Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is not just a city – it is an eternal experience. Often called the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Nestled along the sacred River Ganga, this city draws millions of pilgrims, seekers, and travelers from across the globe.
Whether it’s the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, the ghats echoing with chants, the labyrinth of ancient lanes, or the timeless Banarasi silk, every corner of Varanasi tells a story. In this guide, we’ll take you through the most significant Varanasi tourist places, spiritual experiences, food, shopping, and tips to make your journey truly memorable.
Why Varanasi is a Must-Visit Destination
Spiritual Center: Considered Lord Shiva’s city, Varanasi is one of Hinduism’s holiest places.
Historical Importance: With over 3,000 years of history, it’s among the world’s oldest cities.
Cultural Heritage: From classical music to Banarasi sarees, its culture is unmatched.
Unique Experiences: Sunrise boat rides, evening Ganga Aarti, and exploring ghats are once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Top Varanasi Tourist Places You Must Visit
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Heart of Varanasi
The most famous ghat among all the Varanasi Tourist Places, known for the spectacular evening Ganga Aarti where hundreds of lamps illuminate the river. Its name comes from a legend of Lord Brahma performing ten Ashwamedha sacrifices, and the ghat holds significant religious importance, serving as a major pilgrimage site where devotees bathe to wash away sins.
Highlights: Evening Aarti, boat rides, photography.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The Spiritual Core
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the spiritual soul of Varanasi. Located on the western bank of the Ganga river, it is considered the most sacred shrine for Lord Shiva devotees.The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is famous as one of the holiest sites in Hinduism, home to a powerful Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, and for its spiritual significance, believed to offer liberation (moksha) and protection to visitors. So this is one of the most visited Varanasi Tourist Places.
Highlights: Temple darshan, spiritual chants, nearby Annapurna Temple.
3. Assi Ghat – For Sunrise Views
Assi Ghat is a popular and ancient ghat of Varanasi Tourist Places, located on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi. It holds great cultural and spiritual significance in the city. Assi Ghat is believed to be the place where the Assi River meets the Ganges, and is associated with numerous legends and rituals. It’s a peaceful ghat where people gather for yoga, prayers, and boat rides. Sunrise here is breathtaking among all Varanasi Tourist Places.
Highlights: Yoga sessions, Ganga views, cultural events.
4. Manikarnika Ghat – The Eternal Flame
Manikarnika Ghat is a significant and iconic ghat located on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi. It holds immense importance in Hindu mythology and is considered one of the holiest cremation grounds in India. The ghat is believed to be the place where Mata Sati dropped his earring, known as “Manikarnika,” hence its name. It is a site where cremations take place around the clock, as per Hindu funeral traditions. Known as one of the oldest cremation grounds, it symbolizes the Hindu belief in moksha (liberation). This is the one of the must have to visit place Varanasi Tourist Places
Highlights: Spiritual rituals, insight into Hindu traditions.
5. Sarnath – The Land of Buddha’s First Sermon
Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.Sarnath is a major pilgrimage center for Buddhists. Buddha, after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya visited Sarnath and delivered his first sermon to the five monks for redeeming humanity. Sarnath was the place where the foundation of new order for monks (Sangha) and new order of religious doctrine (Dhamma) were laid. Sarnath is situated 13 kilometers from Varanasi. It is one of the four stops of Buddha Circuit. A UNESCO heritage site with stupas and monasteries.
Highlights: Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Archaeological Museum.
6. Ramnagar Fort – The Royal Heritage
Across the Ganga, this fort is still the residence of the Maharaja of Banaras.The fort is located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, opposite the Tulsi Ghat. It was built in the 18th century by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh.There is also a unique astronomical clock that displays the year, month, week, day, and astronomical information about the Sun, Moon, and other planets in addition to the time.
Highlights: Museum, vintage cars, royal artifacts
7. Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – The Educational Hub
One of Asia’s largest residential universities with lush greenery and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Spanning a sprawling campus, Banaras Hindu University is not just an educational institution but a cultural landmark in Varanasi.
Highlights: Artifacts, university campus, New Vishwanath Temple.
