39. Street Food In Varanasi

Street Food In Varanasi

39 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Street food in Varanasi is as elaborate as the city's history. And Varanasi is as old as time itself. Since Aryan culture is found in the holy city, meat and beef is not that common and vegetarian cuisine is mostly followed with some exceptions due to Muslim habitations. The food of Varanasi is influenced by nearby states including Bihar and West Bengal, which has been given a different flavour by the locals of the city.

40. Boat Ride in Varanasi

Boat Ride in Varanasi

2,286 km from city center 40 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

A boat ride on the sacred Ganges is an integral part of the Varanasi experience, offering a surreal encounter with spirituality, rituals, and the historical charm of this ancient city. Whether you choose a sunrise voyage to witness the dawn rituals or a sunset cruise to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing nightly aarti fire ceremony, the Ganges unfolds its mystical tales.

41. Dev Deepawali

Dev Deepawali

7 km from city center 41 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Dev Deepavali, also known as the Diwali of the Gods, is a grand celebration that unfolds in the sacred city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Taking place fifteen days after the popular festival of Diwali, Dev Deepavali is a unique manifestation of devotion, spirituality, and a spectacular display of lights that transforms the spiritual capital of India into a realm of divine radiance.

42. Swarved Mahamandir Dham

Swarved Mahamandir Dham

13 km from city center 42 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Nestled in the spiritual heart of India, Varanasi, the Swarved Mahamandir Dham stands as an epitome of spiritual enlightenment and architectural brilliance. Serving as the world's largest meditation center, this colossal structure is dedicated to the moral and spiritual growth of humanity, offering a sanctuary for seekers from all walks of life.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

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Meander Wander

The Ultimate Varanasi Travel Guide for Planning a Trip in 2024

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Varanasi, an ancient city in India, is one of the most fascinating places that I have ever visited. This vibrant and lively city receives pilgrims and tourists throughout the year who are looking for different things over here. Some come here to celebrate life while others come to celebrate an important milestone in their life.

Whatever may be the case, you will always find the streets of Varanasi bustling with tourists. There are lots of people taking bath in the sacred River Ganga along the Ghats. This is one vibrant and lively city that anyone who wishes to experience India should visit.

Planning a trip to Varanasi soon? Well, then this Varanasi Travel Guide will help you in doing so! I have shared all the details in this article including where to stay in Varanasi, how to travel within Varanasi, what to eat, shopping guide, and lots more.

Varanasi Travel Guide

About Varanasi

Varanasi is a sacred city in India which could easily be the oldest inhabited city in the world and has a very old history associated with it. According to the texts in Rig Veda, Varanasi was originally called Kashi and was officially renamed to Varanasi in 1956. Kashi translated to ‘to shine’ in English so, Varanasi was known as the City of Lights.

According to Hindu mythology, Varanasi was established by Lord Shiva who was the god of creation and destruction. Since it was the second home to Lord Shiva, there is a Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to him. It is believed that anyone who dies in Varanasi is lucky as he will be liberation from the cycle or reincarnation. That’s not all, a bath in the sacred river Ganga is also said to wash away all your sins.

This is why thousands of elderly come to Varanasi to spend their last days here and priests conduct the final rites for those who died in the city.

Apart from being a prominent site in Hinduism, Varanasi also happens to be a sacred place for Buddhism. Gautam Buddha gave his first sermon about Buddhism around 528 BC and the town of Sarnath, located in Varanasi, is home to temples, stupas, and sites related to Buddhism.

When to Visit Varanasi?

Varanasi is accessible throughout the year but different months are suited for different activities. However, if you wish to just explore the sights in Varanasi, then you can visit Varanasi during the winter season . The weather is cool and pleasant so, sightseeing turns out to be a lot of fun.

Getting There

Located in Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is around 300 km from Lucknow which is the state capital and 800 km from Delhi which is the national capital. The city is well-connected to the rest of India through roads, railways, and flights.

So, if you are travelling to Varanasi from Delhi or any other city in India, you will have a lot of options available.

How to Travel Within Varanasi

Boats in Varanasi

Once you have reached Varanasi, I am sure you must be wondering how can you travel within Varanasi. Well, since Varanasi is so populated and full of attractions to visit, it is good to know about the main mode of transportation that you will find here.

Here is a brief breakdown of how you can travel in Varanasi.

Personally, I found the best way to explore Varanasi was on foot. If you are covering the streets and Ghats of Varanasi, then this is a great way to do that. It will take you around 1 hour to travel from the northernmost Ghat in Varanasi to the Assi Ghat. Apart from that, the streets are filled with wonderful doors and alleys for photography, so walking is a great way to uncover that as well.

Moreover, you can stop at the food vendors to enjoy the local street food in Varanasi if you are walking and exploring the city.

Rickshaws and Shared E-rickshaws

While walking is a great way to explore Varanasi, you cannot travel to the temples or other places if your hotel is situated a little away from these attractions. In such a case, a rickshaw or an E-rickshaw could be useful. Usually, a rickshaw will cost you around 50 INR for a 3km radius but be prepared to bargain.

There are many shared E-rickshaws that will take you to the ghats and cost you just 10-20 INR for the journey.

Auto-rickshaws

If you are travelling from the railway station or the airport, then auto-rickshaws are the best way to reach your hotel/hostel. You will find lots of auto-rickshaws but you will have to haggle a little for the right price. An auto from Varanasi Junction will cost you around 150-200 INR to Dasaswamedha Ghat.

Ola or Private Taxis

Finally, you also have the option of ordering an Ola cab but remember, the streets of Varanasi are quite narrow so you might not be able to take you car deep inside the city. But it is a great option if you are travelling from the Airport and don’t want to waste your time or energy on haggling the prices with the auto owners or private taxi owners.

Finally, when you are travelling around the Ghats, then one of the best ways to travel from one Ghat to another Ghat is by taking a boat. You can also enjoy a boat ride to cross the river and explore the ashrams and temples that are located on the other side. Usually, a boat ride of one hour will cost you around 50-100 INR per person.

Tips for Traveling in Varanasi

Local lady sitting on Ghat

When you are travelling in Varanasi, you might feel a bit out of place. So, here are a few tips that I have compiled to help you blend in Varanasi and have an enjoyable trip here.

Dress Conservatively in Varanasi

Well, Varanasi is the spiritual capital of India so it is imperative that you wear modest clothing to avoid unwanted attention. You don’t have to wear a suit or saree but you can wear tops and long skirts to keep your shoulders and legs covered at all times.

Beware of the Scams

There are a lot of scams happening daily with tourists in Varanasi so, I would recommend you to be careful here. A few common ones are where locals try to take you to special restaurants or hotels or shops and then take commission for that.

Boat tour guides ask for ridiculous amount at times so you will need to be prepared for haggling. But most importantly, if anyone asks you to buy wood for cremation services, then either say no or be ready to spend a lot because the wood is usually sold to the tourists at a high price to earn profits.

Follow the Rules and Customs

One of the major things to remember when travelling in Varanasi is that the locals have their own customs and rituals here. So, instead of questioning them, respect them and follow them. Sometimes you would be asked to not enter an area with your footwear so, be respectful and remove it before entering.

Be Careful When Taking Photographs

Make sure that you don’t take photos of anyone without permission in Varanasi as it can lead to a lot of trouble. Whether it be a saddhu, a baba, or a local, always be mindful of taking their permission before clicking their snap.

Also, photographs of the cremation area are strictly prohibited so, don’t even attempt it.

Keep Your Belongings Safe

There are a lot of pickpockets in Varanasi so, always keep your bags locked and pay careful attention to them. Leave your valuables in the hotel room and always be aware of your surroundings when exploring the ghats or attending the Ganga Arti.

Stay Safe When Drinking Bhaang

Bhaang is basically edible cannibas which is legal at a few government shops in Varanasi. When you try it out, make sure you are in a safe zone as it can be trippy and can make you hallucinate. Always buy it from a government-authorized shop and always keep trustworthy people around you. If you are travelling solo or unsure about it, then don’t try.

Bargain a Lot

An important thing to remember when travelling in Varanasi is that you will have to haggle almost everywhere. From shopping to transportation, everyone will quote higher price to you in the beginning so, you need to bargain a lot to bring it to the actual price of the product or service.

Watch Out for Bulls

The streets of Varanasi are full of bulls and cows which makes it slightly difficult to navigate the alleyways at times. So, always be careful when you are exploring the streets and don’t end up walking in bull or cow crap as it would be very difficult to get it off.

Where to Stay in Varanasi

Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedha Ghat

Of course, a Varanasi Travel Guide without information on where to stay in Varanasi is slightly incomplete. Since Varanasi is a popular pilgrim destination, there are lots of accommodations available here in varying price ranges.

Depending on your budget and the purpose of your visit, you can choose the best stay in Varanasi for you.

Best Places to Stay in Varanasi

There are many amazing places to visit in Varanasi, especially the ghats. This is why it is important that you choose a place to stay in Varanasi to make it easier to explore the sights. Here are a few of the best places to stay in Varanasi to make the most of your trip:

Dasaswamedha Ghat – One of the top places to stay in Varanasi is Dasaswamedha Ghat as it is the main location for Ganga Aarti in Varanasi. It is said that this ghat was brought into existence by Lord Brahma to welcome Lord Shiva. There are a lot of activities going on here which makes it a popular attraction for tourists. Offering beautiful views of the city, there are many good hotels here for you to reserve your stay in Varanasi.

Darbhanga Ghat – Known for its amazing sandstone structure, Darbhanga Ghat is a great place to stay in Varanasi. There are many good heritage hotels here and since it is next to Dasaswamedha Ghat, you can easily witness the evening Ganga Arti here as well.

Shivala Ghat – Overlooking river Ganga, this is another busy ghat that offers several affordable and luxury accommodation options to the travellers. This is a good place to stay as the Ghat lies in the middle and offers you access to both the Assi Ghat side and the Dasaswamedha Ghat.

Hanuman Ghat – Another beautiful Ghat to consider for your stay in Varanasi is Hanuman Ghat a.k.a Rameshwaram Ghat. This gorgeous destination is believed to be built by Lord Rama for his disciple Hanuman. You will find a Hanuman temple here and one dedicated to Tulsi Das as well. There are several good hotels and restaurants here to explore during your stay.

Assi Ghat – Assi Ghat is located at southermost end of Varanasi ghats and offers several accommodation and restaurant options. It is also a quieter area for staying in Varanasi and happens to be the largest Ghats in Varanasi. One can visit here to enjoy boat rides to cross the River Ganges or reach Dasaswamedha Ghat that is located in the north side.

Budget-Friendly Stay Option: Hostels and Guest Houses

If you are a backpacker or a budget-traveler like me, then I am sure you are looking for an affordable stay in Varanasi. Thankfully, there are many hostels and guest houses to choose from in the city. Moreover, these accommodations are scattered all over the city, so you would be able to find a suitable accommodation near your choice of Ghat.

I have mentioned a few of the best options for the top locations in Varanasi to help you make a choice.

Price : These hostels and guest houses cost between 300 and 1100 INR per night for two guests.

Assi Ghat – Live Free Hostel, Hotel Picasso, Moustache Hostel Varanasi, Old City PG Hostel, Om Guest House, Kedar Guest House, Bliss Hostel, Banaras Paying Guest House.

Dasaswamedha Ghat – Mad Squad Hotel, Family Guest House, Alka Hotel, Wander Station Varanasi, Shiva Lodge.

Darbhanga Ghat – Vibe n Joy Guest House, Vishnu Rest House, Family Guest House, Ganga Guest House, Wander Station Varanasi, Liberty Guest House, Chatter Box Hostel.

Shivala Ghat and Hanuman Ghat – HosteLaVie Varanasi, Dynasty Guest House, Hotel Heritage Inn.

Mid-Range Stay Options: Hotels

For those who are looking for a little more comfort during their stay in Varanasi, there are many good 2-star and 3-star hotels available here. These hotels are reasonably priced and many of them are located on the ghats to offer easy access to their guests.

Here I have mentioned a few best options in Varanasi for mid-range stay options.

Price : These hotels and guest houses will cost you anywhere between 1500 and 4000 INR per night for two guests.

Assi Ghat – Via Varanasi, Hotel Ganga Garden, Palace on Ganges, Hotel Banaras Haveli, The Art Hotel, Banaras Hostel, Hotel Haifa.

Dasaswamedha Ghat – Ganpati Guest House, Shiva Inn Paying Guest House, Safarnama Varanasi.

Darbhanga Ghat – Hotel Sita, Sri Omkar Palace, Shiva Guest House, Palace on Steps.

Shivala Ghat and Hanuman Ghat – New Hotel Broadway, Rivera Palace, Rose Heritage Home, Ratanakar Palace Guesthouse, Hotel Balaji Palace, The Century Plaza,

Luxury Stay Options: Hotels and Resorts

Looking to relax and pamper yourself during the weekend trip to Varanasi? Then, you should check out the resorts and havelis in Varanasi for a luxurious stay here. These hotels and resorts will be a tad bit expensive but you would get the best facilities and services here.

Check out these few best accommodation options in Varanasi for a luxury experience.

Price : A stay at these luxury properties will cost you anywhere between 4,000 and 20,000 INR per night for two guests.

Dasaswamedha Ghat and Darbhanga Ghat – BrijRama Palace

Shivala Ghat and Hanuman Ghat – Amritara Suryauday Haveli, Shiva Ganges View.

Other Parts of Varanasi – Guleria Kothi, Taj Ganges, The Clarks, Ramada Plaza.

Where and What to Eat in Varanasi

Street Food in Varanasi

Although Varanasi is not known for partying or fine dining, but one of the best things to do in Varanasi is to try the street food here. You will find lots of simple restaurants and street food vendors around the Ghats in Varanasi that you simply cannot miss out on.

Since there is religious significance, restaurants near the river Ganga offer vegetarian food with non-alcoholic drinks. However, hotels and restaurants that are located away from the Ghats do offer non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks.

Where to Eat in Varanasi

Bhokal Chat

Here are a few best restaurants and food vendors that you should try in Varanasi.

Bhokal Chat – One of the most famous Chat vendors in Varanasi, you cannot miss the Pav Bhaji and the chat at Bhokal Chat in Assi Ghat. The chat is just too good for words and it costs barely 50-100 INR for a meal here.

Kashi Chat Center – If you are craving some delicious chaat or street food, then Kashi Chat Center near Dasaswamedha is a good place to check out. The food is delicious and cheap and this place has become quite famous among the tourists.

Brown Bread Bakery – A great place for breakfast, Brown Break Bakery offers everything from pizzas to cakes and offer great ambiance at the rooftop restaurant. You can also catch a live classical performance here at night around 7:30 p.m.

Shiva Cafe – This is yet another great choice for anyone who is looking for lots of options in food. This cafe serves not only Indian cuisine but Nepalese, Thai, and Western cuisine as well.

Dada Ki Chai – Another great place near Assi Ghat, Dada Ki Chai is a must-visit for all the tea lovers out there. You get the typical kulhad chai here which is delicious and affordable and you have a wide range of teas to choose from.

Pizzeria Vatika Cafe – If you are tired of the Indian food, then you can try Pizzeria Vatika Cafe where they serve delicious crispy pizzas and amazing apple pies. You can also enjoy the view of the river Ganges from here.

Aum Cafe – This is a Ayurvedic family run vegetarian cafe near Assi Ghat. Here, you can find good variety of herbal teas, juices, and so on. You can also get piercings or body massages get done here.

Hotel Kalika – If you are craving some non-vegetarian food, then Hotel Kalika near Assi Ghat is the best place to check out. From chicken to mutton, you get everything here at an extremely affordable price and the food it absolutely delicious too.

Dolphin Restaurant – Located on the banks of Dasaswamedha Ghat, Dolphin Restaurant is a great place for vegetarian food in Varanasi. You will get both North Indian and Continental cuisine here and can enjoy the river views with your food.

Varanasi Street Food to Try

Malaiyyo

Varanasi is known for its amazing street food so, it would be a shame if you didn’t try it on your visit. Here are a few street foods that you should definitely try on your Varanasi trip:

Kachori Sabzi – One of the most popular breakfast options in Varanasi, Kachori Sabzi is a must-try delicacy. In this dish, you have badi kachori filled with dal masala and choti kachori stuffed with a spicy potato mixture. Then, aloo ki sabzi is added to it to make this wholesome dish ready. You can get this at most street food stalls in Varanasi.

Malaiyyo – Malaiyyo is a popular winter street dessert in Varanasi that will simply melt in your mouth. Made from milk froth, saffron, cardamoms, and garnished with almonds and pistachio, this dish is served in kulhad and is a must-try in Varanasi.

