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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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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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visit places of varanasi

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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  • 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

visit places of varanasi

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

visit places of varanasi

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

visit places of varanasi

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

visit places of varanasi

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

visit places of varanasi

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.

  49 Beautiful Places To Visit In North India For A Refreshing Vacay

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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Places to Visit in Varanasi

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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

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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

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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

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Shivala Ghat

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Monkey Temple (Durga Temple)

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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

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15 Best Places To Visit In Varanasi For The Best Of Culture, History, Religion Experience!

Varanasi , one of the Hindus’ seven holy cities, is a sight to behold. It is an overwhelming, empowering as well as unhampered experience; all at once.

In Varanasi, the monumental temples, ghats and also other popular places to visit in Varanasi attract millions of visitors each year. It is not only a favourite destination among Indian travellers but it is also loved by foreigners.

Although the city is famous for its ghats, temples as well as for music. There are many other tourist places in Varanasi  that will thrill everyone.

Perfect Time To Visi Varanasi

The best time to visit Varanasi is October through March. Each year in November, people celebrate a five-day festival famous as Ganga Mahotsav is a major tourist attraction in Varanasi.

Hence, winter is the best season to visit Varanasi. During this time, you’ll be able to see the city’s best! 

Places To Visit In Varanasi

15 Most Popular Places To Visit In Varanasi

Varanasi, a town situated on the banks of Ganga, is home to many ghats and temples. Here are some of the town’s most famous ghat as well as temples.

Moreover, if you attend the Arti at these ghats it will be one of the things for an enigmatic experiences to do in Varanasi. Let’s know more about these.

1: Assi Ghat-For spirituality seekers

Assi Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

This is also one of the main places to visit in Varanasi ! Situated far south, Assi Ghat is where visitors make devotion to Lord Shiva by praying a large lingam under a peepal tree.

This ghat is a vibrant area rippling in excitement as well as sound one that covers Kashi’s antiquity beautifully. Also, Assi Ghat is among the most religious famous tourist places in Varanasi . Here’s attractive arti sight makes Varanasi one of India’s most beautiful cities.    

Location:   Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh,   Assi Ghat, Timings:  Anytime Popular For:  Festivals and Recreation 

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2: Dashashwamedh Ghat-Town’s Most Lively Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

DashashwamedhGhat is a showy place also renowned for its spiritual transcendence, the largest ghat in Varanasi on the Ganges River. It is common knowledge that here, Lord Brahma sacrificed ten horses in a yajna, and therefore the name.

Dashashwamedh Ghat tops the list of best places to visit in Varanasi at  night , it is also a valid space to walk in this small town. Be here, as it is popularly called, for the Agni Pooja or Ganga aarti. 

Note Each Tuesday and at religious festivals, special aartis are held. Location:  Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Varanasi Ghats, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: Open 24 hours Popular For: Culture, Heritage, Temples 3, 

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3: Manikarnika Ghat-The Ghat of Prime Cremation

Manikarnika Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

Manikarnika Ghat is called an important religious place to be cremated as well as is one of the main places to visit in Varanasi . This ghat is in itself an exasperating and also surprising experience as literally nothing here is sacrilegious.

The rising sun as well as the flaming pyres, along with candlelit flower bowls floating down the religious Ganga River, make Manikarnika Ghat a sight to see. Try this ghat while finding the famous tourist places to visit in Varanasi . 

Location:  ItsClose Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Garawasi, Jugul Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: Open 24 hours Popular For: Sacred riverfronts, Cremation grounds 

4: Shivala Ghat-The Past Reflection  

Shivala Gha Places to visit in Varanasi

Shivala Ghat is yet another finest tourist place in Varanasi that focuses on the past of the region. A popular attraction to see here is the Shiva Temple, constructed far back by a Nepalese king in the 19th century.

Undoubtedly the magnificent architecture here is something that will take you by surprise and so will the temple’s craftsmanship. If you want to take a bath in the holy water, this is also one place to visit in Varanasi.  

Location:  Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Timings: Historical Timings: Open 24 hours Popular For:  Religious reason. 

Also Read : Top 15 Most Famous Temples In India

5: Ahilyabai Ghat-It’s Name Is Renowned

Ahilyabai Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

Recognised earlier as Kevalgiri ghat , this place is popular for becoming the first of its kind to have been named after an individual, like Queen Ahilyabai Holkar.

Though you can visit this ghat anytime, the best time is in the morning when you can see Hindu worshippers taking a dip believing it will purify their sin and see the ghat’s beauty at its finest. 

Location:  Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Varanasi Ghats, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings:   open 24 hours Famous For:  Religious bathing rituals 

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6: Rana Mahal Ghat- For The Real Explorers

Rana Mahal Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

For memorable Varanasi sightseeing, these locations will certainly be part of our itinerary. However, founded by Raja Rana Jagat Singh at the time he came as a pilgrim to the area, this ghat invites many tourists day in and out.

It is located right next to a palace that is believed to be the Maharaja’s residence during its pilgrimage era.

If architecture is something that tickles your imagination, there is plenty here to see and appreciate. Also, it is among the places to visit in Varanasi with family.

Location: Varanasi ghats, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 Timings:   Open 24 hours. Famous For:  Heritage Tour 

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7: Panchganga Ghat- Merger Point Five Rivers  

There is no question that Varanasi is full of countless ghats but certainly, the Panchganga Ghat stands out. Believed to be the legendary merging place for five sacred rivers, this place holds photos of the five goddesses namely Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Dhutpapa as well as Kirana.

Moreover, lots of tourists come by here to receive blessings and absorb some of the place’s calm vibes. Also, one of the best places to visit in Varanasi.  

Location:  7/111, Sonarpura Rd, Varanasi Ghats, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings:   Open 24 hours Popular For:  Spiritual Bathing, Prayers, Festivals 

Also Read : 15 Best Tourist Places In Agra: Enjoy the City Beyond the Taj Mahal

8: Chousatti Ghat-The Shelter Of The Famous Sanskrit Scholar

Chousatti Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

There are numerous reasons for finding this ghat also one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. This ghat is popular for being the shelter of the popular Sanskrit scholar Madhusudan Sarasvati, and also for its palace built by King Digbatiya of Champaran, Bihar.

This also houses a temple complex featuring pictures of Goddess Kali. And on occasions like Holi and Chaitra’s 12th Dark Half, this place also welcomes visitors in an enormous amount. 

Location:  Varanasi ghats, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings:  24 hours.  open Famous For:  Temples 

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9: Kedar Ghat-Holy Place of Bathing

Kedar Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

Kedar Ghat is popular for the best for holy bathing, also it’s also one of the oldest ghats in the town of Varanasi. Numerous tourists visit the Kedareshwar Temple here, and give prayers to Lord Shiva.

This ghat’s incredibly beautiful surroundings and heartwarming sensations make it one of the best sightseeing places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days where one can spend quality time! 

Location:  Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings: 24 Hours Open Popular For:  Spiritual Bathing, Prayers, Kedareshwar Temple 

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10: Manmandir Ghat-Marvel At River Ganga Views

Manmandir Ghat Places to visit in Varanasi

Established by Maharaja Mann Singh in the early 17th century, this ghat is famous for its palace as well as for an observatory. However, the palace was built by the maharaja, and also the observatory was built by Savai Jaisingh 2 in the Year 1710.

From a stone balcony on the north side of the ghat, you will wonder at the views of the Ganga River. Moreover, It’s one of the famous places to visit in Varanasi.

Location:  Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings:  NA Famous For:  Visit the Palace, Observatory, Sunset Views on the Ganga River 

Prominent Temples In Varanasi

Being one of India’s most holy cities and having religious significance, it boasts many temples, each distinctive in its architecture as well as the variety of deities housed in each temple.

A place of adoration and also spiritual retreat, check out the best temples in Varanasi to visit. 

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11: Temple of Kashi Vishwanath- Only Jyotirlinga of UP

Kashi Vishwanath Places to visit in Varanasi

For good experience include the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which will complete the list of places to visit in Varanasi . Devoted to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and was also mentioned in the Sacred scriptures.

As it stands today, the temple layout consists of a number of smaller shrines in the Vishwanath Galli. Also, one of the best tourist places in and around Varanasi.

Location:  Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings:  3 a.m. – 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., & 9 p.m. – 11 p.m.

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12: Temple of Tulsi Manas-Where Ramcharitmanas Was Written

Tulsi Manas Places o visit in Vanaras

It is also one of the many sightseeing sites in Varanasi is the Tulsi Manas Temple, the place where Tulsidas wrote the Hindu epic Ramayana in the Hindi language Awadhi accent.

Also, the temple was financed by the Birla family and was built in 1964 in white marble. Also, on the walls of the mandir are engraved verses and scenes from the Ramcharitmanas. 

Location:  Close to   Jalan Sankat Mochan Rd, Durgakund Rd, Varanasi, 221005 Timings:  5 a.m. – 12 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. 

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13: Durga Temple-The Story of the Fabled Old World

Durga Temple Places to visit in Varanasi

This mandir, also called the monkey temple, is among the legendary places to visit in Varanas i. The temple was founded by a Bengali Maharani in the 18th century and also is painted red with ochre.

Moreover, it’s claimed Goddess Durga’s idol wasn’t established in the temple, it came on its own. it is one of the places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days , this is one attraction that you can not skip. Also, One of the places to visit in Varanasi for couples, friends, and family.

Location:  27, Durgakund Rd, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, UP 221005 Timings:  5 a.m. – 11 p.m. 

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14: Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple-Well-known Since The 1900s

Hanuman Temple Places to visit in Varanasi

Built on the banks of the Assi River, this temple is also one of the most famous places to visit in Varanasi . Not only is this temple famous for its religion, but it is also famous for its historicity throughout the region.

Established in the 1900s by famed freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, this temple is visited by both Hanuman worshippers and Lord Rama. 

Location:  Bhogabeer Colony, Sankat Mochan Mandir, Varanasi, UP 221005 Timings:  8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.  

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15: Nepali Temple – Sense Lord Shiva’s Spirit

Nepali Temple Places to visit in Varanasi

This temple is one of the oldest in Varanasi Holy City and is also devoted to the mighty Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the 19th century’s best wonders in the region.

It was built by the King of Nepal, reflecting the Temple of Pashupatinath in Kathmandu City. Moreover, aside from the religious aspects, this temple’s architecture attracts visitors in large numbers, making it one of the best places to visit in Varanasi .

Location: C lose Lalita Ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Timings:   Open 24 Hours Popular For: One of Shiva’s oldest temples

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FAQ’s About Places To Visit In Varanasi

[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”h3″ question-0=”What are the places to visit in Varanasi?” answer-0=” 1. Assi Ghat 2. Dashashwamedh Ghat 3. Manikarnika Ghat 4. Shivala Ghat 5. Ahilyabai Ghat 6. Rana Mahal Ghat 7. Panchganga Ghat 8. Chousatti Ghat Sanskrit Scholar 9. Kedar Ghat 10. Manmandir Ghat 11. Temple of Kashi Vishwanath 12. Temple of Tulsi Manas 13. Durga Temple 14. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple 15. Nepali Temple” image-0=”” headline-1=”h3″ question-1=”Which are the best outdoor activities in Varanasi?” answer-1=” 1. Sachan Walking Tours 2. Varanasi Ganga Tour – Day Tours 3. Groovy Tours 4. Visit Ganga river 5. Varanasi Behind Day Tours” image-1=”” headline-2=”h3″ question-2=”What are the best day trips from Varanasi?” answer-2=” 1. Benaras Hindu University or BHU. 2. Sarnath. 3. Ramnagar Fort 4. River Excursions 5. Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary 6. Kaushambi” image-2=”” headline-3=”h3″ question-3=” What is famous in Varanasi?” answer-3=”Varanasi is India’s oldest city and its streets and there’s something to explore in every place. There are different kinds of food and other specialities making this town unique. And alongside that there are some ancient ghats that still carry the history of the oldest heritage in the nation” image-3=”” headline-4=”h3″ question-4=” What can I buy in Varanasi?” answer-4=”Below things are very good in Varanasi 1. The Holy Water of Ganga. 2. Banarasi Silk Saris. 3. Crystal and Stone Shivalinga. 4. Gulabi Minakari. 5. Glass Beads. 6. Rudraksha Mala. 7. Wooden Toys. 8. Flutes.” image-4=”” headline-5=”h3″ question-5=” How many days visit Varanasi?” answer-5=”You need 2 full days, so when you reach in Varanasi, if you arrive on the overnight train and arrive about 6 am, it will be enough for 2 nights, the same if you leave on a train overnight.” image-5=”” count=”6″ html=”true” css_class=””]

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He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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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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Spirituality & Religion

Jan 23, 2020 • 3 min read

Not to sound melodramatic, but I didn’t think I was going to make it home. India was calling, and on my back was a bag half-full of 300 hypodermic needles.

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Varanasi, India - March 21: Hindu pilgrims take holy bath in the river ganges on the auspicious Maha Shivaratri festival on March 21, 2013 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

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15 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi for First-Timers

Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world and is a hub of spirituality, history and culture. Be sure to check out these top places to visit in Varanasi, India!

Places to visit in Varanasi

Varanasi is one of the top destinations in India and is unlike any other city in the country. It’s known as the City of Temples and the Spiritual Capital of India! Situated along the sacred Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, there are many reasons tourists are drawn to Varanasi.

The city is full of bustling alleys, ancient temples, vibrant ghats and delicious food shops. It’s a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and is a historically significant city along the mystical Ganges. There are so many places to visit in Varanasi when you travel here!

Having lived in India for several years, my trip to Varanasi was one of my most memorable experiences in India. I was overwhelmed by the narrow roads, the cremation of bodies along the river, and the remarkable views of the city with such a vibrant culture. I’d highly recommend Varanasi for anyone that plans to travel to India!

This list highlights the best places to visit in Varanasi for people traveling to the city for the first time! Enjoy these spots for an authentic insight into life in the city and the rich history that made Varanasi what it is today.

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This post is all about places to visit in Varanasi.

Best Places to Visit in Varanasi

#1 dashashwamedh ghat.

Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-see for anyone traveling to Varanasi! It’s an authentic glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture and spirituality along the majestic Ganges River. 

What makes this ghat one of the most popular in Varanasi is because of the Ganga Aarti that happens every evening when the sun sets. Many people come here to watch the ritual and offering to the river, and it is one of the best experiences in Varanasi! During the Ganga Aarti, pandits, or priests, gather by the river front and perform a ceremony with fire, incense, hymns and choreographed movements.

Dashashwamedh Ghat is also bustling during the day too. Pilgrims cleanse themselves in the Ganges and boats float along in the river. It’s a very lively and bustling vibe and full of people.

Ganga Aarti Varanasi

#2 Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. The city is full of temples, but the beauty and ancient history draws visitors and devotees.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the three major deities in Hinduism. The Jyotirlinga, a sacred representation of Lord Shiva, is inside the temple. It’s believed that viewing the linga can free someone from the cycle of birth and death.

The temple is full of ancient history. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over thousands of years due to various conflicts and invasions. Most recently, it was re-constructed in the 19th century. The architecture is beautiful and has many intricate designs and carvings.

The temple is open everyday until 11pm and is free to enter. You can participate or watch people offer puja, or prayers, and perform rituals throughout the day. Since it’s a temple, you should dress modestly and you’ll need to remove your shoes before going inside.

#3 Assi Ghat

The Assi Ghat is where the river Assi meets the Ganges. Unlike the bustling Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat is known for its serene atmosphere.

It’s a popular spot for yoga and meditation. You can spend time sitting on the steps and soaking in the city in a relaxed way. It’s also a popular spot to see the sunrise and sunset which offer stunning views. Even if you aren’t interested in yoga or meditation, it’s a peaceful respite from the lively city.

#4 Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Banaras Hindu University is one of the top places to visit in Varanasi. It has a rich cultural heritage and is architecturally beautiful. It’s one of the most prestigious universities in India and is famous for its academic excellence and history. 

You can explore the campus and relax on the spacious lawns. There are also guided tours for visitors and sometimes they offer cultural shows, exhibitions and various events.

#5 Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is located in the BHU campus. It’s a well-designed museum that showcases a collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles and artifacts. If you’re interested in learning more about India’s cultural heritage, it’s the perfect stop.

