24 Must-Do Things in Varanasi: A Traveler's Guide

If you want to experience the true essence of Varanasi, a visit to Dashashwamedh Ghat should definitely be on your itinerary. This ghat is not only the most popular, but also the oldest and holiest of all the ghats in Varanasi. It is also the perfect place to witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes place every evening. The rhythmic hymns, the scent of incense sticks, and the flickering diyas create an awe-inspiring atmosphere unlike any other. Don't forget to buy some hot jalebis in the nearby stores - a popular local treat that you can't miss!

If you are looking for an authentic Varanasi experience, Assi Ghat is the place for you! This sacred place on the banks of the Ganga River is a gathering place for spiritual seekers, hippies, artists and locals alike. Take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga, witness the grand evening Aarti ceremony, and enjoy some street food.

The archaeological Buddhist remains of Sarnath are one of the most important sights in Varanasi. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world. The site features stunning figures, inscriptions and sculptures that reflect the history of Buddhism. You can join a guided tour of the ruins and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Maurya Empire. Don't forget to take a walk through the deer park adjacent to the site and watch the deer roaming freely. Sarnath is a must for those seeking tranquility and spirituality during their stay in Varanasi.

No trip to Varanasi is complete without a visit to the legendary Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple! This iconic temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. Located in the heart of the city, the temple's impressive architecture and rich history will take your breath away. Be sure to explore the surrounding narrow streets, which are full of traditional stores and food stalls offering local delicacies like chaat and lassi. And if you're lucky, you can even catch a live performance of Indian classical music or dance at nearby venues like the Bharat Kala Bhavan or the Jawahar Kala Kendra. Whether you're a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, be sure to include Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in your Varanasi itinerary - it's an experience you won't soon forget!

Looking for a truly authentic experience in Varanasi? Then you should definitely visit the magnificent Ramnagar Fort. This iconic structure rises on the east bank of the Ganges River and offers a fascinating view of the river. As one of the oldest forts in India, Ramnagar Fort has a rich history that is sure to impress visitors. Take a tour of the grounds and discover the many artifacts from the fort's past, including vintage cars, weapons, and even a real elephant! Don't miss the opportunity to witness the daily evening parade, where a group of uniformed soldiers march through the fort's gates with military precision. After your visit, be sure to take a walk through the nearby village of Ramnagar and experience the vibrant local culture. With its stunning architecture and fascinating history, Ramnagar Fort is a must-see for any Varanasi traveler.

Sarnath, located just a short drive from Varanasi, is a must for those seeking a peaceful escape from the chaos of the city. A highlight of this tranquil town is the Dhamekh Stupa - an important Buddhist site that dates back to the 6th century. As you tour the site, you'll feel transported back to a bygone era of India's rich cultural heritage.

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most fascinating and culturally significant landmarks of Varanasi. It is the city's most important cremation site, where Hindus come from near and far to cremate their loved ones. Witnessing this poignant and deeply spiritual practice is a humbling and unforgettable experience. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Ganges to get a glimpse of the ghat and its activities. Be sure to also visit nearby sites such as the iconic Dasaswamedh Ghat and the ornate Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

As far as religious shrines in Varanasi are concerned, the Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir is particularly interesting to visitors for several reasons. First, it was built relatively recently. Unlike many other temples in the city, it is in excellent condition and offers visitors a clean and well-maintained environment. Secondly, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Satyanarayan and is known for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere. It is also located near the famous Durga Mandir, which you should definitely include in your Varanasi itinerary. Overall, this temple is a great place to find some peace and solace during a hectic Varanasi visit.

Namo Ghat, also known as Khidkiya Ghat, is a hidden gem amidst the bustling lanes of Varanasi. Often overlooked by tourists, this ghat offers a quiet and intimate experience of the Ganges. At Namo Ghat, you can witness morning and evening Aarti ceremonies performed by locals, giving you a glimpse into the rich spiritual culture of Varanasi.

A visit to the Ganga Ghats in Varanasi is an experience you will never forget. These riverside steps lead down to the holy river Ganges, where locals and pilgrims can be seen performing their daily prayers and rituals. Witness the fascinating Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening, where hundreds of small oil lamps are lit and float down the river, making for a stunning spectacle. If you prefer a quieter experience, you can take a boat ride along the ghats in the morning to see the city from a different perspective. The famous Kashi Vishwanath temple is also nearby and should definitely be visited.

If you want to experience the rich and diverse arts and crafts of India, a visit to the Deendayal Hasthkala Sankul is a must. The center offers a vivid insight into the intricate craftsmanship of experienced artisans from all over the country. Here you can see various traditional art forms such as hand weaving, pottery, leather work and much more. The center also has a museum that displays an extensive collection of Indian handicrafts that reflect the country's cultural heritage. Don't forget to visit nearby Sarnath, the epicenter of Buddhism, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred site.

If you are fascinated by India's rich heritage, then a visit to the Sarnath Museum in Varanasi is an absolute must. The museum houses an impressive collection of sculptures, relics and antiquities that date back to ancient times. You can explore the various galleries and marvel at the intricate details of the exhibits, which show the profound influence of Buddhism on the art and culture of the region. The museum is within walking distance of the popular Sarnath Stupa, an important Buddhist monument that is also worth a visit. So be sure to include the Sarnath Museum in your itinerary and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this ancient city.