Lassi and Bhaang – Two drinks that you will find commonly in Varanasi are lassi and bhaang. Made from curd, lassis are great to keep your stomach relaxed during the summers and can be found almost everywhere. But for bhaang, you have to be a little careful as it can cause you to lose your senses a little bit. Made from tulsi and milk, bhaang is a little potent drink that you should only drink in a safe environment but it is also a must-try in this city.

Baati Chokha – Although a Bihar speciality, baati chokha is famous in Varanasi too. Baati is basically wheat ball with sattu filling chokha is simply mashed potatoes and brinjal with spices. It makes a tasty snack and you should definitely try it when you are visiting Varanasi.

Tamatar Chaat – The Varanasi version of Tamatar Chaat should definitely be tried out as you will find it just here. In this, the tomatoes are mixed with boiled potatoes, spices, hing, green chillies, and pounded ginger. It is served along with chaat masala and tastes yummy!

Samosa – Of course, when we are talking about street food, how can we miss the samosas and the pakodas that are the staple snacks in Varanasi. You can get these snacks from any street vendor for 5 INR and can enjoy a budget-friendly trip here.

Shopping in Varanasi

If you are travelling to Varanasi for the first time or even for the umpteenth time, you cannot miss out on buying souvenirs from here. The city is particularly famous for the Benarasi Silk Sarees and it would be a shame if you didn’t get them for yourself or your loved ones. Apart from that, you can also buy Ganga Jal, Rudraksha Mala, Wooden Toys, Shivalinga, Glass Beads, Flutes, Stone Carved Curios, and Indic Literature Books at home.

For shopping in Varanasi, there are many good street shops that offer good prices and variety of products. Most of the small souvenirs such as Rudraksh Malas, Wooden Toys, etc. you can easily buy from kiosks on the Ghats. Be sure to haggle for the price as the owners usually quote a high price for the tourists.

There are many amazing local streets for shopping in Varanasi where you can buy clothes, accessories, and a lot of others things at reasonable price. For silk and woollen products, you can head to the Thatheri Bazaar while Vishwanath Galli offers not only shops for buying clothes but houses several food shops as well. Apart from that, there are a few malls in Varanasi as well such as PDR Mall, Vinayak Plaza, etc. so, you can check them out as well.

Varanasi Shopping Street

Network Availability in Varanasi

Airtel and Jio works best in Varanasi with Vodafone offering decent network service too. If you are planning to attend calls or use Internet data for working, then I would recommend you to carry either an Airtel or a Jio SIM with you.

ATMs in Varanasi

There are several ATMs scattered throughout the city of Varanasi. So, you will easily be able to find your bank’s ATM to withdraw the cash.

For foreigners, there are several Currency Exchange shops available in the city as well. You will be able to exchange your USD, EUR, Pound, and other currency notes quite easily here.

Also Read: The Must-Visit Places in Varanasi

Safety Tips for Traveling in Varanasi

Although Varanasi is safe for solo female travellers, it is important to be prepared for any unexpected experiences. Try to plan your Varanasi trip so that you don’t face any such incidents. Make sure that you don’t roam around in secluded areas at night alone. Don’t be quick to believe anyone when they try to take you to some nice location for shopping or eating. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers, especially since bhang is widely distributed in Varanasi.

Most importantly, be prepared for any situation and inform your family and friends on your whereabouts at all times. Keep handy the local emergency numbers and the number of your hotel/hostel in case you get into any trouble.

Cost of Traveling in Varanasi

Now, coming to the total cost of travelling in a place like Varanasi, it depends on the kind of traveller you are. You can get a stay in Varanasi for as low as 150 INR per night or you can spend around 500 – 800 INR for a decent one.

Meals in Varanasi will cost you around 50 – 100 INR. You can get a Thali or Pav Bhaji for this amount which would be filling for a meal. For transportation to nearby places, you can expect to shell around 50 – 100 INR in a day if you are staying close to the Ghats.

So, if you are planning a 3 to 4 days trip in Varanasi, you can expect to spend around 4000 – 5000 INR, depending on your travelling style. Personally, when I travelled in Varanasi, I spent around 2800 INR for a 5-day trip excluding my travel cost to and from Varanasi.

Well, Varanasi is an amazing place to visit in India, there is definitely no doubt about it. And with a little bit of planning, you can execute a wonderful trip here. Make sure that you keep aside enough days to explore everything that this city has to offer and look for local experiences to enjoy your trip more here.

I hope this Varanasi travel guide helps you plan an epic trip to this wonderful city. Let me know if you would like me to add anything else.

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this is a reasonable and fine guide to travel around the world.

Really Awesome post! I agree, Varanasi is probably the best example of Indian culture and traditions. An awesome spiritual place for travel. Well done. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful blog.

Very informative content. Varanasi has all the flavors of old times and new age. You can find ancient way of people worshipping and traditional way of dealing things specially around ganga. And new age things like Cruze on river, new NAMO ghat, new convection center Rudrach etc. Varanasi is a magical feeling which one can only feel when he or she is in varanasi. Thanks for posting very detailed information on Varanasi.

Nice blog thanks for sharing the information. it’s very helpful and useful. We are provide Online Cake Delivery in Varanasi

Thats great!

It would have been better if the article talked about where to visit also apart from ghats.

Hopefully next time, I was occupied visiting the numerous ghats found here that did not get time to visit the forts and waterfalls nearby. 🙂

Thanks for Valuable Information Keep it up.

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VARANASI TOURISM | TEMPLES, PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO VARANASI

varanasi tourism

  • Varanasi Overview
  • Top 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi
  • 9 Best Varanasi Tour Packages
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About Varanasi

Country: india | state: uttar pradesh, #2 of 15 places to visit in uttar pradesh | #4 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 2 full days, base station: varanasi, nearest city to varanasi: varanasi, best time to visit varanasi: october to march, peak season: november to february, varanasi weather: summer: maximum - 45°c and minimum - 23°c winter: maximum - 28°c and minimum - 9°c.

At a distance of 125 km from Allahabad, 163 km from Aurangabad, 208 km from Gorakhpur, 239 km from Rewa, 250 km from Patna, 258 km from Gaya, 321 km from Lucknow, and 327 km from Kanpur, Varanasi is an ancient city located on the banks of river Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is one among the most revered places of Pilgrimage in India and also one of the best places to visit in Uttar Pradesh . Also known as Kashi and Banaras, the city gets its name from two rivers Varuna and Assi. Nicknamed as the cultural capital of India, Varanasi was the seat of learning in the past. Legend has it that Lord Shiva himself established this holy city as his abode. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga sites in India and also one of the Shakti Peethas. Varanasi is an important destination among Hindus as they believe those who die in Varanasi will attain salvation. Varanasi is also a preferred site for immersing ashes of the dead in river Ganga. Performing funeral rites and cremation in the pyres are the common sights here. The holy city of Varanasi is more than 3000 years old and is one of the oldest living cities of the world. The early settlements around Varanasi began in the 18th century BC according to archaeological evidence. During the time of Gautama Buddha, the city of Varanasi was the capital of the Kashi Kingdom. Lord Buddha is believed to have founded Buddhism here around 528 BCE when he gave his first sermon at nearby Sarnath. Varanasi subsequently declined during three centuries of Muslim occupation, beginning in 1194 AD. Varanasi became an independent kingdom in the 18th century and in 1910 the British made Varanasi a new Indian state. Varanasi became a part of Uttar Pradesh after India got independence in 1947 CE. Often referred to as the city of temples, Varanasi is a great city in India which attracts millions of tourists every year because of its amazing temples, rituals, and spiritual beliefs. Dashaswamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Sarnath, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Annapurna Temple, Kashi Vishalakshi Temple, Manikarnika Ghat, Ramnagar Fort and Banaras Hindu University are some of the popular places to visit in Varanasi. Synonymous with the majestic river Ganga, the Ganga Aarti held every evening at Dasaswamedh Ghat is a sight to behold. Varanasi is also famous for its production of silks and brocades with gold and silver threadwork. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Babatpur is the nearest airport which is about 23 km from Varanasi Junction. Also known Varanasi Airport, it is well connected with flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Gaya. Varanasi Junction railway station is well connected by trains with Chhapra, Kanpur, Amritsar, Muzzafarpur, Jammu, Ahmedabad, New Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ranchi, Indore, Tatanagar, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Patna, Kochi, Jaisalmer, Mumbai, Bangalore, Dehradun, Haridwar, Pune and Chennai. Varanasi is well connected with buses from Agra, Delhi, Allahabad, Kanpur, Gorakhpur and Lucknow. Varanasi is the center for celebration of many Hindu fairs and festivals. The major festivals celebrated in Varanasi are Dev Deepavali, Hanuman Jayanti, Mahashivaratri, Holi, Bharat Milap, Drupad Mela, Panch Koshi Parikrama, Buddha Mahotsava, and Nakkatayya. The best time to visit Varanasi is from November to March. Although it gets fairly cold during the winters, this is the best time when you can explore the holy city without getting tired. The summers are dry, sunny and humid and better to avoid traveling to Varanasi around this time.

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Nearest Airport: Varanasi - Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (23 Kms)

Direct flights to varanasi, nearest train station: varanasi junction (0 kms), direct trains to varanasi, nearest bus station: varanasi bus stand (1 kms), direct buses to varanasi, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to varanasi, top 10 places to visit in varanasi, kashi vishwanath temple / golden temple.

varanasi tourism

#1 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated on the banks of River Ganga in Varanasi city of Uttar Pradesh. Popularly known as Golden Temple, it is one of the twelve jyotirlinga temples and also one of the popular places of Pilgrimage in India. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishwanath, one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva and he is regarded as the patron deity of Varanasi. The Vishwanath Jyotirlinga Temple at Varanasi has high religious significance and is the center of faith for millions of Hindus. The temple was visited by many great saints including Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda, Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, Goswami Tulsidas, Adi Shankaracharya and Gurunanak Dev. Lord Vishwanath is considered to the supreme origin of the spiritual truth and strengthens the bonds of universal brotherhood. It is believed that a single darshan of Vishweshwara Jyotirlinga is considered to auspicious more than .....

Dasashwamedh Ghat

Dasashwamedh Ghat

#2 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Dasashwamedh Ghat is a ghat on the banks of River Ganga in the holy town of Varanasi. Located close to Vishwanath Temple, Dasashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi and also one of the popular places to visit in Varanasi. The Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of the most important religious sites in Varanasi and is considered as the main ghat. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed his victorious Dasa_Ashwamedha (ten - horses) sacrifice in this spot, hence the name Dasashwamedh Ghat. Locals also believe that this ghat was built by Bajirao Peshwa I in 1740 AD. However, Ahilyabahi Holkar, the Queen of Indore rebuilt the ghat in the year 1774. Dotted with numerous temples and religious sites, the ghat possesses well laid steps and platforms for performing various rituals and religious activities. Dasashwamedh Ghat is famous for Ganga Aarti at each evening which attracts many devotees and is certainly once in a lifetime experience. .....

New Vishwanath Temple / Birla Temple

New Vishwanath Temple / Birla Temple

#3 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 12 km from Varanasi Junction, New Vishwanath Mandir is a Hindu temple situated in the premises of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the popular temples in Banaras and also one of the biggest tourist attractions in the holy city of Varanasi. Popularly called as Birla Temple, the temple was constructed by the famed Birla family. According to history, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya planned to replicate Sri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir in the campus of Banaras Hindu University and the Birla family undertook the construction. The foundation was laid in 1931and was finally completed in 1966. New Vishwanath Temple is having the similar structure of Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Built with marbles, the temple is designed by the founder of BHU, Sri Madan Mohan Malaviya. With a height of 253 feet, the temple has the tallest tower in the world. In fact, it is a temple complex which consists of 7 temples. The Shiva temple is situated .....

Durgakund Temple/ Durga Temple

Durgakund Temple/ Durga Temple

#4 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 7 km from Varanasi Junction, Durga Mandir or Durgakund Temple is a prominent Hindu temple situated near Tulsi Manas Temple in Varanasi. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Banaras and also one of the must visit Varanasi Tourist Places. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, Durga Mandir was built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani. According to the legend, the idol in the temple is not made by man but appeared on its own. It is believed that Goddess Durga has protected Varanasi for many centuries from the South. The temple is known with the name of monkey temple as tourists can spot number of monkeys in the temple vicinity. The temple was built in Nagara style of architecture. The temple is painted red with ochre to match the colours of the central icon of Durga, the goddess of strength and power. The temple is made up of many small sikharas adjoined together. The temple is located on the banks of a rectangular tank, which is often called as the Durga .....

Tulsi Manas Mandir

Tulsi Manas Mandir

#5 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 7 km from Varanasi Junction, Tulsi Manas Mandir is a Hindu temple situated next to the famed Durgakund Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the most famous temples of Varanasi and also an important tourist attraction of the holy city. Tulsi Manas Mandir was built in the year 1964 by Seth Ratan Lal Sureka of Bandhaghat (Howrah). Named after saint Tulsidas, the temple has been precisely devoted to Lord Rama. This temple has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism since the ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas was originally written at this place by Hindu poet-saint, reformer and philosopher Goswami Tulsidas in the 16th century CE. The temple was constructed in white marble with beautiful landscaping all around. The walls of the temple are engraved with scenes from Ramcharitmanas, the Hindi version of Ramayana. The temple has beautiful images of the Ram, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman. There is an attractive Tulsi Garden which has very calm .....

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat

#6 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 1 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest ghats in Varanasi along the banks of River Ganga. Situated just beside Dasashwamedh Ghat, it is the main cremation ghat and also one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi. Popularly called as Mahasmasana, Manikarnika Ghat is one of two burning Ghats in Varanasi while the other one is Harishchandra Ghat. According to Hindu mythology, Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the place where the ear ornament worn by Sati fell down when Lord Shiva was carrying her to the Himalayas. Manikarnika Ghat is among the pivotal places of interest in Varanasi. According to the religious beliefs, burning the dead bodies at this ghat is a way to attain Moksha, the salvation. The ghat also houses a Shiva Durga Temple, which was constructed by Maharaja of Awadh in 1850. Apart from this, a sacred pond named Cakra-Pushkarini is also adorning this holy place. It is believed that this pond .....

Lalita Ghat & Nepali Temple

Lalita Ghat & Nepali Temple

#7 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 1 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Lalita Ghat is one of the main ghats on the Ganges River in Varanasi. This ghat is one of the most venerated ghats of Kashi for the devotees and is also identified among the seven most prominent ghats of Varanasi by Varanasi Tourism Department. The ghat was built by King of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah in the early 19th century CE. The ghat is dedicated to Lalita Devi who is reckoned to be the personification of Goddess Durga. Devotees who come to this ghat believe that bathing at this ghat will earn the blessings of the Goddess. Lalita Ghat is dotted with several Hindu temples. The well-known 'lingam' of Ganga Keshav and shrines of Gangatitya, Kashi Devi, Lalita Devi and Bhagirath Tirtha are affiliated to Lalita Ghat. Also known as Nepali Mandir, the Keshava temple was built by King of Nepal in typical Nepalese architecture. Also known as Kothwala Temple, thi is the replica of the famous Pashupatinath .....

Assi Ghat

#8 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 3 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 8 km from Varanasi Junction, Assi Ghat is one of the famous ghats on the banks of River Ganga in Varanasi. Situated at the confluence of Ganga and Assi Rivers, it is the southernmost ghat in Kashi and also one of the important Places to visit in Varanasi. Assi Ghat has numerous references in the early literature of the Hindus including Agni Purana, Matsya Purana, Padma Purana, Kurma Purana and Kashi Khand. According to the mythology, Goddess Durga had thrown her sword in Assi River after killing the demons Shumbha & Nishumbha. Assi Ghat is called as Assi Saimbeda Tirtha in Kashi Khand and is one of the five special ghats visited by pilgrims during the Panchtirtha Yatra. Also known as Asi Ghat, the Ghat is renowned for a large Shiva Lingam placed under a Peepal Tree. This place also boasts one more ancient temple enshrining a Shiva Lingam famously known as Asisangameshwar Lingam. This was also the place where the renowned saint .....

Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort

#9 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 14 km from Varanasi Junction, Ramnagar fort is a medieval fort located on the banks of River Ganges in Ramnagar area of Varanasi. Ramnagar Fort is one of the popular forts in Uttar Pradesh and among the best places to visit in Varanasi. Ramnagar Fort was constructed by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 18th century CE. This was the royal residence of Raja of Banaras, also known as Kashi Naresh. The fort represents typical Mughal style of architecture with carved balconies, open courtyards, and picturesque pavilions. Built with creamy-coloured Chunar sandstone, the fort houses a temple, a museum and the king's residential complex. The temple is dedicated to Ved Vyasa, the author of the Indian epic the Mahabharata. As per the legends, it is believed that Ved Vyasa resided within the fort for a short period. The fort still retains its charm and attracts tourists in large numbers. One can still witness the ornamented swords, photographs of tiger shoots and visits by the .....

