Places to Visit near Varanasi

Known For : Dhamek Stupa Sarnath Archaeological Site The Mahabodhi Society Temple

Sarnath, located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, holds immense significance in Buddhism as the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. This pivotal event, known as Dharmachakra Pravartan or "Turning of the Wheel of Law", marked the foundation of Buddhism as a religion. 

Activities: Explore the Dhamek Stupa, visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, walk through the ancient Mulagandha Kuti Vihar ruins, and attend the evening aarti at the main temple.
Duration: 1 day is sufficient to cover the major attractions.
Highlights: Dhamek Stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, ancient Buddhist ruins, and the Sarnath Museum which houses artifacts from the Mauryan and Gupta periods.

Distance from Varanasi: 10 km

Best Time: October to March

9 Sarnath Attractions

Known For : Vindhyavasini devi temple Kali Khoh temple Sita kund

Vindhyachal, situated in the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, is a renowned pilgrimage destination dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini, a manifestation of Goddess Durga. The town is part of the "Triloka Parikrama", with Vindhyavasini Temple being one of the most visited Shaktipeeths in the region. 

Activities: Offer prayers at the Vindhyavasini Temple, visit the Ashtabhuja and Kali Khoh temples, and experience the serene ambiance along the Ghats of the Ganges.
Duration: 1 day to cover the major spiritual sites.
Highlights: Vindhyavasini Temple, the serene ghats along the Ganges, Ashtabhuja Temple, and the deep-rooted spiritual ambiance of the town.

Distance from Varanasi: 62 km

Best Time: October to March

6 Vindhyachal Attractions

Known For : Mahabodhi Temple Great Buddha Statue Tibetan Refugee Market

Bodh Gaya, located in the state of Bihar, holds unparalleled spiritual significance as the very place where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment beneath a Bodhi tree and became Lord Buddha. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has since become a global pilgrimage destination for Buddhists and spiritual seekers from all over the world. 

Activities: Meditate under the sacred Bodhi tree, visit the magnificent Mahabodhi Temple, explore various international Buddhist monasteries, and partake in the serenity of the Great Buddha Statue.
Duration: 2-3 days to explore and immerse oneself in the spiritual ambiance.
Highlights: The Mahabodhi Temple, the Bodhi tree, various international monasteries, and the annual Buddha Mahotsava festival.

Distance from Varanasi: 250 km

Best Time: October to March

26 Bodh Gaya Attractions

Known For : Prayag Kumbh Mela 2025 Triveni Sangam Khusro Bagh

Allahabad, now officially known as Prayagraj, is a city steeped in historical and religious significance, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It's famously known for the confluence (Sangam) of the three holy rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati. The city has been a cultural and political hub for centuries, hosting the renowned Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings on earth.

Activities: Take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, visit the Allahabad Fort, explore Anand Bhavan (Nehru's ancestral home), and marvel at the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela when it's held.
Duration: 2-3 days to explore the city's major attractions.
Highlights: Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort, Anand Bhavan, and the various fairs and festivals, including the Kumbh Mela.

Distance from Varanasi: 120 km

Best Time: October to March

23 Prayagraj Attractions

Known For : Light and Sound Show, Khajuraho Dulhadev Temple Kandariya Mahadev Temple

Khajuraho, situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, is celebrated worldwide for its ornate temples adorned with intricate and erotic carvings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these temples, built between the 10th and 12th centuries by the Chandela dynasty, showcase a unique blend of architectural brilliance and sensuous artistic expressions. 

Activities: Explore the mesmerizing Eastern and Western group of temples, attend the annual Khajuraho Dance Festival, and delve deep into the artistry that the temple sculptures showcase.
Duration: 1-2 days to thoroughly appreciate its historic essence and architectural beauty.
Highlights: Enigmatic sculptures, Western Group of Temples, Kandariya Mahadev Temple, and cultural events.

Distance from Varanasi: 391 km

Best Time: July to March

25 Khajuraho Attractions

Known For : Bara Imambara Chota Imambara British Residency

Lucknow, the illustrious capital of Uttar Pradesh, is often described as the city of Nawabs and kebabs, steeped in history, culture, and old-world charm. The legacy of the Nawabi era is elegantly reflected in its Mughal and Awadhi architectural wonders, tehzeeb (manners), arts, and rich culinary traditions.

