Varanasi: Top 11 Places to Visit & In-Depth Travel Guide

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a city that resonates with the deepest chords of Indian spirituality, history, and culture. Situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, it is a place where the ancient and the contemporary coexist in a vibrant, chaotic, and profoundly moving tapestry. Here is a detailed exploration of its most iconic landmarks and experiences.

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The Luminous Abode of Shiva

One of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the spiritual heart of Varanasi and a paramount pilgrimage site for Hindus worldwide. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered here as Vishwanath or Vishweshwara, the "Ruler of the Universe."

Historical Significance and Legends: The temple's history is a saga of destruction and resurrection, having been demolished and rebuilt multiple times through centuries of invasions, most notably by Aurangzeb in 1669 who constructed the Gyanvapi Mosque on its original site. The current structure was built in 1780 by the Maratha queen, Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Legend holds that the original Jyotirlinga was a column of light (a Jyotirlinga) that pierced the three realms of existence. A darshan (sighting) of the Jyotirlinga is believed to grant liberation (moksha) from the cycle of rebirth.

Architectural Details and the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor: The temple is a stunning example of Nagara architecture. Its most distinctive features are its two gold-plated domes and a 15.5-meter high golden spire, for which Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab donated the gold in the 19th century.

The recently inaugurated Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project has dramatically transformed the temple complex. This ambitious project, completed in 2021, decongested the area by creating a sprawling 500,000 square foot corridor that directly connects the temple with the Lalita and Manikarnika Ghats on the Ganges. This provides pilgrims with a wide, open-air space, modern amenities like pilgrim facilitation centers, and a clear, unobstructed pathway from the river to the sanctum sanctorum, enhancing the spiritual experience manifold.

Visitor Experience:

• Timings: The temple is generally open from 3:00 AM for Mangala Aarti until 11:00 PM for Shayan Aarti, with specific timings for various rituals throughout the day.

• Darshan: Due to high footfall, expect long queues. Special Sugam Darshan tickets can be booked online for faster access.

• Regulations: Mobile phones, cameras, leather goods, and large bags are strictly prohibited inside. Free locker facilities are available near the entrance. A modest dress code is advised.

2. The Ghats of Varanasi: A Ladder Between Worlds

The ghats, a series of over 80 riverfront steps leading down to the Ganges, are the soul of Varanasi. Each ghat has its own story, character, and spiritual significance, forming a public space for life, death, and devotion.

• Dashashwamedh Ghat: The most spectacular and bustling ghat, its name means "the ghat of ten horse sacrifices." According to mythology, Lord Brahma performed the Dasa Ashwamedha yajna here. It is the epicenter of activity and the prime location for the magnificent daily Ganga Aarti.

• Manikarnika Ghat: This is the principal cremation ghat in Varanasi. For Hindus, being cremated here is a path to attaining moksha. The funeral pyres burn 24/7, a stark and powerful reminder of life's impermanence. The air is thick with smoke and chants, a deeply moving, though intense, spectacle of ritual. Legend says that Lord Vishnu dug a pit here and filled it with his sweat while performing penance, and while Lord Shiva was watching, his earring (manikarnika) fell into it.

• Assi Ghat: Located at the confluence of the rivers Ganga and Assi, this is a spacious and relatively tranquil ghat popular with long-term international students, researchers, and locals. It is a hub for morning yoga sessions, classical music performances, and intellectual discourse.

• Scindia Ghat: Bordering Manikarnika, this picturesque ghat is known for the partially submerged Shiva temple at the water's edge, which sank during the ghat's construction in the mid-19th century. It offers a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.

• Chet Singh Ghat: A fortified ghat with a somber history. It was the site of a fierce battle in 1781 between the forces of Maharaja Chet Singh and the British under Warren Hastings. Its elegant 18th-century fortress-like palace adds a unique architectural charm.

3. Ganga Aarti Ceremony (Dashashwamedh Ghat)

The Ganga Aarti is a daily choreographed ritual of immense spiritual significance. Every evening at sunset, a group of saffron-clad priests perform a highly synchronized ceremony of worship to the River Ganges.

The Ritual: The ceremony is an elaborate spectacle involving the rhythmic chanting of Vedic mantras, the blowing of a conch shell, and the waving of large, heavy brass lamps with multiple tiers of flames, incense sticks, and flower offerings. The air fills with the sound of bells, cymbals, and devotional music, creating a mesmerizing and immersive sensory experience.

The Experience: For tourists and pilgrims alike, the Aarti is a powerful spectacle of devotion. The best vantage points are from the ghat steps, from boats moored on the river, or from the balconies of nearby buildings. It is a moment of collective prayer that transcends language and cultural barriers, leaving a lasting impression of spiritual fervor.

4. Boat Ride on the Ganges

A boat ride along the Ganges is the quintessential Varanasi experience, offering a panoramic perspective of the city's life and death rituals against the backdrop of ancient temples and palaces.

Sunrise vs. Sunset:

• Sunrise: A ride at dawn reveals the city awakening to its spiritual rhythm. You witness pilgrims taking holy dips, performing surya namaskar (sun salutations), and making offerings. The soft morning light casts a golden glow on the ghats, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere.

