tourist spot near varanasi

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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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30 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Varanasi

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Kashi Vishwanath Temple / Golden Temple

#1 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated on the banks of River Ganga in Varanasi city of Uttar Pradesh. Popularly known as Golden Temple, it is one of the twelve jyotirlinga temples and also one of the popular places of Pilgrimage in India. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishwanath, one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva and he is regarded as the patron deity of Varanasi. The Vishwanath Jyotirlinga Temple at Varanasi has high religious significance and is the center of faith for millions of Hindus. The temple was visited by many great saints including Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda, Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, Goswami Tulsidas, Adi Shankaracharya and Gurunanak Dev. Lord Vishwanath is considered to the supreme origin of the spiritual truth and strengthens the bonds of universal brotherhood. It is believed that a single darshan of Vishweshwara Jyotirlinga is considered to auspicious more than .....

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Dasashwamedh Ghat

#2 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Dasashwamedh Ghat is a ghat on the banks of River Ganga in the holy town of Varanasi. Located close to Vishwanath Temple, Dasashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi and also one of the popular places to visit in Varanasi. The Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of the most important religious sites in Varanasi and is considered as the main ghat. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed his victorious Dasa_Ashwamedha (ten - horses) sacrifice in this spot, hence the name Dasashwamedh Ghat. Locals also believe that this ghat was built by Bajirao Peshwa I in 1740 AD. However, Ahilyabahi Holkar, the Queen of Indore rebuilt the ghat in the year 1774. Dotted with numerous temples and religious sites, the ghat possesses well laid steps and platforms for performing various rituals and religious activities. Dasashwamedh Ghat is famous for Ganga Aarti at each evening which attracts many devotees and is certainly once in a lifetime experience. .....

New Vishwanath Temple / Birla Temple

#3 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 12 km from Varanasi Junction, New Vishwanath Mandir is a Hindu temple situated in the premises of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the popular temples in Banaras and also one of the biggest tourist attractions in the holy city of Varanasi. Popularly called as Birla Temple, the temple was constructed by the famed Birla family. According to history, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya planned to replicate Sri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir in the campus of Banaras Hindu University and the Birla family undertook the construction. The foundation was laid in 1931and was finally completed in 1966. New Vishwanath Temple is having the similar structure of Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Built with marbles, the temple is designed by the founder of BHU, Sri Madan Mohan Malaviya. With a height of 253 feet, the temple has the tallest tower in the world. In fact, it is a temple complex which consists of 7 temples. The Shiva temple is situated .....

Durgakund Temple/ Durga Temple

#4 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 7 km from Varanasi Junction, Durga Mandir or Durgakund Temple is a prominent Hindu temple situated near Tulsi Manas Temple in Varanasi. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Banaras and also one of the must visit Varanasi Tourist Places. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, Durga Mandir was built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani. According to the legend, the idol in the temple is not made by man but appeared on its own. It is believed that Goddess Durga has protected Varanasi for many centuries from the South. The temple is known with the name of monkey temple as tourists can spot number of monkeys in the temple vicinity. The temple was built in Nagara style of architecture. The temple is painted red with ochre to match the colours of the central icon of Durga, the goddess of strength and power. The temple is made up of many small sikharas adjoined together. The temple is located on the banks of a rectangular tank, which is often called as the Durga .....

Tulsi Manas Mandir

#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. Tulsi Manas Mandir was built in the year 1964 by Seth Ratan Lal Sureka of Bandhaghat (Howrah). Named after saint Tulsidas, the temple has been precisely devoted to Lord Rama. This temple has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism since the ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas was originally written at this place by Hindu poet-saint, reformer and philosopher Goswami Tulsidas in the 16th century CE. The temple was constructed in white marble with beautiful landscaping all around. The walls of the temple are engraved with scenes from Ramcharitmanas, the Hindi version of Ramayana. The temple has beautiful images of the Ram, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman. There is an attractive Tulsi Garden which has very calm .....

Manikarnika Ghat

#6 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 1 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest ghats in Varanasi along the banks of River Ganga. Situated just beside Dasashwamedh Ghat, it is the main cremation ghat and also one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi. Popularly called as Mahasmasana, Manikarnika Ghat is one of two burning Ghats in Varanasi while the other one is Harishchandra Ghat. According to Hindu mythology, Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the place where the ear ornament worn by Sati fell down when Lord Shiva was carrying her to the Himalayas. Manikarnika Ghat is among the pivotal places of interest in Varanasi. According to the religious beliefs, burning the dead bodies at this ghat is a way to attain Moksha, the salvation. The ghat also houses a Shiva Durga Temple, which was constructed by Maharaja of Awadh in 1850. Apart from this, a sacred pond named Cakra-Pushkarini is also adorning this holy place. It is believed that this pond .....

Lalita Ghat & Nepali Temple

#7 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 1 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Lalita Ghat is one of the main ghats on the Ganges River in Varanasi. This ghat is one of the most venerated ghats of Kashi for the devotees and is also identified among the seven most prominent ghats of Varanasi by Varanasi Tourism Department. The ghat was built by King of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah in the early 19th century CE. 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 the blessings of the Goddess. Lalita Ghat is dotted with several Hindu temples. The well-known 'lingam' of Ganga Keshav and shrines of Gangatitya, Kashi Devi, Lalita Devi and Bhagirath Tirtha are affiliated to Lalita Ghat. Also known as Nepali Mandir, the Keshava temple was built by King of Nepal in typical Nepalese architecture. Also known as Kothwala Temple, thi is the replica of the famous Pashupatinath .....

#8 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 3 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 8 km from Varanasi Junction, Assi Ghat is one of the famous ghats on the banks of River Ganga in Varanasi. Situated at the confluence of Ganga and Assi Rivers, it is the southernmost ghat in Kashi and also one of the important Places to visit in Varanasi. Assi Ghat has numerous references in the early literature of the Hindus including Agni Purana, Matsya Purana, Padma Purana, Kurma Purana and Kashi Khand. According to the mythology, Goddess Durga had thrown her sword in Assi River after killing the demons Shumbha & Nishumbha. Assi Ghat is called as Assi Saimbeda Tirtha in Kashi Khand and is one of the five special ghats visited by pilgrims during the Panchtirtha Yatra. Also known as Asi Ghat, the Ghat is renowned for a large Shiva Lingam placed under a Peepal Tree. This place also boasts one more ancient temple enshrining a Shiva Lingam famously known as Asisangameshwar Lingam. This was also the place where the renowned saint .....

Ramnagar Fort

#9 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 14 km from Varanasi Junction, Ramnagar fort is a medieval fort located on the banks of River Ganges in Ramnagar area of Varanasi. Ramnagar Fort is one of the popular forts in Uttar Pradesh and among the best places to visit in Varanasi. Ramnagar Fort was constructed by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 18th century CE. This was the royal residence of Raja of Banaras, also known as Kashi Naresh. The fort represents typical Mughal style of architecture with carved balconies, open courtyards, and picturesque pavilions. Built with creamy-coloured Chunar sandstone, the fort houses a temple, a museum and the king's residential complex. The temple is dedicated to Ved Vyasa, the author of the Indian epic the Mahabharata. As per the legends, it is believed that Ved Vyasa resided within the fort for a short period. The fort still retains its charm and attracts tourists in large numbers. One can still witness the ornamented swords, photographs of tiger shoots and visits by the .....

Darbhanga Ghat

#10 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Darbhanga Ghat is located to the south of Dasashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. This ghat is one of the famous ghats in Varanasi and also one of the places to visit in Banaras. Situated between Dasashwamedh Ghat and Rana Mahal Ghat, Darbhanga Ghat was named after Darbhanga royal family. Darbhanga Ghat is used to perform the religious rites related to the demise of a loved one. The ghat is placed near a huge building, which offers view of religious ceremonies being performed in the ghat. Moreover, there is a beautiful temple along with huge Shiva Linga at this ghat. The premises of the ghat offer all kinds of facilities for performing religious rituals. One can also visit Chausatti Ghat which is located next to Darbhanga Ghat. There is a Chausath Yogini Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali. Many Hindus come to this temple during the new moon day of the month of Chaitra.

Chet Singh Ghat

#11 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 2 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Chet Singh Ghat is one of the popular ghats in Varanasi situated along the banks of River Ganga. It is relatively less crowded ghat and also one of the cleanest ghats in Varanasi. Situated between the popular Dasashwamedh & Assi Ghats, the Chet Singh Ghat is a historical fortified Ghat. The name of this ghat is derived from the Palace of Raja Chet Singh which is situated on the banks of Ganges here. This palace was the principal residence of Raja Chet Singh, the illegitimate son of Balwant Singh, the first Maharaja of Banaras. The ghat witnessed a fierce battle between the troops of Warren Hastings and Chet Singh in 1781 CE. Also known as Khirki Ghat, the ghat is now divided into four parts called as Chet Singh Ghat, Niranjani Ghat, Nirvani Ghat and Shivala Ghat. The ghat houses three Lord Shiva temples belonging to the 18th century AD. Till first half 20th century it was culturally quite important .....

Man Mandir Ghat

#12 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Man Mandir Ghat is a ghat on the banks of River Ganga in Varanasi. Situated just to the north of Dasashwamedh Ghat, it is one of the important ghats in Varanasi and also among the popular places to visit in Varanasi. Earlier known as Someswara Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat was built in 16th century CE by Raja Man Singh of Amer and was renamed after him. He also built a magnificent palace here and is known for its exquisite ornate window carvings. It is now maintained by Archaeological Survey of India. One can get a panoramic view of all the ghats of Varanasi from the terrace of this palace. An observatory, popularly called as Jantar Mantar, is established atop the Man Singh Palace in 1710 CE by Sawai Jai Singh II. Situated on the western bank of River Ganga, the ghat is dotted with many temples including Rameshwara Temple, Sthuladanta Vinayaka and Someswara temples. Someswara Temple is the exact replica of the Someshwara lingam in Somanath .....

