Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Located along the sacred banks of the Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is considered India's spiritual capital and a pilgrimage site for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists.
The narrow lanes of Varanasi hide magnificent ghats, ancient temples, vibrant markets, and priceless heritage that showcase its glorious past and vibrant culture. A trip to this magical city is nothing short of stepping into a bygone era filled with rituals, traditions, colours, and scents.
If you're planning a trip to Varanasi soon, consider exploring the city through well-curated Varanasi tours to ensure you don’t miss these top 10 must-visit places that will make your journey unforgettable.
10 Must-See Places in Varanasi
Regarded as one of India's most sacred pilgrimage sites, Varanasi is filled with ancient temples, vibrant ghats, and fascinating spirituality, including:
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Perched on the banks of the Ganga, Dashashwamedh Ghat is Varanasi's liveliest and most popular ghat. The name 'Dashashwamedh' means 'sacrifice of ten horses' and refers to an ancient ritual that used to take place here.
Planning your visit around the mela with thoughtfully curated Kumbh Mela tour packages can make your journey even more enriching, offering an immersive experience of one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings.
Some highlights of Dashashwamedh Ghat:
- Magnificent views of river Ganga
- Splendid Ganga aarti ceremony held daily in the evenings
- Old stone steps leading to the river for a holy dip
- Narrow lanes with shops selling religious items
- Street food vendors dishing out lip-smacking local delicacies
Spend your evening at the ghat to experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony, which features chants, music, lights, and energy.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a crucial Hindu shrine. Although the historic temple has undergone multiple cycles of destruction and reconstruction over the centuries, its structure dates back to the 18th century.
Some highlights of Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
- The main idol of Lord Shiva is the jyotirlinga Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha
- Intricately carved shikhara tower over the sanctum
- Soothing Ganga water flows beside the temple
- An atmosphere filled with the scent of incense and the ringing of temple bells
Make sure you join the queue to seek blessings and see the dazzling Jyotirlinga, Lord Shiva's main idol.
3. Manikarnika Ghat
Lining the banks of the Ganga, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred cremation grounds in Varanasi and India. Hindus from across the world bring the ashes of their dead family here for cremation and to offer liberation of the soul.
Some highlights of Manikarnika Ghat:
- Pyres keep burning continuously at the ghat with chants and prayers
- It reminds one of the cycle of life and death
- The sacred well of Manikarnika Kund is believed to have been excavated by Lord Vishnu during creation.
While it can be an intense experience for some, a visit to learn the rituals gives a deeper insight into Hinduism's beliefs about life and death.
4. Sarnath
Just 10 km from Varanasi lies Sarnath, the famous Buddhist pilgrimage centre where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. He taught the principles of Buddhism to his first five disciples here, setting the 'Dharmachakra' in motion.
Some top highlights of Sarnath:
- Ruins and remains dating back to the 3rd century BC
- The iconic Dhamek Stupa and several other stupas
- Emperor Ashoka built the majestic Ashoka Pillar
- Ancient monasteries, temples, and museums
A day trip from Varanasi to Sarnath provides a tranquil escape into Buddhism away from the chaos of Varanasi.
5. Bharat Mata Mandir
Dedicated to Mother India, Bharat Mata Mandir is a one-of-its-kind temple in Varanasi. Instead of traditional idols, it houses a huge marble relief map of the Indian subcontinent depicting undivided India.
Key highlights of Bharat Mata Mandir:
- Houses the 180 sq feet relief map made of marble
- The map depicts significant rivers, mountains, plateaus and oceans
- Dedicated to patriotism and national unity
- Located inside the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus
You must visit this unique temple on your Varanasi trip for its sheer architectural brilliance and ingenuity.
6. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Spread over 1300 acres along the banks of the Ganga, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Built in 1916 by the great nationalist leader Madan Mohan Malviya, BHU has immense history and heritage within its campus.
Some top attractions in BHU:
- The sprawling campus with over a hundred departments, majestic gates, and archways
- Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum with 12,000 artefacts and ancient sculptures
- Attend the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony at the University Ghat
- Buy the iconic BHU kulhad chai and Varanasi thandai
Stroll on this heritage university campus for a peek into history and architecture.
7. Ramnagar Fort
The Ramnagar Fort sits across the Ganga River in Ramnagar. Built-in the 18th century, it was once home to Varanasi's former Maharaja.
Key highlights include:
- Museum displaying vintage royal cars, palanquins, clothes and weapons
- Grand Durbar Hall is decorated with antique furnishings and chandeliers
- Various Hindu temples located within the fort grounds
- Riverfront sunset views overlooking the Ganga
A quick 30-minute boat ride transports you across the river into the captivating royal world of Ramnagar.
8. Chunar Fort
The historic Chunar Fort is located just 40 km from Varanasi on the banks of the Ganga River. Originally constructed in the 6th century, the fort has seen many rulers.
Top attractions:
- Scenic stone walls and lookout towers
- The prison that once held captive Mughal Emperor Humayun
- Mysterious tunnels and rocky terrain to explore
- Temples honouring Hindu deities within the fort walls
History buffs and adventure seekers alike will find a day tour of the intriguing Chunar Fort worthwhile.
9. Nepali Temple
Tucked away in a peaceful corner near Lalita Ghat, the rare Nepali Temple boasts beautiful Nepalese-style architecture and skilled craftwork. Built in the 19th century by the King of Nepal, the temple is home to numerous Hindu and Buddhist god statues.
What to See at the Nepali Temple:
- Intricate wooden carvings and designs comparable to Kathmandu Valley temples
- Plaster artwork and decorative entrance arches
- Quiet setting perfect for reflection by the Ganga
- Evening prayer ceremony with traditional Nepali instruments
- Make time to explore this unique Nepali gem in Varanasi.
10. Alamgir Mosque
Alamgir Mosque is an outstanding example of Mughal structural design. It is located high up on the Ganga banks near Panchganga Ghat. Constructed in the 17th century during Emperor Aurangzeb's Rule, its towering spires and rounded domes are an imposing spectacle.
Notable Highlights:
- Sweeping city views from the tall minarets
- Elaborate carvings, archways, and red sandstone patterns
- Site of Benares Conspiracy of 1781 that aimed to overthrow British Rule
No Varanasi trip is complete without catching the magnificent perspective of the city that Alamgir Mosque's vantage point provides.
Conclusion
So there you have it! The top 10 must-visit places in Varanasi for an unforgettable trip. Each place will reveal different aspects of the history, culture, and beliefs that this ancient city is built upon.
Make sure to soak it all in—the ghats and aartis, temples and traditions, flavours and shopping, boating and walking tours during your Varanasi holiday for lifetime memories.