When looking for the best places to visit in Varanasi, this museum doesn’t always make the list. But I think it is one of the hidden gems of the city and gives beautiful insight into the past. The treasury room is especially interesting!

Things to do in Varanasi

#6 Manikarnika Ghat (one of the most memorable places to visit in Varanasi)

Manikarnika Ghat is a very old and sacred ghat on the holy Ganges River. It’s one of the most famous places to visit in Varanist because it’s recognized as the cremation ghat. Hindu cremation rituals are performed all day because it’s believed that being cremated here ensures liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth.

The ghat has been mentioned in scriptures and texts for centuries. It’s also believed that Lord Shiva dropped his earring (manikarnika) here while dancing. 

Visitors can sit on the steps of Manikarnika Ghat and the view can be overwhelming. You will see cremations and rituals being carried out. There is a constant flow of cremation fires happening on the banks of the river and it’s an experience you will never forget.

#7 Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort is on the eastern bank of the Ganges River and is a historical marvel among the city. The architecture is absolutely stunning and shows a blend of Mugal and Rajput styles. There’s carved balconies and intricate designs throughout the fort.

Explore the fort and museum that has a nice collection of vintage artifacts and weapons. There is also a Durga Temple dedicated to the Goddess Durga which many tourists visit.

If you happen to be traveling to Varanasi in October or November, you should check out the Ramnagar Ramlila that happens for Dusserha. It’s a dramatic reenactment of the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. The festival is hugely celebrated in the region and the fort is a great place to experience the festivities!

#8 Jantar Mantar

The Jantar Mantar is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi for history buffs and anyone interested in astronomy. It’s a collection of astronomical instruments built in the early 18th century.

There are several large-scale instruments made of stone and masonry. The instruments were meticulously designed and aligned to witness and observe celestial phenomena. It showcases the technological and scientific advancements of their time.

Some of the most remarkable instruments include the Samrat Yantra (giant sundial) and Dhruva Yantra (north-south pole indicator). Visitors can explore the various instruments on your own or with a guided tour if you are really interested in learning more.

Sarnath

#9 Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath (one of my favorite places to visit in Varanasi)

Sarnath is an area outside the heart of Varanasi and absolutely worth visiting. It’s famous because it’s where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa is a structure marking the spot where Buddha preached and is a symbol for Buddhism’s origins.

In Sarnath, you can also visit the Ashoka Pillar. The area near the Ashoka Pillar is full of green lawns and various ancient structures. It’s also near the Sarnath Museum which is an archeological museum full of various artifacts and relics and is perfect to learn more about the rich Buddhist history in the city.

 #10 Sankat Mochan Temple

Sankat Mochan Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, popularly recognized as the monkey god. He is a symbol of strength, devotion and protection in Hinduism.

The temple has an ancient history and is full of intricate carvings and sculptures. Visitors can see the Hanuman idol and offer a puja, or prayer. Sankat Mochan translates to “reliever of troubles” and some people believe that praying here can alleviate difficulties in life.

There are regular Aartis or prayer ceremonies offered here. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Tuesdays and Saturdays are usually more busy at the temple because they are considered auspicious days for Lord Hanuman.

#11 Chunar Fort

Chunar Fort is situated on the banks of the River Ganges outside the busy heart of Varanasi. It has a rich history going back over a thousand years and has been used under the rule of several dynasties. The architecture is beautiful and is a mix of various styles due to the renovations throughout history.

Explore the fort and soak in the massive walls, courtyards and underground passages. There is a central tower that offers panoramic views of the Ganges and surrounding area. It’s a protected heritage site and is a beautiful way to learn about the region’s past.

There is a famous tale associated with the fort and Emperor Akbar. It’s believed the famous musician, Tansen, who played for the emperor’s court, was imprisoned here before showing his musical talents that gained his release. There are many fun stories of Akbar which are especially entertaining for children!

#12 Temples such as Kala Bhairava Temple and Annapurna Temple

Varanasi is famously known as the City of Temples and there are so many that you can visit during your stay! There are literally around 3000 temples, it’s almost overwhelming. Kala Bhairava Temple and Annapurna Temple are two of the best temples to visit if you have extra time.

The Kala Bhairava Temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairava, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. It’s believed to be one of the most powerful temples in the city. Devotees visit this temple to seek protection and blessings from Lord Bhairava, known as the guardian deity and protector.

The Annapurna Temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the deity of food and nourishment. It’s an ancient temple and many visitors come for blessings in food, nourishment and fulfillment of their daily needs from the Goddess.

Varanasi

#13 Ganges River

While there are many ghats to experience the sacred Ganges, one of the most popular ways is to take a boat ride along the river. It’s a beautiful way to see the city and soak in the stunning views. 

There are several ghats where you can start a boat tour, including Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Raj Ghat and Scindia Ghat. There are various types of tours you can go on with different boats. You can also choose how long of a tour you want, generally between 30 minutes and 2 hours. 

I did a simple tour in a rowing boat for one hour and I would highly recommend it! The guide didn’t speak much about the city, but we saw the major ghats and it was the most picturesque way to see the city. Definitely one of the highlights on my trip!

#14 Ghats including Raj Ghat and Tulsi Ghat

Like there are a lot of temples, there are also many ghats to visit in Varanasi! The city is known for having 84 ghats along the Ganges River. Raj Ghat and Tulsi Ghat are two worth-wile spots if you are looking for more ghats to visit during your trip.

Raj Ghat is a less crowded ghat along the river and is known for its tranquil ambiance. It’s a peaceful place to sit and relax and also has beautiful views of the river.

Tulsi Ghat is named after the famous saint poet, Tulsidas. It’s also known for its peaceful vibe and sometimes hosts various cultural events.

#15 Restaurants – you have to try the lassi and chaats!

The food in Varanasi is amazing and there are so many famous dishes to try! These are some of the best restaurants and shops that cover all kinds of foods.

  • Baati Chokha Restaurant – This is a bustling spot that’s especially famous for its Baati, a wheat ball, and Chokha, mashed vegetables. It’s a delicious option and super cheap, plus the inside of the restaurant looks really neat with carvings on the wall!
  • Shree Shivay Thali – This is a local style restaurant with the best thali! It’s the perfect place for travelers because a thali is a meal that is served on a large plate with tons of different dishes to try in small bowls. This is the best place for a thali to experience the regional food and taste lots of different dishes at one time.
  • Kashi Chat Bhandar – This is the best place for trying street food! It’s a small shop that’s famous for their savory snacks. Enjoy delicious chaat, a street food that is famous in Varanasi.
  • Blue Lassi – Lassi is a popular drink in Varanasi which is a traditional yogurt-based drink. To be honest, it takes an acquired taste if you ask me, but of course it’s loved by many! Blue Lassi isn’t exactly a restaurant, but it’s a great spot to order lassi and is famous for its variety of flavors and toppings.
  • Roma’s Cafe Diner – If you’re looking to take a break from Indian food, Roma’s Cafe is a beautiful restaurant. There’s also rooftop seating with stunning views of the city. It’s famous for its Italian cuisine like pasta and pizza.

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33 best places to visit in varanasi, uttar pradesh.

visit places of varanasi

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 Spiritual Capital of India"

Varanasi tourism.

World's oldest living city, Varanasi - also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benaras, is the spiritual capital of India. It is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. The old city of Varanasi lies along the western banks of the Ganges, spread across a labyrinth of narrow  galis. Be prepared to walk on foot and encounter some holy cows! Temples at almost every turn engulf Varanasi but the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most visited and the oldest of the lot. Benaras is known as the city of Lord Shiva for a reason, and rightfully so.

Varanasi is considered an auspicious place to die, as it is believed to grant moksha or liberation from the cycle of life and death. One of the city's most iconic features are the 80 ghats along the Ganges, where daily life unfolds against the backdrop of rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices. Dashashwamedh Ghat , the main ghat, witnesses the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti , a captivating ritual where priests offer prayers to the river with the rhythmic movement of lamps, fire, and chants. The boat ride along the Ganges during sunrise or sunset provides a serene and immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the city's timeless beauty. The narrow winding lanes of Varanasi, known as galis, house numerous shrines, shops, and eateries, creating a maze that leads to hidden gems like the historic Sarnath , where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. The city is a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds during festivals, especially during Diwali and Holi. The vibrant ghats, adorned with thousands of diyas (lamps) during Diwali, create a mesmerizing spectacle. Varanasi's local markets, such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, offer an array of handcrafted silk, brassware, and traditional Banarasi sarees. The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant, and the city is vibrant with festivals and cultural events.

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Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

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Assi Ghat

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  • A traditional rowing boat is the most common type of boat and a 90-120 minutes ride can cost around 250 INR per person.
  • Rides during sunset, at the time of Ganga aarti and at dawn, are the most famous of all.
  • Kashi Darshan - Ride to Kashi is a popular attraction which takes four hours to complete.
  • Ram Nagar Fort - Another popular ride is the palace of Banaras. It involves a walk on foot and sightseeing of the market.
  • There are also Motorboats to ride around. The cost usually 1500 INR per person
  • The rowing boat usually carries 6 people at once. If there already are 6 people in a boat, do not try to fit in as an extra person might risk the chances of your boat losing balance.
  • Make sure to carry mosquito repellents as the river is polluted and disease-causing flies and mosquitoes are abundant.

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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.

Varanasi Guide: Planning Your Trip

This Ancient Holy City is not for the Faint of Heart!

visit places of varanasi

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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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A travel guide to the Holy City of Varanasi: Places to visit, best things to do in Varanasi & the holiest attractions

varanasi

Nestled along the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi stands as a beacon of spiritual devotion and cultural richness. In this comprehensive travel guide for India tours , we delve into the heart of this holy city, uncovering the most revered places to visit, the best things to do, and the holiest attractions that define the unique essence of Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India. 

Immerse yourself in Hindu culture, witness centuries-old traditions, and embark on a journey like no other in the Holy City of Varanasi.

What is the history of Varanasi?

Varanasi, often referred to as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back thousands of years. Its historical and cultural significance is deeply intertwined with the development of Hinduism and the spiritual heritage of India. Here is a detailed account of the history of Varanasi:

Ancient Origins (Around 1200 BCE - 500 CE): The earliest evidence of human settlement in the Varanasi region dates back to the 12th century BCE. It is believed that the city was established by the Aryan civilization on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. Varanasi quickly became a center for religious and philosophical activities.

Buddhist Connection (6th Century BCE): During the 6th century BCE, Varanasi was a prominent center for Buddhist teachings. It is here that Gautama Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, a suburb of Varanasi. This event is considered the beginning of Buddhism.

Golden Age (5th - 12th Century CE): Varanasi flourished during the Gupta Empire (4th - 6th centuries CE) and the subsequent dynasties. It became a hub of learning, attracting scholars, philosophers, and theologians. The city's ghats (riverfront steps) were constructed during this period.

Islamic Rule (12th - 18th Century CE): The city faced several invasions and changes in leadership during the medieval period. Muslim rulers, including Mahmud of Ghazni and the Mughals, exerted influence over Varanasi. However, the city's Hindu identity remained strong.

British Colonial Era (18th - 20th Century CE): Varanasi came under British control during the 18th century. It played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. Many prominent leaders, including Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, advocated for freedom from British rule.

Post-Independence Period (1947 - Present): Varanasi continued to thrive as a center of culture, spirituality, and education after India gained independence. It has remained a focal point for Hindu pilgrimage and is known for its vibrant festivals and rituals.

Spiritual Significance: Varanasi is considered one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism. It is believed that a visit to Varanasi and a bath in the Ganges River can cleanse one's soul and lead to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).

Cultural Heritage: The city has been a source of inspiration for poets, writers, musicians, and artists for centuries. It is renowned for its classical music, dance, and religious literature.

Modern Varanasi: Today, Varanasi remains a bustling and dynamic city, blending ancient traditions with modern developments. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore its spiritual, cultural, and historical heritage.

Why is Varanasi called the City of Light?

Varanasi is often referred to as the "City of Light" due to its profound spiritual and cultural significance in Hinduism. The title "City of Light" carries several symbolic and historical meanings:

Spiritual Illumination: Varanasi is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, and it is believed to be a place where spiritual enlightenment can be attained. The term "City of Light" symbolizes the idea that Varanasi is a place where the light of knowledge and spirituality shines brightly, dispelling the darkness of ignorance.

Historical and Cultural Significance: Varanasi has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its ancient temples, ghats, and sacred rituals contribute to its cultural significance, and the title "City of Light" reflects the city's cultural luminance.

Ganges River and Rituals: The Ganges River, which flows through Varanasi, is considered the holiest river in Hinduism. The daily rituals and ceremonies performed along the ghats of the Ganges add to the city's spiritual aura, as devotees and pilgrims seek purification and spiritual growth through these practices.

Learning and Knowledge: Varanasi has been a center of learning for centuries. It is home to the esteemed Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and numerous traditional schools of philosophy, music, and art. The city's association with education and wisdom contributes to its reputation as a place of enlightenment.

Eternal Essence: Varanasi is often described as a timeless city where the past and present coexist seamlessly. The belief in the eternal nature of the city, where spiritual truths transcend time, is reflected in the title "City of Light."

In essence, Varanasi's nickname, the "City of Light," encapsulates its role as a sacred and spiritual center, a place of profound cultural heritage, and a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and wisdom in Hinduism. It is a city where seekers, pilgrims, and travelers come to experience the divine and gain a deeper understanding of life's spiritual dimensions.

Where is Varanasi located?

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is located in the northern part of India. It is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh, which is one of the country's northern states. Varanasi is positioned on the banks of the sacred Ganges River and is known for its picturesque location along the river's western bank. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 25.3176 degrees North latitude and 82.9739 degrees East longitude. The city's proximity to the Ganges River is one of its defining features, making it a significant religious and cultural center in India.

Varanasi stands as a beacon of spiritual devotion and cultural richness

How to get to Varanasi?

Getting to Varanasi is relatively easy due to its status as a major cultural and religious destination in India. Here are some common ways to reach Varanasi:

  • The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) in Varanasi is the city's main airport. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi , Mumbai, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to and from Varanasi.
  • Varanasi Junction, also known as Varanasi Cantt Railway Station (BSB), is one of the busiest railway stations in India. It is well-connected to major cities across the country, including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Agra. You can book train tickets online or through railway reservation counters.
  • Varanasi is accessible by road, and you can reach the city by bus or private vehicle. National Highway 2 (NH2) and NH7 pass through Varanasi, connecting it to other major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states.
  • If you are traveling from nearby locations along the Ganges River, you can take a boat to Varanasi. This is a unique and scenic way to approach the city, particularly if you are visiting from places like Allahabad or Chunar.
  • Varanasi has a bus station, Varanasi Bus Depot, with bus services from nearby cities and towns. You can find both government-run and private bus operators offering transportation to Varanasi.

By Auto-Rickshaw and Taxi:

  • Once you arrive in Varanasi, you can use auto-rickshaws and taxis for local transportation within the city. It's a good idea to negotiate fares or use meters, if available, to avoid overcharging.

By Cycle-Rickshaw:

  • For shorter distances and navigating through narrow lanes in the older parts of the city, cycle-rickshaws are a convenient mode of transportation.

By App-Based Ride Services:

  • Some ride-sharing apps operate in Varanasi, providing an additional option for getting around the city.

When planning your journey to Varanasi, it's advisable to check the availability of transportation options, book tickets in advance if necessary, and consider the time of day and your preferences for comfort and convenience. Varanasi is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers, so you should have several transportation choices to suit your needs.

When is the best time to visit Varanasi?

The best time to visit Varanasi depends on your preferences for weather and the type of experience you seek in this holy city. Varanasi experiences extreme temperatures throughout the year, so it's important to choose a time that aligns with your comfort and interests. Here are the two main seasons for visiting Varanasi:

Winter (November to February):

  • Winter is considered the best time to visit Varanasi by many travelers. The weather during these months is pleasant and relatively cooler, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while evenings and nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Be sure to carry warm clothing.
  • This season is also popular for festivals like Dev Deepawali, which falls in November, and Maha Shivaratri in February. Witnessing these festivals can be a unique experience.

Summer (March to June):

  • Summer in Varanasi can be extremely hot and dry, with temperatures soaring well above 40°C (104°F) during the daytime. Humidity levels can also be high.
  • It's not the most comfortable time to visit, especially for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. However, if you can tolerate the heat, you may find fewer crowds during this season.
  • It's essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the scorching sun if you choose to visit Varanasi in the summer.