Darbhanga Ghat

varanasi tourism

#10 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Darbhanga Ghat is located to the south of Dasashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. This ghat is one of the famous ghats in Varanasi and also one of the places to visit in Banaras. Situated between Dasashwamedh Ghat and Rana Mahal Ghat, Darbhanga Ghat was named after Darbhanga royal family. Darbhanga Ghat is used to perform the religious rites related to the demise of a loved one. The ghat is placed near a huge building, which offers view of religious ceremonies being performed in the ghat. Moreover, there is a beautiful temple along with huge Shiva Linga at this ghat. The premises of the ghat offer all kinds of facilities for performing religious rituals. One can also visit Chausatti Ghat which is located next to Darbhanga Ghat. There is a Chausath Yogini Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali. Many Hindus come to this temple during the new moon day of the month of Chaitra.

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  • 39 Places To Visit In Varanasi In 2024 For The Best Of Culture, History, And Spirituality

23 Mar 2023

One of the seven holy cities for Hindus, Varanasi is a sight to behold. It is an exhausting, liberating, and uninhibited experience; all at the same time. The colossal temples & ghats and the other popular places to visit in Varanasi attract millions of tourists year after year. Not only is it a popular destination among Indian travelers, foreigners love it too. Although the city is known for its ghats, temples, and music (yes, the music too), there are many other famous places in Varanasi that must be seen and experienced on your trip.

Varanasi is the oldest city in India and so contains the old-world charm within its surroundings. The city is full of culture and the the holiest cities in India. Renowned Indian writers like Tulsidas wrote Ram Charit Manas here. The city is known for its gold and silver thread work, wooden toys, carpet weaving, glass bangles, perfumes, a variety of handicrafts and artistic brass ware.

Top 39 Places To Visit In Varanasi

There is clearly no dearth of places to visit in Varanasi . Here’s a list of all the famous places to visit in Varanasi that you can explore, capture memories, dine, shop, and do everything with your loved ones. Take a look at these places and do not miss out on any on your trip to the holy land.

  • Assi Ghat – For Those Seeking Spirituality
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Most Vibrant Ghat In Town
  • Manikarnika Ghat – The Prime Cremation Ghat In Varanasi
  • Shivala Ghat – The Reflection Of The Past
  • Ahilyabai Ghat – Famed For Its Name
  • Rana Mahal Ghat – For The True Explorers
  • Panchganga Ghat – Where The Five Rivers Met
  • Causatthi Ghat – The Shelter Of The Famous Sanskrit Scholar
  • Kedar Ghat – Sacred Bathing Place
  • Manmandir Ghat – Marvel At Views Of River Ganga
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The Only Jyotirlinga In Uttar Pradesh
  • Tulsi Manas Temple – Where Ramcharitmanas Was Written
  • Durga Temple – The Fabled Old World Legend
  • Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – Famous Since The 1900s
  • Nepali Temple – Feel The Essence Of Lord Shiva
  • Chinese Temple – Dedicated To Lord Buddha
  • Sita Samahit Sthal – Must Visit In Varanasi
  • Tibetan Temple – Marvel At The Tibetan Architecture
  • Batuk Bhairav Mandir – Temple With Healing Powers
  • Bharat Mata Mandir – Worship Mother India
  • Gyan Vapi Well – The Well Of Knowledge
  • Ramnagar Fort & Museum – The Mughal Era Fortification
  • Chunar Fort – A Spooky Little Rampart
  • Sarnath – The Famed Historical Ruin
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum – The Hub Of Art And Culture
  • Man Mandir Observatory – The Varanasi Heritage
  • Alamgir Mosque – Reminiscent Of The Mughal Era
  • Ramnagar Ramlila – Witness The Oldest Ramlila
  • Aqua World – A Summer Paradise
  • Varanasi Fun City – For Thrilling Roller Coaster Rides
  • St Mary’s Church – Oldest Church In Varanasi
  • Banaras Hindu University – The Biggest Residential University
  • Brown Bread Bakery – The First Organic Bakery In Varanasi
  • Lotus Lounge – The Most Famous Terrace Lounge
  • Open Hand Shop & Cafe – A Lively Modern Space
  • Godowlia Market – The Busiest Shopping Junction In Town
  • Chowk & Vishwanath Gali – Real Essence Of The City Lies Here
  • The Banaras Silk Emporium – For The Love Of Banarasi Silk
  • Shri Gandhi Ashram Khadi Bhandar – For Natural Products

10 Famous Ghats In Varanasi

A city set on the banks of Ganga, Varanasi is home to several ghat. Here are some of the most popular ghat in the city. Witnessing an Aarti at these ghats is considered to be one of the best things to do in Varanasi for an enigmatic experience. Let’s find out more about them.

1. Assi Ghat – For Those Seeking Spirituality

varanasi ghat india gaining more popularity as tourism destination

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Varanasi with family. Located far south, Assi Ghat is where pilgrims pay homage to Lord Shiva by worshipping a huge lingam situated under a peepal tree. This ghat is a lively space, rippling in chaos and commotion and one that vividly captures the ancientness of Kashi. Among the most famous religious places in Varanasi, Assi Ghat is a must visit. The alluring sight of the arti here makes Varanasi one of the most beautiful cities in India .

Address : Assi Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Timings : Anytime Famous For : Recreation and festivals Built In : 1988 Built By : Uttar Pradesh Government

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2. Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Most Vibrant Ghat In Town

Dashashwamedh Ghat at night: one of the best places to visit in Varanasi with family

The main ghat in Varanasi on the Ganges river, Dashashwamedh Ghat is a flamboyant place known for its spiritual transcendence. It is common knowledge that Lord Brahma sacrificed 10 horses in a yajna here, and thus the name. Dashashwamedh Ghat tops the list of famous places to visit in Varanasi at night as it is a compelling space to dawdle in this small town. Be here for the Agni Pooja or Ganga aarti, as it is popularly called.

Note: Special aartis are held every Tuesday and on religious festivals.

Address : Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of varanasi, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Culture, Heritage, Temples Built In : 1748 Built By : Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao

3. Manikarnika Ghat – The Prime Cremation Ghat

Manikarna Ghat in Varanasi

Considered to be an auspicious place to be cremated, Manikarnika Ghat is among the pivotal places of interest in Varanasi. This ghat is an exasperating and startling experience in itself as absolutely nothing is considered sacrilegious here. The setting sun and the glowing pyres along with candle-lit flower bowls floating down the holy river Ganga make Manikarnika Ghat a sight to behold. When looking for the best tourist places in Varanasi , consider visiting this ghat.

Address : Near Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Garawasi, Jugul Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Sacred riverfronts, Cremation grounds Built In : 1730 Built By : Bajirao Peshva

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4. Shivala Ghat – The Reflection Of The Past

view of shivala ghat

Image Source

Shivala Ghat is one of the most famous places to visit in Varanasi that reflects upon the city’s history. A famous attraction to see here is the Shiva Temple that was built way back in the 19th century by a Nepalese king. The splendid architecture here is surely something that’ll take you by surprise and so will the craftsmanship of the temple. If you wish to take a dip in the holy water, this is one place you must visit.

Address : Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Religious purpose, Historical Built In : 1600 Built By : King Sanjay Vikram Shah

5. Ahilyabai Ghat – Famed For Its Name

view of ghat by ahilyabai

Known as Kevalgiri ghat earlier, this place is famous for being the first one of its kind that got named after the person, like in this case, Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. This is one of the best p laces to visit in Varanasi as  you can visit this ghat at any time, the best hour is in the morning when you can see Hindu devotees taking a dip with a belief that it’ll cleanse their sin and witness the beauty of the ghat at its best.

Address : Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Religious bathing rituals Built In : 1785 Built By : Queen Ahilyabai Holkar

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6. Rana Mahal Ghat – For The True Explorers

ghat adjacent to the palace of maharaja

These places should definitely be a part of our itinerary for a memorable Varanasi sightseeing . Built by Raja Rana Jagat Singh at the time when he came to the city as a pilgrim, this ghat attracts a lot of tourists day in and out. It is situated right next to a palace which is believed to be the residence of the Maharaja during the period of his pilgrimage. If architecture is something that tickles your fancy, then there’s a lot to see and admire here.

Address : Ghats of Varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Heritage tour Built In : 1670 Built By : King Rana Jagatsingh

7. Panchganga Ghat – Where The Five Rivers Met

ghat of the five rivers

No doubt Varanasi is full of the innumerable ghats, but the Panchganga Ghat surely stands out. Believed to be the mythical meeting place of five sacred rivers, this place has images of the five goddesses namely Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Dhutpapa, and Kirana. A lot of travelers stop by here to seek blessings and soak up some peaceful vibes of the place.

Address : 7/111, Sonarpura Rd, Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Spiritual bathing, Prayers, Festivals Built In : 1580 Built By : Maratha Empire

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8. Chousatti Ghat – Famous Sanskrit Scholar’s Shelter

Ghat in Varanasi

There are various reasons that this ghat is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Banaras . Famed for being the shelter of the famous Sanskrit scholar Madhusudan Sarasvati and for its palace built by King Digbatiya of Champaran, Bihar, this ghat is one of its kind. It also houses a temple complex that features images of Goddess Kali. And on occasions like Holi and 12th dark-half of Chaitra, this place welcomes tourists in a huge number.

Address : Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Temples Built In : NA Built By : NA

9. Kedar Ghat – Sacred Bathing Place

Ghat in Varanasi

Counted as one of the oldest ghats in the town of Varanasi and one of the best places to explore in Varanasi, Kedar Ghat is considered the best for holy bathing. The Kedareshwar Temple here is visited by various tourists who offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The breathtakingly beautiful surroundings and heartwarming vibes of this ghat make it one of the best Varanasi sightseeing places where one can spend quality time!

Address : Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Spiritual bathing, Prayers, Kedareshwar Temple Built In : NA Built By : NA

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10. Manmandir Ghat – Marvel At Views Of River Ganga

varanasi tourism

Built in the early 17th century by Maharaja Mann Singh, this ghat is famous for its palace and observatory. The palace was built by the maharaja and the observatory was built in 1710 by Savai Jaisingh II. You can marvel at the views of the River Ganga from a stone balcony situated on the northern side of the ghat.

Address: Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: NA Famous For: Palace visit, Observatory, Views of the sunset on River Ganga Built In : 1600 Built By : Maharaja Man Singh

10 Popular Temples In Varanasi

Being one of the holiest cities in India and with religious importance, it boasts several temples that are each distinctive in its architecture and the variety of deities each temples houses. A place of worship and spiritual retreat, check out the best temples to visit in Varanasi.

11. Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The Only Jyotirlinga In Uttar Pradesh

800px-Benares-_The_Golden_Temple,_India,_ca._1915_(IMP-CSCNWW33-OS14-66)

The list of places to visit in Varanasi would be incomplete without including the famed Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and has also been referred to in the holy scriptures. The temple structure as it stands today consists of a series of smaller shrines located in the Vishwanath Galli.

Address: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: 3 am – 11 am, 12:30 pm – 08 pm, & 09 pm – 11 pm Famous For : One of the twelve Jyotrilingas Built In : 1777 Built By : Rani Ahilyabai Holkar

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12. Tulsi Manas Temple – Where Ramcharitmanas Was Written

Main entrance of Tulsi Manas Temple

Among the many sightseeing places in Varanasi is the Tulsi Manas Temple, the place where Tulsidas wrote the Hindu epic Ramayana in an Awadhi dialect of the Hindi language. The temple was funded by the Birla family and constructed in white marble in 1964. Verses and scenes from Ramcharitmanas are engraved on the mandir walls.

Address: Sankat Mochan Rd, Durgakund Rd, Near Jalan, Varanasi, 221005 Timings: 5 am – 12 pm & 04 pm – 09 pm Famous For :  The ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas Built In : 1964 Built By : Sureka Family of Howrah

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13. Durga Temple – The Fabled Old World Legend

Durga Mandir in Varanasi

Also called the monkey temple, this mandir is among the mythical places to see in Varanasi. Built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani, the temple is painted red with ochre. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Durga in the temple was not constructed, it appeared on its own. If you’re looking for places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days, this is one attraction you can’t miss.

Address : 27, Durgakund Rd, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 Timings : 5 am – 11 pm Famous For : Dedicated to Maa Durga Built In : 18th century Built By : Rani Bhabani of Natore

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14. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – Famous Since The 1900s

Hanuman Temple Varanasi

Located at the banks of River Assi, this temple is one of the most-visited Varanasi tourist attractions . This temple is not only known for its spirituality but is also popular across the town for its historicity. Built by the well-known freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in the 1900s, this temple is visited by the devotees of Hanuman as well as Lord Rama.

Address : B41/140-B-1-P, Bhogabeer Colony, behind Sankat Mochan Mandir, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 Timings : 8 am – 7 pm Famous For : Situated on the banks of Assi River Built In : 18th century Built By : NA

15. Nepali Temple – Feel The Essence Of Lord Shiva

Temple interiors

This temple is amongst the oldest ones in the holy town of Varanasi. Dedicated to the powerful Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the best marvels in the city from the 19th century. Founded by the King of Nepal, it resembles Pashupatinath temple in the city of Kathmandu. Apart from the religious aspects, it is the architecture of this temple that attracts the tourists in huge numbers, making it one of the best Varanasi attractions .

Address : near Lalita Ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : One of the oldest Shiva temples Built In : 1843 Built By : Rana Bahadur Shah & Girvan Yuddha Bikram Shah Deva

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16. Chinese Temple – Dedicated To Lord Buddha

varanasi tourism

Chinese Temple is a shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha. It is built in the Chinese architectural style and is mainly done in different shades of two colors – red and yellow. The exterior is simple but the interior is elaborately and beautifully decorated. The meditation hall is spacious and peaceful, surrounding you with a spiritual vibe. It is one of the best places to go in Varanasi to seek calmness.  

Address : Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007 Timings : 8 am – 6 pm Famous For : Dedicated to Lord Buddha Built In : 1939 Built By : Chinese devotees

17. Sita Samahit Sthal – Must Visit In Varanasi

Chunar Fort

Sita Samahit Sthal is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi with friends. The site where this Hindu temple stands is believed to be a very significant site related to the epic, Ramayana. This is said to be the place where Goddess Sita spent her days in exile. This is also the spot where she  descended into the earth after Lord Rama found out about their children.

Address : Jangiganj Dhantulsi Marg, Bankat Uparwar N. Barpur, Uttar Pradesh 221309 Timings : NA Famous For : It is believed that at this place Mother  Sita  had absorbed herself in the earth. Built In : Sri Prakash Narayan Punj Built By : 1990

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18. Tibetan Temple – Marvel At The Tibetan Architecture

varanasi tourism

Image source

A stunning temple with a Tibetan architecture, this temple is where Lord Buddha taught his disciples the four truths of life. Visit the temple and marvel at the Buddhist paintings that nicely adorn the walls of the temple. The temple has another distinctive feature which is the prayer wheel that releases strips of paper with chants written on them if rotated clockwise. 

Address: Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007 Timings: NA Famous For: Soothing ambience, Religious purpose, Spiritual Built In : NA Built By : Tibetan Monks

19. Batuk Bhairav Mandir – Temple With Healing Powers

Interior of Temples

This temple is a place of worship for Aghoris and Tantriks, it is a place of profound energy, good vibes and of utmost religious importance. Dedicated to Batuk Bhairav who was an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple also has a unique feature that is the lamp which is said to have healing powers. 

Address: Rathyatra Kamachha Rd, Near Kashirag Apartment, Maharana Pratap Colony, Gurubagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 Timings: 4 am – 10:00 pm Famous For: Religious activities Built In : 17th century Built By : NA

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20. Bharat Mata Mandir – Worship Mother India

varanasi tourism

It’s a unique shrine that is dedicated to our country, Mother India as the name suggests. This temple is very different from others as it’s not dedicated to any specific deity or a lord. The temple features a relief map of India carved in marble. The temple was the brainchild of Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, a freedom fighter. 

Address: Vidyapeeth Road, Cantt Road Lalapura, Chanuwasatti Chandua Chittupur, Guru Nanak Nagar Colony, Chetganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: 7 am – 5:30 pm Famous For: A huge map of undivided India carved in marble Built In : 1936 Built By : Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta

4 Sightseeing Places In And Around Varanasi

While there are plenty of places to visit in Varanasi, here’s a list of places that you can visit around Varanasi for a day outing or a short trip.