Activities: Relish the famous kebabs at Tunday Kababi, visit the Bara Imambara and its incredible Bhool Bhulaiya, stroll around the British Residency, and indulge in some chikan kari shopping at Hazratganj.
Duration: 2-3 days to explore its historical marvels and savor its culinary delights.
Highlights: Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, Chowk market, Lucknow Zoo, and a plethora of Mughal-era monuments.

Distance from Varanasi: 304 km

Best Time: October to March

47 Lucknow Attractions

Bandhavgarh National Park, located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, is a wildlife sanctuary famed for its high density of Bengal tigers. Spanning across the Vindhya Hills, this park offers a unique blend of rich biodiversity and historical significance. Ancient legends whisper through its forests, with the Bandhavgarh Fort bearing witness to epochs gone by. 

Activities: Engage in a thrilling jeep safari to spot the majestic Bengal tiger, visit the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, and partake in bird watching, with over 250 species recorded in the region.
Duration: 2-3 days for an immersive wildlife experience.
Highlights: Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh Fort, varied topography from dense green valleys to rocky hill terrains, and an incredible range of fauna and avifauna.

Best Time: October to June

Known For : Gandhi Ghat Patna Sahib Gurudwara Srikrishna Science Centre

Patna, the capital city of Bihar, stands as a testament to India's rich historical and cultural heritage. Situated along the southern banks of the Ganges river, Patna has been a prominent center of politics, education, and trade for thousands of years. From the ancient Maurya and Gupta empires to being the seat of power during British rule, Patna's history is as dynamic as it is diverse.

Activities: Visit the Patna Museum to witness the history, explore Golghar - an ancient granary, take a stroll by the Gandhi Maidan, and visit the Takht Sri Patna Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site.
Duration: 1-2 days for a comprehensive experience.
Highlights: Historical landmarks, the majestic Ganges river, bustling local markets, and diverse cultural spots.

Distance from Varanasi: 254 km

Best Time: October to March

41 Patna Attractions

Known For : Pandava Falls and Caves Diamond Mines Panna National Park

Panna, situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh, is a city renowned for its majestic tiger reserve and rich cultural history. Located along the Ken river, Panna was once a princely state and its historic significance is still evident in the town's architecture and heritage. Today, apart from its wildlife sanctuary, Panna is also famous for its diamond mines, being one of the few places in India where diamonds are naturally found.

Activities: Embark on a safari in Panna National Park to spot tigers, visit the Pandava caves, explore the historic Jugal Kishoreji Temple, and witness diamond mining activities.
Duration: 1-2 days to explore the wildlife and cultural attractions.
Highlights: Panna Tiger Reserve, historic temples, pristine Ken river, and diamond mines.

Distance from Varanasi: 350 km

Best Time: November to May

8 Panna Attractions

Known For : Venuvana Japanese Stupa Vulture's Peak or Griddhakuta

Rajgir, located in Bihar, is a city steeped in ancient history and spiritual significance. Once the ancient capital of the Magadha Empire, Rajgir is enveloped in a blanket of legends and stories from the time of Buddha and Mahavira. Surrounded by seven hills, the city has seen the growth of Buddhism and Jainism and has been a witness to many religious discourses, including the teachings of Lord Buddha. 

Activities: Explore the Griddhakuta (Vulture's Peak) where Buddha delivered sermons, take a dip in the hot springs believed to possess medicinal properties, visit the ancient Vishwa Shanti Stupa, and explore the ruins of Nalanda University nearby.
Duration: 1-2 days for a comprehensive exploration.
Highlights: Historical sites, hot springs, Vishwa Shanti Stupa, and the serene ambiance echoing with ancient spiritual teachings.

Distance from Varanasi: 316 km

Best Time: October to March

29 Rajgir Attractions

Known For : Nalanda University Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall The Great Stupa

Nalanda, situated in Bihar, stands as an emblem of ancient Indian wisdom and knowledge. It is globally renowned for the ancient Nalanda University, one of the world's oldest centers of learning. Established in the 5th century AD, this university attracted scholars and students from as far away as Tibet, China, Korea, and Central Asia. 

Activities: Explore the archaeological remains of Nalanda University, visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, and immerse in the teachings at the Nava Nalanda Mahavihara.
Duration: 1 day for a detailed exploration.
Highlights: Ruins of the ancient university, archaeological artifacts, serene ambiance, and a rich tapestry of historical significance.