Monsoon (July to September):

  • Varanasi experiences its monsoon season from July to September. During this time, the city receives heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding in some areas.
  • While the rains bring relief from the summer heat, it's not the ideal time for sightseeing, as the streets can become waterlogged, and outdoor activities may be disrupted.
  • However, if you enjoy a more tranquil and spiritual atmosphere, this season can be a unique time to witness the religious rituals and ceremonies associated with the Ganges during the monsoon.

Post-Monsoon (October to November):

  • After the monsoon, the city starts to regain its charm as the weather becomes more pleasant. October, in particular, is a transitional period with improving weather conditions.
  • It's a good time for sightseeing, attending festivals like Navratri and Dussehra, and exploring Varanasi's cultural heritage.

Who should visit Varanasi?

Varanasi is a sacred city that holds immense spiritual and cultural significance in India, making it a destination that can appeal to a wide range of travelers. Here are some groups of people who may find Varanasi particularly compelling:

Spiritual Seekers and Pilgrims:

  • Varanasi is one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and a major pilgrimage site. It attracts thousands of spiritual seekers and pilgrims who come to perform religious rituals, take a dip in the Ganges, and seek spiritual enlightenment.

History and Culture Enthusiasts:

  • Travelers interested in India's rich history, culture, and traditions will find Varanasi captivating. The city's ancient temples, ghats, and vibrant street life offer a glimpse into India's cultural heritage.

Photographers and Artists:

  • Varanasi's picturesque ghats, vibrant street scenes, and spiritual ceremonies provide abundant opportunities for photography and artistic inspiration.

Academics and Researchers:

  • Varanasi is home to institutions like Banaras Hindu University, making it a hub for academic and research activities. Scholars in fields such as religion, philosophy, and linguistics often visit the city for its academic resources.

Yoga and Meditation Enthusiasts:

  • Many yoga and meditation centers are located in Varanasi, offering courses and retreats. The city's spiritual atmosphere makes it a conducive environment for mindfulness practices.

Cultural Explorers:

  • Varanasi hosts a variety of cultural festivals, music concerts, and dance performances throughout the year. Travelers interested in experiencing Indian music, dance, and festivals can find ample opportunities here.

Travelers Interested in River Cruises:

  • A boat ride along the Ganges River in Varanasi is a unique and serene experience. Those who enjoy river cruises and scenic journeys may appreciate this aspect of the city.

Festival Enthusiasts:

  • Varanasi celebrates various Hindu festivals with great fervor. Visitors during festivals like Diwali, Dev Deepawali, and Maha Shivaratri can witness grand celebrations and rituals.

Food Enthusiasts:

  • Varanasi offers a range of traditional Indian cuisine, including street food. Food enthusiasts can savor local dishes and explore the city's culinary delights.

Adventure Travelers:

  • For the more adventurous, Varanasi offers unique experiences like early morning boat rides on the Ganges or exploring the narrow alleys of the old city.

It's important to note that Varanasi, while a place of great cultural and spiritual significance, can also be a bustling and crowded city. Visitors should be prepared for a sensory-rich experience that includes a mix of spirituality, history, and vibrant street life. Ultimately, Varanasi welcomes a diverse range of travelers, each finding their own unique connection to the city based on their interests and motivations.

Varanasi is considered one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism

Why should you visit the City of Light on your visit in India?

Spiritual and Cultural Epicenter:

  • Varanasi is often referred to as the spiritual heart of India. It is one of the holiest cities for Hindus, and its spiritual significance is evident in the daily rituals, ceremonies, and prayers performed along the banks of the Ganges River. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Hindu culture and spirituality.

Ganges River:

  • The Ganges, or Ganga, is considered the most sacred river in Hinduism. A visit to Varanasi provides the opportunity to witness the daily rituals, bathing, and cremation ceremonies along the ghats (steps) of the Ganges. It's a unique and profound experience.

Historical and Architectural Heritage:

  • Varanasi boasts a treasure trove of historical and architectural landmarks. Ancient temples, narrow winding lanes, and stunning ghats offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Key attractions include Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, and the various ghats.

Cultural Festivals:

  • Varanasi celebrates a plethora of festivals with great enthusiasm. Events like Dev Deepawali and Maha Shivaratri are celebrated with grand processions, lighting of lamps, and special prayers, creating a festive atmosphere that is both colorful and spiritual.

Yoga and Meditation:

  • Varanasi has a thriving yoga and meditation culture. Many ashrams and centers offer courses and retreats for those interested in exploring mindfulness practices in a spiritual setting.

Photography and Artistic Inspiration:

  • The city's vibrant street life, spiritual rituals, and architectural beauty make it a paradise for photographers and artists seeking inspiration. The ghats and the people of Varanasi offer endless opportunities for capturing unique moments.

Culinary Delights:

  • Varanasi offers a diverse range of traditional Indian cuisine. From street food to local specialties, food enthusiasts can savor the flavors of the region. Don't miss trying the famous Banarasi paan (betel leaf preparation) and sweets like malaiyo.

Academic and Research Interests:

  • Varanasi is home to Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of India's oldest and most prestigious educational institutions. Scholars and researchers in fields like philosophy, religion, and linguistics often visit BHU and its extensive library.

River Cruises:

  • A boat ride on the river Ganges during sunrise or sunset offers a serene and picturesque view of the city and its ghats. It's a peaceful way to experience the spiritual essence of Varanasi.

Unique Cultural Experiences:

  • The city's bustling markets, silk weaving industry, and classical music and dance performances provide a unique blend of cultural experiences that showcase the traditions of northern India.

Visiting Varanasi provides an opportunity to witness the timeless spiritual and cultural practices that have been part of Indian civilization for millennia. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, cultural exploration, or a deeper understanding of India's diverse traditions, Varanasi offers a profound and unforgettable journey.

How much does a visit to the City of Light cost?

The cost of a visit to Varanasi can vary widely depending on several factors, including your travel preferences, duration of stay, and spending habits. Here's a breakdown of potential expenses to help you plan your budget:

Accommodation:

  • Accommodation costs in Varanasi can range from budget to luxury options. Budget travelers can find guesthouses and hostels for as low as ₹500 to ₹1,500 per night. Mid-range hotels typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per night, while luxury hotels and heritage properties can cost ₹6,000 and above per night.

Food and Dining:

  • Food in Varanasi is relatively affordable. Street food stalls offer delicious snacks and meals at low prices, with items like chaat, samosas, and thali meals typically costing between ₹50 to ₹200. Dining at mid-range restaurants may cost around ₹300 to ₹800 per meal, while upscale dining establishments can be more expensive, with meals costing ₹1,000 or more per person.

Transportation:

  • The cost of transportation depends on how you travel to and within Varanasi. Domestic flights to Varanasi can vary in price, but budget airlines may offer one-way fares starting from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 or more. Train tickets from major Indian cities can range from ₹500 to ₹2,000 or higher, depending on class and distance. Local transportation within Varanasi includes auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis, with fares starting at ₹20 for short rides.

Sightseeing and Activities:

  • Entrance fees to historical sites, temples, and museums are usually quite affordable, ranging from ₹20 to ₹300 per person. Some attractions, like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, may have separate fees for special access or puja (prayer) offerings.
  • Boat rides on the Ganges River are a popular activity in Varanasi. Prices for boat rides vary, with shared boat tours typically costing ₹100 to ₹200 per person. Private boat tours can be negotiated with local boatmen.

Shopping in Varanasi:

  • Varanasi is famous for its silk products, including saris and scarves. Prices for silk products can vary significantly depending on quality and design. It's essential to bargain when shopping in local markets like Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar.

Miscellaneous Expenses:

  • Miscellaneous expenses may include tips, laundry, internet access, and incidentals. Budget for these expenses based on your personal preferences.

Festival Costs:

  • If you plan to visit during festivals like Dev Deepawali or Maha Shivaratri, be prepared for increased crowds and potential price fluctuations in accommodation and transportation.

Travel Insurance and Miscellaneous Costs:

  • Don't forget to budget for travel insurance, visa fees (if applicable), and other unexpected expenses.

Overall, a budget traveler can manage daily expenses in Varanasi for around ₹1,000 to ₹2,500, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 per day. Luxury travelers may spend ₹5,000 or more per day. These estimates are approximate and can vary based on individual preferences and choices. It's advisable to plan your budget according to your specific travel style and priorities.

What are the dress code and opening hours for Varanasi's temples?

Dress codes and opening hours for temples in Varanasi, like in many other places of worship in India, are guided by religious and cultural norms. It's essential to adhere to these guidelines out of respect for the local traditions and beliefs. While specific rules may vary from one temple to another, here are some general dress code and opening hour guidelines for temples in Varanasi:

Dress Code:

Modest Clothing: When visiting temples in Varanasi, it's important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders, chest, and knees. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, such as shorts, sleeveless tops, or low-cut dresses.

Remove Footwear: Before entering the temple premises, it is customary to remove your shoes or sandals. Most temples have designated areas for footwear storage, or you may be asked to leave your shoes outside the temple.

Head Covering: Some temples, especially those of particular significance, may require both men and women to cover their heads as a sign of respect. You can carry a scarf or shawl to cover your head when necessary.

No Leather Items: In some temples, leather items like belts and wallets may not be allowed inside the sanctum sanctorum. It's advisable to check with temple authorities or guides for specific rules.

Opening Hours:

Morning Visits: Many temples in Varanasi open early in the morning for prayers and rituals. The exact opening times may vary from temple to temple but typically start at or before sunrise. It's a serene and spiritually charged time to visit.

Midday Break: Some temples close for a few hours during the midday, usually between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. This break allows priests and staff to rest and perform additional rituals.

Evening Visits: Temples generally reopen in the late afternoon or early evening and remain open until sunset or later. Evening aarti (rituals involving fire and lamps) ceremonies are a highlight in many Varanasi temples and are a must-see.

Specific Temple Timings: It's advisable to check the specific opening hours of the temple you plan to visit, as they can vary. Many temples also have special hours during festivals and auspicious days.

Special Days and Festivals: Temples may have extended hours or special ceremonies during festivals and significant religious occasions. These can be a great time to experience the vibrant spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi.

Closure Days: While most temples are open daily, some smaller or less-visited temples may have irregular opening hours. It's best to inquire locally or with temple authorities about the schedule.

As a general rule of thumb, it's a good idea to dress conservatively and respectfully whenever you plan to visit a temple in Varanasi. Additionally, it's always helpful to check with locals or temple staff for specific dress code requirements and opening hours to ensure a smooth and respectful visit.

Varanasi and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of cultural, historical, and spiritual attractions

What are the best places to visit in and near Varanasi City?

Varanasi and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of cultural, historical, and spiritual attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in and near Varanasi:

Places to visit in Varanasi:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most sacred Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.

Dashashwamedh Ghat: This ghat on the Ganges River is famous for its daily Ganga Aarti ceremony, a captivating and spiritual ritual.

Assi Ghat: Known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, Assi Ghat is a great place to relax and meditate.

Sarnath: Located just a few kilometers from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. The Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Museum are key attractions.

Manikarnika Ghat: One of the principal cremation ghats in Varanasi, it's a place of both reverence and reflection on the cycle of life and death.

Tulsi Manas Temple: This temple is famous for its beautiful marble structure and the Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls.

Places to visit near Varanasi:

Chunar Fort: Located about 40 kilometers from Varanasi, this ancient fort offers a glimpse into India's history and provides panoramic views of the Ganges River.

Ramnagar Fort: Situated across the Ganges River from Varanasi, this 18th-century fort is known for its museum and the Ramnagar Ramlila, one of the oldest and grandest in India.

Vindhyachal: About 65 kilometers from Varanasi, Vindhyachal is a significant pilgrimage site known for the Vindhyavasini Devi Temple and the Ashtabhuja Temple.

Chaukhandi Stupa: Located around 13 kilometers from Varanasi, this stupa marks the spot where Lord Buddha met his first disciples after attaining enlightenment.

Kaithi: This village, located about 25 kilometers from Varanasi, is known for its traditional art of scroll painting known as "Kaithi."

Allahabad (Prayagraj): Approximately 120 kilometers from Varanasi, Allahabad is known for its Sangam (the confluence of three rivers), Kumbh Mela, and historical sites like Anand Bhavan and the Allahabad Fort.

Bodh Gaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bodh Gaya is about 240 kilometers from Varanasi and is where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.

Ayodhya: Around 200 kilometers from Varanasi, Ayodhya is associated with Lord Rama and is known for its temples and historical significance.

Varnasi Temples: Explore the numerous temples in and around Varanasi, including the Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and New Vishwanath Temple.

These are just a few of the many attractions in and near Varanasi. The city and its surroundings are steeped in history, spirituality, and culture, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of India's heritage.

How to explore Varanasi along the ghats?

Exploring the ghats of Varanasi (riverfront steps) of the Ganges River is a unique and immersive experience that allows you to witness the city's spiritual and cultural life up close. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your exploration:

1. Start Early:

  • Early morning is the best time to explore the ghats. The city is less crowded, and you can witness the breathtaking sunrise and the rituals that take place along the river.

2. Take a Boat Ride:

  • Hiring a boat is a popular way to explore the ghats. You can negotiate with local boatmen or use organized services.
  • Opt for a sunrise or sunset boat ride to capture the magical moments of aartis (rituals with fire and lamps) and daily life along the riverbanks.
  • During the boat ride, you can visit several ghats, including the famous ones like Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, and Harishchandra Ghats.

3. Walk Along the Ghats:

  • Varanasi's ghats stretch for several kilometers along the river. Consider walking along the ghats to get a closer look at the rituals, street vendors, and daily activities.
  • Visit the smaller and less crowded ghats to experience a more intimate connection with the local culture.

4. Visit Ghats with Specific Significance:

  • Each ghat in Varanasi has its unique history and significance. For example, Dashashwamedh Ghat is known for the Ganga Aarti, and Manikarnika Ghat is the principal cremation ghat.
  • Seek out ghats that align with your interests and learn about their stories from local guides or residents.

5. Interact with Locals:

  • Engage in conversations with local residents and sadhus (ascetics) who reside along the ghats. They can provide insights into the city's spiritual life and rituals.
  • Be respectful and seek permission before taking photographs of people, as some may prefer not to be photographed.

6. Attend Aarti Ceremonies:

  • Don't miss the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. It's a mesmerizing ritual with lamps, incense, and chanting.
  • Many other ghats also host aartis. Consider attending one to experience the spiritual ambiance.

7. Explore Temples Along the Ghats:

  • Several temples are located along the ghats, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. Take time to visit these sacred places.

8. Experience Varanasi's Markets:

  • Explore the markets near the ghats, like Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs, silk products, and local handicrafts.

9. Respect Local Customs:

  • While exploring the ghats, be mindful of the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, remove your footwear when required, and maintain a respectful demeanor.

10. Stay Hydrated and Wear Sunscreen:

  • Varanasi can get quite hot, so carry water, wear sunscreen, and consider a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Exploring Varanasi along the ghats is an opportunity to connect with the city's spiritual essence and witness the rituals and daily life that have been practiced for centuries along the sacred Ganges River.

What are the best things to do in Varanasi?

Varanasi, known for its spiritual and cultural significance, offers a multitude of enriching experiences for travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Varanasi:

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat:

  • Witness the grand and mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This daily ritual involves fire, lamps, and chanting, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere.

Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges:

  • Explore the ghats and the river by taking a boat ride during sunrise or sunset. It's an excellent way to see the city from a unique perspective and witness daily life along the Ganges.

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

  • Pay your respects at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism. Be sure to adhere to the temple's dress code and security regulations.

Explore Sarnath:

  • Visit the nearby town of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and the serene surroundings.

Attend Dev Deepawali:

  • If you're visiting in November, don't miss Dev Deepawali, the festival of lights. Witness thousands of lamps lit along the ghats, creating a breathtaking sight.

Experience a Sunrise or Sunset on the Ghats:

  • Early mornings and evenings along the ghats are magical. Take in the serene ambiance, engage with locals, and capture the beauty of Varanasi during these times.

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple:

  • Explore this famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its spiritual significance and peaceful surroundings.

Explore the Narrow Lanes of the Old City:

  • Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the old city, where you'll find vibrant markets, traditional shops, and delicious street food.