Scindia Ghat

#13 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Scindia Ghat is one of the ghats along the banks of holy Ganges in Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh. Situated to the north of Manikarnika Ghat, it is one of the popular tourist attractions in Banaras and also counted among the must visit ghats of Varanasi. Also known as Shinde Ghat, the ghat is named after the Scindias, who built it in 1830. This ghat is highly revered by Hindus, as it is believed that Agni, the Hindu God of Fire, was born here. Scindia Ghat is famous for a partly submerged Shiva temple. Built by Baija Bai, the temple is over 150 year old and got submerged into the water due to the weight of the ghat. It is a common belief that the massive temple masonry continues to sink even to this date. Scindia Ghat is well known for early morning meditation because of its peaceful and clean environment. Many temples are found near the ghat. The ghat is styled with three rows of stone turrets. These turrets are mostly used for resting .....

Panchganga Ghat

#14 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 1.5 km from Manikarnika Ghat and 7 km from Varanasi Junction, Panchganga Ghat is another popular ghat along the banks of River Ganga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the cleanest ghats in Varanasi and among the popular Varanasi Tourist Places. Panchganga Ghat is called so because it is built at the confluence of five holy rivers - Ganga, Saraswati, Dhupapapa, Yamuna and Kirana. Out of these five only Ganga remains visible while the other four are believed to have disappeared in earth. There are five black stone idols residing here for the five river goddesses. Many devotees throng to this ghat in hopes of attaining blessings from these five goddesses. This ghat has lot of history. It is believed that Panchganga Ghat is also served as a teaching place for Vaidant Ramanand, the Guru of great saint Kabir. Further, it is also believed that the saint poet Tulsi Das composed the famous Vinay-Patrika here at this ghat. This ghat is popular for Alamgir .....

#15 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 8 km from Varanasi Junction, Tulsi Ghat is a prominent ghat situated between Assi Ghat and Chet Singh Ghat in the holy town of Varanasi. It is one of the most popular Varanasi Ghats and among the top places to experience Varanasi Tourism. Tulsi Ghat is named in honor of famous saint poet Tulsi Das. It is believed that the saint poet Tulsi Das had written the famous epic Ramcharitmanas at this ghat. Besides, it is also said that when the manuscript fell in the river, it was floated without sinking. Tulsi Das got motivated from the pristine Lord Ram temple located at the bank of the river Ganges. Many reminiscences of Tulsi Das are still available in this Ghat. It is believed that the first ever Ramlila (the story of Lord Rama's life) was staged at this ghat. Earlier called as Lolark Ghat, Tulsi Ghat was renovated and cemented by Baldeo Das Birla, the famous industrialist in 1941. Tulsi Ghat is associated with a number of important activities such as Dhrupad Mela .....

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir

#16 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 2 km from Assi Ghat and 8 km from Varanasi Junction, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a sacred temple on the banks of River Assi in Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh. Situated near Durgakund Temple, it is one of the holy temples in Kashi and also one of the top places to visit in Varanasi. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is one of the revered temples of Lord Hanuman in the city of Varanasi. The word Sankat Mochan means deliverer from troubles. Sankat Mochan Temple was founded by Tulsidas, author of the Ramcharitmanas. It was constructed in 1900s by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya (founder of BHU). It is believed that temple has been built at the very spot where the saint Tulsidas had a vision of Lord Hanuman. According to Vedic Astrology, Lord Hanuman protects his devotees from the anger of planet Saturn and those who have ill placed Saturn in their horoscope visit Sankat Mochan Temple to get remedy. The laddu offered at this temple is essentially famous among the locals. .....

Bharat Mata Mandir

#17 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 3 km from Varanasi Junction, Bharat Mata Mandir is fairly a new temple located at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth Campus in Varanasi city of Uttar Pradesh. Dedicated to Mother India, it claims to be the only one of its kind in the world and among the popular places to visit in Banaras. Bharat Mata Mandir was constructed in 1936 CE by freedom fighter Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta and was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. The temple is in the shape of pentagon with five pillars supporting the structure. Instead of traditional statues of gods and goddesses, this temple has a huge map of undivided India carved in marble. The map depicts the mountains, plains and oceans up to scale. This is a unique temple and a symbol of patriotism. This temple is placed itself in the settings of natural beauty overlooking the Ganges and its holy Ghats in Banaras. Timings: 9.30 AM - 8 PM

Kaal Bhairav Mandir

#18 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 1 km from Kashi Vishwanath Mandir and 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Kaal Bhairav Temple is a Hindu Temple situated at Vishweshwarganj area of Varanasi. It is one of the oldest temples in Varanasi and also one of the best Places to visit in Banaras. Dedicated to Lord Bhairav Naath, the temple has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism; especially amongst the locals. Bhairav is considered to as the fearsome manifestation of Lord Shiva who wears a garland of skulls and carries a club of peacock feathers. Lord Kaal Bhairav is believed to be the guardian deity of Varanasi and everyone who wants to live in Varanasi need to take his permission. He is also believed to be the Kotwal of 'Sati pind', without his permission no one can touch the 'Sati pind'. According to legend, Lord Bhairav was born from the Third eye of Lord Shiva and he is the symbol of Anger. He cut one of the heads of Brahma himself when ordered by Lord Shiva. Cutting off Brahma's fifth .....

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

#19 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 11 km from Varanasi Junction, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is an art and archeological museum located within the campus of Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. It is one of the oldest museums in India and also one of the important places to visit in Varanasi. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum was established in 1920 AD. From 1920 to 1962, the museum was shifted to several locations within Varanasi. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation of the existing museum building in 1950 and the museum was shifted to its existing location in 1962. Rabindranath Tagore was its first honorary chairman. However the full credit for its development and upgradation goes to late Rai Krishnadasa who was a renowned Hindi writer and a great pioneer. The museum holds more than 100,000 memorable collections of artifacts. These artifacts are displayed in different galleries namely Mahamana Malaviya Gallery, Nicholas Roerich Gallery, Chhavi or Painting Gallery, Sculpture Gallery, Nidhi or Treasure .....

Annapurna Devi Mandir

#20 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Annapurna Devi Mandir is a popular Hindu temple situated near Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Vishwanath Galli area of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Having great religious importance in Hinduism, it is one of the popular places to visit in Varanasi. The temple was constructed by Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao in 1729 AD. Having great religious importance in Hinduism, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna Devi, the Goddess of Food or the Goddess of Nourishment. It is believed that Goddess Parvati gave Alms to Shiva, and she is depicted with a bowl in one hand and ladle in the other, serving food to Shiva, standing in front of her with his begging bowl in the hand. Mata Annapurna is the Goddess of Varanasi who always protects Kashi and feeding her devotees. According to the legend, the entire world becomes dark when Mata Parvati closed all the three eyes of Lord Shiva. Due to this, Mata Parvati too lost her Gauri Rupa and asked Lord Shiva's .....

Jantar Mantar / Man Singh Observatory

#21 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 500 m from Sri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and 4 km from Varanasi Junction, Jantar Mantar is an observatory situated atop Man Mahal Palace near the famous Dashashwamedh ghat in Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the popular Varanasi Tourist Places. Jantar Mantar was constructed in 1737 CE by Jai Singh, the Maharaja of Jaipur. He was a great admirer of science and technology and he was particularly passionate about astronomy. Also known as Yantra Mandir, it was built in order to evaluate the exact time and altitude of the place, the declination of Sun, stars and planets and to determine eclipses. It was the replica of other observatories in New Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, and Mathura. Housing several masonry instruments to record the motion, speed and properties of stars, planets, and study astronomy, the building shows accurate results until now. The site is renowned for its multiple structures in various shapes that have their specialised function for astronomical .....

Sri Kasi Vishalakshi Devi Temple

#22 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 5 km from Varanasi Junction, Sri Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Mir Ghat on the banks of the Ganges at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. Situated near Kashi Vishwanath Mandir, it is among the popular temples in Banaras and also one of the must visit places in Varanasi. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi Devi, the divine form of Goddess Sati. This temple is one among the 51 Shakti Peethas, and is part of the famous triad of temples- Kanchi Kamakshi, Madurai Meenakshi and Kashi Vishalakshi. According to mythology, the earring of the goddess Sati has fallen on this holy spot of Varanasi. Another version says that this is a Shakti Peetha only because one of the three eyes of Goddess Sati (Akshi) fell here. As the divine eye can perceive the entire universe, Mother here is called Vishalakshi, the vast-eyed. Sri Vishalakshi Temple is built in South Indian architectural style. The Gopuram at the entrance has elaborate carvings and .....

Chunar Fort

#23 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 35 km from Mirzapur and 40 km from Varanasi, Chunar Fort is an ancient fort located at Chunar town in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh. Also known as Chandrakanta Chunargarh and Charanadri, it is one of the best places to visit near Varanasi. The Chunar Fort was established by Maharaja Vikramaditya, the King of Ujjain for his brother Raja Bhartihari. As per Alha Khand, King Sahadeo made this fort as his capital and renamed as Nainagarh in 1029 AD. Built and rebuilt several times, Chunar first came into prominence in 1177 AD, when Prithviraj Chauhan established his fort here. Later, the fort was ruled by Mughal ruler Babar in 1525 AD and then Sher Shah Suri took control over the fort in 1532 CE. In 1575 AD, Akbar recaptured this fort and then it passed to the nawabs of Awadh in the 18th century. Finally in 1772 AD, it was captured by the British and used it as a warehouse of weapons and missiles till India's independence. Bordered by River Ganga on two sides, .....

