This ancient city, with a history spanning over 2,800 years of continuous habitation, holds a sacred status for Hindus. It is believed to be the place where devotees can escape the cycle of rebirth and merge with the divine after death. Varanasi is not only a cultural hub but also considered the holiest city in India. Esteemed Indian poets, such as Tulsidas, composed the Ram Charit Manas here. The city is renowned for its exquisite gold and silver thread work, wooden toys, carpet weaving, glass bangles, perfumes, diverse handicrafts, and intricate brassware. Let’s explore some of Varanasi’s most popular tourist destinations.
1.Ganga River
The Ganges River, named after the Hindu goddess Ganga, is one of India’s most revered natural wonders and one of the longest rivers in the world. It flows from the Himalayas in the north, heading southeast to the Bay of Bengal where it empties into the Indian Ocean. Around 600 million people rely on the Ganges for daily necessities, including bathing and drinking water. Hindus travel from all corners of the world to Varanasi to bathe in its sacred waters and perform rituals along the numerous ghats (stepped bathing areas) that line the river.
For visitors, the river acts as a central point of orientation as you explore the city. You’ll likely find yourself spending a considerable amount of time soaking in the sights of life along the Ganges.
Consider waking up early to experience a serene boat ride down the river. You can haggle with one of the many boatmen along the ghats for a good price. One of the most memorable activities in Varanasi is purchasing a small offering of fresh flowers and a candle, then releasing it into the river. This simple yet meaningful ritual offers a deeper connection to Hindu culture and will remain a lasting memory.
2.Dasaswamedh Ghat
Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of Varanasi’s most popular attractions, known for its lively atmosphere. Here, you’ll find flower vendors selling bright blooms, boatmen offering river tours, and sadhus (holy men) adorned in vibrant face paint. During the day, it’s the perfect place to stroll around and people-watch, soaking in the bustling energy.
Every evening, around 7 p.m., Hindu priests perform the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat. Clad in saffron robes, the priests begin the ceremony by placing platters of flower petals and offerings, followed by the sound of a conch shell to mark the start of the spiritual ritual. For about 45 minutes, thousands of spectators gather to watch as the priests chant and wave tiered platters of incense in intricate patterns. It’s a stunning spectacle and one of the must-see experiences in Varanasi.
To secure a good viewing spot and avoid the crowds, aim to arrive at least two hours before the ceremony begins. You can also catch beautiful views from boats on the river or from the balconies of shops overlooking the ghat.
3.Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat, located at the southernmost end of Varanasi’s main ghats, is one of the city’s top tourist spots. The highlight here is a sacred Shiva lingam (the symbolic representation of the Hindu god Shiva), which sits beneath a holy fig tree. This site draws hundreds of pilgrims daily, who come to bathe in the Ganges and offer their prayers to Lord Shiva.
If you’re feeling a bit tight after your travels, consider visiting Assi Ghat early in the morning. Join others for a yoga session, where you can practice poses like the downward dog to the sound of live music. In the evening, a smaller and more intimate Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place here, offering a more personal experience compared to the one at Dasaswamedh Ghat.
4.Manikarnika Ghat
At Manikarnika Ghat, columns of smoke spiral into the sky, rising from the constant cremations that take place here. Unlike factory smoke, these plumes are a result of the sacred rituals carried out by Hindus, who believe that Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest sites for deceased souls to achieve moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). Hundreds of cremations occur daily at this ghat, which operates 24/7, with funeral pyres burning day and night.
Tourists may be approached by priests or guides offering to show them around the ghat, though some might be persistent in asking for money. You might also see Doms (members of a marginalized caste) carrying cloth-wrapped bodies on makeshift stretchers or piles of firewood stacked nearby, ready to fuel the pyres.
For a fee, you may be allowed to witness a cremation firsthand. While it’s a powerful and profound experience, it is not for everyone and is far from a typical tourist attraction. It’s important to respect the solemnity of the ritual, maintain boundaries, and avoid taking photographs of funerals, mourners, or the deceased.
5.Dhamek Stupa
Although Hinduism dominates Varanasi, Buddhism holds a significant presence in the nearby town of Sarnath, located less than 12 kilometers away. In Sarnath, you’ll find the impressive Dhamek Stupa, a large stone and brick structure standing 43.6 meters tall and 28 meters in circumference. This stupa was built over 1,500 years ago to replace an earlier structure dating back to 249 BCE, according to legend. Devotees believe that after achieving enlightenment, the Buddha visited this stupa to deliver his first sermon, which introduced the Eightfold Path to his followers. As you walk around the stupa, take time to admire the detailed carvings of birds, humans, and flowers that adorn its walls.