Participate in Yoga and Meditation:

  • Join a yoga or meditation class in Varanasi to experience mindfulness practices in the heart of spiritual India.

Visit the Sarnath Museum:

  • Discover a collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and relics related to Buddhism and the history of Sarnath.

Enjoy Local Street Food:

  • Varanasi is famous for its street food. Don't miss trying local delicacies like kachori sabzi, chaat, and the famous lassi.

Explore Varanasi's Silk Industry:

  • Visit silk weaving workshops and shops to witness the intricate process of silk production. Consider purchasing Banarasi silk products as souvenirs.

Engage in Spiritual Activities:

  • Participate in spiritual activities like taking a holy dip in the Ganges, performing puja (prayers), and seeking blessings from sadhus (holy men).

Attend Classical Music and Dance Performances:

  • Enjoy classical Indian music and dance performances at local venues, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi.

Shop for Souvenirs:

  • Explore local markets for souvenirs such as silk products, wooden handicrafts, jewelry, and spiritual items.

Visit the New Vishwanath Temple:

  • Explore the beautiful New Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Birla Temple, which is known for its intricate marble work.

Varanasi offers a multifaceted experience that combines spirituality, history, and cultural richness. Whether you're seeking enlightenment, cultural immersion, or simply a glimpse into India's heritage, Varanasi has something profound to offer every traveler.

Visiting Varanasi provides an opportunity to witness the timeless spiritual and cultural practices that have been part of Indian civilization for millennia

When is the best time for a boat ride on the Ganges River?

The best times for a boat ride on the Ganges River in Varanasi are during sunrise and sunset. Here's why each of these times offers a unique and memorable experience:

Sunrise Boat Ride:

  • Sunrise boat rides are exceptionally popular and considered by many to be the best time to experience the Ganges in Varanasi.
  • The early morning hours are serene and peaceful, and the soft golden light of the rising sun bathes the ghats and the river in a warm, ethereal glow.
  • You can witness a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere as locals and pilgrims come to the river to perform morning rituals, offer prayers, and take a holy dip.
  • The Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat is not to be missed during sunrise. The aarti, performed facing the river, creates a captivating spectacle with fire, incense, and chanting.
  • Photographers often prefer this time for its soft, diffused light and the opportunity to capture the picturesque scenery.

Sunset Boat Ride:

  • Sunset boat rides offer a different perspective and ambiance. The colors of the setting sun cast a warm and golden hue over the ghats and the river.
  • The evening boat ride allows you to witness the ghats coming alive with the evening Ganga Aarti ceremonies, which are equally mesmerizing as the morning aarti but with a different atmosphere.
  • The lamps and incense create a mystical and enchanting environment as you float on the river, surrounded by the sounds of chants and bells.

Ultimately, whether you choose a sunrise or sunset boat ride depends on your personal preferences. Both options provide an opportunity to connect with the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Ganges. Keep in mind that it's a good idea to arrange your boat ride in advance or negotiate with local boatmen to ensure a memorable experience.

What is the significance of Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi?

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a prestigious and renowned institution located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It holds immense significance in various aspects, including education, culture, and the socio-political landscape of India. Here are some key aspects of the significance of Banaras Hindu University:

Educational Excellence:

  • BHU is one of India's oldest and most prestigious universities, established in 1916 by the visionary educator and freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. It has consistently ranked among the top universities in India.

Promotion of Hindu Culture and Values:

  • BHU was founded with the mission to promote and preserve the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India, particularly Hinduism. It serves as a center for the study and dissemination of Hindu philosophy, literature, and arts.

Interdisciplinary Approach:

  • BHU is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education. It offers a wide range of academic programs in various fields, including arts, sciences, engineering, medicine, social sciences, and more.

Cultural Hub:

  • The university hosts various cultural events, festivals, and performances throughout the year. It is a hub for promoting and preserving Indian classical music, dance, and art forms.

Research and Innovation:

  • BHU is recognized for its research contributions in various fields. It houses research centers and institutes that focus on cutting-edge research, including the Institute of Science, Institute of Medical Sciences, and Institute of Technology.

Influence on National Politics:

  • BHU has played a significant role in shaping India's political landscape. Many of its alumni have held influential positions in the government and have contributed to the nation's development.

Social Reforms:

  • The university has been a platform for advocating social reforms and progressive ideas. It has been instrumental in addressing issues related to caste, gender, and social justice.

Spiritual and Cultural Heritage:

  • BHU is located in Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. Its proximity to the city's spiritual and cultural heritage adds to its significance as a center for holistic education.

Legacy of Leaders:

  • Prominent leaders, scholars, and visionaries have been associated with BHU, including Jawaharlal Nehru, S. Radhakrishnan, and Lal Bahadur Shastri, to name a few.

Contributions to Nation-Building:

  • BHU's commitment to producing well-rounded and socially responsible graduates has contributed significantly to nation-building efforts in India.

What are the notable Varanasi temples?

Varanasi is renowned for its numerous temples, each holding its own religious and historical significance. Here are some of the notable temples in Varanasi:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Also known as the Golden Temple, this is one of the most revered temples in Hinduism dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a major pilgrimage site and a masterpiece of architecture.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is believed to fulfill devotees' wishes and protect them from troubles and difficulties.

Durga Temple (Durga Kund Mandir): This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known for its unique architectural style and the presence of a sacred pond, the Durga Kund.

Tulsi Manas Temple: This temple is famous for its white marble structure and for having verses from the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem by Tulsidas, inscribed on its walls.

New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple): A beautiful marble temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it offers a serene atmosphere and a panoramic view of the city.

Sarnath Temples: Sarnath, located near Varanasi, is associated with Buddhism and houses several Buddhist temples and stupas, including the Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihara.

Bharat Mata Temple: This unique temple is dedicated to Mother India and features a three-dimensional relief map of India carved out of marble.

Kaal Bhairav Temple: Dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, this temple is known for its strict rituals and the worship of a black dog, considered an embodiment of Bhairav.

Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Mrityunjay, the conqueror of death. It is believed to have healing powers.

Tilbhandeshwar Temple: Located near Manikarnika Ghat, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with the legend of Shiva and Parvati.

Annapurna Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment. It is believed that visiting the temple ensures a never-ending supply of food.

Sarveshwar Mahadev Temple: Located near the Assi Ghat, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its serene surroundings.

Tridev Temple: This unique temple is dedicated to the three principal deities of Hinduism: Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva).

Vishalakshi Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, this temple is located near the Manikarnika Ghat and is a place of spiritual significance.

Nepali Temple: Also known as the Kathwala Temple, it is a beautiful wooden temple built in the traditional Nepali architectural style.

These are just a few of the many temples in Varanasi, each offering a unique spiritual experience and contributing to the city's cultural and religious vibrancy. Visitors to Varanasi often embark on temple tours to explore the rich tapestry of faith and devotion that defines the city.

What are the attractions around Varanasi?

Varanasi is surrounded by several attractions and places of historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. Here are some notable attractions around Varanasi:

Sarnath: Located just a few kilometers from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the most significant Buddhist sites in the world. It is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visitors can explore ancient stupas, monasteries, and the famous Dhamek Stupa.

Chunar Fort: Situated about 40 kilometers from Varanasi, this historic fort offers panoramic views of the Ganges River. It has a rich history dating back to various dynasties and was also briefly under the control of the British.

Ramnagar Fort: Located across the Ganges River from Varanasi, this 18th-century fort serves as the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras. It features a museum showcasing vintage cars, weapons, and royal memorabilia.

Vindhyachal: Approximately 65 kilometers from Varanasi, Vindhyachal is a significant pilgrimage site known for the Vindhyavasini Devi Temple. It is particularly popular during the Navratri festival.

Chaukhandi Stupa: Situated about 13 kilometers from Varanasi, this stupa marks the spot where Lord Buddha met his first disciples after attaining enlightenment. It offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Kaithi Village: Located approximately 25 kilometers from Varanasi, Kaithi is known for its traditional art of scroll painting known as "Kaithi." Visitors can witness the artisans at work and learn about this unique art form.

Allahabad (Prayagraj): About 120 kilometers from Varanasi, Allahabad is known for the Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers (Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati). It hosts the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage, and features historical sites like the Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.

Bodh Gaya: Located around 240 kilometers from Varanasi, Bodh Gaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple is a key attraction.

Ayodhya: Situated about 200 kilometers from Varanasi, Ayodhya is associated with Lord Rama and is known for its temples, including the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.

Varnasi Temples: Explore the various temples and ghats in the vicinity of Varanasi, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and more.

These attractions offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring Buddhist heritage to historical forts and religious pilgrimage sites. They provide opportunities for travelers to delve deeper into the cultural and spiritual richness of the region surrounding Varanasi.

What is the best time to visit India to make the most of your stay in Varanasi?

The best time to visit India and make the most of your stay in Varanasi depends on your preferences for weather and the type of experiences you desire. Varanasi experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique atmosphere:

Winter (October to February):

  • Winter is generally considered the best time to visit Varanasi for most travelers. The weather is cool and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
  • This is the peak tourist season, attracting visitors from around the world.
  • The comfortable weather allows for exploration of the city's temples, ghats, and cultural attractions without the discomfort of extreme heat or rain.

Spring (March to April):

  • Spring in Varanasi sees gradually rising temperatures, making it a favorable time to visit if you prefer warmer weather.
  • The city begins to come alive with vibrant festivals like Holi, which is celebrated with enthusiasm and colorful festivities.

Summer (May to June):

  • The summer months in Varanasi can be very hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
  • While it's not the most comfortable time to visit due to the scorching heat, it may be a good choice if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodations.
  • If you plan to visit during this period, be prepared for the extreme heat and stay hydrated.
  • The monsoon season in Varanasi brings heavy rainfall, often causing flooding in low-lying areas.
  • While the rain can make the city lush and green, it can also disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities.
  • If you enjoy the monsoon atmosphere and don't mind the rain, this can be a unique time to witness the city's spiritual rituals amidst the showers.

Festivals and Special Occasions:

  • Consider planning your visit to coincide with special festivals like Dev Deepawali (Festival of Lights), Diwali, and Mahashivaratri if you want to experience Varanasi's vibrant cultural and religious celebrations.

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// City Guides // Destinations // Varanasi // India // Uttar Pradesh

Top 14 Tourist Places in Varanasi for the Perfect Getaway

by Riya Jogi on September 29, 2022

Known as the Spiritual Capital of India, the city of Varanasi is home to the Ganga river. One of the oldest living cities of India, Varanasi is the destination of culture and religious significance. Tourists as well as locals flock to different parts of the city. You get to witness the magnificence of approximately 2000 temples. Tourist places in Varanasi are a great combination of historical heritage, art and sacred locations. 

Thousands of people are attracted to take a holy bath in the divine river of Ganga. Along with this, you can also check out hotels in Varanasi for a rejuvenating break. As you inhale the vibrancy of cultural ceremonies and heavenly vibes at the ghats, do not miss the opportunity to visit top Varanasi tourist places.

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Confortable rooms, clean bathrooms, friendly staff, free breakfast, 14 tourist places in varanasi are –, 1. bharat mata temple.

Bharat Mata Temple is one of the best tourist places in Varanasi . The Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus is where the Bharat Mata Mandir is situated. You must have seen temples decorated with gods and goddesses. However, Varanasi has something surprisingly different. A map of unified India is on display in the centre of the Bharat Mata Mandir.

Bharat Mata Temple is one of the best tourist places in Varanasi.

Pilgrims worship the carved marble that shows India united with the neighbouring countries. The temple is a homage to every individual who helped create India. It is indeed a rare example of nationalism as devotees raise their patriotism and pride at this place of worship.

Timings: Morning 7:30 AM to Evening 5:30 PM

Location: Vidyapeeth Road, Cannt Road Lalapura, Chanuwasatti Chandua Chittupur, Guru Nanak Nagar Colony, Chetganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

2. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat, one of Varanasi’s most well-known ghats, is situated in the southern section of the holy city. It is one of the most visited tourist places near Varanasi. Numerous Hindu texts, including the Kurma Purana and the Matsya Purana, make reference to this ghat. It is a great destination for recreational activities and diving deep into the vibe of spirituality that Varanasi has to offer.

Assi Ghat is one of the most visited tourist places near Varanasi.

You are likely to witness a fantastic cultural spectacle because it is one of the locations in India with the greatest religious influence. Locals as well as tourists engage themselves in the sacred aarti during evenings. The Assi Ghat is an ideal place to sight the confluence of two rivers – the Ganga and Assi. As the ghat observes thousands of people during festivals, it happens to be one of the top-rated tourist places in Varanasi.

Timings: 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM

Location: Neighbourhood in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

3. Shivala Ghat

Varanasi invites you to seek tranquillity at a number of ghats built in the ancient times. Shivala Ghat is yet another destination to understand the significance of Indian culture . Interestingly, you can take a boat ride exploring the neighbouring locations in depth. 

Shivala Ghat is one of the best tourist places in Varanasi to seek calmness.

It is clean and well maintained for a rejuvenating time by the azure waters. It is one of the relaxing tourist places in Varanasi to experience the calming sunset.You also get an amazing opportunity to view the fortress of Nawab’s representative – Chet Singh. Other side of the ghat is a wonderful property of Nepali royal – King Sanjay Vikram Singh.

Timings: Open 24 Hours

Location: Shivala Ghat, Varanasi – 221001 

4. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath is one of the famous tourist places in Varanasi. Travellers as well as locals highly believe in the magical vibes of the temple. The temple is home to the Jyotirlinga, also known as Vishwanath. The architecture of  Shri Kashi Vishwanath temple is marvellous. 

Kashi Vishwanath is one of the famous tourist places in Varanasi.

Additionally, devotees get an opportunity to engage in aarti as well as sangam darshan. Prasad is distributed among pilgrims as a form of Lord Shiva’s blessings. The spacious temple offers a rejuvenating time combined with spiritual atmosphere in the surroundings. You can visit the temple in different time slots for aarti and rudrabhishek.

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Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

5. Dhamek Stupa

One of the most significant tourist places in Varanasi is the Dhamek Stupa.

One of the most significant tourist places in Varanasi is the Dhamek Stupa. This is primarily because of its age and importance as the location of the Buddha’s first discourse to his five followers after achieving enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. The Stupa is of a cylindrical shape composed of red bricks and stone. National and international travel enthusiasts swarm to see the Buddhist culture at this important Buddhist centre. Fine flower decorations demonstrate the Gupta Dynasty’s high standard of stone craftsmanship.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Location: 92JF+9R6, Dharmapala Rd, Singhpur, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007

6. Man Singh Observatory 

Man Singh Observatory is one of the famous tourist places in Varanasi. Located on the bank of the river Ganga, the observatory is a perfect destination to gain knowledge about astronomy. You can spot multiple geometrical devices, solar calendar and information about stars and planets. Additionally, the observatory is a classic fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural patterns.

Man Singh Observatory is one of the famous tourist places in Varanasi.

The observatory is home to the popular Samrat Yantra, Chakra Yantra, Digamsa Yantra, Narivalaya Dakshinay Yantra and Dakshinobhitti Yantra. Interestingly, this place is located on the rooftop thereby offering a spectacular view of the river. You also receive a significant opportunity to watch interactive art, 3D shows and the mesmerising light show. Nothing better than the Man Singh Observatory to find an amalgamation of Varanasi’s rich culture and art.

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Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 25

Location: Observatory, Man मंदिर ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Observatory, Man mandir, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

7. Nehru Park

If you are trying to find recreational time, Nehru Park is one of the best Varanasi tourist places. Check hotels in Varanasi near the park as it is a beautiful landscape ideal for a series stroll. Interestingly the park has a different playground for kids, barbecue area and nicely covered shelters. It is simply the right destination to understand the local life in Varanasi, interact with people and find the hidden stories through them. 

Nehru Park is one of the best Varanasi tourist places.

The park is a decent location to relax on stone benches and observe the absolute beauty of flora. It also has a huge fountain being the prime attraction in the park. It is well-maintained and allows you to sight different species of trees and flowers.

Timings: Morning 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM | Afternoon 3:00 PM to Evening 9:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 10 for Adults | INR 5 for Children 

Location: 8XMG+VRH, Kennedy Rd, Varanasi cantonment, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002

8. Sarnath Buddhist Temple

Sarnath temple is one of the important tourist places in Varanasi to understand Buddhism in a deeper sense. It is also believed to be the place where Gautam Buddha delivered his very first sermon. Because of kings and prosperous Varanasi-based merchants, Buddhism has been growing in Sarnath. You can also get a glimpse of archeological remains and the creation of the Ashoka Pillar.

