Places to Visit in Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, this city is India’s spiritual capital. From spiritual seekers and pilgrims to photographers and history lovers, Varanasi attracts all kinds of travelers. Whether you are spiritual or just a curious traveler, the famous places to visit in Varanasi offer an experience unlike any other. The temples, the ghats, and the Ganga aarti make this city magical. If you’re planning a trip to explore the cultural heart of India, there are plenty of places to visit in Varanasi, which we’ll explore on this page.

People come here to find peace, some to wash away sins, and others simply to feel the vibe of this divine land. From sunrise boat rides on the Ganga river to walking through lanes filled with food, music, and history, Varanasi has a unique magic. All the best places to visit in Varanasi include its famous temples and ghats, where you can witness life and death both flowing together. If you’re looking to explore Varanasi comfortably, don’t forget to check out our Viacation’s Varanasi tour packages designed for Indian travelers like you.

Top Places To Visit In Varanasi

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath is one of the top places to visit in Varanasi. And this is also one of the most important and sacred temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees believe a visit here washes away all sins. It’s spiritually powerful and attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year.

2. Dasaswamedh Ghat

This ghat is one of the oldest and most vibrant spots in the city. It’s famous for the Ganga Aarti, performed every evening with lamps, chants, and music. It’s a powerful experience to feel and see.

3. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is a peaceful place where locals and tourists both gather. It is among the top 5 places to visit in Varanasi, famous for its early morning Ganga Aarti and cultural programs. Yoga sessions by the river also happen here every morning.

4. Manikarnika Ghat

This is the main cremation ghat and is deeply spiritual. It’s believed that those who are cremated here achieve moksha (freedom from rebirth). It may sound intense, but many visit to understand the cycle of life and death.

5. Shivala Ghat

Less crowded and more local, Shivala Ghat is ideal for those who want to see daily life by the Ganges without the tourist rush. It has an old-world charm with heritage buildings around.

6. Monkey Temple (Durga Temple)

The Monkey Temple, also called Durga Temple, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. It’s called the Monkey Temple because you’ll find lots of monkeys around. Built in the 18th century, it has red-colored stone walls and traditional architecture.

7. Tulsi Manas Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is where the famous poet Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitmanas. The walls of the temple are beautifully inscribed with verses from the Ramayana, making it one of the best places to visit in Varanasi for spiritual seekers.

8. Ramnagar Fort & Museum

Built in the 18th century by King Balwant Singh, this fort lies on the eastern bank of the Ganges. It houses a museum with royal collections like old weapons, vintage cars, and royal costumes. 

9. Alamgir Mosque

Alamgir Mosque, also known as Beni Madhav Ka Darera, is a combination of Islamic and Hindu architecture. Built by Emperor Aurangzeb, it stands at a scenic point along the river Ganga.

10. Godowlia Market

If you want to do some shopping and want to take mementos home, this is among the 10 best places to visit in Varanasi. This is one of the busiest and oldest markets in Varanasi. From Banarasi sarees and handicrafts to street food and jewelry, everything is available here. 

11. Man Mandir Observatory

Built in the 17th century by Maharaja Jai Singh, this place has ancient astronomical instruments used for measuring time and the movement of planets. It’s also known as the Jantar Mantar of Varanasi.

12. The Banaras Silk Emporium

Varanasi’s silk wear is one of the most popular in India. And if you are in Varanasi, visiting a silk emporium is a must. Banaras Silk Emporium is one of the finest shops to explore handwoven silk sarees, scarves, and fabrics of India.

13. Manmandir Ghat

Manmandir Ghat is a peaceful ghat built by Raja Man Singh in the 16th century. It has beautiful sandstone architecture and offers a calm space away from the busy ghats. So if you love peaceful places, this place should be on your list.

14. Tulsi Ghat

Named after the poet Tulsidas, Tulsi Ghat is less crowded and ideal for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere. It’s believed that Tulsidas composed parts of the Ramcharitmanas here.

15. Darbhanga Ghat

Darbhanga Ghat stands out for its grand appearance and magnificent structure. It was built by the royal family of Darbhanga and is one of the most photogenic ghats in the city.

16. Harishchandra Ghat

Harishchandra Ghat is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi and holds deep religious significance. It is believed that this is where King Harishchandra once worked at the cremation ground, proving his commitment to truth and charity.

17. Lalita Ghat

Lalita Ghat is known for its calm ambiance and the famous Nepali temple located nearby. It was built by the King of Nepal and stands out because of its pagoda-style architecture.

18. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

BHU is not just an educational institute but also a cultural landmark. Founded in 1916, it’s one of the largest residential universities in Asia. And many travelers visit this university to explore its libraries and inner structure.

19. Sarnath

Sarnath is a place located 10 kilometres north-east of Varanasi near the confluence of the Ganges and the Varuna rivers in Uttar Pradesh. Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. 