21. Gyan Vapi Well – The Well Of Knowledge

Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi

The Gyan Vapi well is located within the Gyanvapi Mosque, which was constructed by the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, on the site of the demolished Kashi Vishwanath Temple. During the British regime, the well was considered to be holier than the Ganges and was among the important and best places to visit in Varanasi as it contains the Shiva lingam.

Address : 31-24, Gyanvapi Main Road, Lahori Tola, Gyanvapi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : Open 24 hours Famous For : Religious purpose, Spiritual Built In : 1664 Built By : Aurangzeb

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22. Ramnagar Fort & Museum – The Mughal Era Fort

Ramnagar Fort view during day

Located opposite to the Tulsi Ghat, the Ramnagar Fort is an 18th-century crumbling ruin in dire need of restoration. However, the crimson sunset as viewed from inside this enclosure is reason enough to give Ramnagar Fort a spot on the list of places to visit in Varanasi. This old rampart is also home to a vintage museum that is famous for its rare collection of old American cars, ivory works, medieval costumes, and a huge astronomical clock. When gong for Varanasi sightseeing , this place should definitely be considered!

Address: Ram nagar, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221008 Timings: 10 am – 05:30 pm Famous For : Sightseeing, Photography Built In : 1750 Built By : Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh

23. Chunar Fort – A Spooky Little Rampart

A shot of Chunar Fort

Situated in the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, the Chunar Fort is located approximately 23 km southwest of Varanasi and certainly one of the best Varanasi sightseeing experiences. The earliest recorded history in Chunar is from the 16th century, traced to a garrison of the Mughal emperor, Babar. The tombs of some of his soldiers are still venerated here. The fort is believed to be divinely blessed and is among the popular places to visit in and around Varanasi in one day.

Address : Tammanpatti, Uttar Pradesh 231304 Timings : 8 am – 5 pm Famous For : Historic, Sightseeing, Phootgraphy Built In : 1029 Built By : King Sahadeo

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24. Sarnath – The Famed Historical Ruins

Dhamekh Stupa in Panchayatan Temple ruins in Sarnath

Located 13 km northeast of Varanasi, Sarnath is among the famous Buddhist pilgrimages in India that will give you the best Varanasi sightseeing experience. It is a popular place to visit around Varanasi for those seeking peace and solitude after jostling their way through the frazzled ghats and gullies of Kashi. After achieving enlightenment at Bodhgaya, the Buddha came to Sarnath seeking his former companions and thus gave his first sermon here. Sarnath is known to be one of the best places to visit in Banaras . Popular sightseeing places in Sarnath include the Dhamekh Stupa & Monastery Ruins, the Archaeological Museum, the Chaukhandi Stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Chinese & Thai Temple and Monastery.

Address : Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007 Timings : Always open Famous For : Historical ruins, Sightseeing, Photography Built In : 300 BC Built By : Emperor Ashoka

8 Other Places Of Interest In Varanasi

Apart from temples and ghats, Varanasi is a cultural and heritage site that travelers love to explore. Check out some other places of interest that you can unravel on your trip to this divine city!

25. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum – Art And Culture Hub

Front view of Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

A distinctly classical sound, characteristic of an endless stream of madness rings through Varanasi. And the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum located within the prestigious Banaras Hindu University bears testament to this rippling clangor. The museum was set up in 1920 with Rabindranath Tagore as its honorary chairman and is among the foremost Banaras tourist places today. The museum showcases miniature paintings, sculptures, and local history displays. It also has an art gallery dedicated to the Russian artist, Nicholas Roerich.

Address : Banaras Hindu University, Semi Circle Road No. 3 Opp Institute of Mgmt Studies, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 Timings : 10:30 am – 4:30 pm Famous For : Museum, Art, Culture Built In : 1920 Built By : NA

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26. Man Mandir Observatory – The Varanasi Heritage

Courtyard of Man Mandir Observatory

Located on the Man Mandir Ghat, this masonry observatory is established atop the Man Singh Palace. It was built in 1737 by Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur city. The observatory consists of 4 main astronomical instruments and is among the heritage places to see in Varanasi. The Man Mandir Observatory is now under the Archaeological Survey of India and needs to be refurbished.

Address: Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: Sunrise – sunset Fanous for : It showcases and preserves the ancient heritage of Varanasi Built In : 1737 Built By : Maharaja Jai Singh II

27. Alamgir Mosque – Reminiscent Of The Mughal Era

Alamgir Mosque in Varanasi

Built on the site of a desecrated Vishnu temple in the 17th century, the Alamgir Mosque is among the famous Varanasi tourist places. The mosque as it stands today, dominating Panchganga Ghat is proof of the ludicrous methods adopted by the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. Non-muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque. Needless to say, this is one of the top places to visit in Varanasi.

Address : Panchganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings : NA Famous For : Religious purpose, architecture Built In : 17th century Built By : Aurangzeb

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28. Ramnagar Ramlila  – Witness The Oldest Ramlila

varanasi tourism

A tradition that is being performed as a set of plays to tell the story of Lord Ram and Lord Laxman’s journey as told by the Ramayana. The Ramlila act played at Ramnagar is said to be the oldest and the best Ramlila in the world. It goes on for 31 days as the audience anticipated to witness the story of the Lord unfold in front of their eyes. If you are looking for things to do in Varanasi, head to Ramnagar and witness this beautiful enactment.

Address: Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh Dates: 29 September – 8 October Famous For: Ramlila Play Built In : NA Built By : NA

29. Aqua World – A Summer Paradise

Aquatica Water Park

Aqua World is a popular theme park located on the Varanasi-Allahabad highway. This is a small water park but a good place to enjoy in the water. There are several slides connected to a huge main pool. The colourful slides and rides make Aqua World an interesting place to visit with your friends and family.

Address: NH 2, Mohan Sarai Bypass, Panditpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221011 Timings: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Famous For : Water rides, Theme park Built In : NA Built By : Uttar Pradesh Government

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30. Varanasi Fun City – For Thrilling Roller Coaster Rides

roller coaster ride silhouette

Varanasi Fun City another highly popular water park in Varanasi. The place has several fun rides and activities. The thrilling Roller Coaster is one of the highlights of this park. This is one of the best places to spend your holiday with your family and friends. Varanasi Fun City also has a food court where you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks with your loved ones.

Address: Pandeypur Panchkoshi Road, In Front of St. Mary Convent School Daniyalpur, Sona Talab, Uttar Pradesh 221007 Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Famous For : Amusement Park, Roller Coaster Rides Built In : NA Built By : Uttar Pradesh Government

31. St Mary’s Church – Oldest Church In Varanasi

St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

One of the famous Varanasi tourist places, St Mary’s Church is an amazing historically relevant building structure in Varanasi. This oldest church in the city has existed for over 200 years now. It was built by Reverend George Weatly in 1810. The church used to serve as a place of worship for the European and British community living in Varanasi. It is also South Asia’s oldest remaining garrison church.  

Address: Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007 Timings: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Famous For : Religious Purpose, Architecture Built In : 1946 Built By : NA

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32. Banaras Hindu University – The Biggest Residential University

Banaras Hindu University

The Banaras Hindu University is one of the most famous places to visit in Varanasi. Situated across a 5.3 square kilometre campus, the university is home to 30,000 students who study and reside within. This makes the university the largest residential university in Asia. The university has Indo-Gothic architecture while the sprawling lawns add to its immense beauty.

Address: Ajagara, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Famous For : Religious Purpose, Architecture Built In : 1916 Built By : Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya

3 Best Cafes In Varanasi

To take a break from the exhausting sightseeing and exploring the town, you can head out to these amazing cafes in Varanasi that offer lip-smacking delicacies to gorge on while witnessing surreal views of the ghats of Varanasi.

33. Brown Bread Bakery – City’s First Organic Bakery

2 girls in Brown Bread Bakery

Situated near the Dashashwamedh Ghat, the Brown Bread Bakery is a rooftop restaurant known for its European Breakfast buffet. The organic shop at this cafe includes palatable cheese, cookies, and cakes; making it one of the most popular Varanasi tourist places. It is thronged by Indians and foreigners alike.

Address: D 25/42 Ganga Mahal, Bangali Tola Rd, Pandey Ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: 7 am – 10 pm Average cost for two: INR 500

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34. Lotus Lounge – The Most Famous Terrace Lounge

Visitors enjoying food and view in Lotus Lounge

Among the ultimate Varanasi tourist places, the Lotus Lounge is a comfortable, relaxing space perched right over Mansarovar Ghat. Replete with lounge cushions and tatami mats, their terrace makes for a lovely place to destress after spending an entire day soaking in the atmosphere of Banaras. Sit here contemplating eternity while sipping on your Hot Chocolate.

Address: Sonarpura Rd Below Lotus Lounge Restaurant, Manasarowar Ghat, Manasarowar, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Timings: 8:30 am – 10 pm Average cost for two: INR 600

35. Open Hand Shop & Cafe – A Lively Modern Space

Cashier in Open Hand Shop & Cafe

Located near Assi Ghat, the Open Hand Shop & Cafe is among the famous tourist places in Varanasi. The best part about this cafe is its remodeled space and furnishings that make it a perfect chilling spot. Selling captivating handicrafts made by the local community, Open Hand Shop & Cafe is mostly thronged by foreign tourists.

Address: B1/128-3 Assi ghat Road Opp Sparrow Cafe Dumraun, Assi – Lanka Rd, Bagh Colony, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 Timings: 8:30 am – 10 pm Average cost for two: INR 450

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Shopping In Varanasi: 4 Amazing Markets

Go on the best experience of shopping in Varanasi that boasts a variety of items you can buy as souvenirs and take home with you.

36. Godowlia Market – The Busiest Shopping Junction In Town

Shopkeeper in Godowlia

The biggest and the busiest market in town, Godowlia is among the popular tourist places in Varanasi. It sells everything from daily household items to glass bangles and trinkets. The smell of camphor that wafts out of every second shop in this market will surely get you drunk on the divine. So, make sure you do not skip this place at all as it is one the famous places to visit in Banaras.

Address : Dashaswmedh Road, Ramapura Luxa, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221001 Famous For : Household items, accessories, jewelry

37. Chowk & Vishwanath Gali – Real Essence Of The City Lies Here

A saint in Chowk and Vishwanath Gali

Two of the most popular street markets in town, Chowk and Vishwanath Gali are the quintessential places to visit in Varanasi. Famous for their silk items and ornate jewelry, these markets are always full of life, whether it is in the sweltering summer or the foggy winter. Head here to experience the real Banarasi mizaaj.

Address : Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Famous For : Silk items, Ornate jewelry Tip: Don’t forget to binge on the street food.

38. The Banaras Silk Emporium – For The Love Of Banarasi Silk

Colorful Banarasi Sarees

one of the most famous places to visit in Banaras, The Banaras Silk Emporium is a leading manufacturer, wholesaler, and exporter of traditional silk sarees, stoles, and bed covers offering reasonable prices and impeccable quality. Situated on the Cantonment Road, this place is a must visit for everyone looking to splurge on Banarasi silk, especially as it is counted as one of the best places to visit in Varanasi for couples .

Address : Cantonment Rd, Near JVH Mall, Cantonment, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 Famous For : Banarasi silk

39. Shri Gandhi Ashram Khadi Bhandar – For Natural And Organic Products

Khadi handloom in Varanasi

The Shri Gandhi Ashram Khadi Bhandar is situated on the Sankat Mochan Road. Selling saris, kurta pajamas, shirts, and head scarves, this place should be visited by all the fans of the homespun fabric. Some of the authentic work can be cought from here and taken back as souvenirs.

Address : Shop No. B2/138, Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya Road, Assi Road, Bhadaini, Near Mata Anandamai Hospital, Anandbagh, Dumraon Colony, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Famous For: Apparel, homespun fabric

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Best Time To Visit Varanasi

Varanasi

October to March is the ideal time to visit Varanasi. A five-day festival called Ganga Mahotsav is celebrated in November every year and is a star attraction in Varanasi. Therefore, the best season to visit Varanasi is considered to be winter. The tourist places in Varanasi during this time that you’ll get to witness the best of the city!

Where To Stay

Here is the list of the best luxury and budget hotels in Varanasi where you can stay and have a relaxing vacation. Take a look!

1. Luxury Hotels

Dining area in Hotel Clarks in Varanasi

Some of the finest luxury hotels in Varanasi are Hotel Clarks, Radisson Hotel, and Ramada Plaza JHV. You can also go through some guest houses in Varanasi to enjoy a calm and serene stay.

2. Budget Hotels

Interiors of a room in Hotel Park Inn in Varanasi

You can pick from a range of budget hotels such as Hotel Park Inn, Hotel Alka, and Hotel City Inn. Alternatively, you can also stay in guesthouses and ashrams.

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How To Reach

Places To Visit In Varanasi cover

  • By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi is well connected to other Indian cities
  • By Rail: The Varanasi Junction railway station is connected to all major cities in India
  • By Road: Buses are available from Delhi and adjoining cities in Uttar Pradesh

Wonder how many times we value what we have or what we get. If you too, are looking for answers or just seeking some new experiences in life, Varanasi is where you should be headed. To make the most of it, make sure you add the above-listed places to visit in Varanasi in your itinerary. Just plan your trip to Varanasi and head out for a blissful experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Varanasi

Which are some of the safest places to visit in Varanasi for families with kids?

Most of the places in Varanasi are safe to visit for families with kids as Varanasi is a city that has a very simple lifestyle that makes it quite safe to roam around the city even at night. If you want specific names then you can head to Assi Ghat, Vishwanath Gali, and Dhashwamedha Ghat.

Which are some of the must-visit places in Varanasi?

Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Dashwamedha Ghat are some of the must-visit places n Varanasi that one must tour to enjoy a vibrant Ganga aarti and also the serene beauty of the calm river bank.

What is famous in Varanasi?

Varanasi is the oldest city in India and its streets and every place have something to explore. There are various kinds of food and other specialities which makes this city a unique one. And alongside that, there are some ancient ghats that still hold the history of the oldest heritage of the country.

What to wear in Varanasi?

Varanasi is a spiritual place and it is closely linked to the Indian culture thus it is advised to wear decent clothes here. If the travellers wear modest clothes it might attract fewer stares from the locals. If someone plans to visit the Kashi Vishwanath, then there is a strict dress code of wearing a saree for women.

What are the famous shopping spots in Varanasi?

Varanasi is famous for its silk sarees which are an indispensable part of the bride’s trousseau. This is one of the major things which people come to buy from here and some of the famous shopping spots are Chowk, Gyan Vapi, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazar, and Dashwamedh Gali.

Why is Assi Ghat famous in Varanasi?

Assi Ghat is one of the famous ghats to visit in Varanasi where thousands of pilgrims visit on a daily basis. This ancient ghat allows the pilgrims to offer water to the Shiva lingam which is placed under the peepal tree.

What street foods are popular in Varanasi?

There are several street foods in Varanasi including Kachori Sabzi, Chena Dahi Vada, Malaiyyo, Choora Matar, and Dahi Chutney Wale Gol Gappe. When in Varanasi do not forget to try the popular street foods.

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Kate Abroad

2 Days in Varanasi Itinerary + Travel Guide for 2024

I only spent 2 days in Varanasi on my first trip to the holy city, but it was enough to fall in love with the place. Even if you only have a short time in which to visit, I can guarantee you’ll love it too.

Varanasi really is a microcosm of India . It has all the energy, colour, and chaos that the country is known for but in a city less than one-tenth the size of Delhi or Mumbai.

Varanasi is certainly not lacking in things to do , and because Varanasi has so much significance in the Hindu religion, it’s an intensely spiritual place, far more than the country’s megacities.

I visited Varanasi as part of a 2 week India trip that also included Abhaneri , Khajuraho , Orchha and the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Jaipur and Agra).

Things to Do in 2 Days in Varanasi Itinerary

Day 1 in varanasi.

The best way to get to know Varanasi is to get stuck in and get your feet dirty. Once you’ve arrived and had a chance to drop any bags, jump in a rickshaw and head for the old city.

Explore the old city

Varanasi’s old city isn’t a walled-off area like Jaipur has but it’s generally known as the area between Bansphatak road and the Ganges River. 

This maze of alleyways is extremely easy to get lost in and that’s kind of the point. You’ll need to dodge a lot of cow poop, cows, scooters and carts. But along the way you’ll find tons of tiny (and not so tiny) temples of all shapes and kinds. Some are hundreds of years old and falling down while some are new and renovated. 