Vijaygarh Fort

#24 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 24 km from Robertsganj and 105 km from Varanasi, Vijaygarh Fort is a ruined fort located in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh. Situated south east to Maunukalana village on Robertsganj-Churk road, it is one of the famous historical forts in Uttar Pradesh and also one of the popular places to visit near Varanasi. This 5th-century Vijaygarh Fort was constructed by Kol kings. Over time, this fort came under the rule of Chandela kings of Agori Barhar. Later this fort was ruled by Sher Shah Suri and Balwant Singh. The fort was under Kashi King Chet Singh's rule until the arrival of British. The fort is said to be mesmeric and another fort is hidden under the fort called the fort of princess Chandrakanta. This elegant fort has also been pertinently described in the novel Chandrakanta by Babu Devkinandan Khatri along with Princess Chandrakanta. Vijaygarh Fort has both historical and archaeological importance. Some of the unique features of the fort include cave .....

Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary

#25 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 65 km from Varanasi Junction, Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve situated in Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh. It is under the control of Divisional Forest Officer, Kashi Wild Life Division with head quarter at Ram Nagar, Varanasi. Also known as Chandraprabha, this area was made a hunting reserve for the rulers of Benaras in the second half of the 18th century. Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1957. Asiatic lions were introduced at Chandra Prabha in 1958. The exercise was successful in the beginning, with the number of lions increasing from three to eleven by 1969. However, the following year the lions were found missing. Chandra Prabha Sanctuary is spread over an area of 78 sq.km and lies on the Naugarh and Vijaigarh hillocks on the north slope of the Kaimur Range. The Chandraprabha River, a tributary of the Ganges, flows through the sanctuary. A variety of wild animals are found at Chandra Prabha which .....

Harishchandra Ghat

#26 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 2 km from Assi Ghat and 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Harishchandra Ghat is a cremation ghat along the banks of holy Ganges in Kashi. It is one of the oldest Ghats of Varanasi and also one of the popular Varanasi Places to visit. Harishchandra Ghat is named after legendary King Harishchandra, who spent his life as a keeper of a crematorium. It is believed that the God rewarded him for his determination, charity, and truthfulness, by giving him back his dead son and his kingdom. Besides Manikarnika Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat is another important cremation ghat in Banaras and is sometimes referred as Adi Manikarnika. Hindus from distant places bring the dead bodies of their near and dear ones to this ghat for cremation. In Hindu mythology it is believed that a person whose last rights are performed here gets salvation or moksha. Housing the beautiful idols of Harishchandra, Vriddha Kedara and Adi Manikanteshwra, a beautiful temple stands on the side of ghat. This .....

Lakhaniya Dari Waterfalls

#27 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 35 km from Chunar & 54 km from Varanasi, Lakhaniya Dari is a breathtaking waterfall situated near Ahraura in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the marvelous waterfalls in Uttar Pradesh and also among the best Places to visit in Varanasi. Lakhaniya Dari waterfalls cascades down from a height of about 150 m into a pool. The falls looks more beautiful and magnificent during monsoon when it is in full strength. Waters of this fall are stored in Ahraura Dam which is used for irrigation purpose to surrounding village farms and fields. It is a picnic spot for families and a small adventure for trekkers. One needs to trek 2-3 km from the entry gate to reach the Main waterfall. Visitors need to cross huge rocks, rivulets, jungles etc. and it takes around one and half hours. It is a lonely place and very less people do trekking for the main waterfall, prefer going in groups only. Try to cover this place in day time only. Do carry your own food as there .....

#28 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 10 km from Varanasi, 135 km from Allahabad, 163 km from Aurangabad, 191 km from Gorakhpur, 233 km from Rewa, 244 km from Patna, 248 km from Gaya, 306 km from Lucknow, and 338 km from Kanpur, Sarnath is a revered Buddhist pilgrimage center located in the Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh. Situated at the confluence of Ganga and Varuna Rivers, it is one of the sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India and also one of the must include places in Varanasi Tour Packages. Also known as Ishipatna, and Mrigadaya, Sarnath is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage centers of India, the other three being Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, and Kushinagar. According to the legend, Lord Buddha after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya came to Sarnath and delivered his first sermon to his five disciples. Deer Park is the place where Buddha came to give his first sermon. Sarnath is also the place where the original Sangha was formed and a new order of religious doctrine (Dhamma) was ..... Distance (From Varanasi): 10 Kms Trip Duration (From Varanasi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#29 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 135 km from Gorakhpur, 140 km from Lucknow, 148 km from Raebareli, 168 km from Pragyaraj (Allahabad), 216 km from Varanasi, 224 km from Kanpur, 397 km from Patna, 470 km from Agra, and 670 km from Delhi, Ayodhya is a holy city situated on the banks of holy river Saryu in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is the administrative headquarters of Faizabad district and among the must-include places in Uttar Pradesh tour packages . Ayodhya or Awadh is the birthplace of the Hindu deity, Lord Ram Shri Ram, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu. This holy city has been regarded as the first one of the seven most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus, and among the top places to visit near Lucknow . It is believed that a temple stood at the supposed birth spot of Rama, which was demolished by the orders of the Mughal emperor Babur and a mosque erected in ..... Distance (From Varanasi): 216 Kms Trip Duration (From Varanasi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#30 of 30 Places to Visit in Varanasi

At a distance of 100 km from Sultanpur, 125 km from Varanasi, 168 km from Ayodhya, 200 km from Kanpur, 202 km from Lucknow, 242 km from Gorakhpur, 366 km from Patna, 525 km from Agra, and 721 km from Delhi, Allahabad, now officially known as Prayagraj, is a sacred city located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in India and among the must-include places in Uttar Pradesh tour packages . Also known as Illahabad and Prayag, Allahabad is one of the most religious cities for Hindus in India, and among the famous places to visit near Kanpur . It is believed to be the spot where Brahma offered his first sacrifice after creating the world hence the name Prayag or Prayagraj where Pra means 'first' and Yag means 'devotion'. Prayag also signifies Triveni Sangam, the confluence ..... Distance (From Varanasi): 125 Kms Trip Duration (From Varanasi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Varanasi

Winter season from October to March is the best time to visit Varanasi . Although it gets fairly cold during the winters, this is the best time when you can explore the holy city without getting tired. Better to avoid traveling to Varanasi during summer season because summers are dry, sunny and humid.

Varanasi usually requires at least 2 full days to visit the most important attractions. Varanasi can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Lucknow, Allahabad and Patna by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Varanasi trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Varanasi tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 4750 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7250 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Varanasi like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dasashwamedh Ghat, New Vishwanath Temple, Durgakund Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir, Manikarnika Ghat, Lalita Ghat & Nepali Temple, Assi Ghat, Ramnagar Fort and Sarnath.

Some of the famous thing to buy in Varanasi are Banarasi Silk Saris, Holy Water of Ganga, idols of Gods, Rudraksha Mala, Ramnami Cloth, Gulabi Minakari, Wooden Toys, etc.

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Kashi Vishwanath Temple

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1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

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. The main deity of Kashi Vishwanath Temple is Lord Shiva, also known as Vishwanatha or Vishweshwarar meaning 'the ruler of the universe'. The city of Varanasi, the cultural capital of India, is thus known as the city of Lord Shiva. The temple has 800 kg of gold plating on its tower.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

4 km from city center 2 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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 lamps and hymns.

3. Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

4 km from city center 3 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Ganga Aarti is an important ritual held on a grand scale every morning and evening on the banks of the holy Ganges. The priests perform the Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The entire Ghat gets illuminated with a divine light that can be felt strongly. The magnificent ritual involves huge brass lamps lit with oil and the priests chant the holy mantras that reverberate in the entire location.

4. Assi Ghat

5 km from city center 4 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

The Assi Ghat is placed at the confluence of the Rivers Assi and Ganga and is famous for the large Shiva Lingam installed under a peepal tree. It has immense religious importance and has been mentioned in the Puranas and various legends as well. Assi Ghat is the heart of Varanasi and the locals, as well as, the tourists flock there to enjoy the amazing view of the sunset and sunrise at the Ganges.

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Varanasi Holy Ganges Tour Package with Ganga Aarti

Experience varanasi tour package with sarnath, kashi yatra tour package, pilgrimage special package: varanasi, bodh gaya, allahabad, super saver delhi-agra-jaipur-varanasi tour package, buddhist pilgrimage tour: varanasi & bodhgaya, 5. sankat mochan hanuman temple.

4 km from city center 5 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

6. Ganga Mahotsav, Varanasi

6 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

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7. Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir

4 km from city center 7 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

8. Ramnagar Fort

7 km from city center 8 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

9. Vishwanath Gali

4 km from city center 9 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

10. New Vishwanath Temple, BHU

6 km from city center 10 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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. Banaras Hindu University is hence home to one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city of Varanasi.

11. Ramnagar Ramlila at Varanasi

11 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

12. Durga Temple, Varanasi

4 km from city center 12 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

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13. Banaras Hindu University

6 km from city center 13 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

14. Nepali temple

4 km from city center 14 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

15. Shivala Ghat

4 km from city center 15 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

16. Kedar Ghat

4 km from city center 16 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

17. Batuk Bhairav Mandir

2 km from city center 17 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

18. Gyan Vapi Well

4 km from city center 18 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

19. Bharat Mata Mandir

2 km from city center 19 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

20. Tibetan Temple, Varanasi

8 km from city center 20 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

21. Alamgir Mosque

4 km from city center 21 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

22. Manmandir Ghat

4 km from city center 22 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

23. ISKCON Varanasi

4 km from city center 23 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

24. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

6 km from city center 24 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

An archaeological and art museum, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum exhibits a beautiful collection of sculptures, artefacts, paintings, jewellery, pottery, textiles, etc. ranging between the 1st and the 15th century. The total artefacts on display are over 100,000 including their rare collection of miniature paintings and manuscripts.

