Kashi, Banaras, Varanasi – the world knows this city by many names and many faces. One face paints it older than time, as a city where some thousand years ago the Gods and Goddesses walked… the city of Puranas, the Vedas, and the Mahabharata.
The other face, however, is quite fresh. It hums with luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and boutique stores where tourists, locals, and animals alike fill the scene. In its remaining masks, you get to witness Varanasi as the city of light, the city of joy, and of course, the city of Moksha.
But no matter which face you want to see, you’ll have to be in here to experience it.
And so to navigate its many layers, we’ve put together a list of must-see places in Varanasi, when to visit here, and answers to all the burning questions you might have before your trip. Let’s begin the journey.
10 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi
Here are all the must-see places in Varanasi to witness this city in all its charm and glory.
| Sr. no. | Varanasi Tourist Places | Entry |
| 1 | Kashi Vishwanath Temple | No Entry; however, you’ll be charged for darshan and aarti |
| 2 | Dashashwamedh Ghat | No Entry |
| 3 | Ramnagar Fort | ₹80 for Indian citizens and ₹200 for foreigners |
| 4 | Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum | ₹10 for Indians & ₹150 for Foreigners |
| 5 | Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple | Free |
| 6 | Assi Ghat | Free |
| 7 | Tulsi Manas Temple | Free |
| 8 | Manikarnika Ghat | Free |
| 9 | Bharat Mata Temple | Free |
| 10 | Kaal Bhairav Temple | Free |
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
It would be a sin not to start with the heart of Varanasi: Kashi Vishwanath. It’s easily one of the top places to visit in Varanasi, but if you are going there, expect a crowd, especially for the darshan. However, the crowd is there for a reason. Legend says that anyone who visits this temple with devotion attains Moksha (liberation).
If you’d prefer not to cue up for the darshan, you can also attend one of the five aartis or click a selfie with one of the temple’s gold-plated spires – and yes, it’s pretty hard not to get photobombed.
Location: Lahori Tola, Varanasi
Timing: 3 am–11 pm
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
If you want to witness Varanasi as it is shown in movies like Masaan (2015) and Raanjhanaa (2013), visit one of its ghats. These steps by the holy river Ganga are where the city lays open its soul for all to see. They are regarded as among the most beloved tourist places in Varanasi, but none is more frequented than the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Literally meaning “the ghat of ten horse sacrifices,” this ghat is named after an ancient ritual performed by Lord Brahma.
Here, every night, the Ganga Aarti lights up the sky with flames, chants, and incense smoke. You can experience it among the crowd of locals on the steps or grab a boat ride and watch the magic unfold from the water.
Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of Varanasi
Timing: Open 24 hours
3. Ramnagar Fort
A little distance away from the ghats, Ramnagar Fort sits proudly overlooking the Ganga. Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Balwant Singh, this fort combines Mughal and Rajput styles with a dash of might and majesty. Inside, you’ll find vintage cars, royal costumes, and even a museum of old weapons. It’s definitely among the top things to see in Varanasi.
Location: Varanasi Rd, Ram Nagar, Ramnagar
Timing: 10 am–5 pm
4. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
If you’re a fan of art and history (or just want to escape the heat for an hour), Bharat Kala Bhavan is a must. Located inside Banaras Hindu University, another historic must-see place in Varanasi, this museum houses paintings, sculptures, coins, and manuscripts dating back centuries. This place is a treasure trove in its own sense.
Location: Banaras Hindu University, Semi Circle Road No. 3, Opp Institute of Mgmt Studies, Varanasi
Timing: 10:30 am–4:30 pm
5. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Sankat Mochan Temple is believed to ward off evil and protect devotees from troubles. This famous place to visit in Varanasi is believed to have been built on the very spot where the poet-saint Tulsidas had a vision of Hanuman ji in the early 16th century. Today, people come here with sweet offerings, prayers, and a fair amount of hope that Hanuman Ji will take care of life’s curveballs. If you want to, you can catch the bhajans at the temple. Sometimes, they are so raw and powerful that you’ll definitely feel goosebumps.