Sarnath offers several other attractions, making it a great day trip from Varanasi. You can visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, a Buddhist shrine dating back to at least the 6th century, and then head to the Sarnath Museum to view the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, a sculpture that once sat atop the Ashoka Pillar in 250 BCE and later became the official Emblem of India in 1950. To round out your visit, explore the peaceful Tibetan Temple before returning to Varanasi.
6.Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Located near Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a sacred destination for Hindu pilgrims, drawing visitors from all over the world. Situated about four kilometers from Varanasi Junction railway station, this magnificent temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Known as “The Golden Temple,” it features an awe-inspiring spire covered with nearly 800 kg of pure gold, making it the tallest structure of its kind. Its unique architectural style has inspired the creation of numerous other temples across India.
Due to strict security, visitors are required to store their cameras, phones, bags, and personal items in nearby rentable lockers before entering the temple. After removing your shoes, you’ll join many others in line to touch the 60-centimeter-tall Shiva lingam, which sits in a silver altar. It is believed that touching the lingam helps cleanse one’s sins, making the experience both challenging and deeply rewarding.
7.Banaras Hindu University
Founded in 1916, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has played a crucial role in shaping the identity of Varanasi. With over 25,000 students, it is one of Asia’s largest residential universities. Varanasi doesn’t have hill stations, so if you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, the beautiful 1,300-acre BHU campus is the perfect place to unwind. Surrounded by hundreds of towering trees, it offers a serene retreat from the lively Banaras Ghats nearby.
While on campus, be sure to visit the New Vishwanath Temple, a striking structure that was completed in 1966 after a decade of construction. Standing 77 meters tall, it is one of the tallest temples in India and draws architectural inspiration from the nearby Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Another must-see on the campus is the Bharat Kala Bhavan, a cultural museum that houses an impressive collection of miniature paintings and over 100,000 archaeological and artistic objects, making it a treasure trove for history and art enthusiasts.
8.Ruchika Art Gallery
If you’re looking to take a piece of Varanasi home with you, or searching for a unique experience, head to the Ruchika Art Gallery, located just off Ravindrapuri Road. Owned by Ruchika Mehrotra, this charming gallery showcases a vibrant collection of paintings that capture the energy of Varanasi and the ghats in a vivid spectrum of colors. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, the gallery offers a cozy and welcoming space to explore local art.
While some of the larger paintings may need to be shipped, most are small enough to fit in your suitcase, making them perfect keepsakes. The gallery also offers beautiful postcards for purchase. In addition to displaying locally created artwork, Ruchika Art Gallery provides visitors the opportunity to participate in painting classes. Reach out to Ruchika to find out about any scheduled events during your visit to Varanasi.
9.Shri Durga Temple
Varanasi is full of spiritual sites beyond just the ghats, and the Shri Durga Temple, located just a five-minute walk west of Assi Ghat, is a popular spot for Hindus paying tribute to the goddess Durga. This 300-year-old temple stands out with its striking crimson color, which covers the entire structure.
Known locally as the “Monkey Temple,” this nickname gives a clue to the playful creatures you’re likely to see swinging around the area. In front of the temple, you can also spot a pair of graceful swans gliding across the water in a tranquil pool.
10.Ramnagar Fort
Although Varanasi is one of the few Indian cities without a fort within its city center, it is home to the Ramnagar Fort, located about 14 kilometers outside the main city. Built in the 18th century as a defensive structure, this sandstone fort and palace now houses an eclectic museum featuring vintage cars, intricate hookahs, antique firearms, jewel-encrusted sedan chairs, and a unique astronomical clock that has been running for over 150 years.
After exploring the museum’s fascinating collection, take a tour of the fort’s temples, including one dedicated to Veda Vyasa, the legendary author of the Mahabharata and other significant Hindu epics.
11.Darbhanga Ghat
Darbhanga Ghat is a photographer’s paradise, offering the perfect opportunity to capture stunning shots of Varanasi. At the top of the steps leading down to the riverfront stands the opulent BrijRama Palace, a historic fort now transformed into a heritage hotel. Its Greek-style pillars and sweeping balconies lend a regal touch to the area—and your photos.
For the best experience, arrive early in the morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Ganges River, with unobstructed views that make for unforgettable images.
12.Shivala Ghat
If you’re seeking some tranquility along the Ganges, Shivala Ghat offers a peaceful retreat. Less crowded than other riverside spots in Varanasi, it’s still a beautiful place to visit. The quiet atmosphere allows you to calmly observe devotees taking their ritual baths in the holy river, as well as families gathered for early morning prayers and tea. Don’t be surprised if you share the space with water buffalo, which often roam the area. You can also explore a palace built by Nepalese King Sanjay Vikram Shah in the 19th century.
Take a few hours to wander through the maze-like streets leading to Shivala Ghat. This vibrant, densely populated neighborhood gives you a glimpse into the daily life of Varanasi’s wealthier district.