25. Manikarnika Ghat

4 km from city center 25 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

Considered as a gateway to the next life, Manikarnika Ghat is a highly sacred riverfront in India. It is believed that spending the last few days of life at the Ghat and completing the rituals of cremation here ensure a painless passing and also a way to attain freedom from the endless cycle of birth and death.

26. Chunar Fort

24 km from city center 26 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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".

27. Chinese Temple

9 km from city center 27 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

28. St Mary's Church, Varanasi

9 km from city center 28 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

29. Yoga, Varanasi

4 km from city center 29 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

30. Varanasi Fun City

5 km from city center 30 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

31. Aqua World

9 km from city center 31 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

32. Vindham Waterfalls

32 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

33. Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall

40 km from city center 33 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

34. Rajdari Waterfalls

46 km from city center 34 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

35. Devdari Waterfall

45 km from city center 35 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

36. Mukkha Falls

36 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

37. Tanda Falls

54 km from city center 37 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

38. Sita Samahit Sthal

38 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

39. Street Food In Varanasi

39 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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 the locals of the city.

40. Boat Ride in Varanasi

2,286 km from city center 40 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

41. Dev Deepawali

7 km from city center 41 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

42. Swarved Mahamandir Dham

13 km from city center 42 out of 42 Places To Visit in Varanasi

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.

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• Places To Visit In Varanasi

Places to Visit in Varanasi

Situated on the banks of River Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is considered as one of the holiest cities, drawing tourists who seek spiritual awareness and liberation.

Things To See & Do

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Most popular ghat.

1 hour each in t...

Suggested Time

Manikarnika Ghat

A cremation ghat.

1 to 2 hours

Panchganga Ghat

Confluence of 5 rivers.

1 to 2 hours or ...

The Southernmost Ghat

Shivala Ghat

A calm ghat.

Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir

A sacred temple in varanasi, nepali museum, preserving nepali art and culture.

Ganga River

Soul of varanasi.

Vindham Waterfalls

Stunning natural marvel in varanasi.

2 to 3 hours

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of varanasi.

Gyan Vapi Well

Well of knowledge.

1 to 1.5 hours

Award-Winning Restaurant

Aadha-Aadha Cafe

A fusion cafe.

Kashi Chat Bhandar

Authentic street-food joint.

A Cozy Restaurant

Niyati Cafe

Pure vegetarian restaurant.

Shree Shivay

Indian thali specialist.

A Unique Restaurant

Visiting Ramnagar Fort

For uncovering history.

Morning Boat Rides

For exquisite vistas.

Exploring the Temples

For divine experiences.

Exploring Varanasi Market

For benarasi sarees.

1 to 1.5 hours, ...

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Temple in varanasi.

New Vishwanath Temple BHU

A magnificent shrine in varanasi.

Dhamekh Stupa Sarnath

A sacred buddhist relic in varanasi.

Revel in the Sacredness of Kedar Ghat

Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall

Lovely waterfall in varanasi .

Devdari Waterfall

Revel in the majestic beauty of the waterfall.

Durga Temple Varanasi

The divine abode of goddess durga.

Tulsi Manasa Temple

A sacred abode of lord rama.

Vishwanth Gali

A spiritual haven in varanasi.

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The spiritual haven of varanasi.

Sightseeing at Sarnath

For experiencing buddhism, best time to visit varanasi, ideal winter destination, peak season, moderate season.

• What To Expect : Pleasant weather. The temperatures stay within 5C and 15C.
• Things You'll Love : Temple hopping, colourful flowers in full bloom and the lush green surroundings.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Makar Sankranti January

Mahashivratri February

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Best places to visit in varanasi.

Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. It is well-known for its places to visit in Varanasi Uttar Pradesh , including ghats, ancient temples, winding alleyways, and a rich cultural legacy.

Tourist Places to Visit in Varanasi

Kashi vishwanath temple.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple was built in the 18th century by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. It has to be on the top of your list of places to visit in Varanasi in 1 day .

Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of Varanasi's oldest and most well-known places to visit in Varanasi . Every evening, priests execute a magnificent Aarti ritual.

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the city's oldest and most revered ghats. Those who are cremated here are said to be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation and achieve salvation. Thousands of people visit here as part of their places to visit in Varanasi .

Panchganga Ghat is called after the five holy rivers that are said to confluence here: the Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutapapa. It features prominently among the places to visit in Varanasi.

Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort is a historical fort on the eastern bank of the Ganga river and among the places to visit in Varanasi in 3 days . The 200-year-old Ramnagar Ramlila is one of the Ramnagar Fort's primary attractions.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

Summers are the off-season for places to visit in Varanasi . The extremely hot and dry weather conditions make it difficult to tour the city comfortably.

July to October are the monsoon months in places to visit in Varanasi . The heavy rains lead to high humidity.

Winters are the best time to tour Varanasi places to visit in and around the city. The season spans from the month of November to February.

Places to Visit in Varanasi with Family & Friends

Gyan Vapi well is a historical well inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The well is thought to be linked to the Ganga via an underground passage and is among the places to visit in Varanasi.

Varanasi Fun City

One of the best places to visit in Varanasi, the Varanasi water park is a popular spot for the local populace in the city. You can enjoy with your friends and family in the waterpark.

Sarnath Museum

It is the oldest archaeological museum in the country and houses Buddhist antique pieces from as early as the second century, including an Ashoka pillar.

Best Places in Varanasi for Couples

The Nehru park is a beautiful recreational park in the city that is perfect for couples among the places to visit in Varanasi . The park has luscious greenery with lots of different flora and fauna.

Dhamek Stupa

The stupa is where Buddha gave his first sermon. The place is filled with elaborate cravings and offers a quiet atmosphere among the places to visit in Varanasi .

Assi ghat is one of the biggest ghats and places to visit in Varanasi . Couples can enjoy boat and hot-air balloon rides as well as the daily talent shows.

Good Places to Visit at Night in Varanasi

Trishna pub.

It is one of the best pubs in the city for couples and friends to have a night out with good food and a great ambience.

Baati Chokha Restaurant

The restaurant has been serving people for the past 20 years with traditional vegetarian food. This is a must among the places to visit in Varanasi.

Aadha Aadha Cafe

This cafe is a cosy place with a wide variety available in cuisine. You can have a great dining experience thanks to the good food and ambience.

Best Places to Visit Near Varanasi

The city of Prayagraj is famous as the Triveni Sangam where the 3 most prominent rivers, Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, in Hinduism meet. It is among the top places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days .

Another one of the nearby places to visit in Varanasi is the town of Chandauli. It gets visitors all year that visit the Devdari falls, the fort, and the wildlife sanctuary.

Regarded as the birthplace of lord Ram, Ayodhya is one the most important pilgrimage sites in the world for Hindus. After you are done with places to visit in Varanasi, you can visit Ayodhya .

Varanasi has a distinct combination of old traditions and modern allure. It is a must-see trip for tourists looking for a real cultural experience, from enjoying a boat ride on the Ganga to exploring the small lanes of the old city.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Varanasi

What are the best places to visit in varanasi.

Varanasi has loads of places that you can visit on your vacation. Our recommendation of the best places to visit in Varanasi include - Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Panchganga Ghat. Apart from these, there are multiple other places to visit that you can explore if you are on a longer trip!

How is the weather of Varanasi in peak season?

The weather of Varanasi in peak season is pleasant weather. The temperatures stay within 5°C and 15°C. It means you can easily plan a trip to Varanasi in the months of ​​​​​​​​November, December, January and February to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

For which type of travelling is Varanasi a perfect destination?

Varanasi is a perfect destination for Pilgrimage themed holidays.

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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.

Must Read: Places to Visit in Goa in 3 Days

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 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 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

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 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

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

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.

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

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 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 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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Did you Enjoy this Varanasi Itinerary listing all the Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days?

If you liked reading this Varanasi itinerary listing down all the places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days then follow me on my social media handles   Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest to receive quick updates, see beautiful pictures of my travels and to be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!

What a great guide! Thanks for sharing it.

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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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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.

Top Experiences To Do in Kashi Vishwanath Temple

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

Top Experiences To Do in Dasaswamedh 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

Shivala Ghat

Monkey Temple (Durga Temple)

Best of Rishikesh

Chunar Fort

Tulsi Manas Temple

Ramnagar Fort & Museum

Alamgir Mosque

Godowlia Market

Chowk & Vishwanath Gali

Best of Haridwar

Man Mandir Observatory

The Banaras Silk Emporium

Manmandir Ghat

Darbhanga Ghat

Scindia Ghat

Best of Agra

Harishchandra Ghat

Lalita Ghat

Ahilyabai Ghat

Rana Mahal Ghat

Causatthi Ghat

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Best of Jhansi

Panchganga Ghat

Banaras Hindu University

Varanasi Fun City

Chaukhandi Stupa

Best of Lucknow

Batuk Bhairav Mandir

Ramnagar Ramleela

Bharat Mata Mandir

Nepali Temple

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

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

Best Time to Visit: Fridays

Best of Prayagraj (Allahabad)

Sita Samahit Sthal

St. Mary’S Church

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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

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

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

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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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How To Reach

• 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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// 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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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. 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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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 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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20 Best Places To Visit In Varanasi And Arounds

The best way to explain Varanasi in one word would be ‘sacred’ . The city is one of the colorful and ritual based destinations on the face of earth. This is one of the oldest inhabited cities, which is still in use. Hindus believe that the city was built and lived by the divinity, himself. The river, which flows through Varanasi is called River Ganges .

