44 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.

Top Attraction 4.5 /5

13 km from city center

Yoga & Meditation

Swarved Mahamandir Dham is a meditation centre in Varanasi, said to be the world's largest of its kind. It is dedicated to the moral and spiritual growth of humanity and serves as a space for seekers from all walks of life.

Instagram Worthy 4.4 /5

4 km from city center

Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a daily ritual performed at the ghats along the banks of the Ganges. The ceremony involves synchronized chanting, fire offerings, and rhythmic movements by priests paying homage to the river, accompanied by brass lamps and devotional music.

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 Ganges is a common way to experience Varanasi, offering a view of the ghats, temples, and daily rituals along the riverbank. Sunrise rides are popular for the dawn rituals, while sunset rides let visitors watch the evening aarti ceremony from the water.

Varanasi Travel Packages

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₹ 35,000

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₹16,000/person

2 Nights / 3 Days

3 Day Tour of Varanasi with Mangala Aarti

Varanasi(2N)

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₹ 17,000

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₹7,750/person

7 Nights / 8 Days

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3-Day Varanasi and Prayagraj Tour

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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. Some of the popular delicacies include Kachori Sabzi, Baati Chokha, and Malaiyyo.

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

Ramnagar Fort is a historical monument on the eastern banks of the River Ganga, opposite Tulsi Ghat, in Varanasi. It was built by Raja Balwant Singh in 1750 in the Mughal style of architecture. Even though the system of kings was abolished in the region, the current Maharaja, Pelu Bhiru Singh, continues to reside in the fort.

7. Sarnath

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.

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

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is situated by the River Assi and was built in the early 1900s by the freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya. It is dedicated to Lord Rama and Hanuman and is one of the most visited temples in Varanasi.

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 vivid 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 for s (Read More)ouvenirs, making it a vibrant yet peaceful destination in Varanasi.

Top Attraction 4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Waterfront

Highlights: Ganga Aarti

Dashashwamedh Ghat, on the Ganges River in Varanasi, holds religious and cultural significance and is best known for its daily Ganga Aarti held every evening, where priests conduct rituals with brass lamps and hymns.

4.5 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

ISKCON Varanasi was established by Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada to promote Krishna Consciousness and educate people in the teachings of Lord Krishna as per the Bhagavad Gita. Regular poojas, kirtans, and chanting sessions are held here, and everyone is welcome to join these sessions.

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.

13. New Vishwanath Temple, BHU

Top Attraction 4.3 /5

6 km from city center

Temple

New Vishwanath Temple is located within the Banaras Hindu University campus in Varanasi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built along the banks of the Ganga, it is one of the most visited temples in the city.

4.1 /5

3 km from city center

Shopping Ideas

Banarasi sarees are among Varanasi's best-known crafts, known for their silk, zari work, and traditional weaving techniques. They can be bought in the lanes of Chowk, Thatheri Bazaar, and Godowlia, where shops sell everything from traditional gold and silver brocade designs to more contemporary patterns.

Popular among Locals 4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

Nepali Temple is a 19th-century shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the oldest temples in the city. It was established by the King of Nepal and closely resembles the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. Its traditional architecture, built of stone, terracotta, and wood carvings, draws large numbers of visitors.

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 pilgrims. It is said that when Aurangzeb attacked the old temple, the temple priest threw the Shivalinga into the well and jumped in it to protect it.

8 km from city center

Temple

Tibetan Temple is a shrine built with striking Tibetan architecture, believed to be the site where Lord Buddha taught his disciples the four noble truths. The edifice has a statue of Shakyamuni, prayer wheels, and is decorated with traditional Buddhist paintings known as Thangka. A distinctive feature is the prayer wheels, which release strips of paper printed with chants when rotated clockwise.

4 km from city center

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, and brass idols of deities. The Gali is also well known for local snacks and sweets.

24 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Chunar Fort is an 11th-century fort notable for its history and architecture, with part of the fort extending along the rocky, uneven banks of the River Ganga. The fort has also been featured in the Bollywood film Gangs of Wasseypur.

4.3 /5

2 km from city center

Temple

Shri Batuk Bhairav Temple is dedicated to Batuk Bhairav, considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and is a place of worship for Aghoris and Tantriks. An interesting feature of the temple is the Akhand Deep, a lamp believed to have been burning continuously for ages; the oil from this lamp is said to have healing powers.

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.

9 km from city center

Amusement & Theme Park

Aqua World, on the Varanasi-Allahabad highway, is one of the city's popular water parks, with a range of rides and slides suited to a day out with family or friends.

9 km from city center

Temple

Chinese Temple is a colourful shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha, built in the Chinese Buddhist architectural style. The temple has a spacious meditation hall where visitors can meditate in silence.

4.3 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

Durga Temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga, built in the 18th century in Varanasi. It is known for its distinctive red colour and intricate architecture. Devotees visit throughout the year, especially during Navaratri, when the temple hosts 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.

