🛕 Top 15 Places to Visit in Varanasi: A Soul-Stirring Journey Through India’s Spiritual Capital
“Kashi ke kone kone mein kahani hai” — every corner of Varanasi whispers stories from thousands of years of devotion, art, and life.
Whether you're coming for spiritual salvation, ancient temples, or authentic street food, Varanasi (Kashi/Banaras) promises an experience like no other. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-visit places in Varanasi — from sacred ghats to hidden gems — plus insider tips and links to book curated tours.
📍1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, this temple is the heartbeat of Varanasi. Thousands come daily to seek blessings of Lord Shiva.
- Pro tip: Go early morning to avoid crowds.
- 📸 Nearby spot: Annapurna Temple & Vishwanath Gali
✅ Book our Kashi Darshan Tour → [Book Now]
🌅 2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is where the Ganga Aarti takes place — a truly divine spectacle of fire, chants, and devotion every evening at sunset.
- Timing: 6:30 PM (seasonal)
- Don’t forget your camera and a seat 30 mins early!
🎟️ Add-on: Evening Boat Ride + Aarti Experience → [Reserve Your Spot]
🚤 3. Assi Ghat
Popular with both locals and tourists, Assi Ghat is perfect for sunrise yoga, tea by the riverside, and a calm spiritual vibe.
- Try a sunrise boat ride from here.
- Cafes nearby: Open Hand, Pizzeria Vatika
🧘 4. Sarnath
Just 10 km from Varanasi, this is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. It’s peaceful, green, and historically significant.
- Key spots: Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
- Combine with: Local silk weaving village tour
🏛️ 5. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
A prestigious institution, yes—but also home to beautiful museums, temples, and tree-lined avenues.
- Don’t miss: New Vishwanath Temple inside BHU
- Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (for art/history lovers)
📿 6. Tulsi Manas Temple
This marble temple is where the Ramcharitmanas was written. Verses are inscribed on its walls—soaked in spiritual energy.
- Ideal time: Evening prayer session
🍛 7. Godowlia Market
If you want to shop, snack, and people-watch, this is the place.
- Try: Banarasi sarees, ittar (perfumes), Rudraksha beads
- Street food: Kachori sabzi, Lassi, Tamatar chaat
🎨 8. Ramnagar Fort
Located across the river, this 18th-century fort houses a quirky museum and gives you a royal peek into Varanasi’s past.
- Take a boat ride across for a scenic entry.
- Best time: Sunset
🧵 9. Weaver’s Colony (Sarai Mohana)
Explore the age-old craft of Banarasi silk weaving, meet artisans, and see the magic behind those ₹50,000 sarees.
- Great for cultural tours and photography
- Support local artists by buying directly
🛶 10. Morning Ghat Walk
Before the city wakes up, take a guided walk along the ghats — from Assi to Dashashwamedh — and witness the soul of Varanasi.
✅ Our Morning Ghat Walk + Tea Tour → [Book Experience]
🪔 Bonus: Hidden Gems in Varanasi
Place | Why Visit |
---|---|
Nepali Temple | Mini Kathmandu in Varanasi |
Manikarnika Ghat | The eternal cremation ground |
Ganga Mahal Ghat | Peaceful and photogenic |
Alamgir Mosque | Mughal architecture meets Ganga view |
Sankat Mochan Temple | Hanuman devotees must visit |