It is the holiest river for Hindus. Thus, many Ghats in Varanasi were built on either side of the river for specific purposes. Flaring rituals, godly ceremonies and the fragrance of incense sticks are iconic to Varanasi.

Are you looking for tour packages to visit Varanasi? Top suggested packages are

• 9 days Golden Triangle with Varanasi tour
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For more tour packages of Varanasi , click the link

1. Dashashwamedh Ghat

This is the icon ghat of Varanasi. This is the location of Ganga Arti, the most photographed ceremony of India. It is said that Lord Brahma created this ghat by sacrificing ten horses. By sunset, pilgrims flock this place to watch the arti ritual. Some even hire a boat to watch the ritual from the water. If you want to enjoy a clear view of the ritual, dine at any of the rooftop restaurants near the ghat. The ghat thrives with touristy business. The boat owners will lurk you into taking a Ganges boat ride, while the shop keepers try to make you tour their shops. You can also find some massage practitioners propagating their business in this ghat.

How to reach

From the airport, you can find cabs and autos to reach Godowlia. It is a market region of Varanasi. Beyond Godowlia, vehicles are not allowed. Tourists have to walk for ten minutes to reach Dashashwamedh ghat from the market.

Entrance fee

• No entrance fee is required.

Dashashwamedh Ghat Attractions

• Grand rituals, Ganga arti and other ceremonial activities.
• You can find numerous temples around the ghat
• Boating from the ghat or toward Dashashwamedh ghat is a major activity. Try to enjoy boating during sunrise or sunset. If you are up for some boating experience, it is best to visit Khidkiya Ghat for luxury cruise.
• Pilgrims and locals take a holy dip, early in the morning in this ghat to wash off their earthly sins.
• Special rituals take place near the ghat during every Tuesdays
• Pouring milk into the river from this ghat is considered to be a very holy act.

2. Assi Ghat

Located on the farther southern side of the river, this ghat is specifically chosen by tourists to worship Lord Shiva. Thus, it goes without saying that this ghat becomes very grand during any festival pertaining to Lord Shiva. It is a lively spot famous among tourists and pilgrims. Ganga Arti is performed in this ghat too. This is one of the biggest ghats of the region.

The ghat is 27 km away from the airport. You can find cabs, autos and other road transportation's to reach up to the Cantt bus station and hire rickshaw to reach Assi. You can also find e-rickshaw, auto and taxi from the bus stand to the ghat. The bus stand is just ten minutes away from the airport. If you do not have heavy luggage, you can walk to the bus stand.

• No entrance fee required.

Assi Ghat Attractions

• Finding boats to hire is easier in this region
• You can find many music and yoga sessions in this ghat, early in the morning
• You can find many entertainers and hawkers in this ghat during evening
• This is the right place for finding luxury hotels to stay.
• Visit the peepul tree near the ghat. People walk around the tree to worship the lingam under the tree.

Read More : How to Cover Varanasi Tour in One Day?

3. Manikarnika Ghat

Not everyone will consider this as a tourist spot. This is the cremation ground for Hindus. You can always spot glowing pyres in this region. Many earthen oil lamps will be left to flow on the river, as an offering. It is considered to be a sacred place on earth to be burnt to attain eternal salvation.

The ghat is about 28 km away from the airport and just 3 km from railway station. You can find buses and other road transportation from the airport to the ghat. It would not take more than 35 minutes to reach the ghat from the airport.

• No entrance fee. If you find someone asking for alms to cremate his/her loved ones, it might be a scam.

Manikarnika Ghat Attractions

• You might be a tourist on a well-earned vacation. This does not change the fact that the burning pyre is someone’s dear relative. Do not take pictures or create a touristy effect on the burning ground.
• The best way to scale the place is on a boat from Dashashwamedh Ghat to get a glimpse of the ceremonies in the ghat.

4. Scindia Ghat

This ghat is said to be the birthplace of Agni, the demigod of fire. Devotees visit this ghat to pray to Vireshwara for granting a heroic son. From the ghat, visit the Siddha Kshetra alley to find many hidden temples of Kashi.

How to reach from airport?

From the airport, you can find vehicles to reach Dashashwamedh Ghat. From the ghat, you can find many ferries to reach Scindia Ghat. In addition, the ghat is very closer to Manikarnika Ghat.

Scindia Ghat Attractions

• It is famous for a submerged Shiva temple, which was sunken into the water, due to the overweight of the ghat. It is continuously sinking and would soon be completely under water
• Visit the alleys near the ghat for visiting many unique temples
• Taking a holy dip in the ghat or meditation in the ghat is considered to be very auspicious

Also read : Things To Do In The City Of Ghats – Varanasi

5. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Do not confuse it with the New Vishwanath temple of Varanasi . This is one of the holiest Shiva temples on earth. It is also called as the golden temple of Varanasi. The temple was destroyed numerous times in the pasts by invaders and rulers. The current structure was built in 16 th century. The exact year of initial construction of the temple is unknown. The whereabouts of the temple were indicated in holy scripts, which are several centuries old. In 12 th century, the temple was first demolished. You can also find the mosque built by Aurangazeb, near the temple. The mosque was built after demolishing the temple.

According to the legends, during a dispute between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma, about who the mightiest was, Lord Shiva came up with an idea. He turned into a large column of light and announced that he who could find the end of the light will be the mightiest. After trying, Lord Vishnu admitted that he failed to find the end. On the other hand, Lord Brahma lied about finding the end of the light. He cursed him that he would not have any place of worship on land. The column of light pierced earth on 12 places. These 12 places are considered as jyotirlinga. One of those twelve places is the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

The Kashi Vishwanath temple is very close to Manikarnika ghat. From the airport, you can find cabs and other road transportation to reach the temple, with ease.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Attractions

• The main deity of the temple is 60 cm tall and is placed in a silver altar.
• There is a small well inside the temple called Jnana Vapi well. It is also called as the wisdom well. It is said that during an invasion, the head priest of the temple grabbed the deity and jumped into the well to safeguard the deity and sacrificed his life in the process.
• Five rituals take place every days. It is best to visit during a ritual to enjoy interesting activities.

6. Durga Temple

Durga temple is also called as the Monkey temple . Do not confuse it with the temple for Monkey God. This temple literally has huge number of monkeys in the complex. This is one of the reasons to why children would love to visit this place. Located near Durga Kund, this temple has an iconic red color. Built in 18 th century, this temple was commissioned by the queen of Bengal. The pond (Durga Kund) lies very close to the temple. On each corner of the pond, there is a watchtower to get a great view of the region.

From the airport, you can find various transportation to reach the temple. It is just 2 km away from BHU and 13 km from Cantt Varanasi. You can find autos, cabs and rickshaws to the temple, easily.

• No entrance fee

Durga Temple Attractions

• The deity of the temple is said to have appeared on its own. It was not made by human.
• If you visit during Navaratri, you can find numerous distinctive rituals and celebrations in this region.

7. Nepali Temple

Also called as Mini Khajuraho and Kanthwala Mandir, this is one of the oldest temples of Varanasi . This temple was built in 19 th century for Lord Shiva. The temple is unique as it is made with terraotta, wood and stone and, it is a replica of Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath Temple.

The temple is located in Lalita Ghat. It is around 3.8 km away the railway station. You can find buses and cabs from the airport to the temple, directly. If you are visiting Manikarnika Ghat, you can walk to the temple, which is 100 m away from the ghat.

Nepali Temple Attractions of the region

• Termite proof wood roof
• Temple is surrounded by peepal and tamarind trees
• All the statues are carved out of wood and are similar to that of the group of temples of Khajuraho

Are you planning to scale Varanasi along with Khajuraho?

• 7 days Khajuraho and Varanasi tour
• 10 days Golden triangle with North India temple

8. Bharat Mata Temple

This is the temple for Mother India . This is a unique temple, which is dedicated to a country. There are no deities in the temple and it does not represent any religion. It was constructed in 1936 and was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi.

This temple is located inside Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith complex. It is just 2 km away from the railway station. From the airport, you can either take a bus to the railway station and then hire an auto to reach the temple or, find a direct cab to the temple from the airport.

Bharat Mata Temple Attractions

• The entire structure is built with stone and the main attraction here is a large India 3D map, made with marble.
• The map of the temple shows the undivided India along with Pakistan.

Are you planning to scale more temples? View Pilgrimage Place In India

9. New Vishwanath Temple

This is the biggest attraction of the region. This temple is located inside BHU and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The tower of the temple is the tallest in the world. Built in 20 th century, this temple was inspired by the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

From the airport, you can find buses, cabs and autos to reach the gate of BHU. From the entrance, you need to scale the place on foot.

New Vishwanath Temple Attractions

• It contains 9 shrines including shrines for Shiva, Durga, Laksmi Narayan, Hanuman, Saraswati, Ganesh and others.
• The walls are made with marbles and the entire script of Bhagavad Gita is carved on the walls

10. Kalbhairav Temple

This temple is located close to Visheshar Ganj. The temple is open from 5 in the morning to 1:30 in the afternoon and from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm. According to legends, when the Vedas and sages declared Lord Shiva to be the greatest power of all, Lord Brahma became very arrogant and even laughed at the decision. Lord Shiva took the form of Kaal Bhairav and broke the fifth head of Brahma. Lord Shiva then mentioned that his new form, Kaal Bhairav will stay in Kashi (today’s Varanasi) forever to remove the sins from the world.

