Quick Details

Varanasi, also known as Kashi and Banaras, is one of India's most famous spiritual and cultural destinations. Located on the banks of the River Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, the city is known for its ancient temples, historic ghats, spiritual traditions, narrow lanes, local markets and vibrant culture.

If you are visiting Varanasi for the first time, choosing the right places to visit can make your trip much easier. From the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the famous Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat to the peaceful surroundings of Sarnath, Varanasi offers a mix of spirituality, history and culture.

This guide covers the best places to visit in Varanasi, what makes each place special and how you can include these attractions in your travel plan.

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most important spiritual attractions in Varanasi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The temple is located in the old city near the Ganga ghats and is a major pilgrimage destination for devotees visiting Kashi.

A visit to Varanasi is often planned around Kashi Vishwanath Temple, especially for travellers coming for a spiritual or religious journey.

If you are planning your first visit, it is useful to understand the darshan process, temple timings and important visitor guidelines before reaching the temple. Read our detailed Kashi Vishwanath Temple Darshan Guide before planning your visit.

Best for: Pilgrimage, spirituality and temple darshan.

Nearby: Vishwanath Gali, Dashashwamedh Ghat and Annapurna Temple.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most famous ghats in Varanasi and is particularly known for its evening Ganga Aarti.

The ghat becomes especially lively around sunset when visitors gather along the riverfront to experience the devotional ceremony.

If you are visiting Varanasi for the first time, attending the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat should be high on your itinerary.

Best for: Ganga Aarti, river views, photography and spiritual experiences.

3. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is located in the southern part of Varanasi and is one of the popular places for visitors looking for a more relaxed riverside experience.

The area around Assi Ghat is known for its morning atmosphere, Ganga views and nearby cafés and local attractions.

Early morning is a particularly good time to experience the riverside environment before the city becomes busier.

Best for: Sunrise, morning walks, Ganga views and relaxed sightseeing.

4. Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most significant cremation ghats in Varanasi and has deep spiritual and cultural importance.

It is closely associated with Hindu beliefs surrounding death, cremation and liberation.

Visitors should approach the area respectfully. Photography of cremation rituals should be avoided unless clearly permitted.

Best for: Understanding the spiritual traditions and cultural history of Kashi.

5. Sarnath

Sarnath is located a short distance from central Varanasi and is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India.

According to Buddhist tradition, Buddha delivered his first sermon here after attaining enlightenment.

Important attractions in Sarnath include the Dhamek Stupa, archaeological remains and the Sarnath Museum.

Sarnath provides a quieter experience compared with the busy lanes and ghats of Varanasi.

Best for: History, Buddhism, museums and peaceful sightseeing.

If you are planning a two-day trip, you can include Sarnath in your Varanasi 2 Days Travel Itinerary.

6. Kaal Bhairav Temple

Kaal Bhairav Temple is an important temple associated with Lord Shiva and holds a special place in the spiritual traditions of Kashi.

Many devotees include this temple in their Varanasi pilgrimage itinerary along with Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

If you are planning a spiritual trip, you can consider including Kaal Bhairav Temple in your temple circuit.

Best for: Spiritual and religious travel.

7. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is one of the well-known temples in Varanasi.

The temple attracts devotees throughout the year and is particularly associated with prayers and devotion to Hanuman.

Visitors should follow the temple's current rules regarding entry, belongings and photography.

Best for: Religious visits and devotees of Lord Hanuman.

8. Durga Temple

Durga Temple is another well-known religious attraction in Varanasi.

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is also known for its distinctive architecture and spiritual significance.

It can be included in an itinerary along with other nearby temples and ghats.

Best for: Temple visits and architecture.

9. Banaras Hindu University

Banaras Hindu University, commonly known as BHU, is one of the most renowned educational institutions in India.

The university campus is also home to the New Vishwanath Temple, making this area worth visiting for travellers interested in education, architecture and spirituality.

The campus offers a different atmosphere from the crowded old-city areas of Varanasi.

Best for: Architecture, education and peaceful sightseeing.

10. New Vishwanath Temple

New Vishwanath Temple is located inside the Banaras Hindu University campus.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple offers visitors a comparatively open and peaceful environment.

The temple was built in the 20th century and has become an important landmark within the BHU campus.

Best for: Temple visits, architecture and a quieter spiritual experience.

11. Bharat Mata Temple

Bharat Mata Temple is different from many traditional temples in Varanasi.

Instead of focusing on a conventional deity idol, the temple is famous for its marble relief map representing India.

It is an interesting stop for travellers who want to explore the cultural and patriotic history of the city.

Best for: Culture, history and architecture.

12. Ramnagar Fort

Located across the Ganga from the main city area, Ramnagar Fort offers a glimpse into the region's royal heritage.

The fort is associated with the former royal family of Banaras and provides a different experience from the temples and ghats of central Varanasi.

Best for: History, architecture and heritage sightseeing.

13. Vishwanath Gali

Vishwanath Gali is one of the famous lanes near Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Walking through the old-city lanes gives visitors a chance to experience the traditional atmosphere of Kashi, with shops, religious items, local food and everyday city life.

You can combine Vishwanath Gali with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Best for: Shopping, local culture, food and walking tours.

14. Ganga Ghats

Varanasi is famous for its long stretch of ghats along the River Ganga.

Every ghat has its own character, history and atmosphere. Some are popular for religious activities, some for morning walks and some for cultural experiences.

A sunrise boat ride is one of the most memorable ways to see the ghats from the river.

