43 Places To Visit In Varanasi

Q: Can you suggest an itinerary for Varanasi?

Day 1: Culture & Hindu TraditionsYou can start your visit by visiting the religious edifices of Benaras. Begin by going to New Vishwanath Temple located in the premises of Benaras Hindu University, also stealing a glimpse of the world-renowned university. Renowned for its rich collection of Indian paintings, Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum is located inside the premises as well. Spend the rest of the day visiting other temples- Kathwala Temple is famous for architecture and woodwork. The oldest and most famous one is Kashi Vishwanath Temple. You can end the day by witnessing the most important event of Varanasi- the Ganga Aarti, preferably on the Dashashwamedh ghats.Day 2: Boating & NatureA trip to Varanasi is incomplete without a ride on the boats. You can begin day 2 a little early and go boating to witness the mesmerising sunrise, for an enthralling experience. Dedicate the latter half of the day to Ramnagar Fort. It is the most popular monument of historic importance in Varanasi. Although a little in ruins and out of maintenance, you can still awe at the beautiful paintings and decorations in the Darbar Hall inside the fort.Day 3: Sarnath & Buddhist TraditionsVisit 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. You can reach there early to avoid the crowd and appreciate the tranquillity of the place and the beauty of the Buddha relics.

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1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Top Attraction 4.4 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located on the western bank of the Ganges in Varanasi, is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Originally built in 1780 by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, the temple is famed for its golden spires and spiritual significance. It attracts millions of devotees who come to offer prayers and experience its sacred ambiance in the heart of the cit (Read More)y.

Instagram Worthy 4.4 /5

4 km from city center

Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a captivating daily ritual performed at the Ghats along the banks of the Ganges. This spiritual ceremony involves synchronized chanting, fire offerings, and rhythmic movements by priests, paying homage to the river. The vibrant atmosphere, illuminated by brass lamps and accompanied by devotional music, draws devotees and visitors alike to witness this iconic spectacle.

Top Attraction 4.3 /5

5 km from city center

Waterfront

Highlights: Subah-e-Banaras

Assi Ghat, at the southern end of Varanasi, is a spiritual and cultural hub where the Assi River meets the Ganges. Known for its Subah-e-Banaras program featuring music, yoga, and stunning sunrises, it’s a popular spot for meditation and river dips. Mythologically significant, the ghat houses a sacred Shiva Lingam under a peepal tree. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, explore local cafes, and shop fo (Read More)r souvenirs, making it a vibrant yet peaceful destination in Varanasi.

Top Things To Do 4.6 /5

Boating & Cruises

Highlights: Morning Boat Rides on the Ganges, Sunset Boat (Read More) Rides on the Ganga, Dev Deepavali Experience, Free Ashes Release, Candle & Flower Ceremony from the Boat, Tabla & Sitar Musicians on Your Private Boat, Exploring Varanasi's Alleys

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

Varanasi Travel Packages

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3 Days / 2 Nights

3-Day Varanasi and Prayagraj Tour

Varanasi(2N)

Yattri

4.9 (163 reviews)

$ 167

40% off

$100/person

3 Days / 2 Nights

Experience Varanasi Tour Package with Sarnath

Delhi(0N) → Varanasi(1N)

$86/person

6 Days / 5 Nights

6-Days Varanasi Allahabad Ayodhya Gaya Tour Pac...

Varanasi(3N) → Ayodhya(1N) → Bodhgaya(1N)

Yattri

5.0 (151 reviews)

$ 286

24% off

$217/person

6 Days / 5 Nights

Religious Tour Package for Varanasi and Ayodhya

Varanasi(3N) → Ayodhya(2N)

$ 177

2% off

$172/person

4 Days / 3 Nights

Uttar Pradesh Triangle Tour Package

Ayodhya(1N) → Prayagraj(1N) → Varanasi(1N)

$ 137

16% off

$114/person

7 Days / 6 Nights

Uttar Pradesh Triangle Tour for 6 Nights 7 Days

Ayodhya(2N) → Prayagraj(2N) → Varanasi(2N)

$ 263

8% off

$240/person

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5. Street Food In Varanasi

Top Things To Do

Street Food & Drinks

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

Top Attraction 4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Waterfront

Highlights: Ganga Aarti

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

7. Ramnagar Fort

4.1 /5

7 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Highlights: Intricate Architecture, Ganga Aarti at Ramnag (Read More)ar Ghat, Heritage Museum, Vintage Car Rally, Durga Puja Celebration

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

4 km from city center

Shopping

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

Day Trip 4.3 /5

7 km from city center

Religious Experience

Sarnath, located just 10 km from Varanasi, is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site of immense historical and spiritual significance. It is here that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, setting the Wheel of Dharma in motion. The site is home to ancient stupas, monasteries, and the iconic Ashoka Pillar, which features the Lion Capital that now serves as India’s nationa (Read More)l emblem.

4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Waterfront

Manikarnika Ghat, located in Varanasi, is one of the holiest and oldest ghats along the Ganges River. Renowned as a sacred cremation site, it is deeply significant in Hinduism, symbolizing liberation (moksha) and the end of the cycle of life and death. Visitors come to witness the solemn rituals and experience the spiritual atmosphere, which embodies the essence of Varanasi’s eternal connection wi (Read More)th life, death, and salvation.

Top Attraction 4.3 /5

6 km from city center

Temple

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

Popular among Locals 4.5 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

Highlights: Hanuman Jayanti Celebration, Spiritual Discou (Read More)rses, Prasad Distribution, Architectural Marvel

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

13. Chunar Fort

24 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

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

4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

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

4.3 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

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

4.5 /5

6 km from city center

Museum

The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, located within the Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, is a renowned archaeological and art museum showcasing over 100,000 artifacts. Its diverse collection includes sculptures, jewelry, pottery, textiles, and rare manuscripts, with exhibits dating from the 1st to the 15th century.