If you’re unsure about braving the alleyways yourself or wanting to learn from a guide there are some great guided walking tours that can be booked through Klook for less than $20.

Temples and processions

Varanasi is known as the city of a thousand temples and many of Hinduism’s millions of gods are worshipped in some form here.

old city streets Varanasi

You’ll also come across many funeral processions going past on their way to the crematoriums on the riverbanks with family and friends carrying bodies on stretchers covered with layers of flower garlands and sparkling, bejewelled fabrics.

This can be kind of confronting but it’s part of what makes Varanasi unique, death and life coexist in very close proximity here.

Silk markets

When you need a break from the busy alleyways, pop into some of the silk shops in the old city which are cloister around Bansphatak Road. 

Varanasi is known for producing the highest quality silk goods in India and you can find some great bargains here as well as higher-priced, incredibly ornate items that are more like art than clothing.

Sunset boat ride and prayer ceremony

Wrap up your day with a sunset boat ride on the river Ganges. Known as Mother Ganges and considered a holy river in Hinduism, the river is the heart of Varanasi (although the city is only really built on one side) and boat rides are an absolute must do for your 2 days in Varanasi.

Sunset is probably the calmest time for boat trips and means you can catch the evening prayer ceremonies at Dashashwamedh ghat which are truly beautiful.

You can buy small floating candle bowls if you want to make your own offerings.

There are many captains lining the river banks who are happy to take visitors for a short or long trip or you can pre-book a boat cruise via Get Your Guide to be assured of safety.

boats on the ganges varanasi at night

Day 2 in Varanasi

While it might seem like overkill, I would highly recommend going out for another boat ride at sunrise.

The sight of the sunrise over the river is spectacular and this is when many of the locals come down to the river to bathe and complete their private worship.

You can also watch the morning aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat (shown below) which is incredible o from the river on a sunrise boat cruise .

The priests make a series of offerings to the river involving lots of candles and incense and backed by a choir of young women.

sunrise prayer ceremony varanasi

After the boat ride, stop into Blue Lassi for a liquid breakfast.

Blue Lassi is possibly the most famous café in Varanasi and offers lassi (yoghurt-based) drinks in every conceivable flavour out of handmade terracotta pots.

Ramnagar Fort

For your final afternoon, it’s time to head across the river to Ramnagar Fort on the opposite side of the Ganges. 

The fort was built by a local maharaja in the 18th century, but it was done in the style of the Mughals from two centuries earlier so the fort combines Hindu and Islamic architecture in similar styles to Mughal buildings throughout India.

Not all of the fort is open to the public as it is still inhabited by the current king of Varanasi and his family but visitors can see the sections that have been converted to a museum which includes artefacts from across Asia and Africa including an impressive astronomical clock.

The entry fee is 150rs for foreigners and you can pay around 500rs for a boat ride across.

Add-on activity: Sarnath

If you have an extra half-day or want to pack an extra attraction into your two days in Varanasi then consider a trip out to Sarnath.

Where Varanasi is significant to Hindus, Sarnath, only a 30-45 minute rickshaw ride away, is a holy place for Buddhists.

It is believed that Sarnath is where the Buddha gave his first sermon and temples stood here for hundreds of years although they are now largely ruins.

The easiest way to get there is to book a day trip, I found the best options on Klook .

However, you can negotiate a rickshaw for the return trip (price depending on your negotiating skills). I would recommend then hiring a local guide to explain the stories behind each spot.

How to get to Varanasi

The train is the primary form of transport around India and is very budget-friendly. However, if you’re short on time there is always the option to fly. I have done both, arriving by train from Orccha and departing by air to Delhi, and both were very smooth trips.

Getting to Varanasi by Train

There are multiple stations in Varanasi with the main one being Banaras/Varanasi Junction from which you can catch trains all over India.

Varanasi train station

Getting to Varanasi by Plane

Lal Bahadur Shastri airport is on the outskirts of Varanasi, a 30-60 minute drive from the central city depending on traffic. 

Flights are available to most main cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai as well as to Kathmandu in Nepal.

Where to stay in Varanasi

Luxury – Taj Ganges

A five-star hotel with all the amenities you would expect and a great place to kick back away from the bustle of the old city.

Click here to check prices for Taj Ganges and book

Mid-range – Shiva Ganges Guest House

On the nicer end of Indian mid-range hotels, this place has an unbeatable location just a few hundred metres from the ghats.

Click here to check prices for Shiva Ganges and book

In Short: Varanasi in 2 days

While you could easily spend much longer than two days in this city, immersing yourself in Varanasi, a weekend or, ideally two nights, is plenty of time to catch the main attractions and leave you wanting more.

Happy travelling!

Asia Travel Resources

  • Book trains and buses through 12.go Asia to avoid queues at the station
  • Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
  • Pre-book day tours and tickets for attractions on Klook
  • Save on Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore attractions with a Go City Pass
  • Sort your currencies in one place with a Wise multi-currency card

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My Simple Sojourn

Best things to do in Varanasi in 3 days and 4 days itinerary

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I travelled from Delhi to Varanasi for a 4 days trip by overnight train. My train arrived in Varanasi on time, As I stepped off the train in Varanasi, I was immediately hit by the energy of the city and was immediately struck by the chaos and noise of the city. I took an autorickshaw from the station to my place of stay. On the way streets were filled with honking rickshaws, bustling pedestrians, and the smells of street food missed with incense.

Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi

Brief introduction of Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered to be one of the holiest cities in India. Varanasi is situated on the banks of the river Ganges and is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, according to Hindu mythology.

Varanasi has a rich cultural and religious heritage, and is famous for its temples, ghats, and vibrant street life. It has been a center of learning and spirituality for centuries and has attracted pilgrims, scholars, and tourists from all over the world.

Varanasi is renowned for its spiritual and religious significance, and it is believed that a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges here can cleanse one’s sins and lead to salvation. The city has over 2,000 temples and shrines, including the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The ghats of Varanasi are also an important part of the city’s cultural heritage. There are over 80 ghats along the river Ganges, and they are used for religious ceremonies, bathing, and cremation. The most famous of these ghats are the Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat.

Varanasi is also famous for its silk sarees, which are hand-woven and intricately designed. The city has a rich history of music, dance, and literature, and is home to several famous artists and musicians.

Overall, Varanasi is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and spirituality. Its vibrant street life, rich heritage, and religious significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the cultural diversity of India.

There is a famous saying among travellers that “Either you love Varanasi or you hate Varanasi” and I love Varanasi, I love everything about it. It’s mystic, its spiritual and Varanasi is one those places on the earth where life and death are equally celebrated.

Varanasi

Places to visit in Varanasi and must do things in 3 to 4 days

Visit the temples of varanasi for spiritual experience.

Varanasi is home to numerous temples that hold great religious significance. Here are some of the prominent temples in Varanasi:

Kashi Vishwanath temple

Durga Temple (Durga Kund Temple): This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is located near the Durga Kund (pond). It is known for its vibrant red color and elaborate architecture. During the Navratri festival, the temple comes alive with celebrations.

Durga temple Varanasi

The Annapurna Temple in Varanasi is a significant religious site dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the Hindu goddess of food. Temple is situated in the Vishwanath Gali area of Varanasi, which is in close proximity to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple now in temple complex.

Read more about the Temples of Varanasi.

Take a morning Boat ride on Ganges

Taking a morning boat ride on the Ganges River in Varanasi is a serene and enchanting experience. It allows you to witness the city come alive, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance, and observe the rituals along the ghats.

After attending morning aarti at Assi Ghat, take a boat ride. Since Assi is the first ghat in a series of 88 ghats on Ganga, so it makes practical sense to start from here.

You can witness the early morning rituals, including devotees offering prayers, and engaging in yoga or meditation along the riverfront. The boat ride allows you to get a closer look at the different ghats of Varanasi.

Morning boat ride in Ganga at Varanasi

See the circle of life and death on Ghats

Varanasi offers a unique perspective on the circle of life and death through its ghats. The ghats along the river Ganges are not only places of worship but also witness the rituals and customs associated with life and death.

Devotees gather at the ghats to perform morning rituals, offer prayers, and seek blessings from the sacred river Ganga. Pilgrims come from far and wide to take a holy dip in the river, seeking spiritual liberation and the blessings of Mother Ganga.

People taking bath in Ganga Varanasi

Walk from Assi Ghat to Rajendra Prasad Ghat

If you have time in hand and you are ready to walk then walking from Assi Ghat to Rajendra Prasad Ghat in Varanasi offers a delightful opportunity to explore the ancient and vibrant city on foot.

It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, carry drinking water, and be mindful of the surroundings and local customs while walking through the ghats of Varanasi.

Read more about The Ghats of Varanasi.

Visit Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat

The Ghats where funeral pyre burning from thousand years. A visit to Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat in Varanasi offers a profound and unique glimpse into the ancient tradition of Hindu cremation rituals. These ghats have been witnessing funeral pyres burning for centuries and hold significant cultural and religious importance.

Manikarnika Ghat Varanasi

It is believed that cremation at this ghat ensures moksha (liberation from the cycle of reincarnation), making it a significant destination for those seeking spiritual emancipation.

Harish Chander Ghat Varanasi

Visiting these Ghats allows you to witness the rituals and traditions associated with death and the cycle of life in Hinduism. It is recommended to approach these ghats with sensitivity, understanding, and reverence for the cultural practices and beliefs being observed.

While these ghats offer a unique insight into Hindu funeral customs and the circle of life, it is important to respect the privacy and solemnity of the rituals. Visitors are advised to maintain a respectful distance and refrain from taking photographs or engaging in intrusive behaviour.

Checkout the newly built Kashi Vishwanath Corridor

The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has transformed the area around the Kashi Vishwanath temple. This corridor created a clean, organized, and pedestrian-friendly passage from Lalita Ghat at Ganga River till main temple. There is a food court and waiting area with modern amenities for devotees and tourists.

Kashi Vishwanath corridor Varanasi

Explore the narrow by lanes of Varanasi to get the real feel of Kashi

The by lanes of Varanasi are a labyrinthine network of narrow streets and alleys that weave through the heart of the city. These are referred as “gallis,” are the lifelines of Varanasi, offering a glimpse into the vibrant local culture.

Lanes of Varanasi

Attend a morning Ganga aarti at Assi Ghat

The morning Ganga Aarti usually takes place before sunrise, around dawn. The exact timing may vary depending on the time of year and sunrise. It’s advisable to check in advance for the accurate timing of the Aarti.

Morning Ganga aarti at Assi Ghat Varanasi

Attend an evening Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Attending the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi is a captivating experience that showcases the vibrant energy and devotion of the city. The evening Ganga Aarti takes place after sunset, around dusk. The exact timing varies depending on the time of year and sunset. It’s advisable to check with the locals for the accurate timing of the Aarti.

As the evening approaches, devotees and visitors start gathering at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The ghat becomes alive with the hustle and bustle of people, priests, preparing for the Aarti. The steps of the ghat are decorated with flowers, oil lamps, and incense.

Ganga Aarti at Varanasi Ghat

To witness the Aarti from a different perspective, you can also opt to view it from a boat on the Ganges. Many boat operators offer guided tours during the Aarti, allowing you to witness the ceremony from the water.

It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and respect the customs and traditions of the Aarti. Dress modestly and be prepared for large crowds.

Read more about Dev Diwali festival of Varanasi.

Visit some historically significant places and temples

If time permits then also visit these two places, which are important to the heritage and history of Varanasi.

Shri Satya Narayan Tulsi Manas Mandir Varansi

Visit and spend some time in Banaras Hindu University – BHU

Established in 1916 by the visionary leader and social reformer, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of the oldest and largest residential universities in Asia.

Vishwanath temple BHU campus

Visit Ramnagar fort

Ramnagar Fort Varanasi

Do some fun activities across Ganga River

If you are travelling with kids and want to do some activities. Then cross the Ganga River preferably by taking a boat from Assi ghat and on the other side you can do camel ride or horse ride or maybe take a ride in swings.

There is a tent city also on the other side of the river across the Ghats.

Enjoy some local food in Banaras to satiate your taste buds

Varanasi offers a diverse and delicious culinary experience. The local cuisine of Varanasi reflects the traditional flavours of Uttar Pradesh with its own distinct identity. Here are some popular dishes and food experiences to try in Varanasi:

Kachori shop in Varanasi

Jalebi: It is another popular dish for breakfast and most of the shops serving Kachori Sabzi also serve this. In Varanasi, it is consumed on its own or with Dahi.

Sweet Lassi: It’s also very popular in Varanasi and served in Kasore (earthen pots). Blue Lassi shop near Manikarnika ghat is one of the most popular shops and they serve dozens of different varieties of Lassis made with different fruits. Pahalwan lassi shop in Lanka and Shivprasad Lassi shop near Ramnagar fort are other popular places. But you can have lassi from anywhere in Varanasi and it will not disappoint you.

Chaat: Varanasi is famous for its street food, and the chaats are a must-try. Tamatar chaat, Aloo Tikki, Papdi Chaat, Golgappa (Pani puri) and Dahi Vada are some of the dishes you should try in Varanasi. Popular shops are Dena chaat bhandar in Luxa, Kashi Chaat Bhandar in Godowlia area and Banarasi chaat bhandar on Sankat Mochan road.

Thali in Varanasi

Baati Chokha: You can try this at any road side stall or can head to Baati Chokha, a restaurant located in Lahurabir which specializes in it.

Pizzeria Vaatika Café: Situated on Assi Ghat is India’s first Pizzeria serving woodfired Pizzas, pasta, cookies, cakes and Pies. This open café offers unique flavours. Pizza and apple pie are two must haves here when in Varanasi.

Banarasi Paan Bhandars: Visit one of the famous Paan shops in Varanasi, such as Keshav Tambul Bhandar or Prince Paan, to savour different varieties of paan infused with various flavours and fillings.

Lal Chai or Black tea: On ghats you will come across vendors selling black tea, they serve tea with a dash of black salt and lemon. This tea is something you should not miss drinking when in Varanasi.

Read more about Varanasi street food and where to eat.

Take a day trip to Sarnath for spiritual experience

Sarnath is 13 kms from Varanasi and unlike Varanasi’s hustle bustle is quite peaceful. It holds immense significance as a Buddhist pilgrimage site and is one of the four major sites associated with the life of Gautama Buddha.

Main places to visit in Sarnath –

Sarnath stupa

The Chaukhandi Stupa, is believed to mark the spot where Lord Buddha met his first disciples after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, is situated within the sacred grounds of Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. There is a Bodhi tree also where Buddha is shown sitting with his disciples.

Ashoka Pillar, was erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The national emblem of India. The pillar still stands in the ground near Dhamek stupa and the capital with four lions facing different directions is kept in the museum.

Sarnath museum showcases the rich heritage and archaeological treasures of Sarnath.

Jain Temple, Japanese garden and Chinese temples are other important places to visit in Sarnath.

Light and sound show in Sarnath

Read more about How to take a day trip to Sarnath.

If time permits, visit an Akhara to see how wrestlers still practice on the dirt/mud floor. There are several weaving centres in Varanasi and you can also visit one of them to see the process of making a Banarasi saree.

Practical travel tips for visiting Varanasi

Best time to visit varanasi.

From October to March is the best time to visit Varanasi as the weather is cooler so it is convenient to explore. Better to avoid the monsoon months of July and August.

How to reach Varanasi

Varanasi is a well-connected city and can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are some common ways to reach Varanasi:

By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, located in Babatpur, is the nearest airport to Varanasi. It has regular domestic flights connecting Varanasi to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid cab to reach Varanasi city, which is approximately 20 kilometers away.

By Train: Varanasi has multiple railway stations, catering to the needs of the city and its surrounding areas. The main railway station in Varanasi is Varanasi Junction, also known as Varanasi Cantt. It is the largest and busiest railway station in the city, serving as a major transportation hub. Many important trains originate from or pass through Varanasi Junction.

In addition to Varanasi Junction , there are other railway stations in Varanasi, including:

Manduadih Railway Station : Located about 5 kilometers northeast of Varanasi Junction, Manduadih is another significant railway station in Varanasi.

Varanasi City Railway Station (also known as Varanasi City or Varanasi Terminal): This station is situated in the heart of the city, close to the old town and popular tourist attractions.

Other than these Deen Dayal Upadhyay station (Earlier known as Mugal Sarai) situated 15 Km from Varanasi and it provides additional connectivity.

By Road: Varanasi has a well-developed road network, and you can reach the city by bus, car, or taxi. National Highways NH2, NH7, and NH31 pass through Varanasi, connecting it to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states. You can either take a state-run bus or hire a taxi or private car for a road trip to Varanasi.