According to another legend, Lord Shiva took the form of Kaal Bhairav and broke the head of Lord Brahma. At that instant, he was affected by Brahma Hastiya sin (sin of hurting a Brahmin). The fifth head of Lord Brahma stuck to Lord Shiva’s hand. He roamed all around the universe with the severed head. When he reached Varanasi, the head dropped from his hand, indicating that his sins have been washed. Thus, Varanasi became the place for any sin to be washed.

You can find direct buses, cabs and autos from the airport to the temple. The temple can also be reached with ease from any part of the city.

Kalbhairav Temple Attractions

• Fierce form of Lord Shiva. The deity can be seen wearing a garland made of skulls and riding on a black dog.
• Anyone who wishes to live in Varanasi should take permission from this deity. Also, the locals planning on taking a long vacation trip or planning to relocate to a new place for career or other reasons ask permission from the deity, before doing so.

Also Read : Top 5 Hindu Temples in India

Suggested Tour : 2 Days - Varanasi Tour Itinerary

11. Mrityunjay Mahadev Mandir

This is one of the famous temples of Varanasi , famous for cultural and historic importance. The shrines inside this temple complex are more than thousand years old. The temple holds a shivalinga, which is said to cure chronic diseases. There is a small well in the temple. According to legends, Dhanvantari, the God of Medicine poured all his medicines into the well, giving it medicinal powers.

You can find direct buses to Gola Ghat. From the ghat, you can find cabs and autos to reach the temple. The temple is 2 km away from Gola Ghat and 1 km away from Pancha Ganga Ghat. You can also find autos and cabs from railway station and airport, directly to the temple.

Mrityunjay Mahadev Mandir Attractions

• The temple is famous for its serene environment and interesting rituals.
• After every ritual, water from the medicinal well is sprinkled on the devotees. This is the main attraction of the temple, which makes thousands of tourists and pilgrims to visit the temple.

12. Tulsi Manas Mandir

This temple was built in 20 th century and is dedicated to Lord Ram . The temple was built at the exact spot where Saint Goswami Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitamansa in 16 th century. The temple is open from 5:30 in the morning to 12 at noon and from 3:30 in the evening to 9 in the evening. On the right side of the temple, you will find a lush tulsi (holy basil) garden. In the garden, you will find a small statue of Tulsidas. On the left to the temple, there is a serene pond with four ghats. On the four ghats, you can find numerous statues pertaining to the Hindu Epic. On the northern ghat, you will find Shri Kakbhushundi ji statue . Shri Yagwalkaji Maharaj statue is found on the southern bank, Shri Ashuthosh Shankar statue on the eastern bank and Goswai Tulsidas statue on the western bank.

From the airport, you can find auto, taxi or rickshaw to reach the temple. Alternatively, walk to the bus stand from the airport and hire a bus. You can easily find transportation from any part of Varanasi to the temple.

Tulsi Manas Mandir Attractions

• The second floor of this temple holds numerous paintings and statues of Hindu legends and scenes from numerous epics.
• There is a big hall in the temple complex with three shrines in it.
• You can find statues of all the important characters of Ramayan.
• The marble walls of the temple has engravings of the epic

Also read : Holy City, Varanasi Travel Guide – Visitor Information and Tips

13. Saraswati Bhawan

This is the museum located inside the Ramnagar Fort. This museum is located in the Public Audience Hall of Ram Nagar Fort. The museum holds unique collections of American vintage automobiles, ivory works, royal palanquins, medieval royal costumes, elephant saddles made of silver, Varanasi silk articles and others. The armor hall holds ancient swords, guns of Africa, old matchlocks, daggers, musical instruments and a rare astronomical clock. In addition, you can find many ancient and unique manuscripts, miniature paintings, books and much more.

You can find various styles of transportation from the airport to Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can de-board the vehicle near the market and walk to the ghat. From the ghat, hire ferryboats to reach the fort.

• There is no entrance fee to enter the fort. Cost of entering the museum is INR 20 per head for Indians and INR 150 per head for foreigner.

Saraswati Bhawan Attractions

• Visit during Dusshera or Raj Mangal festival to enjoy a unique time
• Once outside the fort, try out lassi in any of the street shop. It is a local drink made with curd, cardamom and sugar.

Suggested Tour : 3 Days - Varanasi Tour

14. Ram Nagar Fort

The Fortification in Ramnagar of Varanasi is called Ramnagar Fort or Ram Nagar Fort . It is located on the eastern bank of Ganga , opposite to Tulsi Ghat. This 18 th century sandstone structure has fallen prey to the passage of time and wear-and-tear. In the past, it was the home to the ruler of Kashi.

From the airport, reach Dashashwamedh Ghat and take a ferry ride to the museum. It would take one hour to reach the fort from the ghat. On the other hand, you can also find boats from Tulsi Ghat. However, reaching Dashashwamedh Ghat and finding a ferry is the most common option by many tourists.

• Cost of entering the fort via Pontoon bridge – INR 200
• Cost of entering the fort from Dashashwamedh Ghat – INR 500
• No entrance fee for the fort

Ram Nagar Fort Attractions

• Best place to watch Ram Lila festival. During the festival, the royal antiques and weapons are displayed to the locals.
• The king visits the fort during this festival on a decorated elephant.
• Explore the fort to spot many palaces, halls, reception rooms, towers and others.

15. Chunar Fort

Chunar Fort is located 23 km away from Varanasi. It is located in Mirzapur district and is famous for its historic importance and legend stories. The fort is located on the banks of the River Ganges. The fort is said to be built in 11 th century. The fort also has a spooky supernatural history too.

You can find buses, cabs and other road transportations from the airport. Chunar is also connected to other cities via rail route and road route.

Chunar Fort Attractions

• The northeastern region of the fort holds many cannons. You can find gunpowder magazines too, in this region.
• The oriel windows of this fort are very similar to that of the windows of Agra Fort.
• You can find a hospital, prison and Governor House inside the complex.
• The engravings on the Pavilion near the gate is said to be made with gold.
• There is a stone slab near a peepal tree in the fort. It is said that the divine power stays on the stone for nine powers a day and the rest in Varanasi.

Also Read : Monuments in Varanasi

16. Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum

This is an archaeology and art museum located inside the BHU of Varanasi. This museum is focused on showcasing art and antique of the land. The museum was established in 1920 and was shifted to several locations before reaching BHU in 1962. Mahatma Gandhi visited this museum thrice during his lifetime.

• Indian visitor – INR 5 per head for all the sections except Nidhi Gallery. Entry fee of Nidhi gallery is INR 5 (in addition to entrance fee)
• Foreign visitor – INR 40 for the entire museum
• Camera – INR 10

Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum A ttractions

• Buddhism and Hindu sculptures, artifacts, pictures and manuscripts
• Miniature painting of Mughals
• Statues and contemporary art work from 1 st century to 5 th
• Miniature paintings of Pahari, Gujarati and Rajasthani style

Also Read : 10 Most Interesting and Unique Museums to Visit in India

17. Man Mandir Observatory

In 15 th century, Sawai Man Singh of Amber built a magnificent palace named Man Singh Palace. In 19 th century, a Hindu observatory was built by Sawai Jai Singh. He was well versed in mathematics and astronomy . He created numerous instruments to calculate the position of the heavenly bodies.

From Lal Bahadur Shastri International airport,reach Dashashwamedh Ghat. From the ghat, a narrow lane will lead you to the palace. In addition, the vehicles will not reach beyond the market. Thus, you need to walk on foot for 15 minutes to reach the ghat.

Man Mandir Observatory Attractions

• Mural Quadrant
• Samrata Yantra – measures the meridian, declination of heavenly bodies and others
• Laghu Samrata Yantra
• And many other instruments

18. Alamgir Mosque

Aurangzeb's mosque or the Alamgir mosque is the 17 th century mosque was built after destroying a Vishnu temple, in that location. Other religious tourists are not allowed to visit the mosque. It is built with a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture.

From the airport, you can find many buses, cabs and autos to reach Panch Ganges Ghat. From the ghat, you need to climb a few steps to reach the mosque.

• Only Muslims can enter the mosque

Alamgir Mosque Attractions

• Famous for domes and minarets
• Bamboo staff lamps are lit in October
• The place where the mosque is located is the point where five streams join together

Also Read : 10 Most Famous Mosques in India

19. Godowlia Market

Godowlia Market is one of the busiest shopping destinations of Varanasi. You can find seas of shops selling unique and common items. Top items to buy here are Benaras silk, deity statues, ritual items, musical instrument, jewelry, textiles, accessories and others.

From the airport, you can find numerous buses, cabs and autos to reach the entrance of the market. Once inside the market, you need to scale the market on foot.

Godowlia Market Attractions

You can find numerous shops of varying genre in this market. You can also find street vendors selling delicacies in the evening. Before shopping, read best things to buy in Varanasi to shop better and wisely.

Must Read : 15 Best Things to Buy in Varanasi

20. Sarnath

Located 10 km away from Varanasi, Sarnath is a destination for Buddhist pilgrimage. This is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. In addition, Sarnath is the birthplace of the 11 th Tirthankara. Thus, it is of religious importance for Jains too.

You can find daily trains from Varanasi to Sarnath. It would take one hour to reach Varanasi from Sarnath via train. The railway station is just one kilometer away from the Lal Bahadur Shastri International airport. You can also find cabs and buses from various parts of the city to Sarnath.

• The museums and deer park have entrance fee. All the temples and other religious sites are free of cost to enter.