Sarnath temple is one of the important tourist places in Varanasi to understand Buddhism.

Moreover, there are various statues depicting the practices and values of Buddhism. Tourists from all over the globe flock here to soak in the spiritual vibes of the place. The place also speaks highly about the indoor museum. Multiple shrines can be spotted at the temple. 

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Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Location: 92JG+7MC, Saranth Station Rd, Pandeypur, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007

Entry Fee: INR 5

9. Dasaswamedh Ghat

One of Varanasi’s oldest and most significant ghats is Dashashwamedh. This ghat is well-known for Agni Puja where hundreds of locals and tourists all over the world gather in groups. Such rituals are conducted by priests. Sandhya Aarti is also one of the prime attractions as you hear ancient texts along with a ceremonial atmosphere everywhere. It is indeed one of the divine tourist places in Varanasi. 

Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of the must visit tourist places in Varanasi.

The second century Bhara Shiva Naga kings are believed to have performed the 10 horse sacrifice. Due to the varied religious significance of the ghat, there are a great deal of Hindu devotees paying homage here. What’s more? Tourists also meditate here early morning. It is a fantastic destination to seek calmness and engage yourself in a peaceful environment.

Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of Varanasi, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

10. Manikarnika Ghat

Let’s get to the ghat where life and death unfold their stories. Manikarnika Ghat is one of the significant tourist places in Varanasi. Surprisingly, it is a cremation ground surrounded by multiple mythological stories. It is believed that any person who is cremated at the ghat immediately attains salvation. 

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the significant tourist places in Varanasi.

According to the legend, Goddess Sati immolated herself by jumping into fire. When Lord Shiva carried her to the Himalayas, her earring fell at this place. That’s how the ghat gets the name – Manikarnika. Along with a cremation ground, it is also one of the shakti peeths of India.

Location: Near Lalita Ghat, Ghats of Varanasi, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

11. Shri Durga Temple

When in Varanasi, you cannot miss the Bengali Maharani Durga temple in the north Indian style. Shri Durga temple is adorned with a multi-tiered shikhara. It is one of Varanasi’s most important temples and contains an enormous idol of the goddess Durga. Interestingly, the idol of goddess in self manifested making it a prime destination for devotees. 

Shri Durga Temple is one of the divine tourist places in Varanasi.

As the colour red symbolises the colour of Mata Durga, the entire exteriors of the temple is constructed in red. During Navratri and other auspicious occasions, the temple witnesses a crazy footfall of worshippers. It is one of the best Varanasi tourist places to offer prayers to the Goddess Durga for inner healing.

Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Location: 27, Durgakund Rd, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005

12. Ramnagar Fort

The land of culture invites you to awaken the history buff in you. Ramnagar Fort is one the classic tourist places in Varanasi. The magnificent fort is a wonderful depiction of Mughal architecture. Built with red sandstone, the fort attracts hundreds of travellers as well as locals. Adding to your delight, the fort is home to a temple and a museum.

Ramnagar Fort is one the classic tourist places in Varanasi.

The museum, also known as bhawan, has a plethora of vintage cars, ornaments, silver work, old guns, weapons and medieval costumes. It also has a rare astronomical clock that displays the positioning of planets and the sun. As you walk through the carved balconies and huge courtyards, you can truly sense the living style and quality of the ancients. The fort is often illuminated with lights and decorations during festivals.

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Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Entry Fee: INR 20 (For indoor museum)

Location: Varanasi Rd, Ram Nagar, Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh 221008

13. Darbhanga Ghat

Varanasi is home to several ghats as it shares the border with the religious river of Ganga. It happens to be one of the important Varanasi tourist places. Darbhanga Ghat, named after the Darbhanga royal family, is located between Dasashwamedh Ghat and Rana Mahal Ghat. This ghat is also dedicated to cremation rituals and last rites. 

Darbhanga Ghat is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi

Several travellers visit the ghat to sight rituals carried out by priests on the banks. Near to the Ganga River’s margin is Darbhanga Ghat’s steep, constrictive shape. At this ghat, there is also a huge temple with a big Shiva Linga. Travellers also visit the ghat to deliver ashes of the deceased into the river so that the person achieves salvation.

Timings: Open 24 Hours 

Location: 8245+3VW, Near Ahilyabai Ghat, Uttar Pradesh 221010

14. Sankat Mochan Temple

If you are in Varanasi, do not forget to present your wishes to the lord. Sankat Mochan is a phrase used to describe a problem solver. The Hindu deity, Hanuman is honoured at this temple known as Sankat Mochan Hanuman. Hence, it is believed that devotees are freed from their problems as they worship at the temple. It is also a belief that Tulsidas authored the Ramcharitmanas in this well-known tourist destination in Varanasi.  

Sankat Mochan Temple is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi

Sankat Mochan Temple is one of the famous tourist places in Varanasi as it is also home to a large group of monkeys. You can spot many monkeys in the temple area. A subtle architecture invites locals as well as tourists to pay homage. Besan Laddu is generally offered to Lord Hanuman at the temple. 

Timings: Morning 5:00 AM to 11:30 AM | Afternoon 3:00 PM to Evening 10:00 PM

Location: Sankat Mochan Rd, Padampuri Colony, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010

Even the tourist places in Varanasi are all set to give you a homely feeling in the land of culture and beauty. Walk through the lanes that are full of stories about the mysterious land of India. 

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Solo Travelers Edition - Top 05 Best Places to Visit in India

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The Wandering Quinn Travel Blog

Varanasi Itinerary For 1-2 Days & Varanasi Things To Do!

Categories Asia , India , Itinerary

In this Varanasi itinerary, I show you that 2 days in Varanasi (Banaras as it’s also known) is the perfect amount of time to spend in this old and interesting city I think.

Varanasi is incredibly interesting but there aren’t actually that many things to do in Varanasi, it’s a city that you visit to walk around and observe what’s going on rather than jumping from Varanasi tourist attraction to attraction which you can do with 1- 2 days in Varanasi easily!

Varanasi is said to be the oldest constantly inhabited city in the world . Mark Twain said in 1896 ‘ Older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together. ‘

And I read that the Lonely Planet once said ‘Brace yourself. You’re about to enter one of the most blindingly colourful, unrelentingly chaotic and unapologetically indiscreet places on Earth .’

Yep, this is pretty much Varanasi in 2 famous quotes!

Varanasi Itinerary

things to do Varanasi

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Accommodation in Varanasi

I was recommended Moustache Hostel because of its location in Varanasi, I stayed there and was really pleased with it!

Moustache Hostel is by Assi Ghat which is one of the Ghats furthest away from the ‘centre’ of Varanasi which is further North up the River, so although it is a bit of a walk into the ‘centre’, it’s a lovely walk along all of the ghats.

The roads are wide rather than back alleyways in the centre, there are so many cafes and restaurants, some of which are pretty cool and funky selling good coffee and foods with wifi and the air felt a lot fresher!

Alternatively, you can stay closer to the centre but watch out for hotels in Varanasi being in the middle of a weave of small alleyways full of beeping mopeds, dusty buildings, cows and cow pat! I wouldn’t like waking up to this!

Some high-rated hotels in Varanasi are:

BrijRama Palace- A Heritage Hotel  – Luxury

Wander Station Varanasi – Midrange

Azure Family Paying Guest House – Budget

Search for accommodation in Varanasi on Booking.com here . I used Booking.com all the time as I love their flexible booking options!

In regards to how many days in Varanasi to stay for, I’d say 2 nights and 2 days are enough.

things to do Varanasi, Varanasi ghats

Things To Do in Varanasi

1 day in varanasi, sunrise boat trip on river ganges.

Starting your day with a sunrise boat trip along the River Ganges is by far the best way to start your trip to Varanasi and this Varanasi itinerary.

Head down to the river before sunrise and take up one of the men on their offer for a boat trip.

You should be able to barter them down from their initial price and be sure to check out their boat before getting on to ensure it looks ok. Don’t expect these guys to be a ‘guide’.

However, if you do want a guided tour so you can understand what is happening on the shore, have a look into this highly rated  Varanasi Morning Boat Ride and Aarti Experience via Viator .

I had the most amazing sunrise sky at the start of the boat trip- pinks and purples which turned blue as the sun started to rise out of the haze (and smog).

On the shores, you’ll see locals bathing in the river and doing their laundry. You’ll see early morning Indian tourists going for a ritual dip- believed by Hindus that the River Ganges aka Mother Ganga will release them from their past sins.

things to do Varanasi, morning boat ride in Varanasi

I use  Skyscanner   to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price!

Open Skyscanner by clicking here  and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Morning Aarti ceremonies

You may see parts of the Morning Aarti ceremonies depending on where on the river you start, and you should definitely make sure you go up to Manikarnika Ghat aka the Burning Ghat .

In the morning, just after sunrise, there will not be any bodies burning yet, instead the men will be getting the area ready for the day and sorting the logs.

It’s incredible to see the boats full of logs in front of the ghat which will be used to cover dead bodies later that day.

Seen as you cannot take photos or videos at the burning ghat during the day (which is understandable), going past by boat in the morning is the best chance to take any photos of the area.

Varanasi itinerary, Varanasi Burning Ghats

I was actually really surprised by the number of cool cafes there are in Varanasi, they are definitely set up for backpackers and travellers here, which I guess makes sense as Varanasi has been on the traveller radar since the hippies arrived in the 1960s and haven’t gone off it since.

If you are staying near Assi Ghat I’d recommend Ashish Cafe, Open Hand Cafe, The Mark’s Cafe for coffee and breakfast .

If you are not staying in this area Brown Bread Bakery is a good place to get some breakfast and relax.

Explore the Ghats and City

I had a little nap until lunchtime which may be needed on your Varanasi itinerary because of the early start and then headed back out along the ghats for a relaxed walk .

They will be much busier now and the laundry you saw being done that morning will now be hung up, laid out and drying in the sun. 

If you’d prefer to see Varanasi with a local and learn about the history of Varanasi I recommend these well-priced and highly-rated Varanasi tours :

  • Self Tailored Banaras Wala Tour
  • Varanasi Street Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Food Tasting Tour)
  • Private A Journey of A lifetime Tour
  • Cultural & Spiritual Trails of Old Town Varanasi Guided Walking Tour
  • Varanasi Temple Tour
  • Private Sunrise Yoga Class with Licensed Instructor

Varanasi itinerary, Varanasi Ghats

Later in the day head into the centre of Varanasi , aka the back streets of Varanasi . Here you will see what Mark Twain meant when he said just how old Varanasi is and looks!

When I visited, the lanes were no busier than usual Indian Cities and although I didn’t particularly like them, they were fine.

I can understand though that if Varanasi is one of the first places you visit in India, perhaps after Delhi and Agra, that these streets could be quite intense.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is right in the middle of the small streets however as a tourist to Varanasi do not expect to be able to go inside as the queues are huge.

Indian tourists must wait hours to enter in the cramped, small streets to go inside. So if you come upon people queuing in the street, this is where they are heading!

The streets are also lined with shops but Varanasi is definitely not the best place to shop in India ! If you plan to go shopping, wait until you go elsewhere or make sure you shop before you get there.

I didn’t see any particularly nice shops with good clothes and accessories and with the streets being so dusty and dark it doesn’t make it a pleasant place to browse!

Varanasi itinerary, varanasi back streets

Burning Ghats

Whilst exploring the back streets be sure to head to 2 places on this Varanasi itinerary – one, back to the Burning Ghats and two, to Blue Lassi Shop !

I understand that the Burning Ghats may not be for everyone but they are a must-see place to visit in Varanasi! This is what Varanasi is based around, it’s the city where life meets death and death is celebrated.

It is a big and important thing for Hindus to be burnt in Varanasi. It is believed that after their bodies are soaked in the River Ganges and they are cremated there that they will go to heaven instead of being reincarnated.

It’s a strange feeling down at the burning ghat, firstly you can approach it by the river and walk right onto the ghat, or down from the back streets. Walking along the ghat will take you right into the centre.

There are about 10 fires going with big piles of wood, bodies are brought down on bamboo stretchers, and dunked in the river before being laid out on top of the wood. More wood is put on top as well as a smothering of Ghee to help the wood burn.

The wood is set on fire and so is the body and it’s possible to wait and see a whole body disappear. 

When at the burning ghats remember that you cannot take any photos . Keep your phone in your bag or pocket and if you carry a camera around your neck as I do, it’s just easier to put it in your bag even if it is off as it will save the many comments from Indian men trying to tell you what to do.

The very bottom area by the river is for the family but you can stand by the railing or on the steps.

It’s a very strange atmosphere as it seems that a lot of locals go there to socialise and you will definitely be the minority being a tourist but you are definitely allowed down there so don’t let that put you off.

The Blue Lassi Shop

After this, you may need more of a light-hearted activity so I recommend going to The Blue Lassi , now be sure to go to the real one which is close to the burning ghat and is a blue cafe as there is a fake one apparently.

Here you can pretty much get any flavour of Lassi you want and there is a huge menu to choose from. 

Varanasi itinerary, Varanasi Blue Lassi

Evening Aarti Ceremony

Come evening time on this Varanasi itinerary for things to do in Varanasi, head to Dasawamedh Ghat for the Evening Aarti , this happens just after sunset when it’s dark but to get a good seat I’d recommend getting there early.

You can’t miss it as there are huge lit-up umbrellas above where the priests will do their ceremony.

Again, this is another one of the things to do in Varanasi that is helpful to see with a guide as they can really explain to you what is happening and if you are new to India you might find this experience and the number of people overwhelming on your own.

Watching the Evening Aarti from a boat on the River Ganges on this tour with a private guide is a great idea, and so is watching the Evening Aarti from the banks of the Ganges with a private guide like this .

Varanasi itinerary, Varanasi Evening Aarti

These are the main things to do in Varanasi, so if you have just 1 day in Varanasi then you will manage to see pretty much everything by doing the above Varanasi itinerary!

2 Days in Varanasi

It’s likely your second day in Varanasi will not vary too much from the above. If you can get up early again then head back out to the ghats for sunrise.

Morning Aarti

At Assi Ghat they hold the Morning Aarti which is pretty much the same as the Evening Aarti but good to see. 

Varanasi itinerary, Varanasi Morning Aarti

During the day there isn’t much else to do in Varanasi I found except for exploring the ghats, streets and cafes once again.

Day Trip to Sarnath

However, if you are keen to get out of Varanasi, one of the best places to visit near Varanasi is Sarnath . This is popular because it’s where Buddha first taught a sermon and first taught the Dharma .

It’s possible to go on an  organised tour like this to Sarnath or get a taxi.

I met a girl who got an Ola there which was around 600Rs each way. Sarnath is only 10km away from Varanasi but the traffic will more than likely be heavy so it could take an hour each way.

Sarnath has a beautiful garden you can walk around and relax in with some ruins you can visit and also a museum about the history of Buddhism. 

things to do Varanasi, Sarnath day trip from Varanasi

Evening time is a good time to get back out on the river . The sun sets behind the city so you will not see the sun actually setting but instead the sky turning castle colours above the city and the rituals starting along the ghats.

Varanasi itinerary, Varanasi River Ganges Ghats

Alternatively, a popular thing to do in Varanasi is to watch some wrestling which is popular in this area so look out for that.

If wrestling is something you are particularly interested in you can also do a day tour to discover the local art of Kushti Wrestling.

How to get the best flights??

I use  Skyscanner  to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner.

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month!

How to Get To and From Varanasi

Train and Air are the most popular ways to get to Varanasi and leave Varanasi.

Varanasi has 2 train stations – Varanasi Junction and Varanasi Cantt .

I got an overnight train from Agra to Varanasi leaving Agra Fort at 8:30 pm (well actually 9:30 as it was delayed), and getting it at 14:30 (should have been 10:30 am).

It makes sense to visit Agra and Varanasi together and this train link works well during the day and overnight.

Rishikesh and Varanasi are also 2 destinations that are popular to see after one another. It’s possible to go from Rishikesh to Varanasi by getting to Haridwar station outside of Rishikesh and then getting an overnight train to Varanasi.