Distance from Varanasi: 328 km

Best Time: October to March

8 Nalanda Attractions

Known For : Taj Mahal Agra Fort Taj Mahotsav

Agra, located in Uttar Pradesh, is synonymous with the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal, a monument that epitomizes love and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city, which flourished during the Mughal era, boasts an impressive historical legacy, evident in its many splendid monuments, forts, and palaces. 

Activities: Marvel at the Taj Mahal during sunrise, explore the vast Agra Fort, stroll through the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, and indulge in local delicacies like Agra's famous Petha.
Duration: 2-3 days to experience all major attractions.
Highlights: The iconic Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, local bazaars, and Mughal-era architecture.

Distance from Varanasi: 626 km

Best Time: October to March

20 Agra Attractions

Known For : The Ashoka pillar Vishwa Shanti Stupa , Abhishek pushkarni (coronation tank) and Archeological museums Buddha's stupa

Vaishali, situated in Bihar, holds immense significance in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Considered as the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, and the place where Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon, Vaishali resonates with spiritual energy and ancient tales. 

Activities: Visit the Ashoka Pillar, which stands as a testament to Emperor Ashoka's visit; explore the archaeological sites and museum; and pay respects at the Buddha Stupa and Jain temples.
Duration: 1-2 days to cover all historical and religious spots.
Highlights: Ashoka Pillar, relics of Buddha's time, ancient ruins, and spiritual significance in both Jainism and Buddhism.

Distance from Varanasi: 272 km

Best Time: October to January

7 Vaishali Attractions

Known For : Ram Janmabhoomi Shri Hanuman Garhi Mandir Kanak Bhawan

Ayodhya, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a city deeply rooted in spiritual lore and historical significance. Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya holds a special place in the hearts of millions and is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus worldwide. Its association with the ancient epic, the Ramayana, gives it an aura of mystery and reverence. 

Activities: Visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, take a stroll along the Ghats of Sarayu River, explore the Kanak Bhawan, and attend the evening aarti.
Duration: 1-2 days to explore its religious and historical sites.
Highlights: Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, and the vibrant spiritual ambiance of the city.

Distance from Varanasi: 200 km

Best Time: October to March

17 Ayodhya Attractions

Known For : Kamadgiri Gupt Godavari Ramghat

Chitrakoot, nestled in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is a town of great religious and cultural significance. Often referred to as the "Hill of Many Wonders", Chitrakoot holds a special place in Hindu mythology, being the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a significant portion of their 14-year exile.

Activities: Attend the evening aarti at Ram Ghat, explore the Kamadgiri temple, visit the Sphatik Shila, and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of Hanuman Dhara waterfall.
Duration: 1-2 days for a holistic spiritual experience.
Highlights: Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri, Janaki Kund, and the myriad of tales associated with the Ramayana.

Distance from Varanasi: 260 km

Best Time: July to March

13 Chitrakoot Attractions

Kushinagar, located in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most venerated pilgrimage sites for Buddhists as it's believed to be the place where Lord Buddha attained Parinirvana after his death. The serene town is adorned with stupas, temples, and monuments, paying homage to its profound spiritual significance and the teachings of Buddha.

Activities: Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple which houses the reclining statue of Lord Buddha, explore the Ramabhar Stupa, the site where Buddha was cremated, and immerse in the tranquility of the Meditation Park.
Duration: 1-2 days for an enriching spiritual journey.
Highlights: Historical relics, ancient stupas, beautiful Buddhist temples, and the deep-seated spiritual ambiance.

Distance from Varanasi: 237 km

Best Time: November to February

Known For : Sharadha Devi Temple Venkatesh Temple Ramvan

Satna, situated in Madhya Pradesh, serves as a vital hub for limestone, a major component in cement production. While its industrial significance is notable, Satna also boasts a rich cultural and religious heritage. Located in proximity to ancient cities and revered religious sites, the district becomes a common transit point for pilgrims and history enthusiasts.

Activities: Visit the ancient Bharhut Stupa, take a spiritual journey to the Chitrakoot, known for its religious and historical importance, and explore the various temples in and around the city.
Best Time: October to March
Duration: 1-2 days for a mix of industrial insights and cultural experiences.
Highlights: Bharhut Stupa, proximity to Chitrakoot, various temples, and its cement industries.