You can also explore selected ghats on foot, depending on your time and comfort. The ghats can be included in a complete Varanasi 2 Days Travel Itinerary.

Best for: Sunrise, photography, boat rides and experiencing the atmosphere of Kashi.

15. Banaras Silk and Local Markets

A Varanasi trip is not complete for many travellers without exploring the city's traditional markets and Banarasi silk products.

Varanasi is well known for its silk weaving tradition, and visitors can find sarees, fabrics, handicrafts, religious items and local products in different markets.

When purchasing expensive silk products, compare prices and buy from a reliable seller.

Best for: Shopping, souvenirs and experiencing local culture.

Best Places to Visit in Varanasi in 1 Day

If you have only one day in Varanasi, trying to visit every attraction can make the trip tiring.

A practical one-day plan could be:

Early Morning

• Sunrise at the Ganga Ghats

• Optional boat ride

• Assi Ghat

• Breakfast

Morning

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple

• Vishwanath Gali

• Annapurna Temple

Afternoon

• Lunch

• Rest at your hotel

• Kaal Bhairav Temple

• Sankat Mochan Temple

Evening

• Dashashwamedh Ghat

• Ganga Aarti

This plan focuses on the major spiritual experiences rather than trying to cover the entire city in one day.

For a more detailed route, you can also read our Varanasi 2 Days Travel Itinerary.

Best Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days

With two days, you can explore the city at a more comfortable pace.

Day 1 – Kashi & Ganga

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple

• Vishwanath Gali

• Manikarnika Ghat

• Dashashwamedh Ghat

• Ganga Aarti

Day 2 – Temples & Sarnath

• Sunrise boat ride

• Assi Ghat

• Sankat Mochan Temple

• BHU / New Vishwanath Temple

• Sarnath

• Dhamek Stupa

• Sarnath Museum

This gives you a combination of spirituality, culture, history and sightseeing.

If you are planning a longer Uttar Pradesh pilgrimage, you can also combine Varanasi with our Ayodhya 2 Days Itinerary or explore an Ayodhya–Prayagraj–Varanasi Tour.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

Varanasi can be visited throughout the year, but October to March is generally considered more comfortable for sightseeing because temperatures are usually more pleasant.

The official tourism portal also highlights October to March as a favourable period for exploring Varanasi, including the ghats, boat rides and cultural experiences.

Summer can be hot, so travellers should plan outdoor sightseeing accordingly.

During major festivals and religious events, the city can become significantly more crowded. If you are travelling during a festival, allow extra time for transportation and sightseeing.

How Many Days Are Enough for Varanasi?

For a first visit, 2 to 3 days can provide a good introduction to Varanasi.

1 Day

Suitable for the main spiritual attractions:

• Kashi Vishwanath

• Ghats

• Ganga Aarti

2 Days

Allows you to add:

• Sarnath

• BHU

• More temples

• Local markets

3 Days

Gives you more time for:

• Sarnath

• Multiple ghats

• Temples

• Local markets

• Food experiences

• Relaxed sightseeing

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Start Early

Morning sightseeing can be more comfortable, especially during warmer months.

2. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Several areas of the old city involve walking through narrow lanes and crowded areas.

3. Keep Some Extra Time

Traffic and crowds can make travel slower than expected.

4. Respect Religious Places

Follow temple and ghat rules and avoid intrusive photography during sensitive religious activities.

5. Keep Your Belongings Safe

Crowded markets and tourist areas require normal precautions with phones, wallets and bags.

6. Plan Your Ganga Aarti Visit

If you want to watch the Ganga Aarti from Dashashwamedh Ghat, reach early enough to find a comfortable viewing position.

7. Don't Try to Cover Everything

Varanasi is better experienced at a relaxed pace than by rushing from one attraction to another.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to visit in Varanasi?

Some of the most popular places include Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Sarnath, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, BHU, New Vishwanath Temple and Ramnagar Fort.

How many days are enough for Varanasi?

Two to three days are generally enough for a first trip covering major temples, ghats, Ganga Aarti and Sarnath. You can follow our Varanasi 2 Days Travel Itinerary for a practical plan.

Which place is famous in Varanasi?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Ganga Ghats are among the city's most famous attractions. Dashashwamedh Ghat is particularly popular for the evening Ganga Aarti.

Is Sarnath worth visiting from Varanasi?

Yes. Sarnath is an important Buddhist heritage site and can be added to a Varanasi itinerary, especially if you are interested in history and culture.

What should I see in Varanasi in one day?

For a one-day trip, focus on Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Vishwanath Gali, the Ganga Ghats, Dashashwamedh Ghat and the evening Ganga Aarti.

What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

October to March is generally a comfortable period for sightseeing, while summer can be hot. Festival periods can also be much busier.

Conclusion

Varanasi is more than a collection of tourist attractions. Its temples, ghats, markets, spiritual traditions and historic neighbourhoods together create the unique experience of Kashi.

For a first visit, don't try to see everything in one day. Give yourself enough time for Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Ganga Ghats, Ganga Aarti and at least one visit to Sarnath.

If you are planning a longer spiritual journey, Varanasi can also be combined with Ayodhya and Prayagraj to create a complete Uttar Pradesh pilgrimage experience. You can explore our Ayodhya–Prayagraj–Varanasi Tour for a combined travel plan.

Planning a Varanasi, Ayodhya or Prayagraj trip? Explore our tour packages or contact SWJ Swaraj Tours & Travels for help planning your journey.