Delhi to Varanasi is also popular and there is an overnight train from Varanasi to Delhi and back.

Search for trains and buses to and from Varanasi here which can be booked easily online!

Varanasi has a Domestic Airport. I flew to Goa from there.

It’s an hour from the City and a taxi cost me 800Rs. It’s actually a really good airport with free wifi, a few little shops and plenty of places to get a drink and some food.

Internal flights in India can be really cheap and must faster than travelling by train/bus. 

I hope this Varanasi Travel Guide helps you plan your trip there and gives you an idea of things to do in Varanasi in 2 days or if you spend 3 days in Varanasi .

People say you either love Varanasi or hate it, I loved it. I hope you do too!

  • For more of my posts on India and Travelling see:
  • All My India Posts
  • Is It Worth Visiting The Taj Mahal? And My Top Tips for Visiting!
  • 7 Ways to See The Taj Mahal Without Going Inside the Taj Mahal!
  • A Travel Guide to Rishikesh – Yoga, Cafes, Accommodation, Things To Do!
  • 10 Delhi Travel Tips For Tourists to See & Enjoy Delhi!

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Let's Go Sightseeing

Tuesday 11th of December 2018

Glad to know you liked Varanasi. Even for us Indians, it can get overwhelming, but underneath that chaos is something incredible - a chance to see life at its rawest...

Actually, Benaras is the best place to shop for banarasi fabric/ sari, but it can be done only with a trustworthy local.

TheWanderingQuinn

Wednesday 12th of December 2018

Good to know it seems just as crazy for Indians, I can see that, it’s like no other place isn’t it! Ok good to know about the shopping, thank you!

Global Gallivanting

My varanasi travel guide: best places to visit, stay & eat.

Varanasi Travel Guide The Best Places to Visit, Eat and Stay.

India has attracted spiritual seekers since time immemorial and Varanasi is one of the most fascinating and spiritual places in India .

As well as being one of the holiest places in all of India, the ancient city of Varanasi situated on the banks of the holy Ganges river, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the whole world.

I’ve been lucky enough to live in India and have visited Varanasi several times, it’s undoubtedly one of the most interesting and most spiritual places to visit in all of India. I know how profound and overwhelming visiting Varanasi can be.

So I created this Varanasi travel guide with all the tips and information you need for planning a trip to Varanasi. From the best things to do and tours to take, to where to stay near the ghats and where to eat. I hope it makes planning your trip easier and that you have an incredible time in Varanasi.

visit places of varanasi

Varanasi Travel Guide

Why you need to visit varanasi.

There are so many spiritual places in India but Varanasi, also known as Kashi (city of life) and Benaras, is the most important.

Varanasi is a holy city for Hindus and pilgrims who come to dip in the holy Ganges river as they believe that it will wash away a lifetime of sins.

If you want to understand more about India’s rich culture, spirituality and religion then Varanasi is an essential stop on any Indian adventure.

visit places of varanasi

Visiting Varanasi is quite an experience as Hindus believe that dying here releases you from ‘ Mokhsa ‘ the cycle of death and rebirth.

Being cremated along the holy river Ganges is very auspicious for Hindus, and a unique and unforgettable sight for tourists. Read this article to learn more about why Varanasi is so holy. 

Varanasi can be an assault on the senses but it’s an unmissable Indian experience and one of the most fascinating places I’ve seen. Allow at least 3 or 4 days in Varanasi to soak it all up.

Keep on reading my Varanasi travel guide for the best things to do, places to stay and eat and more tips for visiting Varanasi.

visit places of varanasi

Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Varanasi

Stroll along the ghats.

There are many things to do in Varanasi but the best way to understand this city is simply to walk along the ghats and also take time to explore the atmospheric, chaotic, winding lanes of the old city to soak up this unique city.

You’ll see wandering cows, tiny shops, colourful bazaars, local life, smoking sadhus (holy men) and maybe even a funeral procession in the narrow streets.

Most of the spiritual activities in Varanasi revolve around the Ghats , which are the riverfront steps along the River Ganges. Pilgrims from all over India come to the Ghats as they believe that taking a dip in the holy river will cleanse their sins away.

Sunrise is the most magical time to visit, but holy rituals are performed throughout the day on the ghats, in the river and in the many temples and small shrines along the ghats.

Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main ghat and is a busy and colourful place full of activity. Assi Ghat and Kedar Ghat are also interesting, you can walk from Dashashwamedh to Assi Ghat to see the best of the ghats.

There are also several important Hindu temples, the most famous is the Vishvanath Temple , dedicated to Lord Shiva. Non Hindus and foreigners are not always allowed in, but this can change, you’ll have to see what the situation is when you are there.

visit places of varanasi

Take a sunrise boat ride along the holy Ganges river

Taking a boat ride along the holy river Ganges at sunrise when the whole place is bathed in a magical dewy glow and you can see all the rituals of life , and death, played out along the river bank, is one of the things to do in Varanasi that you simply can’t miss. In fact, it’s one of the most fascinating experiences you can have in all of India.

It’s easy to find a boat ride, just walk along the ghats and you’ll be offered boat rides many times, just be sure to haggle and agree of the price before setting off. Or you can avoid the negotiating and book this sunrise boat tour that includes a knowledgeable guide and pick up from your hotel.

While on the boat you can observe all the life, colour and activity along the ghats as people perform morning rituals as the sun comes up over the city. You’ll witness pujas (prayers) taking place at the many shrines and temples along the river, cremations.

As well as witnessing pilgrims taking a dip in the holy river and local people washing and doing laundry, you’ll see saffron clad holy sadhus talking, smoking, meditating or doing yoga as well as buffaloes being washed and children playing cricket and flying kites. It’s really the best way to see Varanasi!

Read more about my experience at  sunrise on the holy Ganges 

sunrise on the ghats in varanasi india

Witness a cremation at Manikarnika Ghat

No Varanasi travel guide would be complete without mentioning the cremation ghats. One of the most intriguing aspects of Varanasi is witnessing the funeral rituals performed on the Ghats. Hindus believe that by dying in Varanasi one can achieve moksha  – liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth.

The Hindu traditions see cremations and funeral pyres burning almost 24/7 at Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat. Witnessing a burning body can be a strange, emotional and difficult sight, but the more you understand about the Hindu culture the easier it is and I found it a less traumatic experience than I thought it would be.

Remember to be respectful while observing the funerals and do not take photos. Watch a video, see photos and learn more about Varanasi’s burning ghats is this National Geographic article.

visit places of varanasi

Watch the Ganga Aarti

Every evening just after sunset a huge crowd of hundreds of pilgrims (and some tourists) gathers at Dashashwamedh Ghat to watch the Ganga Aarti – a pooja (prayer) where Hindu priests lead a ceremony of fire, chanting and music praising the river Ganges and Lord Shiva.

If you want to avoid the crowds and see the spectacle from a different perspective I’d recommend watching on a boat! On this evening Aarti boat tour you’ll get a front row, unobstructed view of the Aarti from the water, a knowledgeable guide to explain what’s go on and a boat tour along the river at night.

Even if you do the sunrise boat ride it’s still well worth doing a boat trip in the evening too – it’s a totally different experience, plus it’s a more relaxing way to watch the aarti without being in the crush of the crowds.

There is also a smaller aarti held at sunrise at Assi Ghat – perfect timing to watch the morning ceremony before boarding a boat for the sunrise Ganges boat tour.

Visit Ramnagar Fort and Museum

On the other side of the river you can visit the crumbling but still impressive 17th century Ramnagar fort and palace. It was the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras (old name for Varanasi) and is now a eccentric museum.

In the museum you can learn about the history of the area and take a look at the slightly oddly out-of-place collection of vintage American Cars, medieval costumes and vintage weapons.

The fort is also a great place to watch the sun set over the city and the banks of the Ganges.

visit places of varanasi

Visit Sarnath

An easy day trip from Varanasi is Sarnath, famous as the place where the Buddha gave his first sermon after finding enlightenment in Bodhgaya.

Sarnath is one of the 4 important sites on the Buddhist circuit (along with Lumbini in Nepal, Bodhgaya and Kushinagar) There’s several ruins, stupas, temples and monasteries to explore and it makes a pleasant escape from the chaos of Varanasi.

Check out the ruins of Dhamekh stupa and monastery on the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon. The large Chaukhandi Stupa from the 5th century where Buddha met his first disciples is now topped by a large Mughal tower.

There’s also the more modern Mulgandha Kuti Vihar where the Buddha’s first sermon is chanted daily at sunset and an air conditioned Archaeological Museum with some interesting historic artefacts.

Visit Benaras University

Varanasi is well known for having excellent educational establishments. Benaras University was established back in 1916 and the spacious campus is a leafy and pleasant place to explore.

You can also visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan, a museum which has a good collection of paintings, ancient manuscripts and interesting exhibitions about local history.

At Benaras University you can also visit the New Vishwanath Temple which is open to all religions.

visit places of varanasi

Tours of Varanasi

Varanasi is best explored by simply walking around, but to avoid hassle and really get to know more about the rich, unique and fascinating history of one of the world’s oldest cities, it’s better to hire a Varanasi travel guide. Taking a tour will also help you to see more in a short amount of time.

I recommend booking your tour on trusted international platforms like Get Your Guide or Viator as you can read reviews from pervious guests to know that you will get a good experience with a safe and trustworthy guide.

Full Day Private Guided Varanasi Tour 

This is the most comprehensive Varanasi tour that covers all the must sees in one day with a private driver and expert local guide. Perfect for anyone who wants to see and understand everything about Varanasi in one incredible day.

Starting with a sunrise boat ride on the ganges where you’ll see all the most important ghats including Dasaswamedh Ghat. You’ll get off the boat at Manikanika Ghat where the cremations take place where your guide will explain all about the Hindu rituals of life and death.

Next, take a guided walking tour through the winding alleyways, markets and ancient temples of the old town including a visit to the famous Blue Lassi shop where you can try this delicious, traditional drink.

Later on, head to Sarnath to see where the Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment and visit the important Tulsi Manas Temple.

Finish off the day watching the evening Aarti ceremony from a private balcony – all with a knowledgeable guide to explain the fascinating history and rituals being played out before you. Find out more details and book your tour here.

Banaras Wala Tours

Personalised private guided tours of Varanasi with experienced local guide Vinay. Get in touch to create your own perfect day in Varanasi or trust Vinay to show you all the highlights and hidden gems of his city.

On this Varanasi tour you’ll watch the morning ceremony at Assi Ghat and take a guided walking tour through the labyrinth of alleys in the old town, visiting Lolark Temple, Rani Lakshmi Bai Park, and Tusli Ghat Akhara to watch traditional wrestling.

Vinay will take you for a local breakfast and chai along the way before boarding a boat to Dasaswamedh Ghat where you can watch the daily lives of the locals along the ghats. You’ll also see Manikarnika Ghat, the golden temple, Pashupatinath temple, and Vishalakshi Temple.

The tour is super affordable and can be tailored to ensure you see everything in Varanasi that you are personally interested in, or trust the expert guide to show you the best of the holy city.

Check out more Varanasi tours (with reviews) on Viator.

visit places of varanasi

Where to Stay in Varanasi

No Varanasi Travel Guide would be complete without tips for where to stay and eat. To really immerse yourself in this unique city I recommend looking for hotels in Varanasi near the ghats.

Most budget accommodation in Varanasi is located close to the ghats. Popular areas to stay in Varanasi are centered around Dhasaswamedh Ghat (the main and very busy ghat.) Guesthouses and restaurants are also found along the Ganges river and down the surrounding narrow lanes.

The area around Assi Ghat (about 30 mins walk South from Dhasaswamedh) is a little quieter and also has good accommodation and eating options close to the river.

The winding streets around the ghats can be quite disorientating and are often too small for vehicles but if you book a reputable hotel in advance they may be able to send someone to help you find the way.

The Best Hotels in Varanasi:

Brijrama palace heritage hotel.

This imposing fort like building overlooking the Ganges was built in the 18th century and was recently renovated to become an amazing luxurious, heritage hotel.

It’s believed to be one of the oldest buildings in the city and is the best luxury hotel in Varanasi by far. The hotel is situated just a few minutes walk from Dasashwamedh Ghat but you can soak up the views without having to leave the hotel at all.

Sumptuous rooms are complete with four poster beds and loads of gorgeous character details. There’s amazing views from the rooftop and two restaurants including Darbangha, one of the best restaurants in Varaansi. Check out the reviews and book your room

Amritara Suryauday Haveli

Houses in a tastefully refurbished 20th century fort-style mansion, Suryauday Haveli is a gorgeous 4 star heritage hotel located on Shivala ghat, just a 15-minute walk from the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dasashwamedh Ghat where the evening Gangga Aarti is held.

Choose from standard or Ganges view rooms which offer wood flooring and all mod cons. There is an Indian vegetarian restaurant and music in the evenings while the rooftop terrace is a heavenly spot to watch the sunrise over the river and take in the panoramic views. See more details and book here .

Via Varanasi Boutique Hotel

Convientaly located close to the sunrise aarti on quieter Assi Ghat, this beautiful, modern, boutique 4 star hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay in Varanasi.

The spacious mini suites are well furnished complete with a separate seating area and the large windows offer views over the city and let in plenty of light The continental and English breakfast, helpful staff and free parking also make this a top place to stay  in Varanasi. Check prices, availability and book here.

Ganpati Guesthouse

A long running popular mid range guesthouse option with large colourful and comfortable rooms in a great location right on the river near Meer Ghat. All rooms have AC, even the budget rooms.

It’s well worth going for the deluxe Ganges view rooms which boast balconies overlooking the river if one is available for your dates. It’s a deservedly popular spot so book in advance to get the best rooms. There’s also an excellent rooftop restaurant. Check availability, reviews and book here.

Aashray Homestay

A peaceful boutique homestay in a quieter residential area only 5 mins away from the busy ghats area. Rooms are immaculately presented with all modern amenities.

The highlight is the hospitality, conversation and excellent home cooking from the wonderful hosts, Mr & Mrs Kapur will welcome you into their home and teach you about local culture while providing excellent home cooked food. More details and bookings here.

Anand Kanan

This popular affordable hotel located in the old city just steps away from Dasaswamedh Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath temple has recently been renovated to offer a clean and comfortable stay in twin and family Ac rooms with attached private bathrooms.

One thing that makes this hotel special is the staff who are super nice, welcoming and helpful, and the manager who is very knowledgeable about Hindu philosophy and happy to share this with guests. Overall, It’s a great choice for an affordable, comfortable and conveniently located stay. Click here to book.

Go Stops Hostel

A colourful and lively modern backpacker hostel with dorms, private rooms and tents. There’s colourful, sociable, communal areas which are great for relaxing and meeting other travellers. The hostel also organises tours and is ideal if you’re looking for a safe, sociable budget Varanasi accommodation option located just 1km from the Assi Ghat. More info and booking here.

visit places of varanasi

Where to Eat and Drink in Varanasi

Varanasi is not a destination for fine dining or hard partying but there are some decent places to get cheap local food, Varanasi is well known for its street food and chaat vendors, and simple restaurants around the ghats.

Due to the religious significance of the city most restaurants, especially those close to the Ganges serve only vegetarian food and no alcohol. Restaurants further away from the ghats may sell non veg food and if you want a drink head to one of the posher hotels away from the ghats.

Kashi Chat Center – Popular street food and tasty chaat near to the intersection on Dashashwamedh Road.  Madhur Milan Cafe , also on Dashashwamedh Road is another good place for South Indian food, good value thalis, snacks and samosas popular with locals and tourists.

Keshari Restaurant – Great spot for top quality veg cuisine and curries from all over India

Aum café – Cute place located close to Assi Ghat. A healthy Ayurvedic family run vegetarian cafe with a great selection of herbal teas, coffees and juices and cute little gift shop. Massages and body piercing are also available.

Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe  – Great place for a break from Indian food. The cafe has a great view of the river from the shady terrace and serves thin and crispy pizzas and an amazing apple pie.

Puja Guesthouse – One of the best rooftop restaurants with 180 degree views over the river, good food, a relaxed atmosphere and live music at night.

Shiva Cafe –  A popular place with travellers missing Western food. The extensive menu serves decent value Indian, Nepalese, Thai and Western food.