Location: Saket Nagar Colony, Sankata Mochan Leprosy, Varanasi
Timing: 4 am–12 pm & 3–10 pm
6. Assi Ghat
The southernmost ghat in Varanasi, Assi Ghat, is where the city slows down just enough for you to soak it all in. It’s a favorite spot for students, poets, and anyone who wants to sip chai while watching life float by. Here, sunrise is a spiritual experience, and evenings are perfect for a quiet boat ride. Make sure to grab a cup of the local chai at this must-see place in Varanasi.
Entry: Free
Location: Nagwa Rd, Assi Ghat, Shivala, Varanasi
Timing: Open all hours
7. Tulsi Manas Temple
For literature buffs, this temple is a treat. It is said that the great sage Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas here. The temple walls are adorned with verses from the epic, making it a spiritual and literary delight. Easily, among the most important places to see in Varanasi.
Location: Sankat Mochan Rd, Durgakund Rd, near Jalan, Varanasi
Timing: 5:30 am–12 pm & 3:30–9 pm
8. Manikarnika Ghat
Yes, this place can be a bit intense, but it’s part of Varanasi’s soul. Manikarnika is one of the oldest ghats, known as the city’s main cremation ground. Here, life and death coexist in a raw, unfiltered way. While it might be heavy for some, witnessing the rituals can give you a deep understanding of the cycle of life and the spiritual beliefs of this ancient city.
Location: Near Lalita Ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi,
Timing: Open all hours
9. Bharat Mata Temple
Unlike most temples, this must-see place in Varanasi doesn’t have idols of deities. Instead, it houses a massive relief map of India carved in marble. Visiting this temple gives you a sense of patriotism and perspective, quite literally.
Interestingly, Maithili Sharan Gupt, one of the early pioneers of modern Hindi poetry, wrote a poem for the temple’s inauguration, which is still displayed on a board inside the temple.
Location: 29, behind Sigra Chauraha Road, Kamla Nagar, Guru Nanak Nagar Colony, Chetganj, Thana, Varanasi
Timing: 7:30 am–6:30 pm
10. Kaal Bhairav Temple
If you thought Varanasi temples were all calm and serene, think again. Kaal Bhairav Temple is dedicated to the fierce form of Shiva, Kaal Bhairav, believed to be the Kotwal (protector) of the city. Among the many bizarre things, devotees of this temple believe he grants permission to anyone who wants to drink alcohol, a unique twist in a city full of religious customs. Definitely worth a visit if you want to see a different side of faith in Varanasi.
Location: Kaal Bhairav, Golghar, Bhaironath, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi
Timing: 5 am–1:30 pm & 4:30–9:30 pm
Bonus: Sarnath
Just a short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. And did you know, the national emblem is taken from a pillar found here? Walking among the ruins and stupas, you’ll feel a calm that has drawn pilgrims for thousands of years.
Entry: ₹5 per person
Location: Sarnath – 221007
Timing: Museum opens from 9 am–5 pm; temple is open from 6 am–8 pm; while other monuments remain open from 6 am–5 pm
What & Where to Eat in Varanasi
Food is part of the charm of experiencing any city, and Varanasi is no exception. Here you’ll find mouth-watering culinary delights hidden in criss-crossing alleyways and appetizing drinks in shops older than the country itself. But if you truly want to dig into the soul food of Varanasi, check these places out:
1. Ram Bhandar
Location: C.K 15/29 Katra Ratanlal, Thatheri Bazar, Govindpura, Varanasi
The people of the city start their day with a flaky, crispy kachori paired with a sabzi of mostly potato and chickpeas. And that’s exactly what this food place in Varanasi offers. The food here is so delicious you’ll keep coming back for more.
2. Deena Chat Bhandar
Location: D47/184, Luxa Rd, near PDR mall, Luxa, Varanasi
For everything sweet and snack-related, head over to this place to eat in Varanasi. The Deena Chat Bhandar is popular for its Tamatar chaat, Kulfi falooda, Tikki chole, Choora matar dahi kachori, and a lot more.