How many days required for Varanasi

The number of days required for a visit to Varanasi depends on your interests and the level of exploration you desire. However, to experience the essence of Varanasi and explore its key attractions, a minimum of three days is recommended. This time frame allows you to immerse yourself in the cultural, spiritual, and historical aspects of the city.

Within three days, you can visit the popular ghats along the Ganges, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremonies, explore significant temples, take a boat ride, visit Sarnath, and explore the vibrant lanes of the old city, indulging in local street food and shopping.

However, if you have more time available, extending your stay in Varanasi to four or five days allows for a deeper exploration and a more relaxed experience.

Remember, Varanasi is a city with a rich cultural and spiritual heritage, and taking the time to immerse yourself in its essence can be a transformative experience.

Read more about The safety tips for Varanasi , and travel tips for Varanasi.

Where to stay in Varanasi

Varanasi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly guesthouses, Hostels or traditional homestays, Varanasi has something for everyone. Here are some of the recommendations –

If you are on a budget or traveling solo and looking for a hostel then Moustache Hostel near Assi Ghat, Live Free Hostel near Assi Ghat, Wander Station near Dashashwamedh Ghat or GoSTOP in Bhelupur are good options.

If you are on a medium budget then Kashi residency near Assi Ghat, Hotel Tridev Grand in Bhelupur, The Sunaina near Shivala Ghat/Assi Ghat, Cosy Inn Homestay in Rampura Luxa are some good options.

In case you are looking for a luxury stay then Taj Ganges near Varanasi station, Amritara Suryauday Haveli on Shivala Ghat, Hotel Madin in Varanasi Cantonment area or Rivatas by Ideal in Varanasi cantonment are some good options.

How to travel in and around Varanasi

When it comes to traveling in and around Varanasi, you have several options to choose from. Here are the most practical ways based on my personal experience:

Walking: Varanasi’s narrow lanes and alleys are best explored on foot. Walking allows you to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and observe the local way of life. It is a convenient option for exploring the ghats, temples, markets, and nearby attractions in the old city.

Cycle Rickshaws: Cycle rickshaws are a popular and eco-friendly mode of transportation in Varanasi. They are especially useful for navigating through narrow lanes and crowded areas. Negotiate the fare beforehand.

Auto-rickshaws or Battery-operated Rickshaws: You can opt for shared auto, which charge you a fixed amount from one destination to another and these are most commonly used by locals. You can also hire an individual auto but in that case negotiate the fair beforehand clearly.

Taxis: Taxis, both regular and app-based services, are available in Varanasi. But don’t use taxis for local sight seeing because inside the city in many areas they are not allowed and you have to walk. Taxis are most comfortable going outside the city to places like Sarnath.

Motorcycle taxi ride: This is another mode of transportation and very practical for traveling in Varanasi. Rapido, an app-based service, is a very fast and economical way to commute if you are ok to ride a pillion on a motorbike.

It’s important to note that Varanasi is crowded and congested, especially in the old city area. Plan your travel accordingly, allow extra time for traffic. Consider a combination of different modes of transportation depending on your needs and the distance you need to travel.

Read more about Pilgrimage places in India.

Varanasi travel guide, 3 and 4 days Itinerary

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varanasi tourism

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Places to Visit in Varanasi

  • Uttar Pradesh
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Tourist Places to Visit in Varanasi

Here are some of the best places to visit in varanasi:, kashi vishwanath temple.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Top Experiences To Do in Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi Spiritual Walking Tour

Dasaswamedh Ghat

Dasaswamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is known for conducting the liveliest aartis along the holy river Ganga to immerse the visitors into divine bliss. A prominent member of the tourist attractions in Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat, got its name due to the legend of Lord Brahma sacrificing 10 horses, or das Ashwamedh, in order to perform a yajna. Every sunset, the ghat gets illuminated by the light of diyas lit to commence the sacred rituals. Priests gather and chant prayers in unison as they move the diyas in circles and pay their obeisance to the god. A huge crowd gathers to participate in this ceremony. The refreshing aura that sets in during the evening witnesses hundreds of tourists thronging the ghat to relax on the steps leading to the river waters. You can also spot many boats floating in the river. Due to the divine ambiance and religious significance, it is a must amongst the places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days.       Distance from Varanasi: 5.5 km Best Time to Visit: Kartik Purnima

Top Experiences To Do in Dasaswamedh Ghat

Varanasi Sunrise Boat Tour

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat

Many legends surround the etymology behind Manikarnika Ghat, the oldest riverfront and one of the most religious tourist attractions in Varanasi. Mentioned in many ancient scriptures and religious texts, Manikarnika ghat is said to be the place where Devi Sati set herself on fire and also the birthplace of the fearless queen of Jhansi, Rani Lakshmibai. Temples of many Hindu deities surround its periphery while the holy waters of river Ganga flow peacefully alongside. Giving a peek into the traditional life of Varanasi, this place is visited every year by thousands of pilgrims performing the last rites of their departed loved ones. A holy well, believed to be dug by Lord Shiva to recover the fallen earring of Goddess Sati, is present at the top of the stairs.  Distance from Varanasi: 5.5 km Best Time to Visit: Summer season, from March to June

Shivala Ghat

Shivala Ghat

Monkey Temple (Durga Temple)

Monkey Temple (Durga Temple)

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Chunar Fort

Tulsi Manas Temple

Tulsi Manas Temple

Ramnagar Fort & Museum

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Alamgir Mosque

Alamgir Mosque

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Chowk & Vishwanath Gali

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Lalita Ghat

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Causatthi Ghat

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Batuk Bhairav Mandir

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Nepali Temple

Nepali Temple

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Gyan Vapi Well

Gyan Vapi Well

Located in the middle of the Gyanvapi Mosque and Kashi Vishwanath Temple, this holy well is a popular pilgrimage site in Varanasi. Literally meaning the well of knowledge, Gyan Vapi Well is visited by many Hindu devotees for many years.

During the invasion of the temple by Emperor Aurangzeb, the effigy of Lord Shiva was carefully hidden by a priest inside this well. Since then, the waters of this well have been considered as sacred as river Ganga.

Distance from Varanasi: 5.7 km

Best Time to Visit: Fridays

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Sita Samahit Sthal

Sita Samahit Sthal

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33 best places to visit in varanasi, uttar pradesh.

varanasi tourism

The heart of the city of lights or Kashi Varanasi has been beating for 3000 years and its lifeline is its scenic spiritual legacy. It is believed that Lord Shiva founded the holy city of Varanasi.  It is the most popular Hindu pilgrimage destination in India. It is truly a representation of authentic India. Varanasi is a center of Hindu renaissance, Sanskrit, Yoga, spiritual and religious heritage. Today, Varanasi is a busy hub, where all winding roads look similar, Ghats are always crowded and the fragrance of incense and the smell of burnt firewood dissolve in the air.

The aartis and the floating of earthen lamps over the water of River Ganga in the evening is also an important element of the identity of Varanasi. It is also an auspicious place for death. It is said that people who die here will be free from the cycle of birth and death. Apart from that the beautiful architectural wonders of the kings of Bengal and Maharajas of Rajasthan makes Varanasi a colorful palette of artistic wonders, faith and rich cultural heritage.

Quick Information and Facts on Varanasi Tourism

Let’s embark on a journey of the holy city of Varanasi and show you some of the best places to see.

Best Religious Places to Visit in Varanasi

  • New Vishwanath Temple
  • Kathwala Temple
  • Kashi Vishwanath/ Golden Temple
  • Tulsi Manas Temple
  • Monkey Temple
  • Bharat Mata Temple
  • Alamgir Mosque
  • Parshvanath Jain Temple
  • Kalbhairav Temple

Popular Ghats to Visit in Varanasi

Dasaswamedh Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat

  • Manmandir Ghat

Shivala Ghat

Harishchandra Ghat

Dharbhanga Ghat

Scindia Ghat

Ahilyabai Ghat

Lalita Ghat

Rana Mahal Ghat

Chausatthi Ghat

Panchganga Ghat

Must Visit Historical Sites in Varanasi

Gyan Vapi Well

Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum

Ramnagar Fort

Top Destinations to Visit Nearby Varanasi

Betla National Park

Recommended Tour Packages

  • 2 Nights 3 Days Varanasi Sightseeing Tour
  • 1 Night 2 Days Varanasi Pilgrimage Tour
  • 15 Nights 16 Days Hindu Pilgrimage Tour

Must Visit Temples in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

New Vishwanath Temple- Peace Land

Situated in the premises of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), New Vishwanath Temple is definitely a must visit pilgrimage destination in Varanasi. The temple was constructed by the famed Birla family and hence is also known as Birla Temple. In fact, it is a temple complex which consists of 7 temples.

The Shiva temple is situated on the ground floor, whereas Durga temple and Lakshmi Narayan temple are located on the first floor. The architecture of the temple is inspired by the old Vishwanath Temple and the structure is made of white marbles. The walls of the temple are adorned with the text of Gita, which certainly catches the eyes of the visitors here.

Kathwala Temple – Unique and surreal

Kathwala Temple is one of the most popular religious places to see in Varanasi. It is also known as Nepali Temple as it was built by the king of Nepal – Rana Bahadur Shah in the 19th century. It is a brilliant example of exquisite Nepali architecture and wood work called Kath in Nepalese language. Hence, it is known as Kathwali temple. It resembles Pashupatinath temple of Kathmandu. The most interesting thing to see in this temple is its unique Khajuraho style sculptures. It is situated in the Lalita Ghat and catches the attention of many visitors in Varanasi.

Kashi Vishwanath/ Golden Temple – Dipped in spirituality

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most popular pilgrimage place to explore in Varanasi. The history of this sacred shrine can be traced back to 3500 years. The temple is one of the 12 th Jyotirlingas . It is the first place where the fiery light of Lord Shiva in the form of Jyotirlinga manifested from heaven to the earth.  These are considered the holiest Shiva temples. The Linga is the presiding deity here and the temple is a quadrangle, surrounded by temples of other gods. The temple once had a golden spire and domes; hence it was also called the Golden Temple. It was constructed in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. It is situated in Kashi Vishwanath Gali, also famous for its shops.

  • Temple Timings for Sugam darshan – 6:00am to 6:00pm
  • Also visit Annapurna Temple, Dundiraj Vinayak and Gyanvapi which are located near Kashi Vishwanath temple.

Tulsi Manas Temple – Reviving the old Bhakti Poet

Your spiritual holidays in Varanasi will be blissful if you visit Tulsi Manas Temple of Varanasi . This temple was built in the honour of the great Indian Bhakti poet Goswami Tulsidas. It was constructed in 1964 with white marble. The architecture of Tulsi Manas Temple will blow your heart away as in its walls the scenes and verses from Ramcharitmanas are engraved. It is believed that the temple is located at a place where Tulsi Das wrote this famous Indian epic. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and it is located near another famed shrine called Durga Temple.

Temple Timings: 5:00am -12:00pm and 3:00pm to 9:00pm

Monkey Temple – Epitome of Peace

Monkey is one of the most popular religious tourist attractions in Varanasi. It is dedicated to goddess Durga but is recognized as a Monkey Temple, due to the excessive population of monkeys around it. It also houses a Kund which is believed to be connected with the holy river of Ganga and thus have therapeutic properties. Devotees from all over India visit this temple to seek divine blessings and hear Bhajans and prayers to seek spiritual grace. It is believed the presiding deity was not man-made but appeared on its own. The temple is built by a Bengali Maharani in a Nagara style of architecture. Non-Hindus are allowed to enter the courtyard of the shrine but not the inner sanctum.

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Bharat Mata Temple – I Love My India

This temple is one of its kinds as instead of being dedicated to any god or goddess, the temple is dedicated to Bharat Mata or India (assumed as Mother). The temple is situated in Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth Campus. Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936, the temple was an inspiration for those who were fighting the war of independence. The statue in the shrine denotes mountain, plain and ocean and the major highlight of the temple is the relief map of India carved on a marble. The idol of Bharat Mata symbolizes the entire India which makes it one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. The temple was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt. Travelling to Varanasi would be amazing if you visit its peaceful shore.

Temple Timings – 9:30 am to 8:00pm

Alamgir Mosque – Timeless Mosque

Located near Panchganga Ghat, Alamgir Mosque stands still in pride to bless the devotees.  The mosque is situated on the edge of River Ganga and enjoys a picturesque scene. Said to be built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb who is believed to have demolished the old Kashivishwanath Temple and constructed this mosque in its place; Alamgir mosque is a fine piece of architecture. The mosque is also known as Gyanvapi mosque due to the well of the same name situated close to it. One can notice the influence of North Indian or Hindu architecture in this mosque; however, most of the mosque is done in Islam architecture. This mosque is also known as Dharhara Mosque.

Parshvanath Jain Temple – Sooth your eyes with Serenity

Parshvanath Jain Temple is a must visit religious tourist attraction in Varanasi. The temple is one of its kind. It is dedicated to the 23rd tirthankara (saint) of the Jain religion, Parshavnath. It is the most important pilgrimage destination for the Jain community. The temple is managed by Digambara sect of Jainism. It is said that this is the place where the swayamvar of the daughter of the king of Kashi was held. The temple has beautiful lattice work which will delight the eyes of the devotees.

Kalbhairav Temple – Seek Holy Blessings

Kalbhairav Temple is the most sought-after religious attraction in Varanasi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Kalabhairava decides who stays in Varanasi. This is the reason why people first visit this temple and seek holy blessings.  People who leave Varanasi also stop here to take the Lord’s permission. Devotees offer Sesame oil and flowers to the deity. The back entrance of the inner sanctum can only be accessed by the priest. God Kalbhairav is said to be the protector of Sati Pind and no one can touch the Sati Pind without his permission.

Temple Timings – 5:00 am to 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm

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Must Popular Ghats of Varanasi

Varanasi Ghat

Reckoned to be the oldest ghat in Varanasi, Dasaswamendha Ghat is where all the action takes place. It is the most popular tourist attraction in Varanasi. The ghat is situated near the Vishwanath temple and is famous for its evening aarti. Often crowded with sadhus, sanayasis, beggars and devotees, this ghat is an important landmark of Varanasi city. During the evening aarti, devotees leave earthen lamps in the water to float creating a beautiful scene which is unmatched.

  • The most sacred Ghat of Dasaswamedh is famous for its Ganga Aarti. The priest worships the holy river of Ganga which is the lifeline of Varanasi.
  • The duration of Aarti is 45 minutes and one must visit this place to experience the divine aura of Banaras. Your holidays in Varanasi would remain incomplete without experiencing the holiness of
  • Smaller Diyas are floated by devotees in a leaf platter in the honor of holy river Ganga.
  • It is a place where the creator of the universe Lord Brahma sacrificed ten horses.
  • The ghat was constructed by Queen of Indore – Ahilyabai Holkar in 1774.

This sacred Ghat is situated on the confluence of the River Ganga and Assi. The devotees bathe here prior to paying homage to a huge Shiva Lingam placed under a tree in close proximity to this ghat. It is a must visit tourist attraction in Varanasi. The ghat is situated at the south of the city and therefore is less crowded. However, it doesn’t by any means indicate that the ghat holds any less importance than other ghats.

  • It is a meeting point of River Ganga and Assi River.
  • There is an idol of Lord Shiva which is kept beneath the Peepal tree and it is worshipped by the devotees from all over the world.
  • The evening Aarti of Assi Ghat is the center of attraction for devotees. Every evening, priests chant mantras and honor the holy river Ganga.
  • The sight of the evening Aarti will blow your heart away. It looks ethereal.
  • It is said that Goddess Durga killed the demon called Shumbha- Nishumbha and after killing them she threw her sword in the Assi River.

Manikarnika is the main cremation Ghat and is also reckoned to be one of the oldest Ghats in Varanasi. It is also known by the name of Burning Ghat as the dead bodies are burnt here regularly. According to Hindu mythology, Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the place where the ornament worn by Sati on her ear fell down when Lord Shiva was carrying her to the Himalaya. It is a popular belief here that those who are cremated here get Moksha. It is one of the best places for Sightseeing in Varanasi.

  • Located between Dasaswamedh Ghat and Scindia Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most important places for cremation.
  • It is believed that the pond near Manikarnika Ghat was built by Lord Vishnu for Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti to bathe. There is a footprint of Lord Vishnu near the pond.
  • It is said that Goddess Shakti dropped her earring in Manikarnika well. It is here Lord Shiva dug a whole to find the earring, the depression of which was filled with his sweat. This is the reason why Manikarnika well was constructed.