Distance from Varanasi: 283 km

Best Time: October to March

8 Satna Attractions

Ramnagar Fort, majestically positioned on the eastern banks of the Ganges river, stands as a symbol of the Mughal-inspired architecture in the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Built in the 18th century under the reign of Maharaja Balwant Singh, the fort exudes a vintage aura with its intricately carved balconies, open courtyards, and scenic pavilions. 

Activities: Explore the grandiose structure of the fort, visit the museum to witness a glimpse of the royal lineage, and enjoy the serene views of the Ganges.
Best Time: October to March
Duration: 2-3 hours to explore the entirety of the fort and its museum.
Highlights: Mughal architecture, the museum showcasing royal artifacts, Vyas temple, and mesmerizing views of the Ganges.

Distance from Varanasi: 10 km

Known For : Nadine Cultural Centre Dholi Sati Dadi Mandir Temples in Fatehpur

Fatehpur, located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, is a town steeped in history and adorned with beautiful havelis and frescoes. Founded in the mid-15th century, Fatehpur became a prominent center for trade during the 19th century, leading to the establishment of grand havelis adorned with exquisite paintings, reflecting the opulence of its then residents. 

Activities: Explore the architectural splendor of the havelis, particularly the Nadine Le Prince Haveli, marvel at the frescoes, and visit local markets for traditional Rajasthani crafts.
Duration: 1-2 days to fully appreciate the historical and architectural richness.
Highlights: Havelis with intricate frescoes, traditional Rajasthani architecture, and the historical charm of the town.

Distance from Varanasi: 1,037 km

Best Time: October to March

4 Fatehpur Attractions

Known For : Grishneshwar Temple Bibi ka Maqbara The Ajanta caves

Aurangabad, situated in the state of Maharashtra, is renowned as a historical city, marking the gateway to the world-famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Named after the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the city boasts of various monuments and structures of historical importance, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. 

Activities: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, visit the grand Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the "Taj of the Deccan", and stroll through the ruins of Daulatabad Fort.
Duration: 2-3 days to explore the major attractions thoroughly.
Highlights: Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, and the remnants of Mughal architecture.

Distance from Varanasi: 1,203 km

Best Time: October to March

37 Aurangabad Attractions

Devdari Waterfall, situated near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the region's hidden gems. Located amidst lush green forests, this cascading waterfall offers a refreshing respite from the bustling city life of Varanasi. The gushing water against the backdrop of verdant greenery offers a picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and those seeking solace amidst nature.

Activities: Enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the waterfall, indulge in photography, have a picnic with family and friends, and take nature walks in the surrounding forest area.
Duration: Half-day trip, though one can spend longer to soak in the tranquility.
Highlights: The cascading beauty of the waterfall, serene surroundings, and the dense green forest backdrop.

Distance from Varanasi: 69 km

Shravasti, located in Uttar Pradesh, holds immense significance in the annals of Buddhist and Jain histories. Once a flourishing trade city during ancient India, it is best known as the place where Gautama Buddha spent 24 monsoons and performed the largest number of miracles. 

Activities: Explore the ancient ruins of Jetavana Monastery, visit the Anandabodhi tree, marvel at the Shobhnath Jain Temple, and immerse yourself in the serenity of Maheth and Saheth.
Best Time: November to March 
Duration: 1-2 days to thoroughly experience its historical and spiritual essence.
Highlights: Ancient Buddhist monasteries, Jain temples, historical ruins, and a profound spiritual ambiance.

Distance from Varanasi: 313 km

Best Time: September to November

Known For : Jehangir Mahal, Orchha Fort Ram Raja Temple Raja Mahal, Orchha Fort

Orchha, situated on the banks of the Betwa River in Madhya Pradesh, is a captivating blend of history, grandeur, and architectural brilliance. This medieval town, once the capital of the Bundela Rajputs, boasts majestic palaces, ancient temples, and ornate chhatris (cenotaphs) that stand as a testament to its rich cultural heritage. 

Activities: Wander through the grand Orchha Fort, visit the Jahangir Mahal and Raja Ram Temple, admire the series of chhatris by the river, and witness the evening aarti at the Ram Raja Temple.
Duration: 1-2 days to explore its historical marvels and soak in its old-world charm.
Highlights: Magnificent palaces, ancient temples, the picturesque Betwa River, and a rich historical ambiance.

Distance from Varanasi: 531 km

Best Time: July to March

16 Orchha Attractions