3. Blue Lassi
Location: CK 12/1 Kunj Gali, Kachaudi Gali, Near Rajbandhu, Govindpura, Varanasi
On a hot, humid summer day, nothing works more wonderfully than a glass of cold lassi. And this iconic shop has been offering just that for 70 years. What’s more special is that you can taste over 100 types of lassi here, from the thick creamy mango lassi to exotic blueberry lassi.
4. Shree Ji Ki Malaiyo
Location: K 26, 17, Choukhamba, Varanasi
Malaiyo is an airy dessert that’s made from milk churned and left to rest overnight, often flavored with fragrant saffron and cardamom. It’s typically served in kulhads. For anyone wanting to taste the authentic local desserts, this spot is a must-visit place in Varanasi.
Things to do in Varanasi
Here’s a quick list of things to do in Varanasi that you should definitely not miss on your visit:
- Take a boat ride at sunrise on the Ganges – Watch the ghats come alive with devotees, sadhus, and the occasional stray cow casually strolling into the water.
- Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat – The sight of flickering lamps, chanting, and incense will leave you mesmerized. It’s perhaps the best thing to see in Varanasi.
- Explore the bustling streets and bazaars – From Banarasi silk to street-side chaat, the markets in Varanasi are sprawling and spread out. For a quick in-and-out shopping experience, visit Godowlia Market or the Rajan Silk market.
- Sample local food – Kachori, lassi, and the famous Banarasi paan are must-tries.
- Visit the temples and museums – Beyond the iconic Kashi Vishwanath, there’s a treasure trove of famous places to visit in Varanasi waiting for you.
Best Months to Visit Varanasi
Unless you want to sweat throughout your exploration or brace the bone-chilling cold, planning your trip according to the best months to visit Varanasi can make all the difference.
That being said, the most pleasant months are October, November, and March, when the weather is cool and the city’s festivities like Diwali, are in full swing. Avoid the summer months (April to June) unless you’re a fan of sweating through your kurta while bargaining for souvenirs. However, that’s also the off-season, when everything, from hotels to flight tickets, is available at more affordable rates. Monsoon has its charm too, but the ghats can get slippery and crowded.
Tips for Visiting Varanasi Tourist Places
Varanasi is magical, chaotic, and deeply spiritual… but it helps to know a few insider tips:
- Mind the marauding monkeys – They’re cute until they steal your snacks or sunglasses. Keep your belongings close.
- Respect the cremation workers at Manikarnika Ghat – Observe silently, don’t take photos, and remember that this is part of the sacred cycle of life here.
- Dress modestly – Temples and ghats require respectful attire. Scarves and shawls are your best friends.
- Go early for the ghats – Sunrise is serene; afternoons can be overwhelming. Since half a million people are squeezed into a one-square-mile area in this city. So the best time to beat the crowds is either late at night or early in the morning.
- Talk to locals – The people of Varanasi are full of stories, from mythology to everyday life, and they love sharing them with curious travelers.
Ready to Book Your Tickets?
From ghats and temples to forts and museums, every corner in Varanasi has a story to tell. If you want to experience it, pack your bags, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a trip that will stay in your heart long after you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is Varanasi famAous for?
A. Varanasi is known for its ghats along the Ganges, ancient temples like Kashi Vishwanath, vibrant culture, spiritual rituals, and silk weaving.
Q. How can I experience the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
A. Head to Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat in the evening. Arrive early for a good spot or take a boat ride for a unique view of the ritual.
Q. Is it safe to swim in the Ganges at Varanasi?
A. Swimming isn’t recommended. The river is sacred, strong, and carries pollutants, so it’s best to enjoy it from the ghats or a boat.
Q. Is it safe to travel to Varanasi alone?
A. Yes, with usual travel precautions. Stay alert, dress respectfully, and avoid deserted areas at night. Most areas are bustling and well-traveled.
Q. What is famous to eat in Varanasi?
A. Try kachori sabzi, chaat, malaiyo (a frothy sweet), lassi, and of course, Banarasi paan. Street food here is an adventure in itself!
Q. What is the hidden gem of Varanasi?
A. Assi Ghat and the narrow lanes around it often get overlooked but offer serene ghats, local tea stalls, and a more intimate glimpse of everyday life in the city.
Also Read: Places to Visit In India In December | Hanuman Temples in Delhi