Man Mandir Ghat

Manmandir Ghat is situated north of Dasaswamedh Ghat in Varanasi. The Ghat is reckoned to have been built in the 1600s by Maharaja Man Singh. To the northern corner of the ghat is a fine stone balcony. There are a few famous temples such as Sthuladanta Vinayaka, Rameshwara and Someshwara temples located near this Ghat.

  • Manmandir Ghat is also known as Someshwara Ghat as the sacred lingam of Lord Someshwar was found here.
  • This Ghat is decked with numerous Hindu Deities which makes it the best place to visit in Varanasi for spiritual wisdom seekers.
  • From the stone Balcony the mesmerizing views of River Ganga will seduce your senses.

Shivala Ghat is amongst the finest Ghats in Varanasi that very well reflects the historic era. The Ghat is famed for its Shiva Temple that was built in the 19th century by a Nepalese King called Sanjay Vikram Shah. The temple is known for its architectural grandeur and fine craftsmanship. The Ghat is quite popular amidst the devotees who come here to take a dip in the holy water.

  • Shivala Ghat in Varanasi is one of the offbeat Ghats to visit in Varanasi. It is less crowded and the center of the attraction of this Ghat is its Colony- Shivala Colony.
  • It got its name from the guardian deity of Kashi – Lord Shiva.
  • Shiva Temple, Brahmendra Math and numerous other Lord Mahadeva Temples, fortress of Oudh Nawab and 19th-century exquisite mansion of Nepali royal, King Sanjay Vikram Singh are the major tourist attractions to see in and around Shivala Ghat.
  • Shivratri is the best time to visit Shivala Ghat.
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This ghat is named after the mythological character Raja Harishchandra, who once worked at this ghat. Now, this king is believed to be righteous and truthful and gods were pleased with his humble behavior and thus retrieved his lost kingdom and his dead son. Harishchandra Ghat is one of the two ghats used for cremation in Varanasi and it is reckoned that whoever is cremated here attains Moksha or Salvation.

  • Harishchandra Ghat is one of the most prominent Ghats of Varanasi for cremation.
  • It is said that King Harishchandra worked in this Ghat for the establishment of truth and charity.
  • This Ghat houses an electric crematorium.

This Ghat is named after the great poet Tulsidas, who is believed to be the author of the Hindu epic Ramcharitramanas. It is believed Tulsidas sat on this ghat of the river and wrote a large part of Ramcharitramanas here. There is a big temple here that is dedicated to Lord Rama on this ghat. At Tulsi Ghat many cultural activities also take place and the most popular one is the Krishnalila that takes place in the month of Kartika (Oct/Nov).

  • It is the place where the great Epic poet Tulsi Das composed Ramcharitmanas in Awadhi.
  • It is in Tulsi Ghat where the theatrical performance of Lord Rama’s life was first staged in India.
  • Lolark Kund situated here cures people from diseases and blesses the native with long life and progeny.
  • There is a small house at the Ghat where Poet Tulsidas used to live. It contains several artifacts of the poet like wooden clogs and an idol of Lord Hanuman.

Situated within close proximity of Dasaswamedh Ghat, Darbhanga Ghat is used for performing the rites and rituals that are related to the demise of a loved one. The ghat has a grand building from where one can see the rituals being performed here.

  • Located between Chausatthi and Babua Pandey Ghat, it is one of the most serene and popular tourist destinations to visit in Varanasi.
  • It holds great religious and spiritual value for tourists. It serves as an open crematorium.
  • It is very famous for its sacred Shiva Temple at Nilkantha area and the shrine of Kukkuteswara.
  • It is named after the royal family of Darbhanga and they also built a magnificent palace with sandstone from Chunar.

Scindia Ghat , which is also known as Shinde ghat in Varanasi, is famed for the large number of places of worship found here. The Shiva temple at the ghat is a major tourist attraction in Varanasi due to its partial submergence in the water. According to Hindu mythology, this ghat is known as the place from where Agni (Fire) originated. Thus, it is revered as a holy place and many devotees like to visit here.

  • Scindia Ghat is very popular for its partially submerged Lord Shiva Temple named- Ratneshwar Shiva Temple. It is said that the temple is unable to bear the weight of the Ghat. The temple has a very interesting story behind its submergence.
  • According to a tale, a boy named Man singh built a temple of Lord Shiva to pay all the debts he owed to his mother as his mother was in a relationship with a man but the boy disapproved of this relationship. He thought by building a temple he would be able to cut all the ties with his mother.
  • His mother was unable to end the relationship with that man so she told his son to cut all ties from her if he is able to do that by paying her debts. Upon visiting the temple his mother was angry and said that One Can never pay off the debts of a mother.
  • She cursed this temple and thus this temple remained submerged in water. During Summer the water of the holy river Ganga subside and the sanctum sanctorum of the temple remains visible which makes this temple one of the best tourist destinations to visit in Varanasi.

Ahilyabai Ghat was earlier known as Kevalgiri Ghat but in 1778, the famous Queen Ahilyabai Holkar ordered its renovation and converted it into a ghat that was made of concrete. The Ghat is famous for the fact that it is believed to be the first Ghat in Varanasi that has been named after a person. The best time of the day to visit here is in the morning hours, when the Hindu devotees throng the ghat to take a dip to get cleansed from their sin.

  • Most of the dead bodies are cremated in Ahilyabai Ghat. It is also known as Burning Ghat.
  • Morning is the best time to visit Ahilyabai Ghat for a holy dip into the sacred waters of the Ghat and wash away their sins for salvation.
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One of the most venerated Ghats in Varanasi, Lalita Ghat is known for its wooden temple of Keshava. The temple was built by the King of Nepal in typical Nepalese architecture. The carvings on the wall depict sceneries and often attract the art lovers. The Ghat is dedicated to Lalita Devi who is reckoned to be the personification of Goddess Durga. Devotees who come to this ghat believe that bathing at this ghat will earn them the blessing of the Goddess and prosperity will seep into their lives.

  • Lalita Ghat was built by the king of Nepal Rana Bahadur Shah in the 19th century.
  • Nepali Temple and Lalita Gauri Temple are the center of attraction of this Ghat.
  • The ghat got its name from Goddess Lalita who is the highest form of Goddess Adi Shakti.
  • Photography and boating are some of the best ways to relax and rejuvenate your soul in Lalita Ghat.

This ghat was constructed by Raja Rana Jagat Singh, who came to Varanasi as a pilgrim. There is a palace near the ghat, which is believed to be the place where the Maharaja stayed during his pilgrimage. The palace boasts of its rich Rajputana architecture and attracts lots of tourists.

  • Rana Mahal Ghat is located in the south of Dasaswamedh Ghat.
  • The magnificent palace on the Ghat is an excellent example of Rajput art and architecture which will blow your heart away.
  • It is one of the Ghats under the ‘Revitalization of Varanasi’ Project launched by the regional tourism department for renovation and resurrection.

Chausatthi Ghat is known for its beautiful palace built by King Digbatiya of Champaran, Bihar. The ghat is also known as the shelter of famous Sanskrit scholar Madhusudan Sarasvati. There is a temple complex at the ghat as well, where old images of Kali, folk goddesses, Shiva, Ganesha, and Kartikeya can be seen. On the 12th dark-half of Chaitra (March-April) many pilgrims pay a visit to the Yogini temple and take ritual baths at this ghat. Another occasion of attraction is Holi, on the eve of the festival devotees come to pay homage and perform rituals at the ghat.

  • The ghat is dedicated to goddess Chausatthi, a form of goddess Kali.
  • It is an abode of a sanskrit scholar Madhusudan saraswati who wrote Vedanta Kalpa Latika which is a commentary on Bhagavad Gita.

This Ghat is reckoned to be the mythical meeting place of five sacred rivers. There are numerous images of the five river goddesses, namely, Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Dhutpapa and Kirana. Many devotees throng this ghat in hopes of attaining blessings from these five goddesses. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Varanasi. There are five idols presiding here and each is of black stone. From the Ghat one can see the Alamgir Mosque, which is believed to have been constructed by Aurangzeb.

  • Some of the best places to visit near Panchganga Ghat are Nepali Temple, Mosque of Alamgir, Yoga Training Center and Scindia Ghat.
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Popular Historical Sites to Visit in Varanasi

Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum Varanasi

Adjacent to the Vishwanath Temple lies the ancient GyanVapi Well (Well of Wisdom). It is believed that the water of this well contains the linga from the original Vishwanath Temple, which was vandalized by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century. The GyanVapi mosque was built by Aurangzeb in the place where this temple was situated.

To the south of the Vishwanath Temple is Banaras Hindu University, which was founded by Sanskrit scholar, Madan Mohan Malviya. Within the campus of the university is the famed Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum , which is renowned for its rich collection of Indian paintings. The paintings date back to between the 11th century and 20th century and are about 12000 in number. The Mughal miniatures, the sculpture of marriage of Shiva and Parvati and the 11th century statue of Vishnu and the Gandhara sculpture are the major attractions here.

Ramnagar Fort is situated across the river beyond the Assi Ghat. Built in the 17th century, this fort has been the home to royals of Varanasi for over 400 years. Although almost in ruins today, the palace still retains its charm. One can still witness the ornamented swords, photographs of tiger shoots and visits by the King and Queen of Belgium can be seen decorated on the wall. The Durbar Hall of the fort is converted into a museum, where several objects like palanquins and elephant howdahs are on display. Visiting Varanasi would be incomplete if you haven’t seen the grandeur of Ramnagar Fort Yet.

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Other Best Places to Visit Nearby Varanasi

Sarnath

Sarnath is to Buddhists what Varanasi is to Hindus. This city was once the greatest learning center in India and had also been visited by Chinese travelers Fa-Hien and Huien Tsang. The Deer Park is a major attraction in Sarnath; it is believed it is the place where Buddha visited in 528 BC to preach Dharmachakra or the Wheel of Law (his first major sermon after gaining enlightenment). It is one of the most popular tourist attractions to see in Varanasi.

Deer Park is a complex now and the central monument here is Dhamekh Stupa, which is believed to be erected at the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon to five disciples. There is another stupa that catches the attention and it is called Dharmarajika Stupa (built by emperor Ashoka). The complex is dotted with small monasteries and temples.

The Bodhi Tree was also planted here in the year 1931. In Sarnath, one can also visit the Archaeological Museum that displays a wonderful collection of Buddhist artifacts. The major attraction here is the Ashokan Lion Capital in polished sandstone.

The sacred location at the confluence of three rivers is what makes Prayagraj (Allahabad) a special place near Varanasi. The confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati River has offered Prayagraj cultural and political importance for nearly 3000 years now. Prayagraj, also known as Prayag, became a major centre of the Independence Movement. Today, Prayagraj is a prosperous province and its tree-line avenues and the congested old city offers a commendable contrast.

There are a number of places that catch the attention of visitors in Prayagraj. Prayagraj Fort built in 1583 has a famed Ashokan pillar that was brought from Kaushambi. The eastern side of the fort is famed for the ‘Undying Banyan Tree’ called Akshaivata. Khusro Bagh, Anand Bhavan (ancestral home of India’s premier political dynasty, the Nehru-Gandhi family), Prayagraj Museum, All Saints Cathedral and the Kumbh Mela are the major highlights of Prayagraj.

Situated about 63kms from Prayagraj, Kaushambi is a place that takes one back in history. According to local legends, the city was built by the Pandavas from Mahabharata. However, excavation revealed that the Buddhist community flourished here between 600BC and 600 AD. At Kaushambi, one can see paved brick roads, small houses, ceramic drains, and the stump of an Ashokan Pillar (3rd century BC). The city is surrounded by green fields and has a river in the background. It is indeed an ideal place nearby to visit from Varanasi.

Located on the bank of Sarayu River, Ayodhya is reckoned to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. At Ayodhya, one can find a large number of temples that commemorate the birth of Rama. This sacred town remains inextricably linked to the legend of Rama and thus holds a lot of importance.

After the Babri Masjid incident, a makeshift temple has been built, which attracts a large number of devotees especially on the full moon night of Kartik Purnima. Hanuman Garhi is yet another temple that is of utmost importance in Ayodhya. At a short distance from Ayodhya is a city called Faizabad, which is also known as the twin city. Here one has the opportunity to visit Jama Masjid, tomb of Bahu Begum (wife of Shuja-ud-Daula) and a rose garden.

Situated at a distance of about 290kms from Varanasi, Betla National Park is situated on the Chhota Nagpur Plateau in Jharkhand. Boasting of a rich variety of flora and fauna, this national park was initially known as Palamau Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Park is dotted with bamboo and sal groves; towering mahua (local alcohol is prepared from the flowers of this tree) also covers a major part of the forest. Betla is home to elephants, leopards, tigers and several species of birds.

There are many watch towers and hides that are meticulously deployed around the water holes for offering better opportunity to spot animals here. The Park also has two 16th century forts, a few hot springs and tribal villages inside its premises.

The most sacred site for Buddhists, Bodhgaya is situated about 255kms from Varanasi. It is reckoned to be the place where Buddha attained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple is the major attraction of Bodhgaya; this temple is recognized by its soaring pyramidal spire.

In the temple, the image of Bodhi Tree can also be seen. The tree is believed to be the one under which Buddha meditated before attaining enlightenment. In Bodhgaya, there are a number of temples and monasteries that are worth seeing; the Thai Temple, Japanese Temple, Bhutanese and Tibetan Monasteries are established here by devotees from China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Bhutan and Nepal. The Archaeological Museum in Bodhgaya is also worth seeing. The museum has beautiful 3rd century BC temple railings, bronze and stone images that date back to the 8th-12th century.

Nalanda was once reckoned to be the most prestigious center of learning in India. Situated at a distance of 355kms from Varanasi, Nalanda in Bihar definitely deserves a visit. The Buddhist University established here in Nalanda is believed to have been established around 5th century AD and had 5000 students both domestic and foreign. There were over nine million manuscripts in its library.

It is also believed that Buddha visited and stayed here in Nalanda quite often. Despite its vandalization by Turkish invader Bakhtiar Khalji, this university still conveys a distinct impression of the serene and disciplined life of contemplation and learning that once prevailed here. Nalanda’s temple; Votive Stupas (they have several images of standing Bodhisattvas and seated Buddha); Monk’s cells, monasteries and Dado panel from Temple 2 are the major attractions here.

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Varanasi has been an important pilgrimage center in India. If you are planning to visit any spiritual destination in India then Varanasi is a perfect place to be in. Be it food, culture and religious heritage – It gives ethereal vibes. We hope this blog helps you in planning a wonderful spiritual and enjoyable holiday in Varanasi. If you have any query, you can ask in the comment section.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what are some useful tips to follow to enjoy the tourism in varanasi.

  • Dress decently while you are at religious places and Ghats.
  • You can arrange shopping and boat tours in advance because there are so many places for shopping and numerous Ghats. These might overwhelm you.
  • Beware of bulls while walking down in alleyways and streets.
  • If you are trying Bhang Lassi, purchase it from a government approved shop.
  • Keep your belongings safe, Varanasi is a crowded place.
  • Do not take pictures of the cremation Ghats.
  • Boat tours are very costly, you need to negotiate a little to enjoy the tour.

Q. Is Varanasi safe for solo women travelers?

Yes, Varanasi is absolutely safe for solo women travelers but one needs to take precaution at night. At night Varanasi hawkers might overwhelm you as the place is too crowded. If you are planning a trip for evening then team up with someone or a licensed tour guide. Also, keep your belongings safe.

Q. What are the top pilgrimage tourist destinations to visit in Varanasi?

Top Pilgrimage tourist destinations to visit in Varanasi are -

  • Ganga Ghats
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple
  • Gyan Vapi Kup
  • Bharat Mata Mandir
  • Batuk Bhairav Mandir
  • Nepali Temple
  • Chinese Temple
  • St Mary’s Church
  • Durga Temple

Q. What are the best places for shopping in Varanasi?

Best places for shopping in Varanasi are:

  • Thatheri Bazaar
  • Vishwanath Lane
  • Godowlia Market
  • Dal Mandi Market
  • Rajan Silk Market
  • Chowk and Urban Hatt
  • Banaras Art Gallery

Q. Where to stay in Varanasi?

There is no dearth of places to stay in Varanasi, depending on your budget and choice there are plenty of places available which will delight your wanderer soul and enable you to enjoy the best of Varanasi Tourism.

Published: 01 Sep, 2021 | Last Updated:  05 Feb, 2024

About the author

Nidhi Singh

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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The Holy City of Varanasi

Tourists and pilgrims flock to Varanasi, a sacred Hindu city on the banks of the Ganges River

Anika Gupta

Anika Gupta

Ganges River Varanasi

At six in the morning, the alleys of old Varanasi gleam with last night's rain. One path just wide enough for two men to walk abreast leads past shops down to the holy river Ganges.