Brown Bread Bakery – The large menu includes over 30 types of bread, cookies and cakes as well as good sandwiches, pastas and pizza. , pizzas. There’s a great European breakfast buffet from 7am to noon and live classical music performances every night at 7.30pm.

Part of the profits go to support a local school and women’s empowerment project and uses organic produce wherever possible. You can upstairs on the rooftop or in the AC downstairs.  They also have another restaurant called Vegan and Raw.

Darbangha – for a luxurious dining experience head to this fabulous Indian restaurants in the BrijRama Palace Heritage Hotel. The menu includes gourmet street food, delicious curries and a good selection of continental and Thai options.

For non guests there’s a minimum charge of ₹1000 per person but this is one of the very best dining experiences in Varanasi and a good excuse to check out this stunning heritage hotel.

visit places of varanasi

How to Get to Varanasi

Varanasi is well connected with the rest of North India. There is a modern airport in Varanasi with frequent flights to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Khajuraho.  Check Skyscanner to find the cheapest deals and don’t forget you need a visa to visit India.

Overnight trains run from Delhi to Varanasi Junction and take 12 + hours. You can also take the train to Mughal Sarai Junction 10 kilometers from Varanasi.

Trains get fully booked up way in advance, sleeper buses are also available but I alwasy recommend taking the train if possible. The easiest way to book online from abroad is with 12 Go Asia .

To get to the Main Ghat, where most of the guest houses and hotels are located, you can take an auto rickshaw for about 150 Rupees or try a cycle rickshaw for about 50 Rupees.

Apart from walking, cycle rickshaws are the best way to get around the crowded areas of the old city but make sure to haggle hard and agree on a price before taking off.

visit places of varanasi

Top tips and things you should know before visiting Varanasi

Varanasi is a fascinating place but, in particular the areas around the main ghats, can be a little overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time in India. I usually recommend to visit places like Varanasi towards the end of a trip around India if possible or take a tour.

It’s a good idea to read India travel blogs and Varanasi travel guides to help you prepare and know what to expect. The ghats are also fraught with persistent hassle, touts and scams. Be wary of touts hassling you to pay for wood towards the cremations or for a better view, to see their shops, cheap rickshaw rides that turn into pressured shopping sprees, beggars and fake holy men.

Touts will also follow you telling you information about the ghats like a guide, even if you didn’t ask, and then be very rude expecting payment so you really need to be direct and firmly state you are not interested.

The Ganges river and small winding streets are easy to get lost in and can also be quite dirty with cow poo, trash, spits of  pann ( chewing tobacco )  and open sewers. I really wouldn’t recommend you take a dip in the water here – if you want to dip in the Ganges places like Rishikesh and Haridwar are cleaner and better places to do it.

However, the last time I visited Varanasi the river, ghats and streets were noticeable cleaner than a few years before so things are improving. I’m just warning you what to expect but don’t let the scams and dirt put you off from visiting this fascinating and unique place.

Also see Hippie in Heel’s tips for visiting Varanasi  and what to expect at the cremation ghats.  and read about Varanasi’s crazy cannibal Aghori Babas. 

More India travel blogs and guides:

  • See the erotic sculptures on the temples at Khajuraho
  • Find peace under the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya where the Buddha gained enlightenment
  • Visit India’s capital Delhi .

Do you have any more questions or tips to add to this Varanasi travel guide? Leave them in the comments below

My Pick of the Best India Backpacking Tours and Trips

Trabug: the easiest way to get online anywhere when traveling around india.

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NO doubt India is really nice and beautiful country and i really liked this mini travel guide about Varanasi , I hope some day you will also write on Kashmir that’s also a beautiful place to visit.

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Hey Anna, I’ve never been to India and I’ve always wanted to go. The problem is trying to plan a trip and choosing one region to explore. There seem to be so many. Varanasi looks like a great place to experience Indian culture and the ceremonies seem like an interesting things to observe. Glad for the recommendations on tours as well. This was also one of my considerations going out to India is the hassles of moving around as a tourist as I’ve heard many types of stories both positive though many negative. Thanks again.

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This is the ultimate guide. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you 🙂

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Thanks for sharing informative blog…

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India is my best country! i have such a connection there, i loved reading your post it was so informative, i went to Varanasi but was only there for two days i will go back one day and save all your information. Great Pics too!

Thanks Lisa! 🙂 I’m glad you liked the post – there is alot to see and do in Varanasi – I’ve been a couple of times now. Hope you get to visit again soon

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Hey Anna. I am working on a project on Varanasi and would like to get in touch with you regarding the same. If you are okay with sharing your views kindly revert back .Hoping for a reply. Thanks in advance.

Hi, I’m not in Varanasi at the momment but you can email me anna at global-gallivanting dot com

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Hi, thanks for wonderful site, I’ve been reading it with great interest. Since I will be staying in Varanasi for 3 months (March-May), I am interested in good hairdresser – are there some? Thanks!

Great to hear you like my blog, thanks! Umm I never visited the hair dresser in Varanasi but I’m sure there must be many

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Thanx For Ultimate and useful Guide 😊

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Varanasi is such a beautiful place! Thank you for sharing such an informative blog with the travelers .

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which time is best to varanse we are interested to be on jan last week

It’s an OK time to visit but it might be a bit cold in Varanasi in January though.

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Thank you Anna for such a informative article on Varanasi. I’m leaving for Varanasi tommorow and will try to follow your info and tips so that we can explore most out of this holy city.

Great! Glad you liked it and have a great time in Varanasi

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Nice Blog! Varanasi is the most attractive place to visit. Very nicely written and information provided is quite helpful. Thanks for sharing Such great Information.

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I’ve visited Varanasi but only experienced evening Aarti. What was better in your opinion evening or sunrise?

Difficult question! The evening one is much bigger but there are huge crowds of people. The morning one was smaller and more simple but the energy and light at sunrise is simply magical. Try to experience both if you can 🙂

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Varanasi is the most calm and interesting place in India.

I would love to go back there again and again.

Thanks for you awesome travel guide and photos are really beautiful.

Thanks so much Sarah! 🙂

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Wonderful Blog! Varanasi is religious & spiritual city. Varanasi the most attractive place to visit. Very nicely written and information provided is quite helpful. Thanks for sharing Such great Information.

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Thank you a lot 😊

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Very informative and helpful blog. Varanasi is a religious and cultural place. And Ganga Aarti’s view looks beautiful. Thanks for sharing your travel experience and amazing and amazing pictures.

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Awesome Blog! I have already visited Varanasi. But you explain about varanasi very wonderfully. Thanks to author.

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A lot have changed in Varanasi in last 3-4 months Varanasi is different no matter how many times u visit. I live in Varanasi and on daily basis I visit places ghats and temples Still I find it different and new Anyways thaks for visiting Varanasi and covering as many people will get to know about Varanasi through you. All the best

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Chiku Cab Services

  • Taxi Service
  • Attach Taxi
  • Travel Guide
  • Tempo Traveller/Volvo Bus
  • Visit the 30 famous places in Varanasi to explore the culture, spiritual significance, and sightseeing in the city.

Introduction

  • The top 8 famous Ghats in Kashi-

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat

Harishchandra Ghat

Manmandir Ghat

Panchganga Ghat

Darbhanga Ghat

The top 7 famous temples to explore in Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Durga Temple

Tulsi Manas Temple

Bharat Mata Temple

  • New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple)

Annapurna Temple

Top local and outstation sightseeing places in Varanasi

Ramnagar fort

Chunar fort

Bharat kala bhavan

Banaras Hindu University

The Banaras silk emporium

Lotus Lounge

The best places to eat in Varanasi

Kashi chats with Bhandar.

Open-hand shop and café

Brown Bread Bakery

The best marketplaces in Varanasi for shopping

Vishwanath Gali

Thatheri Bazaar

Godowlia market

When is the best time to visit Varanasi?

Luxurious and budget-friendly places to stay in Varanasi

Luxurious places

Budget-friendly places

How to reach Varanasi by air, train, and road

Conclusion: The final thought on the Varanasi tour

Varanasi is an ancient city that is famous for its spiritual significance in India. There are a total of 84 Ghats in Varanasi, hundreds of temples, and the sacred Ganges. Each evening around 7 p.m. the famous Ganga Aarti is held, which creates a divine vibe. You can start your Varanasi visit by visiting the Kashi Vishwanath temple. People here take boats to go from one Ghat to the next. This place is very unique because, on the one hand, this city has fun and worship, and on the other hand, you will see corpses being cremated on the Harishchandra and Manikarnika Ghats. This will remind you of your real self and force you to think about life. Visiting the Ghats, and temples, and meeting with local people and saints, you will find yourself spiritually awakened and more aware.

The top 8 famous Ghats in Kashi

visit places of varanasi

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Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most attractive and captivating Ghat among all the other 84 Ghats in Varanasi. This Ghat is on the banks of the Ganges and a one of the loveliest sightseeing places in Varanasi . The Ganga Aarti of this Ghat is a treat to watch. On the Dashaswamedh Ghat, there are a total of 5 Ghats, and this is known as the PanchTirth. The distance from the railway station to the Ghat is almost 7km. You can take a taxi with a Chiku cab to come here. It is said that once Brahma did ten Ashwamedh yajna. This was built by the Maratha king, Peshwa Bajirao.

Address : 7km away from Cantt station, near Godowlia Timings : open 24/7 Famous for : Ganga Aarti, worshipping, boating Built-in : 1988 Built by : Maratha King Bajirao

visit places of varanasi

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Manikarnika Ghat is a very strange and unique Ghat from all the other Ghats in Varanasi. This Ghat is popular because the dead bodies are cremated. On the stairs of this Ghat, the cremation is done, and then the ashes are poured into the sacred Ganges. This Ghat is called Mahashmashan, where the bodies are burned 24/7. This is one of the unique Banaras places that make people aware of the very truth of our lives, which is death. You will find a temple that is bent, and it is more bent than the Pisa Minar. It is said that people who come to this place or are burned get Moksha.

Address : Near Rajendra Ghat

Timings : open 24/7 Famous for : cremation, worship

Built-in : 1730 Built by : Maratha King

visit places of varanasi

Tempo Traveller for Rent

Assi Ghat is one of the Ghats in ancient Kashi city. This is on the left side of the Ganges and amid all the Ghats in Varanasi; it is the most southern Ghat. The name of this Ghat is on the Assi River, which used to flow in Kashi. On the Assi Ghat at 7 p.m., the Ganga aarti is performed. You will see many tourists coming to this Ghat to worship the Devi Ganges and enjoy the views of the river and other Ghats.

[ Also Read : Exploring the Great Thar Desert: The Glory of Jaisalmer ]

Address : 2 km away from Lanka, Varanasi Timings : open 24/7 Famous for : Ganga Aarti, events Built-in : 1988 Built by : Govt

visit places of varanasi

Corporate Cab Booking Online

Harishchandra Ghat is famous because once King Raja Harishchandra performed the cremation of his son when he was on duty to A Dom. You will also see the temples of Baba Mashan Nath and Manikarnika Mandir. You can worship at this strange place to visit Banaras at the famous Kalidevi Mandir pith for the sake of your life. This Ghat takes people to their rear end, and here people play Holi with the ashes of dead bodies.

Address: Bangali Tola, Varanasi

Timing: open 24/7

Famous for: cremation, temples

Built by: Raja Harish Chandra

visit places of varanasi

Car attachment in the company near me

Manmandir Ghat was built in 1585, and this Ghat was built by the Ajmer king Sawai Raja Man Singh. This is the reason why this Ghat is known as the Manmandir Ghat. Earlier, this Ghat was known as the Someshwar Ghat. Maharaj Jay Singh installed an observatory on this Ghat in 1734. In this observatory, the windows are made of beautiful wood, with many celestial instruments. It is a good tourist spot in Varanasi .

Address:  near the Bangali Tola, Shivala, Varanasi Timings:  open 24/7  Famous for: Palace, Observatory, Boating Built-in : 1600 Built by : Ajmer King Sawai Raja Man Singh

visit places of varanasi

Pnchaganga Ghat is nearly 8km away from the Varanasi railway station. This Ghat was built by Raghunath Tanda in 1580. It is said that on this Ghat, Ganga, Yamuna, Krishna, and other rivers meet each other in invisible form. This is the Sangam of the Five Rivers, which is why it is called Panchganaga Ghat. The famous Guru Ramanadacharya used to live on this Ghat, and this Ghat is the witness to Kabir’s spiritual growth too. It is one of the most spiritually rich Varanasi places .

Address : Sonarpura, near Bangali Tola, Varanasi

Timings : Open 24/7 Famous for : the Sangam of five rivers, temples, and worship Built-in : 1580 Built by : Raghunath Tanda

visit places of varanasi

The historians of Varanasi believe that in 1812, the minister of Nagpur, Shridhar Munshi, built the palace on the Ghat. Earliar the Darbhanga Ghat was a part of this palace, but in 1920, the king of Darbhanga bought the parts of this Ghat and built it in a grand style. This is the reason why this Ghat is known as the Darbhaga Ghat. The sandstones of Chunar are used in the construction of this Ghat. Now this palace is known as the Brijramam Hotel Palace.

[ Also Read : Exploring the wonderful tourist places in Bangalore: a memorable experience ]

Address: near the Man sigh palace, Shivala, Varanasi

Built-in: 1812

Built by: the king of Darbhanga, Bihar

visit places of varanasi

You will see temples of Hanuman and Lord Shiva, which were made by Tulsi Das. You can see the house where Tulsi Das used to live. There is a ground known as Tulsi Akhadas where Tulsidas used to exercise. The views from the top of this Ghat will provide you with divine vibes. This hat was reconstructed by the industrialist Birla. In the evening, people come to bathe, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Tulsi Ghat is the best Varanasi tourist attraction .

Address: near Shivala, Varanasi

Built by : Tulsi Das

Famous for: the residence of Tulsi Das, spiritual vibe, amazing sunset view

visit places of varanasi

Kashi Vishwanth Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is on the banks of the Ganges and is one of the most religious places to visit in Kashi Varanasi . Recently, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor was built, which has made the worship of Lord Shiva very easy for the devotees, and the distance between the temple and Lalita Ghat has also been reduced. You can take a bath in the Dashashvavmedh Ghat and then go for the Darshan of Lord Shiva. This temple remains open from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. After taking the blessing from Lord Shiva, you can eat the jalebi and puri-kachori on the streets of Varanasi.

Address:  1km from Gadowlia Chowk, Varanasi  Timings: from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Famous   for:  Ganga Aarti, the Jyotriling Built-in : 1777 Built by : Ahilyabai Holkar

visit places of varanasi

Sankat Mochan Temple is a temple that is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, or Bajarang Bali. It is said that this temple was established due to the influence of Tulsi Das and one of the famous places in Varanasi . Devotees from all the places come here to worship Lord Hanuman. This temple is nearly 6km away from the Varanasi junction railway station, from which you can come by taking a taxi with a Chiku cab. You can also visit the Shree Ram Janaki temple, which is very near. The idol of Lord Hanuman is made up of soil, which is very unique. Tuesday and Saturday are the ideal worship days at the temple.

Address : Bhogabeer, Varanasi

Timings : 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Famous for : Lord Hanuman idol, Tulsi Das memories

visit places of varanasi

Durag Temple is one of the three most ancient temples: Shree Kashi Vaishavnath Temple, Devi Annapurna Temple, and Durga Temple. Devi Durga is worshipped in the form of Goddess Kushmanda. This temple is nearly 5 kilometers away from the Varanasi Cantt junction. This temple is made of red stones, and on the other side of it, there is a kund named Durga Kund. Tanta Puja is also practiced in this temple. Inside the temple, there are the idols of Devi Sarasvati and Bhairo Baba. This temple was made by the queen of Bengal, whose name was Bhavani. This temple is built in the Nagar style of architecture.

[ Also Read : Ayodhya Ram Mandir- Travel Guide to City of Ram & Ramayana ]

Address : 5 km away from the railway station, Anandbagh, Bhelupur Timings : 5 a.m.–11 p.m. Famous for : Durga Devi worship, Aarti, Kund

Built by : Queen of Bengal, Bhavani

visit places of varanasi

The Tulsi Manas Temple is one of the most captivating temples in Varanasi. This temple was built by a rich merchant from Calcutta, whose name was Seth Ratan Lal. The temple is near the Durga temple and 6 km away from the Varanasi Junction railway station. This temple is fully made of marble and was inaugurated by Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishanan. It is said that Tulsi Das wrote the Ramcharit Manas here. The pillars and walls of this temple are full of the Dohas and Chaupai of Shri Ram Charit Manas. On the first floor of this temple, the Rama and Shree Krishna levels are shown. After completing the writing of Tulsi Das, he came to Varanasi, and in this temple, he offered the verses of the Ramcharit Manas to people.