Sarnath Attractions

• Thai temple of Sarnath is famous for the exclusive gardens and architectural style.
• Chukhandi Stupa of 5 th century is the place where Lord Buddha had his first meeting with his disciples.
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is famous for frescoes, art works and others.
• Tibetan temple is famous for the architecture, Tibetan styled Buddhist paintings, frescoes and others. It holds the Shakyamuni statue.
• Visit the Archaeological and excavation area of Sarnath to spot ruins of monasteries and other ancient buildings.
• Dhammek Stupa is a Maurya Dynasty structure, which is famous among pilgrims
• Ashoka Pillar, the emblem of India is found in Sarnath.
• Visit the deer park, if you are visiting with your kids

Are you up for a Buddhist pilgrimage? Travelogy India has the right package for you.

• 14 days Buddhist tour with Nepal and India

Read our exclusive blog Touring from Varanasi to Bodhgaya to enjoy a perfect Buddhist pilgrimage during your next visit.

Are you ready to visit India to enjoy Varanasi? There are numerous way to scale the place. Read India Tourist Visa- A Complete Guide to start the first stage of vacation planning, by getting a tourist visa. With special pilgrimage train to Varanasi, you can also add Varanasi as an add-on destination to your already planned vacation too .

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8 Places to Visit in Varanasi + Things To Do

Varanasi is a city in Uttar Pradesh that is situated in the heart of the Ganges valley in the state’s southeast.

One of the oldest cities still in existence is Varanasi, also known as Benaras or Kashi.  Varanasi has long been a significant centre of study since Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first speech upon enlightenment, is only 10 miles distant. Sanskrit, yoga, the Hindi language, spiritualism, and mysticism are all promoted in the sacred city. There are about 23,000 Hindu and Buddhist temples in Varanasi, many of which have a long history and are incorporated into Hindu mythology. The experience of visiting a temple during Mahashivratri, Diwali, or Dusshera is much more divine since worshippers might see unusual and captivating rites performed.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

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1. Ganges River

Location : Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India . Save on Google Maps .

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2. See the Ghats

3. New Vishwanath Temple

Location : Banaras Hindu University Campus, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India . Save on Google Maps .

4. Ramnagar Fort & Museum

Location : Varanasi Rd, Purana, Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh 221008, India . Save on Google Maps .

5. Durga Mandir, Ram Nagar

Location : Ramnagar Fort, Ram nagar, Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh 221008, India . Save on Google Maps .

6. Benaras Hindu University

Location : Ajagara, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India . Save on Google Maps .

7. Silk Weaving factory

Location : Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007, India . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go beyond Varanasi

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What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Varanasi that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Varanasi

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Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Varanasi

Click below & search recommended Varanasi hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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19 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi 2024: ✔Location, Timings

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Varanasi > 19 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi 2024: ✔Location, Timings

For a middle-aged person living in India, visiting Varanasi at some point in his/her life is almost a given. The reason being the storied history and religious significance of the place as well as the architecture and art that has forever preserved the past her. Touted as one of the holiest cities in India, it has loads of temples and ghats that host endless lines of pilgrims from all over the country. Of course, it only adds to the holiness of the fact that river Ganga passes through Varanasi! There is clearly no shortage of places to visit in Varanasi, and this is just a short list of the top 9 that you should not miss out on if you find yourself in the land of mysticism.

Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2024

1. kashi vishwanath temple, varanasi.

Many people see it as the foremost temple to visit in Varanasi, and some consider it the most significant temple in the entire country. The story of Kashi Vishwanath Temple is as old as over three thousand and five hundred years, which is an astounding amount of time. So much has happened in and around it that it is hard to not feel overwhelmed when visiting it. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas that are Shivalingas that are the physical symbols of Lord Shiva. The spires and domes of the shrine are completely covered in gold. The then ruler of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was responsible for that, as covering temple domes in gold is a Punjabi tradition, as demonstrated in the Golden Temple. Many devotees believe that a single glimpse of the Shivalinga cleanses your soul and puts life on a path of knowledge.

• Timings: 2:30 AM to 11:00 PM
• Mangal Aarti: 2:30 AM
• Bhog Aarti: 11:30 AM to 12:00 pm
• Sapta Rishi Aarti: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (darshan not allowed)
• Shringar/Bhog Aarti: 9:00 PM (only outside darshan allowed)
• Shayana Aarti: 10:30 PM

Explore recommended places to stay in Varanasi at best price

2. Durga Temple, Varanasi

Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this temple is a symbol of feminine divinity. The deity present in this temple is believed to have materialised out of thin air and was not made by any man. Another badge of feminism for this temple is that it was actually commissioned by a woman. The Maharani of Bengal was responsible for its making and it was according to her wishes that it was constructed in the Nagara style of architecture. But, the most interesting fact about this temple is perhaps the fact that it is visited by several monkeys every day. In fact, there are so many monkeys here that it is often called ‘Monkey Temple’. So, beware of those mischievous apes when visiting here!

• Timings: 5:00 AM- 9:00 PM

YOU CAN ALSO VISIT: Ram Mandir Ayodhya

3. bharat mata temple, varanasi.

Being dedicated to the country itself, it is one of the rarest temples in the country. India is famous for its millions of temples and nationalist spirit, but there are very few places that commemorate the country itself. And since this is such a rare temple, it is visited by almost everyone who comes to Varanasi. Situated within the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith campus, it was inaugurated by Gandhi himself in 1936. It was supposed to be an inspiring beacon of love and hope for all that were fighting against the British. Instead of a statue of a deity that looks like a human, this temple’s statue is that of mountains, plains and oceans.

• Timings : 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM

4. Alamgir Mosque, Varanasi

On a list filled with temples, Alamgir mosque stands proudly as a representation of Muslims who have lived here for centuries. Famed for its incredible Islamic architecture, this mosque is unique in the fact that it is located at the banks of the Ganga. It is believed that the Mughal Sultan Aurangzeb who was the great-grandchild of Akbar, constructed it. Another name for emperor Aurangzeb was Alamgir, which is why this mosque is called as such. Historically, it has been noted that Aurangzeb was responsible for the demolishment of a temple to construct the mosque. But still, the mosque retained many Hindu influences as can be seen in its unique architecture and art.

• Timings : 7:00 AM- 7:00 PM

5. Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi

This particular ghat is believed to be the oldest one in the city, and is hence considered special. If you have seen video footages of people bathing in Ganga and praying with diyas in their hand on the banks of a river, odds are that it was this ghat you saw. It is often abuzz because of the hordes of people who flock to it to wash away their sins and pray. Ascetics, Hindu devotees and tourists alike all alight on the banks of the Ganga at Dashashwamedh Ghat on a daily basis. Being such an important landmark and host to the famous Ganga aarti, it is a must-visit on any trip to Varanasi !

• Aarti Timings: 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM (summers); 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM (winters)

6. Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi

This ghat is again quite significant among Hindus as it is the main cremation ghat in the city. People who have died often get cremated here, in the belief that they attain moksha. There is a myth that says Devi Parvati’s ear ornament fell at the exact spot of this ghat when Lord Shiva came here with her. Although the atmosphere is rather grim here most days, it is still a very historical place to visit if you are in Varanasi. Also, referred to as the burning ghat, it is certainly an important part of Varanasi, just as death is to life!  

• Timings: Open throughout the day

7. Assi Ghat, Varanasi

Assi Ghat is believed to be the place where the legendary poet Tulsidas passed away. The southernmost ghat in the region, it is among the most popular with tourists.  On an average day about 300 people visit it per hour, but during festival days that number can be as high as 2500 people. When here, you can go on a leisurely boat ride on the river or even a hot air balloon excursion! Devotees bathe here before conducting rituals as the water of the river is said to purity their soul, preparing them for the task.

• Timings : Open throughout the day

8. Manmandir Ghat, Varanasi

It was commissioned to by Raja Man Singh in the early 1600s. He had a large stone balcony built on the northern corner of the ghat so he could sit there and enjoy the serenity. Compared to other ghats, this ghat has a lower footfall which makes it an excellent place to spend a day at. Located just north of Dashashwamedh ghat, it is a great spot for observing the Ganga  flow peacefully. Another great reason to visit this ghat is its closeness to several prominent temples, so you can cover numerous places in one go. Some of the closest temples are Someshwar Temple, Rameshwar Temple and Sthuladanta Vinayaka.

• Timings : Open throughout the day.

9. Gyan Vapi Well, Varanasi

The name of this well means the well of wisdom, which is exactly what is believed about the water of this well. It is said to possess wisdom in its water and people who drink from it are benefited by it. Whether you are superstitious or not, there is some interesting history regarding this legendary well. It is believed that the Jyotirlinga that was removed from the old Kashi Vishwanath Temple that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb destroyed is at the bottom of this well. It has been there since the 17 th century when the old temple was demolished to build the mosque adjacent to the well. Apart from the mythical aspect of this place, the architecture and art expressed in its construction also make it worth visiting!

10. Ramnagar Fort, Varanasi

Located across the Ganga River from Tulsi Ghat, it was built out of sandstone in AD 1750 on the orders of Raja Balwant Singh, the king of Banaras at the time. He and his descendants have lived in that fort for centuries now. In 1971, the position of an official king was abolished by the government, but still Pelu Bhiru Singh, is commonly referred to as the Maharaja of Varanasi. Even though it was built by Hindu kings, it is a testament to the diversity of the region that it was built in the Mughal architectural style. It houses Veda Vyasa Temple, the king’s living quarters, and a museum dedicated to regional history.

• Timings :  10:00 AM to 5:00  PM
• Entry Fee : ₹ 20

11. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi

Situated near the River Assi, this beautiful temple was built by a freedom fighter named Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya. Shrines for both Lord Ram and Hanuman can be found inside the temple. Be wary of the monkeys surrounding the area.