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.

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 Deepawali, also known as the Diwali of the Gods, is a festival celebrated in Varanasi fifteen days after Diwali. The ghats are lit with thousands of lamps as part of the celebrations, drawing large crowds each year.

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 built according to the Indo-Islamic style with minarets and high domes.

Waterfall

Vindham Waterfalls is a waterfall in Mirzapur district, close to other attractions such as Tanda Falls and nearby caves and temples. It is a popular picnic spot in the region.

40 km from city center

Waterfall

Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall is located in Latifpur, Mirzapur district. It offers a quiet escape from the city and is especially popular among trekkers and adventure enthusiasts, with the falls reachable via a short trek through the hills.

45 km from city center

Waterfall

Devdari Waterfalls, in Chandauli district, is a spot with cascading water amid green surroundings. The falls drop from a height of about 58 metres and are a popular destination in the area.

Historical Site

Sita Samahit Sthal, in the Bhadohi district of Uttar Pradesh, around 54 km from Allahabad, is a Hindu temple and pilgrimage spot dedicated to Goddess Sita. It is believed to be the place where Sita descended into the earth, and holds both mythological and historical importance.

54 km from city center

Waterfall

Tanda Falls is a waterfall in Mirzapur district that offers a break from city life. The falls are especially active during the rainy season.

4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir was constructed in 1964 and is dedicated to Lord Rama, named after the saint-poet Tulsidas. It follows the Shikhara style of architecture and displays inscriptions from the Ramcharitmanas on its walls, along with carvings depicting episodes from the Ramayana on the upper storey.

6 km from city center

Landmark

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

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.

4 km from city center

Waterfront

Shivala Ghat is famous both religiously and historically, with a number of historic monuments around it, including the mansion of the King of Nepal, King Sanjay Vikram, and 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 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 view of River Ganga.

9 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

St Mary's Church is a 200-year-old church, the oldest in the city and the oldest standing garrison church in the southern part of Asia. It was established in 1810 by Reverend George Weatly and served as an important church for the European and British community residing in Varanasi.

4 km from city center

Yoga & Meditation

Yoga Training Centres at Varanasi teach Yoga involving the body, the mind and the spirit. The trainers are experienced professionals or Yoga Acharyas who guide students through postures and the underlying practice of Yoga.

5 km from city center

Amusement & Theme Park

Varanasi Fun City is one of the more popular water parks in the city, with a range of swings and a roller coaster alongside its water rides. It is suited to all age groups and has a food court on site.

46 km from city center

Waterfall

Rajdari Waterfalls is situated in Chandauli district and is a popular picnic spot among local residents. The falls cascade down the cliffs, and the top of the falls offers views of the valley below.

Waterfall

Mukkha Falls is a waterfall in the Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, close to the Lakhaniya Cave Paintings. The falls are best visited during the rainy season.

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Bandhavgarh National Park

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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

"India’s spiritual capital with Ganga ghats, temples, and centuries of rituals"

44 Places To Visit In Varanasi

1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

2. Swarved Mahamandir Dham

3. Ganga Aarti

4. Boat Ride in Varanasi

Varanasi Travel Packages

Ultimate Varanasi Tour in 2 days

5 Days Varanasi, Prayagraj & Ayodhya Tour

3 Day Tour of Varanasi with Mangala Aarti

Ultimate 8 Days Varanasi Prayagraj Ayodhya & Lucknow Tour Package

3-Day Varanasi and Prayagraj Tour

Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya: 3-Night Spiritual Pilgrimage Journey

5. Street Food In Varanasi

6. Ramnagar Fort

Top Hotels In Varanasi

7. Sarnath

8. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

9. Assi Ghat

10. Dashashwamedh Ghat

11. ISKCON Varanasi

12. Manikarnika Ghat

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Varanasi

13. New Vishwanath Temple, BHU

14. Shopping for Banarasi Sarees

15. Nepali Temple

16. Gyan Vapi Well

17. Tibetan Temple, Varanasi

18. Vishwanath Gali

19. Chunar Fort

20. Shri Batuk Bhairav Temple

21. Ganga Mahotsav, Varanasi

22. Aqua World

23. Chinese Temple

24. Shree Durga Mata Mandir Durgakund

25. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

26. Ramnagar Ramlila at Varanasi

27. Dev Deepawali

28. Alamgir Mosque

29. Vindham Waterfalls

30. Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall

31. Devdari Waterfall

32. Sita Samahit Sthal

33. Tanda Falls

34. Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir

35. Banaras Hindu University

36. Bharat Mata Mandir

37. Shivala Ghat

38. Kedar Ghat

39. Manmandir Ghat

40. St Mary's Church, Varanasi

41. Yoga, Varanasi

42. Varanasi Fun City

43. Rajdari Waterfalls

44. Mukkha Falls

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

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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