Address:  Sankat Mochan Rd., Varanasi

Timings: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., and closed from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Famous for: Tulsidas written Ram Charitman’s Path built-in : 1964 Built by : Seth Ratan Lal

visit places of varanasi

Bharat Mata Temple is one of the most unique temples in India. In this temple, there is no idol of any god or goddess. People worship the map of Akhand Bharat here. This temple is nearly 2 km away from the Varanasi junction. The father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi, inaugurated this temple. There you will find the portrait of Bharat Mata made on the floor and in the middle of this temple. This temple has two floors. You will find the poem written by the top poet, Vande Mataram, and the map of India on the walls. The architectural style of the Bharat Mata temple was developed by Babu Shivprasad Gupta.

Address: Near Vidyapeeth, Guru Nanak Nagar Colony, Chetganj, Varanasi Timings: 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Famous for: Map of Bharat Mata Built-in : 1936 Built by : Shiv Prasad Gupta

New Vishwanath Temple

visit places of varanasi

The New Vishwanath Temple, popularly known as Birla Temple, is in the middle of the BHU campus. Madan Mohan Malaviya and the Birla group made this temple. This temple is made in the classical style of architecture, and the top of this temple is very beautiful and grand. At the entrance, you will see the statue of Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya. You will find many sketches, and you can pay 200 rupees for making yours. The look of this temple is a divine one. People come with their friends and family to worship Lord Shiva. Swami Krishnan laid the first stone in this temple. On each wall and corner of this temple, you will find Vedic verses and paintings. The industrial Jugal Kishore Birla promised to support the making of this temple economically.

Address: BHU campus, Varanasi

Timing: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Built by: Birla Group

visit places of varanasi

In Moksha Nagari, you will find the temple of Devi Annapurna, which is near the Shree Kashi Vishwanath temple. It is said that Devi Annapurna once gave food to Lord Shiva. At the entrance, you will find the idol of Lord Ganesha. Inside the temple, you will find 500-year-old idols and the idol of Lord Shiva with a khappar asking for food from Annapurna Devi. Adi Shankacharcharya wrote the Annapurna strata in this temple, which sends the message of knowledge and awareness. You can take the Prasad of Annapurna, and it is said that if you take the blessings of Annapurna Devi, then you will have no shortage of food in your life. If you do the 17-day Vrat, then your wish will be fulfilled, and you will get the blessings of Devi.

[ Also Read : Things to do Dehradun to Nainital Road Trip – Distance, Time, and Useful Travel Information ]

Address: Rathyatra, Varaansi

Famous for : Devi Annapurna

Varanasi - Darshan Of Sarnath Kashi

Sarnath is a Buddhist site that is 10km away from the Varanasi Cantt station. In Sarnath Gautam, Buddha gave the first sermon after the enlightenment to five disciples. Dhamek Stupa is a round pilgrim site that is made of soil bricks. There is no window or door in the stupa. It is a nice tourist destination in Varanasi . The archeological museum of Sarnath has rare remains of ancient India. The famous Buddhist memories are preserved in this museum. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva named Sara Nath Temple. Dear Park is a beautiful park to which you can go with your kids. Ashoka Stambha was built in 250 BC by King Asoka. There are many Tibetan temples: Chuakhandi stupa, Thai temple, Sarnath zoo, etc.

Address : 10 km away from the railway station, Varanasi Timings : 24/7 Famous   for : historical museums, zoos, stupas Built-in : 250 BC Built by : Ashoka

visit places of varanasi

Ramnagar Fort was built by the king of Kashi Balwant Singh in 1750. This fort was built with Chunar sandstones, and the present king of Varanasi, Raja Anant Singh, lives in this palace. There is a museum in the fort where you will find ancient vehicles that were used in the 18 th and 19 th centuries. There, you will find a collection of vintage cars. Different kinds of dresses, the dresses that were used during the war, swords, skulls of lions, a collection of guns, knives, axes, paintings, etc. Daggers, coins, a clock, and many more things are in the fort, which you can see with your family members or friends.

Address:  Ram Nagar, Varanasi,

Timings: 10 a.m.–05:30 p.m. Famous   for : museum, palace Built-in : 1750 Built by : Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh

visit places of varanasi

Chunar Fort is almost 35 kilometers away from Mirzapur, one of the places to visit near Kashi and on the banks of the Ganges. King Vikramaditya built this fort, and many Muslim rulers as well as Hindu kings ruled here. The structure of this fort is like the human foot. This is the reason it is known as Chandrani Garh. This is the fort on which the famous writer Devakinanadan Khatri wrote Chandrakanta. In British rule, this was used as a barracks for the soldiers. There are many doors in the fort, and the western door was made in the Mughal period.

Address: Chunar Road, Mirzapur

Built by: Raja Vikramaditya

visit places of varanasi

Bharat Kala Bhavan is on the Banaras Hindu University campus. This is near the arts faculty of BHU. This is a museum where you will find the most ancient artifacts. This museum was made by Shri Krishna Ray. Earlier, this museum was on the Godowlia Chowk. In this museum, one of the most amazing places to see in Varanasi , you will find idols of gods and goddesses, ancient scriptures, paintings, sketches, and many more things. You can also see the Conies, domestic things, different kinds of Indian maps, war material, etc.

Address : Banaras Hindu University, Semi Circle Road No. 3, Opp Institute of Mgmt Studies, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005. Timings : 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Famous   for : museums, art, and culture Built-in : 1920 Built by : NA

visit places of varanasi

Banaras Hindu University is 8 km away from the Varanasi CTT railway station. On the main gate of BHU, you will see the statue of the founder of BHU, Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya. This is a very unique university in India that was made on the money collected by Madan Mohan Malviya from different people. You will see both modern and ancient kinds of education being imparted at this university. IIT BHU is the leading institute in the science and technology field and one of the best educational kashi visiting places .

Address:  Ajagara, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 Timings: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Famous   for : Religious Purposes, Architecture Built-in : 1916 Built by : Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya

The sarees of Varanasi are very famous in India and around the world. You will get the pure silk sarees here, which are made with different stings and beautifully made by the handicrafts of Varanasi. The sarees here are available in the range of 500 to 3 lakh rupees. You will get sarees of Chanderi, silk, Banarasi cotton, Organza sarees, Tanchoi, pure cotton, and other varieties. In these sarees, the finest handicraft is used, which gives them an amazing look and comfort for the woman.

Address: cantonment, near JHV, Varanasi

Famous for: Banarasi sarees

visit places of varanasi

This is an Indian railway lounge, where you will find all the amenities of a five-star hotel. This is on railway platform No. 1. To explore this place, you will have to buy a ticket for 85 rupees. You can enjoy dining, a spa, business meetings, a shower, and many more things. This waiting hall, but the luxury of this hall, is full of all the facilities that a five-star hotel has. These are the best places to visit in Varanasi. You can enjoy eating with your friends South Indian foods, sweets, Chinese beverages, and North Indian foods while waiting for your train.

Address: Near Hotel Varuna, Gulab Bagh, Varanasi

Famous for: five-star facility

visit places of varanasi

If you are on a trip to Varanasi and you want to eat something Chatpata, then you can come to Chat Bhandar. This is one of the top famous places to visit in Varanasi and the best chats in Hindustan. You will find a menu of chats in which you can try the Tamatar chat, Palak Patta chat, Papdi chat, Bhalla papdi, Samosa chat, Dahi puri, Pani puri, etc.

visit places of varanasi

You can go to one of the most ideal places to visit in Varanasi for couples with your loved ones. In this safe, you will enjoy cold coffee, strawberry coffee, paludal, lassi, special tea, and many more things to eat. You will also find space for romantic leisure time in this café. You join one of the groups to sing with your partner and dance. This place is one of the greatest places to visit in Varanasi for couples.

If you want a place for your breakfast, then you can come to the open-hand shop and café, where you can try the pancakes, chocolate truffles, pastry, pizza, sandwiches, cappuccino coffee, etc. You can come to this place if you are traveling in Varanasi with your family and you want to eat something special. This is one of the important places to visit in Varanasi for couples.

Vishwanath Gali is considered the best market in Varanasi places to go for street shopping in Varanasi. You can find different kinds of items at cheap prices here. Here in this gallery, you will find traditional or modern dresses, domestic items, dipoles of gods and goddesses made of brass, beauty items for women, etc. Banarasi sarees, designer shawls, jewelry, and classical items are the most popular items in this market. You will also get the writing material.

This market is famous for metal works, and you will find different items that are made of various metals, especially brass. Earlier, this place was a great trade center for the iron merchants. In this market, you will find the Alamgir mosque, which is a great place. This looks very beautiful when the rays fall on the walls of this monument. You can explore Ram Bhadar, Panch Agnaga Ghat, Mangal Gauri Temple, etc., which are in the Thatheri market. Idols, utensils, and other hardware materials made of different metals, such as brass, steel, iron, silver, etc., are the most popular items in this market.

visit places of varanasi

Godowlia Market is 8km away from the Varanasi Central Railway Station and one of the prominent tourist attractions in Varanasi . This is a crossing place where you will find the ways that lead to Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, Rathyatra, etc. This is a very big marketplace, and the significance of this place is very big because here you will find the Lord Shiva temple, PDR mall, places for shopping, street food, Ghats, etc. In this market, you will find a variety of shopping items at the most reliable prices. You can come with your family to shop for domestic items, books, chat, plan, etc.

The best time to come to Varanasi will be during the winter season because the summer season is too hot in this city. And also, the rainy season will not be so convenient for taking a trip to Varanasi. So you can come between October and February, which will be the most ideal time to come to the Varanasi sightseeing places .

People who can afford the luxurious and expensive places to stay in Varanasi can book rooms in hotels such as Taj Nadesar Palace, Bajirama Palace, Hotel Radisson, etc.

For people who need a budget-friendly hotel and can afford budget-friendly places in Varanasi, they can book rooms at Ganpati Guest House, Shanti Guest House, and the Dharamshala.

If you want to come to Varanasi by taking a flight, then you can take the flight from your city to the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. This is an international airport, and the major airports are connected to it.

Varanasi Cantt and Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Railway Station is the two railway stations from which you can get a train ticket from your city.

If you want to travel to Varanasi by road, then you can take a minibus or taxi with a Chiku cab from your city to come to Varanasi.

Among the chants of Har Har Mahadev and spiritual vibes, visiting Varanasi will make you a spiritual person, and you will be forced to think about the meaning of life. Here, people live life to the fullest. People here don’t care much about the material luxuries in life; they work, earn, and enjoy life. The principle of life here is simple living and high thinking. You find people here in shabby and tidy clothes, living like poor people, but the ideology and knowledge of these people are of the highest level. You must come to Varanasi at least once in your life to see a very different kind of lifestyle and significance. This is the place where people want to die and be cremated. This place is so sacred that it is said that Lord Shiva lives in it, and when the whole world ends, Kashi will remain as it is.

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  1. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Varanasi (UPDATED 2024)

    See full details. See ways to experience (106) 2023. 3. Dasaswamedh Ghat. 1,990. Points of Interest & Landmarks. India Trip Offer Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main ghat in Varanasi on the Ganga River. It is located close to Vishwanath Temple and is probably the most spectacular ghat.

  2. 14 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi

    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.

  3. Places To Visit In Varanasi

    Waterfront (6) Fairs & Festivals (3) 1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Must Visit 4.4 /5. 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.

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

    In-fact, his final resting place has been turned into a mansion cum temple. 4. Sarnath. 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.

  5. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Varanasi

    Things to Do in Varanasi, India: See Tripadvisor's 116,826 traveler reviews and photos of Varanasi tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in Varanasi. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  6. 39 Places To Visit In Varanasi In 2023, The Holiest Indian City

    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.

  7. 40 Places to Visit in Varanasi, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

    The best place to beat the scorching heat is splashing through the slides of water parks. And this is what makes Varanasi Fun City the most sought after weekend destination during summers. The best and most beloved amongst the tourist attractions in Varanasi, Fun City, is the small yet thrilling amalgam of amusement and water park.

  8. 15 Best Places To Visit In Varanasi [2024]

    Varanasi, one of the Hindus' seven holy cities, is a sight to behold.It is an overwhelming, empowering as well as unhampered experience; all at once. In Varanasi, the monumental temples, ghats and also other popular places to visit in Varanasi attract millions of visitors each year. It is not only a favourite destination among Indian travellers but it is also loved by foreigners.

  9. 29 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi for Culture and History

    Ahilyabai Ghat. Ahilyabai Ghat. Another great place to visit in Varanasi is the Ahilyabai Ghat that was named after the famous Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. This one-of-a-kind ghat was earlier known as Kevalgiri Ghat and was renovated by the Queen. It is believed to be the first ghat to be named after a person.

  10. Varanasi travel

    Varanasi. 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.

  11. 15 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi for First-Timers

    Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. The city is full of temples, but the beauty and ancient history draws visitors and devotees. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the three major deities in Hinduism. The Jyotirlinga, a sacred representation of Lord Shiva, is inside the temple.

  12. 30 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi, Things to Do & Sightseeing

    Pilgrimage. #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.

  13. 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.

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

    Visit the famous Sarnath, located 10 km away from Varanasi. It is the place where Buddha gave his first sermon. The place has a number of Buddhist temples, deer park complex, a museum, dhamek stupa and ruins of Buddhist monasteries.

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

    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.

  16. Varanasi in India: Guide for Planning Your Trip

    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).

  17. A travel guide to the Holy City of Varanasi: Places to visit, best

    Places to visit near Varanasi: Chunar Fort: Located about 40 kilometers from Varanasi, this ancient fort offers a glimpse into India's history and provides panoramic views of the Ganges River. Ramnagar Fort: Situated across the Ganges River from Varanasi, this 18th-century fort is known for its museum and the Ramnagar Ramlila, one of the oldest ...

  18. 12 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi (with Images)

    Check out some of the best places to see in Varanasi. 1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of Shiva's twelve Jyotirlingas, is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. It is located in Varanasi on the western bank of the holy Ganges River. Lord Shiva, also known as Vishwanatha or Vishweshwarar, is the main deity of ...

  19. Top 14 Tourist Places in Varanasi for the Perfect Getaway

    14 tourist places in Varanasi are -. 1. Bharat Mata Temple. Bharat Mata Temple is one of the best tourist places in Varanasi. The Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus is where the Bharat Mata Mandir is situated. You must have seen temples decorated with gods and goddesses.

  20. Varanasi Itinerary For 1-2 Days & Varanasi Things To Do!

    Train and Air are the most popular ways to get to Varanasi and leave Varanasi. Varanasi has 2 train stations - Varanasi Junction and Varanasi Cantt. I got an overnight train from Agra to Varanasi leaving Agra Fort at 8:30 pm (well actually 9:30 as it was delayed), and getting it at 14:30 (should have been 10:30 am).

  21. 12 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi with Family (2024)

    Best Family Hotels in Varanasi. 1. Radisson Hotel Varanasi. It is a modern hotel with free parking, Wi-Fi, and breakfast, plus an outdoor pool, a gym, and a spa. It is located in the Cantonment area of Varanasi, which is a more peaceful and relaxing option than the city center. 2. Hotel Surya, Kaiser Palace.

  22. My Varanasi Travel Guide: Best Places To Visit, Stay & Eat

    My Varanasi Travel Guide: Best Places To Visit, Stay & Eat. September 22, 2023. India has attracted spiritual seekers since time immemorial and Varanasi is one of the most fascinating and spiritual places in India. As well as being one of the holiest places in all of India, the ancient city of Varanasi situated on the banks of the holy Ganges ...

  23. Visit the 30 Famous Places in Varanasi to Explore the Culture

    The best places to eat in Varanasi. Kashi chats with Bhandar. If you are on a trip to Varanasi and you want to eat something Chatpata, then you can come to Chat Bhandar. This is one of the top famous places to visit in Varanasi and the best chats in Hindustan. You will find a menu of chats in which you can try the Tamatar chat, Palak Patta chat ...