• Location: Bhogabeer Colony
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM

12. Tulsi Manasa Temple, Varanasi

Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is among the most popular visited places in Varanasi . Legend says that Sage Tulsidas wrote the popular Ramcharitmanas in this very place. 

• Location: Sankat Mochan Rd
• Timings: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

13. Tibetan Temple, Varanasi

Amidst all the Hindu temples and ashrams, the Tibetan Temple also is one of the major tourist attractions in Varanasi . This temple is built in authentic Tibetan architecture and is complete with a peaceful inner sanctum and a prayer wheel decorated with Thangka paintings.

• Location: Sarnath

14. Nepali Temple, Varanasi

The Nepali temple is a unique tourist place in Varanasi . Built sometime in the 19 th century, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and looks very similar to the popular Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. 

• Location: Near Lalita Ghat
• Timings: Open 24 hours

15. Batuk Bhairav Mandir, Varanasi

The Batuk Bhairav Mandir is the place to go to find Aghoris in their worship space. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Akhand Deep here never dies and is said to have been burning for ages together.

• Location: Gurubagh, Bhelupur
• Timings: 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM

16. Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi

With about 30,000 students inside the campus, the Banaras Hindu University falls in the list of the biggest residential institutions in the world. The beautiful buildings and sprawling lawns will make you fall in love with this iconic, educational institution.

• Location: Ajagara

17. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, Varanasi

The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum has over 1 lakh artefacts on display and is very popular for its collection of miniature manuscripts and paintings. If you are a history lover, then you should not miss out on a visit to this famous place in Varanasi .

• Location: Semi Circle Road, Varanasi
• Timings: Monday to Saturday 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM

18. Vishwanath Street, Varanasi

Looking to shop in Varanasi? Head over to the iconic Vishwanath Gali (street). This narrow street is filled with shops of all kinds and you can buy antiques, brass idols, photos, and idols of gods and goddesses ad apparel here.

• Location: Godowlia

19. St. Mary’s Church, Varanasi

The St. Mary’s Church is the oldest in the city and was built more than 200 years ago. This beautiful church is all decked up during Christian festivals and is crowded during the weekends.

• Location : Near JHV Mall

As far as hallowed ground goes, Varanasi is one of the most significant in India. And that’s saying a lot, with India being dotted with temples and holy places. Hindu mythology has spanned the course of several millennia, and for any place to be considered as holy as Varanasi, there has to be ample history attached to it. There is no shortage of tourist places in Varanasi map, which makes it more than worth a visit if you are interested in the culture, tradition, art, and history of India! So, the next time you book a hotel in Varanasi , you know what attractions to visit.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Varanasi:

Q: During which time of the year can I plan a trip to Varanasi?

A: Varanasi experiences a subtropical climate; the summers are extremely hot here and the monsoons are soaking wet. Thus, the best time to visit Varanasi is during the autumn, winter and spring seasons, i.e. between the months of October and March.

Q: How to reach Varanasi?

A: The easiest way to reach Varanasi is taking a train to Varanasi Junction or Manduadih Junction. Varanasi's Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport operates direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Goa, Jaipur and many other cities in India as well as abroad.

Q: What are the must-see places in Varanasi?

A: When in Varanasi, it is a must to pay a visit to its glorious ghats and grand temples including Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple, among other attractions.

Q: What are some must-have experiences in Varanasi?

A: Besides exploring its ghats and temples, you must witness the Ganga aarti hosted at Dashashwamedh Ghat every evening and enjoy boating on the river.

Q: What to shop for in Varanasi and from where?

A: There are many local shopping places in Varanasi like Godowlia Market, Vishwanath Lane and Thatheri Bazaar from where you can buy Banarasi sarees, brocade, religious items, handicrafts and different knickknacks.

Q: Suggest some good places to enjoy street food of Varanasi.

A: Kashi Chaat Bhandar and Deena Chaat Bhandar in Godaulia and Chachi Ki Kachori in Lanka are the best places to enjoy authentic street food delicacies of Varanasi like tamatar ki chaat, kachori sabzi, tikki chhole, gol gappe and chhena dahi vada, among others.

Q: Where can I go for dining in Varanasi?

A: Among the best restaurants in Varanasi are Sri Annapurna Restaurant, Canton Royale, Baati Chokha, Aum Cafe, Aadha-Aadha Café, Hotel Kalika, Tandoor Villa, Zaika, Mangi Ferra Café, Itihaas Alley Kitchen, India City, Chrystal Bowl, I:BA, Pizzeria Vaatika Café and Dolphin Restaurant.

Q: Are there any good places near Varanasi for a one-day trip?

A: During your visit to Varanasi, do pay a visit to Sarnath (10 km) that holds immense significance for Buddhist pilgrims and is famous for its many stupas and temples. You can also explore Allahabad, located about 130 km away from the city.

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33 best places to visit in varanasi, uttar pradesh.

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

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

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

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 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

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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• Ipl Awesome Spots Near Narendra Modi Stadium In Ahmedabad

IPL 2024: 6 Awesome Spots Near Narendra Modi Stadium In Ahmedabad

Kumar Utkarsh Updated: Mar 24, 2024 1:43 PM IST

Plan Your IPL 2024 Trip: 6 Fantastic Places Near Narendra Modi Stadium

Excitement is building for IPL 2024, and matches will be played at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium (NMS), also known as Motera Stadium, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The largest cricket stadium in the world, NMS has a seating capacity of 132,000 spectators.

As fans from across India and beyond flock to watch their favorite team and players battle it out at NMS, several interesting places and attractions around the grounds are worth visiting. Here are six must-visit spots situated a short distance from Motera Stadium:

1. Sabarmati Ashram

Situated on the banks of the Sabarmati River, this ashram was one of Mahatma Gandhi's residences between 1917 to 1930. He developed it into a center that helped India during its struggle for independence. The ashram now houses a museum with artifacts that show Gandhi's life as well as relics connected to India's freedom fight. To learn more about one of the most influential individuals of the last century, spend an afternoon here reflecting on his philosophies.

Distance from NMS: Approximately 9 km

2. Kankaria Lake

Originally built by Sultan Qutb-ud-Din in the 15th century, Kankaria Lake is one of Ahmedabad's biggest lakes. It's circular with a lush garden surrounding it making for a great stroll around its perimeter or a boat ride across its waters. You can also find a nearby zoo, toy train park for kids and many food stalls to satisfy your hunger while exploring this man-made lake and all it offers. During December and January every year there's even a week-long festival called Kankaria Carnival that sees lighting installations all along its shorefront as well as cultural programs.

Distance from NMS: Approximately 18 km

Ideal visit duration: 2-4 hours

3. Adalaj Stepwell

Stepwells are a unique feature in Indian architecture, found mostly in the Gujarat and Rajasthan states. Built by Queen Rudadevi in 1499, the Adalaj Stepwell is one of the best examples of this type of construction. It consists of five stories and as you descend its 30 meters down to the bottom you can admire the intricate carvings on each level. The octagonal shaped well at the very bottom is also a sight to behold! Come early in the morning to catch the sunlight coming through and creating fascinating shadow patterns.

Distance from NMS: Approximately 19 km

Ideal visit duration: 1 hour

4. Calico Museum of Textiles

Ahmedabad has been India's textile hub for centuries, and its textile museums attract countless art enthusiasts each year. Housed inside Odhav Haveli, Calico Museum boasts an impressive collection of antique and modern textiles from all across India. Get ready to see beautiful fabrics, dress materials, religious tapestries and costumes as you walk through their exhibits which showcase specific techniques like tie-dyeing, block printing as well as hand-woven styles that have made Ahmedabad a textile powerhouse for so long.

Distance from NMS: Approximately 7 km

Ideal visit duration: 1-2 hours

5. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque

The Sidi Saiyyed Mosque is an Indo-Islamic architectural wonder. Built in the 16th century, it boasts elaborate stone latticework windows (jalis) on its side and rear arches. The tree of life motif carved into the semicircular window is so delicate and detailed that it almost looks like fine lace rather than stone. Catching the play of light through the jali in the late afternoon is a must-do for any visitor to Ahmedabad. It's become one of the city's unofficial symbols.

Distance from NMS: Approx. 11 km

Ideal visit duration: 30 min - 1 hour

6. Sabarmati Riverfront

A stretch of 11 km along Sabarmati river in central Ahmedabad has been transformed into a waterfront with parks, walking paths, cultural attractions and eateries. Stroll or boat ride, catch the Light and Sound show in evenings, or grab a meal with river views at one of many restaurants lined up along this serene waterfront. Key attractions include Dandi Bridge, Flower Park and Atal Bridge.

Distance from NMS: Approx. 12 km

Ideal visit duration: 1-3 hours

These are just a few attractions located near Narendra Modi Stadium but there are plenty more to explore between IPL matches here. Mingle with history, architecture, culture and spirit of Ahmedabad during your stay here for IPL matches by visiting other landmarks such as Jama Masjid mosque, Bhadra Fort, Shreyas Folk Museum and Hutheesing Jain Temple or Auto World Vintage Car Museum that houses some rare collections.

When it comes to food, don't miss alighting at popular joints to sample some signature Ahmedabadi dishes like dhokla, fafda-khakhra-thepla-gathiya among others while shopping at Law Garden Night Market (for traditional apparel), Lal Darwaza (for trendy clothes) and Manek Chowk (for jewelry).

Ahmedabad's culturally rich city is a seamless blend of age-old traditions with modern-day evolution, and this centuries-old mercantile hub that became India's first UNESCO World Heritage City provides all that you would like to explore. Take time out to experience the many facets of Ahmedabad.

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