The Dr. Rajendra Prasad Ghat is one of the quietest and most peaceful ghats in Varanasi. It is named after the first president of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. This ghat is an ideal place for a peaceful morning boat ride on the Ganges and watching the morning rituals of the locals. The sight of the sun rising over the river and the peaceful mantras chanted by the priests will be remembered forever. Plus, the ghat's unique architecture and intricate carvings make for great photo opportunities to take home. Don't forget to visit the nearby Harishchandra Ghat to witness the cremation rituals on the banks of the Ganges.

Prachin Baudha Sthal" in Varanasi is a must visit for all history buffs and religion lovers. This ancient Buddhist site is of great importance to Indian history and is full of captivating stories and experiences. Located near Sarnath, the site is known for its exquisite architecture and the rich history it holds. Visitors can explore the numerous temples, shrines and Buddha statues on the site that have withstood the test of time. Be sure to keep an eye out for the impressive Bodhi Tree and the beautifully carved Dhamekh Stupa. A visit to Prachin Baudha Sthal will not only educate you about Buddhist culture, but also leave you in awe of its sheer beauty. If you still have time, visit the nearby Chaukhandi Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple for an even more memorable spiritual experience.

As a tourist, you should definitely put Chaukhandi Stupa on your list of places to visit in Varanasi. This remarkable stupa is actually a pillar with octagonal edges, and it is believed to have been built during the Gupta period around the 4th century. The Chaukhandi Stupa is located in Sarnath, not far from Varanasi, and is of immense significance to Buddhists, as it is believed to mark the place where Buddha first met his five disciples after attaining Nirvana. A visit to this stupa is a truly awe-inspiring experience, as it conveys a sense of peace and tranquility amidst the lush green surroundings of Sarnath. Admire the intricate carvings on the pillar and don't forget to take some stunning photos to take home as a memento of your trip. When in Sarnath, you can also visit the Sarnath Museum, which displays some of the most remarkable Buddhist artifacts in the world.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara is a must-see for any tourist interested in India's religious and cultural heritage. Located in the beautiful city of Varanasi, the temple is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites and its serene atmosphere will leave you amazed. You will witness the exquisite architecture, beautiful murals and special ceremonies performed by the resident monks. Don't forget to take a walk through the lush garden to find some peace and quiet. When you're done, visit the nearby Sarnath Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts dating back to the 3rd century.

Maharaja Harishchandra Ghat, also known as Burning Ghat, is a profound and deeply spiritual experience that simply cannot be missed when visiting Varanasi. Witness the ancient tradition of cremation, where families say goodbye to their loved ones. The sheer force and power of the emotions here is awe-inspiring. Take a moment to soak up the atmosphere and reflect on the fragility of life. Don't miss nearby Manikarnika Ghat, the holiest of Varanasi's ghats and center of daily rituals and customs.

The Shivala Ghat in Varanasi is a must for anyone seeking an authentic spiritual experience. This ghat is imbued with an aura of serenity and divinity that is sure to rejuvenate you. The ghats are known to have witnessed several important events in history, and the view of the Ganges from here is breathtaking. Did you know that the ghat has a hidden underground tunnel that is said to lead to a nearby temple? Be sure to explore this secret passage during your visit. And if time permits, you should also visit the nearby Asi Ghat, which is also a popular destination.

When in Varanasi, a visit to Sarnath Deer Park must be on your itinerary. This tranquil park is the place where Buddha gave his very first sermon, and it exudes an incomparable spiritual aura. The magnificent beauty of the park is enhanced by the presence of free-roaming deer, which add to the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. Take a walk and explore the stunning Japanese gardens dotted with lotus ponds, and take some time to meditate near the Bodhi tree. Oh, and don't forget to visit the Sarnath Museum, which will give you a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

The Raj Ghat is a majestic and tranquil place that you should definitely visit during your visit to Varanasi. The Ghat is located on the banks of the Ganges River and offers a breathtaking view of the river and the surrounding temples. One of the best times to visit is early morning, when the ghat is quieter and the air is refreshing. The ghat is also a popular spot for picnics and for a leisurely boat ride on the river. Pro-Tip: Another famous ghat, the Manikarnika Ghat, can be reached by boat from the Raj Ghat. So don't miss this stunning place during your visit to Varanasi!

If you are looking for a peaceful and spiritual experience in Varanasi, be sure to visit the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and provides a tranquil environment for worship and meditation. You can also attend the evening Aarti (prayer) ceremony, which is a real feast for the eyes!

If you are looking for a unique and tranquil experience in Varanasi, you should not miss visiting the Nepali Temple. This temple is tucked away in a quiet corner of the city and is a beautiful blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. Inside you will find ornate carvings and sculptures, as well as a peaceful courtyard where you can relax.

A trip to Varanasi is not complete without a visit to the Panchganga Ghat. As the name suggests, this ghat is considered to be the confluence of five holy rivers, namely the Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana and Dhutapapa. The breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset from this ghat will impress you. Many Hindu devotees come here to take a bath in the holy water and perform rituals. You can also observe many colorful boats carrying devotees across the river. The Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most important ghats, is located next to the Panchganga Ghat.

Ghumakkad Banarasi is the perfect place for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience in Varanasi. A secret oasis for book lovers, artists and creatives, this hidden gem offers a peaceful and inspiring haven in the midst of the bustling city. With a beautifully curated collection of books, magazines and art, it's easy to lose track of time and explore the city's fascinating culture and history.