• Sunset: An evening boat ride culminates in the breathtaking spectacle of the Ganga Aarti from the water. As dusk falls, the ghats light up with countless diyas and the reflection of the Aarti flames dances on the river's surface.

The boat journey provides a flowing narrative of the city, from the quiet devotion at Assi Ghat to the intense rituals at Manikarnika, offering a profound reflection on the spiritual pulse of Kashi.

5. Sarnath: The Cradle of Buddhism

Just 10 kilometers from the urban core of Varanasi lies Sarnath, a peaceful deer park where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, "The Turning of the Wheel of Dharma," after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. It is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.

• Dhamek Stupa: The most imposing structure in Sarnath, this massive stupa stands at the spot where Buddha is believed to have preached his first sermon. The current structure, built of brick and stone, dates back to 500 CE. Its lower portion features intricate Gupta-era floral carvings.

• Chaukhandi Stupa: This terraced stupa marks the spot where Buddha met his first five disciples. An octagonal tower was later added by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century.

• Ashoka Pillar: Originally erected by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, the pillar was once topped by the famous Lion Capital, which is now the national emblem of India. The broken base of the pillar still stands in its original location.

• Sarnath Museum: An essential visit, this archaeological museum houses a magnificent collection of artifacts unearthed from Sarnath, including the iconic and impeccably preserved Lion Capital of Ashoka, numerous Buddha and Bodhisattva images, and other relics of Mauryan and Gupta art.

6. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Established in 1916 by the great nationalist leader Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is a prestigious central university and one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Its sprawling, well-maintained campus is a city within a city.

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: The highlight of the BHU campus is the Bharat Kala Bhavan. This world-renowned museum houses an outstanding collection of Indian art and artifacts. Its galleries feature miniature paintings from various Indian schools, sculptures dating back to the 1st century, textiles, costumes, and a personal collection of literary figures like Rabindranath Tagore. It provides a rich, scholarly counterpoint to the city's spiritual identity.

7. Ramnagar Fort

Located on the eastern, less-developed bank of the Ganges, the 18th-century Ramnagar Fort offers a glimpse into the bygone era of the Maharajas of Kashi. Built of chunar sandstone in the Mughal style, it remains the ancestral home of the current Maharaja.

The Museum (Saraswati Bhawan): The fort's main attraction is its eccentric and somewhat dusty museum. It displays a peculiar collection of royal possessions, including ornate palanquins, vintage American cars, elaborate costumes, an impressive armoury of swords and old guns, and a rare astronomical clock that shows the time, day, week, month, and positions of celestial bodies. A visit here offers a fascinating, albeit slightly faded, look at princely life.

8. Tulsi Manas Temple

This modern temple, constructed in 1964 from white marble, holds immense cultural and literary significance. It is dedicated to Lord Rama and is believed to be built at the very spot where the 16th-century poet-saint Tulsidas composed the epic Ramcharitmanas, an Awadhi version of the Ramayana that made the story of Rama accessible to the common masses. The temple's walls are inscribed with verses and scenes from this sacred text.

9. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

One of the most revered temples in the city, the Sankat Mochan Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the remover of troubles (sankat). It was established by Tulsidas and is believed to stand on the spot where he had a vision of the deity. The temple is thronged by devotees, particularly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, who come to offer prayers and seek protection. The prasad of besan laddoos here is famous.

10. Varanasi Silk Saree Shopping

Varanasi is synonymous with Banarasi silk, a legacy of exquisite craftsmanship dating back to the Mughal era. A Banarasi saree, known for its fine silk, intricate brocade work using gold and silver zari threads, and opulent embroidery, is a prized possession for Indian women.

Shopping Hubs:

• Godowlia, Chowk, and Thatheri Bazaar: These bustling, traditional markets are a maze of lanes filled with shops selling sarees.

• Vishwanath Gali: The lane leading to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is famous for both religious items and silk products.

• Authenticity: To find genuine handwoven sarees, it is advisable to visit government-run emporiums or reputable, old family-run stores, as the market is also flooded with machine-made imitations. Look for the Geographical Indication (GI) mark for authenticity.

11. Varanasi Street Food: The Flavors of Kashi

The culinary landscape of Varanasi is as rich and diverse as its culture. The city's street food is predominantly vegetarian, sattvic (without onion and garlic in many temple-area preparations), and delicious.

• Kachori-Sabzi: The quintessential Banarasi breakfast. Crisp, deep-fried kachoris served with a spicy potato and chickpea curry.

• Tamatar Chaat: A unique local specialty. A tangy and spicy mash of tomatoes, boiled potatoes, peas, and spices, served hot in an earthen bowl (kulhad).

• Malaiyyo: A magical winter delicacy. This ethereal, saffron-flavored milk foam is light as air and melts in your mouth. It's available only during winter mornings.

• Banarasi Paan: A digestive and mouth freshener, the Banarasi paan (betel leaf preparation) is famous throughout India for its special blend of ingredients.