8. Tulsi Manas Mandir – The Epic Connection
Roughly 1.5 km. away from Banaras Hindu University this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is the site where Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitmanas. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the temple was built by the Sureka family of Banaras. The entire structure of the temple is made of white marble and has beautiful architecture. Adding a unique charm in the architecture of this renowned Hindu temple in Varanasi is the alluring garden.
Highlights: Intricate marble walls with Ramcharitmanas verses.
9. Gyanvapi Mosque – Architectural Heritage
Built during the Mughal era, it showcases Indo-Islamic architecture and is an important cultural landmark.The mosque was constructed in c. 1678 CE, a decade after Aurangzeb’s demolition of a Shiva Hindu temple that was on the site.
10. Banaras Silk Markets – Shopper’s Delight
No trip is complete without shopping for Banarasi silk sarees, world-renowned for their intricate weaves.The primary Banarasi silk markets are located in Varanasi, including Chowk, Dalmandi, Julaiya, Madanpura, and Vishwanath Market. These markets range from wholesale manufacturing hubs like Julaiya and Madanpura, where you can buy directly from weavers, to retail areas like Vishwanath and Nai Sadak, offering a broader selection of finished silk products.
Highlights: Sarees, handloom fabrics, souvenirs.
Cultural Experiences in Varanasi
Ganga Aarti:
The evening Ganga Aarti in Varanasi takes place after sunset, with timings changing seasonally: it typically begins around 7:00 PM during summer (March to October) and 6:00 PM during winter (November to February). The most well-known Aarti is at Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is the grandest spectacle, while Assi Ghat also offers a beautiful, though less grand, evening ceremony.
Boat Rides:
Banarasi boat rides offer a spiritual and cultural journey on the Ganges River, allowing visitors to witness the city’s famous ghats, participate in the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, and observe daily life along the riverbanks. Morning rides provide serene views of the sunrise and religious rituals, while sunset rides offer a chance to see the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can take private or shared boat tours.
Classical Music:
Banarasi classical music refers to the musical tradition and style that originated in the ancient city of Varanasi, India, and encompasses the development of the Banaras Gharana, particularly notable for its contribution to Dhrupad singing and the establishment of a significant tabla gharana. The tradition is deeply connected to the city’s spiritual heritage and has produced renowned artists like Ravi Shankar and Bismillah Khan.
Festivals:
Major festivals in Varanasi include Dev Deepawali, the festival of lights on the Ganges; Mahashivratri, a major festival for Lord Shiva’s devotees; Holi, the vibrant festival of colors; Bharat Milap, celebrating Lord Ram’s reunion with his brother; and Ganga Dussehra, honoring the descent of the Ganges river. Other notable events are Nag Nathaiya, depicting Krishna’s victory over the serpent Kaliya, and various cultural events like the Dhrupad Mela and the Banaras Lit Fest.
Food in Varanasi – A Culinary Journey
Varanasi is heaven for food lovers.
Street Foods: Kachori-sabzi, Tamatar chaat, and Banarasi paan.
Sweets: Jalebi, Malaiyyo (a winter delicacy), Rabri.
Specialty: Lassi served in earthen pots.
Travel Tips for Varanasi Tourist Places
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
- How to Reach: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi Junction railway, and road connectivity.
- Stay Options: From budget guesthouses near ghats to luxury hotels overlooking the Ganga.
- Etiquette: Respect religious sentiments and dress modestly.
- Packing: Comfortable shoes, light clothes, power bank, water bottles.
Why Choose Safarnama for Your Varanasi Trip?
At Safarnama, we design Varanasi tour packages that blend spirituality, culture, and comfort. Whether you want to attend the Ganga Aarti, explore Sarnath, shop for silk sarees, or immerse in temple visits, our customized packages cover all Varanasi tourist places.
With local guides, hassle-free bookings, and personalized experiences, Safarnama ensures your journey to Varanasi tourist places becomes a soulful memory.
Final Thoughts
Varanasi is not just a destination—it’s an awakening. With its ancient ghats, sacred temples, mesmerizing rituals, and timeless culture, Varanasi tourist places offer a glimpse into India’s soul.
Whether you’re seeking spirituality, history, or cultural exploration, a trip to Banaras will stay etched in your heart forever.
So, pack your bags, open your mind, and let the sacred city of Varanasi take you on a journey beyond time.