20. Batuk Bhairav Mandir

This temple is dedicated to Batuk Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that the oil offered here has healing powers. It is also believed that the deity protects Varanasi and grants blessings for good health and protection from evil. 

21. Bharat Mata Mandir

This temple is unique because it is not dedicated to any deity but to Mother India. Built in 1936 by freedom fighter Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, the temple features a large marble relief map of undivided India, symbolizing national unity.

22. Nepali Temple

Also known as the Kathwala Temple, it resembles the famous Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. Built by the King of Nepal, it is a replica of the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. The temple is made entirely of wood and features beautiful carvings, showcasing traditional Nepali architecture.

23. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

This temple is one of the most visited temples in Varanasi and is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is believed that visiting this temple removes all kinds of troubles (sankat). The temple is believed to be built at the exact spot where Tulsidas, the great poet-saint, had a vision of Hanuman

24. Namo Ghat

A new and modern ghat built recently, Namo Ghat is clean, beautifully designed, and ideal for a relaxing evening. It’s also becoming quite popular among tourists. Designed with modern aesthetics, it offers a clean, peaceful space for locals and tourists to relax by the Ganga.

25. Kaal Bhairav Temple

It’s among the places to visit in Varanasi that truly reflect its mystical side. This temple is dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva who is considered the guardian of the city. Kaal Bhairav Temple is one of the most powerful and ancient temples in Varanasi. Dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, the temple holds great spiritual and cultural importance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Varanasi?

1. Which are the most religious places to visit in Varanasi at night?

A. These are the most religious places to visit in Varanasi at night:

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Offers late-night darshan in a calm and spiritual atmosphere.
• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Peaceful in the evening, with devotees chanting Hanuman Chalisa.
• Kaal Bhairav Temple: Known for its strong spiritual energy and nighttime rituals.
• Assi Ghat: Famous for the soulful Ganga Aarti held at night.
• Dasashwamedh Ghat: Hosts the grand evening Aarti with lights, chants, and devotion

2. Which are the famous ghats to visit in Varanasi?

A. Here are the famous ghats to visit in Varanasi: – 

• Dashashwamedh Ghat: The most vibrant ghat, famous for its grand Ganga Aarti held every evening.
• Assi Ghat: A peaceful place popular for morning yoga sessions and cultural gatherings.
• Manikarnika Ghat: One of the oldest cremation ghats and among the most famous places to visit in Varanasi. It is believed to grant moksha to departed souls.
• Harishchandra Ghat: Another sacred cremation site with strong religious and mythological importance.
• Scindia Ghat: Famous for its partially submerged Shiva temple and calm surroundings.

3. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

A. October to March is the best time to visit Varanasi when the weather is good and mild, and best for sightseeing. This period also includes festivals like Diwali and Dev Deepawali, and the city’s ghats, temples, and spiritual atmosphere make this time worth visiting.

4. Is 2 days enough for Varanasi?

A. Yes, 2 days are enough to explore the major attractions of Varanasi. You can visit popular temples, witness the Ganga Aarti, take a boat ride, and walk through the narrow lanes. While a longer stay is better, two days are good to experience the spiritual and cultural beauty of Varanasi.

5. What is famous to eat in Varanasi?

A. Varanasi is famous for its street food like kachori sabzi, chena dahi vada, tamatar chaat, and baati chokha. Don’t miss the famous Banarasi paan after your meal. These local delicacies offer a taste of the city’s rich food culture and are easily found near the ghats.

6. What is the famous drink in Kashi?

A. The most famous drink in Kashi (Varanasi) is Bhang Thandai, especially during festivals like Holi and Shivratri. Apart from that, lassi served in clay cups and the cooling drink called aam panna in summer are also popular choices among both locals and tourists.

7. Which sweet is famous in Banaras?

A. Rabri is one of the most famous sweets in Banaras, made from thickened milk and garnished with dry fruits. Other local favorites include malaiyyo (available in winter), peda, and lal peda. 

8. Which are the best cafes to visit in Varanasi?

A. The following are the best cafes to visit in Varanasi: – 

• Open Hand Cafe: This cozy cafe is popular for promoting eco-friendly products and handmade crafts, making it a unique spot to relax.
• Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe: Located near Assi Ghat, this cafe serves authentic wood-fired pizzas with fresh ingredients. 
• Brown Bread Bakery: A favorite among locals and tourists, this place is famous for its organic breads, cakes, and healthy food options. They often host live music nights, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
• The Mark Cafe: Known for its cozy interiors and excellent coffee, this cafe offers a quiet retreat for coffee lovers and writers. The friendly staff and quality drinks make it a must-visit.
• Shiva Cafe & German Bakery: Popular among backpackers, this rooftop cafe serves tasty baked goods and beverages in a relaxed environment. 

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