• Lassi and Thandai: Served in traditional earthen cups, the lassi here is thick, creamy, and often topped with a dollop of rabri. Thandai, a milk-based drink infused with nuts and spices like fennel and cardamom, is another local specialty, sometimes prepared with bhang (cannabis) during festivals like Holi. The best places to explore these flavors are the winding alleys of Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazaar, and the area around Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions that can help you plan your trip to this ancient city.

General Travel and Planning

1. How many days are sufficient for a trip to Varanasi?

A typical trip to Varanasi requires 2 to 3 full days. This allows enough time to experience the major highlights, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sunrise boat ride, the evening Ganga Aarti, a trip to Sarnath, and exploring the ghats and old city alleys without feeling rushed.

2. What is the best season to visit Varanasi?

The ideal time to visit is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, boat rides, and walking through the city. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, and the monsoon season (July to September) can be humid and lead to very high-water levels in the Ganges.

3. What is the best way to get around the city?

The old city, with its narrow lanes (galis) and ghats, is best explored on foot. For longer distances, auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are readily available. Ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber also operate in the city, offering a convenient way to book rides.

4. What are some common scams to be aware of in Varanasi?

Be cautious of overly friendly "guides" who may lead you to specific shops for a commission. When buying silk, be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. For boat rides, always agree on the price, duration, and specific ghats to be covered before starting the journey. Politely decline unsolicited services.

Temples and Religious Sites

5. What is the dress code for the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

A modest dress code is recommended. Visitors should cover their shoulders, chest, and knees. Traditional Indian attire like a saree or kurta is ideal, but t-shirts with trousers are also acceptable. Avoid shorts, short skirts, and revealing tops.

6. Are mobile phones and cameras allowed inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

No. Mobile phones, cameras, smartwatches, bags, leather items (wallets, belts), and any electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited inside the main temple complex for security reasons. Free, secure lockers are provided near the entrance gates to store your belongings.

7. How can I avoid the long queues at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

To avoid the biggest crowds, try to visit on a weekday and avoid Mondays (sacred to Lord Shiva) and festival days. You can also book a Sugam Darshan (easy viewing) ticket online through the temple's official website, which provides expedited entry for a fee.

8. What should I be aware of regarding the monkeys at Sankat Mochan Temple?

The temple is home to a large population of monkeys who are known to snatch food, glasses, and shiny objects. Keep your belongings secure, avoid carrying food openly, and do not make direct eye contact with or tease the monkeys.

Ghats and River Experiences

9. Is photography allowed at Manikarnika Ghat?

Out of respect for the grieving families and the sanctity of the cremation rituals, photography and videography are strictly prohibited at Manikarnika Ghat. It is a place of sacred mourning, not a tourist attraction. Visitors are expected to observe quietly and respectfully from a distance.

10. What is the best time to arrive for the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat?

The Aarti starts at sunset (around 6:00 PM in winter and 7:00 PM in summer). To get a good viewing spot, you should aim to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes in advance, as the ghats become extremely crowded.

11. How much does a boat ride cost to watch the Aarti from the river?

Prices are negotiable. A seat on a large shared boat might cost between ₹200 - ₹300 per person. Hiring a small private boat for the duration of the Aarti could cost anywhere from ₹1000 to ₹2500, depending on your negotiation skills and the season. Always finalize the price before boarding.

12. Is it safe to bathe in the Ganges?

While millions of pilgrims bathe in the Ganges for spiritual purification, the river's water quality is a significant concern due to high pollution levels. If you choose to take a dip, do so at a cleaner ghat like Assi Ghat in the morning. Avoid swallowing the water and have a clean water shower afterward.

Shopping and Food

13. How can I identify a genuine handwoven Banarasi saree?

Look for the official Geographical Indication (GI) mark, which certifies its origin. A real Banarasi saree will have intricate, dense brocade work and will often have a slightly uneven texture characteristic of hand-weaving. Examine the reverse side for floats or threads running between a single motif, a hallmark of handloom. Trust reputable, well-established shops over street-side vendors offering steep discounts.

14. Is it safe to eat street food in Varanasi?

Yes, it is generally safe and a highlight of any trip, but it's wise to take precautions. Eat at popular, busy stalls where the food is cooked fresh and hot in front of you. Start with fried items like kachori-sabzi and tamatar chaat. Be cautious with water and chutneys; opt for bottled water.

15. Where can I find the famous Malaiyyo?

Malaiyyo is a seasonal delicacy available only during the cool winter months (approximately November to February). You can find it in the early mornings in the narrow lanes of the old city, particularly in the Chowk and Thatheri Bazaar areas.

Excursions

16. How do I get to Sarnath from Varanasi?

Sarnath is about 10-12 km from the main city. The easiest way to get there is by hiring an auto-rickshaw or a car through a ride-hailing app. The journey typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

17. How much time should I allocate for a trip to Sarnath?

A half-day trip is usually sufficient. Plan for 3 to 4 hours in Sarnath to comfortably visit the Dhamek Stupa, the archaeological museum, and other monasteries in the area.