It's barely sunrise, but the alleys are already in chaos. Men jostle women, women jostle fat bullocks, bullocks narrowly avoid stepping on children. Everything is for sale – small bottles of holy Ganges water, larger bottles of branded mineral water, tiny figurines of the Lord Shiva, whose town this is. Tourists, almost invariably wearing colorful harem pants, brush shoulders with locals.

The storeowners watch the activity with lax interest, slurping tooth-rottingly sweet chai out of thimble-sized cups. When asked for directions they come to life, putting away the tea and describing the path with energetic and firm gestures. This may be the city where Hindus come to find enlightenment, but it is easy to lose your way.

Lines of Indian pilgrims walk barefoot through the alleys, drawn by occasional glimpses of the holy river. At last, the alleys fall away, and the sluggish green river appears, smooth as a sheet of glass. From here the view extends to the distant eastern bank, hazed with brown dust. This year, the monsoon rains have been below average, and the Ganges lies low and tame between the banks.

Tens of narrow steps shine wetly. The pilgrims sigh, picking their way down the steps to the water's edge. It's sunrise, the most fortunate hour, and they're here to take a dip in the Ganges.

In recent years the Ganges River has drawn attention for its ungodly level of pollution. But the bathers are immune to all this. Nearly 2.5 million of them come each year to Varanasi, this holiest of cities, on the banks of the most sacred of Indian rivers. According to Hindu legend, Lord Shiva unleashed the Ganges from the knot of his hair. For centuries, its rich floods lent fertility to the soil of the central Gangetic plains, which nourished some of India's most prominent ancient civilizations.

Varanasi is a heap of mismatched temples and narrow steps located on the Ganges' crescent-shaped western bank, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a city of scholars, home to one of Asia's largest universities. It is a city of temples, including the gold-plated Vishwanath sacred to Shiva; the Bharat Mata, or Mother India, temple that boasts a huge three-dimensional relief map of the Indian subcontinent carved out of marble; and the hundreds of small temples that dot the waterways and alleys.

It is also a city of legends. Varanasi strains under its own myths, which are contradictory, obscure and impossible to prove.

"The history of Varanasi is a puzzle [that] has to be solved by a group of scholars together," says Bhanu Shankar Mehta, who has lived in Varanasi for more than 80 years and lectures on its history. "You must put all the mythological and historical and proto-history together."

Old Varanasi's ancient ruins lie on the Rajghat plateau, in the northeastern part of the city. Here, archaeologists discovered pottery that went back to 1000 B.C., and broken masonry from as late as A.D. 1500, suggesting the area has been continuously inhabited for 2,500 years.

"We have very few settlements that continue like that, so Varanasi is very important from an archaeological perspective," says P.N. Singh, a history professor at Banaras Hindu University. "It is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities."

varanasi tourism

Varanasi's legends go back some 10,000 years, to the oldest epics of Hindu literature, including the Puranas, the Vedas and the Mahabharata. They say Varanasi is the city of Lord Shiva, who walked here with his wife Parvati at the beginning of time. It could also be the battlefield where the god Krishna set fire to a duplicate but imposter Krishna, or the place where the Lord Rama came to do penance after slaying the demon Ravana.

"Banares is an encyclopedia itself, it has got 100 dimensions, you can't cover it even in a book," Mehta says.

In a country where most cities have at least two names, Varanasi has over a hundred. The locals still call it Banaras, perhaps after the mythological king Benar. The Jataka Tales, a collection of ancient Buddhist folk stories, refer to the city as Jitwari, the place were business is good, or as Pushwavati, the flower garden city, or as Molini, the lotus garden city.

Under the name Kasi, the city was one of 16 great Indian kingdoms mentioned by ancient Buddhist texts from the first millennium B.C., when the invention of highways and coins first led to a flourishing of commerce. Iron arrowheads and fortified cities discovered by archaeologists suggest violent encounters between the kingdoms, but it was also an age of nonviolence. Gautama, later known as the Buddha, delivered his first sermon during this era. And Mahavir, the founder of the ascetic and nonviolent Jain religion, was born during this period.

Prakash can't be older than 15 years old, but he's been working as a boatman on the Ganges for as long as he can remember. Every morning, starting as early as five AM, he rows tourists down the Ganges in a 10-foot-long blue wooden boat. The most popular time for a boat ride is sunrise, when the surface of the sacred river flames with reflected color and bathers line the waterfront.

Along the way, he tells the stories of Varanasi's famous ghats, the sets of steps that lead from the alleys of Varanasi down to the river. Each ghat was constructed by a different medieval king, and though they are young compared to the ancient ruins on Rajghat, the ghats have inspired their own mythology.

The most famous is the Desaswamedh Ghat, where the father of Lord Rama once sacrificed 10 horses in an appeal to the sun.

At Kedar Ghat a priest used to perform a daily prayer to Lord Shiva. One day he became ill and couldn't perform the prayer, telling Lord Shiva, "You will have to come yourself."

"So Lord Shiva rose from the water in front of the ghat," Prakash says.

Further down the river, a ghat is abandoned. "That's Narad ghat," says Prakash. "The story is that women who bathe there will fight with their husbands, so no one bathes there."

Heavy black smoke rises from Harish Chandra and Manikarnika ghats. Ashes and flowers dot the waves. These are the burning ghats, where relatives bring their loved ones to be cremated. According to Hindu legend, those who are cremated in Varanasi will achieve enlightenment and be free of the cycle of death and rebirth. Nearly 300 bodies are cremated every day.

"This is the best city to die in," Prakash says, smiling, as he looks at the sun rising over the ghats. The bathers are out in full force. Some lather up, while others dance and sing in the water. In the narrow alleys behind them, the city of Varanasi is just waking up.

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Anika Gupta

Anika Gupta | | READ MORE

Anika Gupta’s writing has appeared in India and the United States, including in Business Today magazine, where she served as its first digital content editor, the Hindustan Times newspaper and Smithsonian magazine. Currently, she is a Master's student at MIT, where she studies user-generated content and mainstream media culture. She's also a science writer, media blogger, and essayist.

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Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most searched travel destinations in India

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , INDIA / Created : Mar 17, 2024, 18:00 IST

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To measure the preferred choice of travel destinations of Indians, Wowtickets.com, a UK-based platform recently launched in India, conducted a survey. The findings reveal intriguing trends: alongside popular destinations like Goa … Read more

To measure the preferred choice of travel destinations of Indians, Wowtickets.com, a UK-based platform recently launched in India, conducted a survey. The findings reveal intriguing trends: alongside popular destinations like Goa and Srinagar, many Indians are venturing to tier two cities such as Pune and Patna. Furthermore, there's a noticeable uptick in spiritual tourism, with destinations like Varanasi witnessing increased footfall. Read less

Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most searched travel destinations in India

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Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most searched travel destinations in India

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Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most searched travel destinations in India

To measure the preferred choice of travel destinations of Indians, Wowtickets.com, a UK-based platform recently launched in India, conducted a survey. The findings reveal intriguing trends: alongside ...

varanasi tourism

varanasi tourism

Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most searched travel destinations in India

To measure the preferred choice of travel destinations of Indians, Wowtickets.com, a UK-based platform recently launched in India, conducted a survey. The findings reveal intriguing trends: alongside popular destinations like Goa and Srinagar, many Indians are venturing to tier two cities such as Pune and Patna. Furthermore, there's a noticeable uptick in spiritual tourism, with destinations like Varanasi witnessing increased footfall.

Read more: Archaeologists discover missing top half of giant Ramesses II statue, solving century-old puzzle

Here's a breakdown of the top travel trends:

Top 15 most searched Indian destinations nationwide

As per the research, the top most searched travel destinations in India are Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, Srinagar, Bengaluru, Pune, Patna, Leh, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Varanasi, Guwahati, Bagdogra.

Total searches: 3.6 crores.

Here’s now city-wise trends:

It has been found that people from Mumbai are quite inclined to explore places like Goa, Delhi, Bengaluru, Srinagar, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Jaipur, Lucknow, Varanasi, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Dehradun, Patna, Hyderabad.

Total searches: 31.86 lakh.

People from Delhi are interested in exploring places like Goa, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Srinagar, Pune, Patna, Kolkata, Leh, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Guwahati, Bagdogra, Kochi, Bhubaneswar.

Total searches: 35.09 lakh.

Those from Bengaluru want to check out places like Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Kolkata, Pune, Lucknow, Patna, Ahmedabad, Ranchi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, Bagdogra, Guwahati.

Total searches: 24.86 lakh.

Those from Hyderabad are interested in places like Delhi, Goa, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Kochi, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Tirupati, Varanasi, Srinagar, Ahmedabad, Coimbatore, Chandigarh.

Chennai people are interested in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Port Blair, Goa, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Coimbatore, Pune, Kochi, Guwahati, Madurai, Patna, Srinagar.

Total searches: 90.5 lakh.

People from Kolkata want - Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Guwahati, Bagdogra, Port Blair, Goa, Hyderabad, Chennai, Srinagar, Ahmedabad, Agartala, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar.

Total searches: 10.97 lakh.

Read more: Mystery behind Anasazi civilization that vanished without a trace!

Referring to this, Dmitrijus Konovalovas, Director & CEO of wowtickets.com, commented, "Predictions suggest that by 2023, the global tourism market will soar to $16.9 trillion, with India's tourism sector playing a significant role. This growth is fueled by the adventurous spirit of India's youth, who prioritise exploration and discovery."

Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most searched travel destinations in India

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COMMENTS

  1. 14 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi

    Discover the spiritual and artistic side of India's ancient city with this list of the best places to visit in Varanasi. From the Ganges River to the Dasaswamedh Ghat, from the Shiva lingam to the cremation pyres, you'll experience the culture and culture of this vibrant destination.

  2. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Varanasi (UPDATED 2024)

    Places to Visit in Varanasi Explore popular experiences See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. Street Food Tours (9) Walking Tours (144) Sacred & Religious Sites (64) Private Sightseeing Tours (346) Multi-day Tours (85) Monuments & Statues (6) Full-day Tours (128) Dining Experiences (4) Bodies of Water (4)

  3. Varanasi travel

    India, Asia Varanasi is the India of your imagination. This is one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, and one of the holiest in Hinduism. Pilgrims come to the Ganges here to wash away sins in the sacred waters, to cremate their loved ones, or simply to die here, hoping for liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

  4. Complete List of Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days

    Travel Asia India Andaman and Nicobar Islands Delhi Goa Himachal Pradesh Karnataka Kerala Maharashtra Pondicherry Rajasthan Sikkim Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh Indonesia Malaysia Europe Austria Belgium Czech Republic Denmark France Germany Italy Netherlands Interest Fashion Foodie Itineraries Offbeat Goa Photography Road Trips About About Me

  5. Tourism

    Discover the cultural, historical and spiritual attractions of Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a Hindu pilgrimage spot. Explore the arts, crafts, architecture, education, medicine and music of Banaras, the cultural capital of India.

  6. Varanasi, India 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    5,032 Bodies of Water 2023 Sarnath 3,036 Religious Sites, Points of Interest & Landmarks 2023 Assi Ghat 1,275 Points of Interest & Landmarks 2023 Dasaswamedh Ghat 1,990

  7. Varanasi Tourism (2024) > Banaras (U.P.), Kashi Top Things To Do

    Best Hotels 5 Star Hotels Hostels Cheap Hotels View All Hotels In Varanasi Varanasi Travel Essentials Weather: 19 - 34°C Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best Time: October to March Read More Upcoming: Sankat Mochan Music Festival Read More

  8. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Varanasi

    Things to Do in Varanasi, India - Varanasi Attractions Things to Do in Varanasi Explore popular experiences See what other travelers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. Street Food Tours (9) Walking Tours (144) Sacred & Religious Sites (64) Private Sightseeing Tours (346) Multi-day Tours (85) Monuments & Statues (6)

  9. Varanasi Tourism (2024): All You Need to Know Before You Go

    2023 Dasaswamedh Ghat 1,990 Points of Interest & Landmarks

  10. Varanasi in India: Guide for Planning Your Trip

    Best Time to Visit: October to March are the best months to visit Varanasi. This is when the weather is at its coolest. Winters are refreshing and pleasant, albeit chilly at night. The temperature gets uncomfortably hot from April onward, easily reaching 35 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

  11. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Varanasi

    Top Things to Do in Varanasi, India - Varanasi Attractions Things to Do in Varanasi Explore popular experiences See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. Cultural Tours (265) Bus Tours (287) Sacred & Religious Sites (64) Private Sightseeing Tours (343) Historical Tours (204) Points of Interest & Landmarks (31)

  12. 42 Best Places to visit in Varanasi

    Discover the best places to visit in Varanasi, the cultural capital of India, with its temples, ghats, waterfalls and festivals. Explore the historical and spiritual significance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and more. Find travel packages, hotels and guides for your trip to Varanasi.

  13. The Ultimate Varanasi Travel Guide for Planning a Trip in 2024

    Varanasi is a sacred city in India which could easily be the oldest inhabited city in the world and has a very old history associated with it. According to the texts in Rig Veda, Varanasi was originally called Kashi and was officially renamed to Varanasi in 1956.

  14. Varanasi Tourism

    Varanasi or Banaras, Kashi Vishwanath Temple - travel guide with tourist places to visit, things to do, history and heritage, weather, weather, map & trip duration. Varanasi is the most sacred place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Jains with several important temples spread across the city.

  15. 39 Places To Visit In Varanasi In 2023, The Holiest Indian City

    There is clearly no dearth of places to visit in Varanasi. Here's a list of all the famous places to visit in Varanasi that you can explore, capture memories, dine, shop, and do everything with your loved ones. Take a look at these places and do not miss out on any on your trip to the holy land. Assi Ghat - For Those Seeking Spirituality

  16. 2 Days in Varanasi Itinerary + Travel Guide for 2024

    Getting to Varanasi by Plane. Lal Bahadur Shastri airport is on the outskirts of Varanasi, a 30-60 minute drive from the central city depending on traffic. Flights are available to most main cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai as well as to Kathmandu in Nepal. Where to stay in Varanasi. Luxury - Taj Ganges

  17. Best things to do in Varanasi in 3 days and 4 days itinerary

    Varanasi City Railway Station (also known as Varanasi City or Varanasi Terminal): This station is situated in the heart of the city, close to the old town and popular tourist attractions. Other than these Deen Dayal Upadhyay station (Earlier known as Mugal Sarai) situated 15 Km from Varanasi and it provides additional connectivity.

  18. 40 Places to Visit in Varanasi, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

    Dashashwamedh Ghat is known for conducting the liveliest aartis along the holy river Ganga to immerse the visitors into divine bliss. A prominent member of the tourist attractions in Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat, got its name due to the legend of Lord Brahma sacrificing 10 horses, or das Ashwamedh, in order to perform a yajna.

  19. Varanasi

    Etymology Traditional etymology links "Varanasi" to the names of two Ganges tributaries forming the city's borders: Varuna, still flowing in northern Varanasi, and Assi, today a small stream in the southern part of the city, near Assi Ghat. The old city is located on the north shores of the Ganges, bounded by Varuna and Assi. [32]

  20. Top 11 Places In Varanasi You Must Visit

    Varanasi is a perfect place in India where you experience spirituality at its best. With more than 88 ghats and 'n' number of temples, the holiest river Gang...

  21. 33 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi

    Parshvanath Jain Temple is a must visit religious tourist attraction in Varanasi. The temple is one of its kind. It is dedicated to the 23rd tirthankara (saint) of the Jain religion, Parshavnath. It is the most important pilgrimage destination for the Jain community. The temple is managed by Digambara sect of Jainism.

  22. List of tourist attractions in Varanasi

    Varanasi is one of the most prominent tourist places in India. The city attracts millions of domestic and international tourists. [1] The temples across the city attract pilgrims. The ghats and the Buddhist site Sarnath attract tourists from abroad. Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, which makes it rich with cultural heritage. [2]

  23. The Holy City of Varanasi

    Varanasi is a heap of mismatched temples and narrow steps located on the Ganges' crescent-shaped western bank, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a city of scholars, home to one of Asia's...

  24. Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most

    Furthermore, there's a noticeable uptick in spiritual tourism, with destinations like Varanasi witnessing increased footfall. More from Travel News. 90,000-year-old, world's oldest human ...

  25. Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati among the most ...

    Furthermore, there's a noticeable uptick in spiritual tourism, with destinations like Varanasi witnessing increased footfall. The Times of India. Travel trends 2024: Srinagar, Varanasi, Guwahati ...