Popular among Locals 4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

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

Top Attraction 4.5 /5

13 km from city center

Yoga & Meditation

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

4.3 /5

2 km from city center

Temple

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

Fairs & Festivals

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

6 km from city center

Landmark

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

2 km from city center

Temple

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

Fairs & Festivals

Highlights: Rituals and Ceremonies, Cultural Extravaganza (Read More), Spiritual Journey

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

4 km from city center

Waterfront

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

4 km from city center

Waterfront

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

4.5 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

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

4 km from city center

Mosque

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

8 km from city center

Temple

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

4 km from city center

Mosque

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

4 km from city center

Waterfront

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

9 km from city center

Temple

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

9 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

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

4 km from city center

Yoga & Meditation

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

5 km from city center

Amusement & Theme Park

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

9 km from city center

Amusement & Theme Park

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

Waterfall

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

40 km from city center

Waterfall

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

46 km from city center

Waterfall

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

45 km from city center

Waterfall

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

Historical Site

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

Top Attraction

7 km from city center

Fairs & Festivals

Highlights: Ganga Snan (Holy Bath), Lighting of Lamps and (Read More) Diyas, Rituals and Ceremonies, Crowds and Special Ceremonies, Deepdan and Patriotic Commemoration, Attractions, Ganga Mahotsav

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

Waterfall

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

54 km from city center

Waterfall

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

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Bandhavgarh National Park

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Manali

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FAQs on Varanasi

What are the top hotels in Varanasi?

There are 423 Hotels in Varanasi which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Varanasi are RK homestays, Nawab ki Deohri, The Pathwalkers' Habitat, Paradise Residency, The White Yard - Deluxe Rooms, Hotel Radiance Courtyard. You can see all the hotels in Varanasi here

What are the top activities in Varanasi?

The top activities in Varanasi are Varanasi Sunrise Boat Tour, Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour Of Sarnath From Varanasi, Varanasi Heritage City Tour, Private Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport Transfers (VNS) for Varanasi, Varanasi Spiritual Walking Tour, Varanasi Temple Walking Tour.

What are the top sightseeing places in Varanasi?

The top sightseeing places in Varanasi are Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Assi Ghat, New Vishwanath Temple, BHU, Tulsi Manasa Temple.

How can I commute within Varanasi?

Cycle rickshaws as well as auto rickshaws are available in Varanasi for travel in local areas. Mini buses are also available within the city. Boats are used for tours of the River Ganga.
Read More

Can you suggest an itinerary for Varanasi?

Day 1: Culture & Hindu Traditions
You can start your visit by visiting the religious edifices of Benaras. Begin by going to New Vishwanath Temple located in the premises of Benaras Hindu University, also stealing a glimpse of the world-renowned university.
Renowned for its rich collection of Indian paintings, Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum is located inside the premises as well. Spend the rest of the day visiting other temples- Kathwala Temple is famous for architecture and woodwork. The oldest and most famous one is Kashi Vishwanath Temple. You can end the day by witnessing the most important event of Varanasi- the Ganga Aarti, preferably on the Dashashwamedh ghats.

Day 2: Boating & Nature
A trip to Varanasi is incomplete without a ride on the boats. You can begin day 2 a little early and go boating to witness the mesmerising sunrise, for an enthralling experience. Dedicate the latter half of the day to Ramnagar Fort. It is the most popular monument of historic importance in Varanasi. Although a little in ruins and out of maintenance, you can still awe at the beautiful paintings and decorations in the Darbar Hall inside the fort.

Day 3: Sarnath & Buddhist Traditions
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. You can reach there early to avoid the crowd and appreciate the tranquillity of the place and the beauty of the Buddha relics.

Places To Visit In Varanasi

Top Hotel Collections

43 Places To Visit In Varanasi

1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

2. Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

3. Assi Ghat

4. Boat Ride in Varanasi

Varanasi Travel Packages

3-Day Varanasi and Prayagraj Tour

Experience Varanasi Tour Package with Sarnath

6-Days Varanasi Allahabad Ayodhya Gaya Tour Pac...

Religious Tour Package for Varanasi and Ayodhya

Uttar Pradesh Triangle Tour Package

Uttar Pradesh Triangle Tour for 6 Nights 7 Days

5. Street Food In Varanasi

6. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Top Hotels In Varanasi

7. Ramnagar Fort

8. Vishwanath Gali

9. Sarnath

10. Manikarnika Ghat

11. New Vishwanath Temple, BHU

12. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Varanasi

13. Chunar Fort

14. Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir

15. Shree Durga Mata Mandir Durgakund

16. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

17. Nepali temple

18. Swarved Mahamandir Dham

19. Shri Batuk Bhairav Temple

20. Ramnagar Ramlila at Varanasi

21. Banaras Hindu University

22. Bharat Mata Mandir

23. Ganga Mahotsav, Varanasi

24. Shivala Ghat

25. Kedar Ghat

26. ISKCON Varanasi

27. Gyan Vapi Well

28. Tibetan Temple, Varanasi

29. Alamgir Mosque

30. Manmandir Ghat

31. Chinese Temple

32. St Mary's Church, Varanasi

33. Yoga, Varanasi

34. Varanasi Fun City

35. Aqua World

36. Vindham Waterfalls

37. Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall

38. Rajdari Waterfalls

39. Devdari Waterfall

40. Sita Samahit Sthal

41. Dev Deepawali

42. Mukkha Falls

43. Tanda Falls

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FAQs on Varanasi

What are the top hotels in Varanasi?

What are the top activities in Varanasi?

What are the top sightseeing places in Varanasi?

How can I commute within Varanasi?

Can you suggest an itinerary for Varanasi?

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