Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, this city is a spiritual and cultural hub attracting tourists from around the world. From ancient temples to historic ghats, Varanasi offers a unique blend of history, devotion, and vibrant local life.
In this guide, we explore the top tourist places in Varanasi that you must visit.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
📍 Location: Vishwanath Gali, Varanasi
⏰ Timings: 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
One of the most revered temples in India, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that a visit to this temple grants moksha (liberation). The temple is an architectural marvel and a must-visit for spiritual seekers.
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
📍 Location: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Evening for Ganga Aarti
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous and lively ghat in Varanasi. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed a ten-horse sacrifice (Dashashwamedh) here. The Ganga Aarti at this ghat is a mesmerizing experience, where priests perform a synchronized ritual with lamps and chants.
3. Assi Ghat
📍 Location: South of Dashashwamedh Ghat
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning for sunrise and yoga sessions
A peaceful retreat compared to other ghats, Assi Ghat is famous for its spiritual ambiance. Many travelers come here for sunrise boat rides, yoga sessions, and morning aartis. The ghat also offers stunning views of the Ganges River.
4. Manikarnika Ghat
📍 Location: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but early morning is ideal
The Manikarnika Ghat is one of the main cremation ghats in Varanasi. According to Hindu beliefs, those who are cremated here attain salvation. While it may seem intense, visiting this ghat offers a deep insight into the cycle of life and death in Hinduism.
5. Sarnath
📍 Location: 10 km from Varanasi
⏰ Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Just a short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. It is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Attractions include the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Museum.
6. Ramnagar Fort
📍 Location: 14 km from Varanasi
⏰ Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges, Ramnagar Fort was the residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi. The fort features stunning Mughal-style architecture and a museum showcasing vintage cars, weapons, and royal artifacts.
7. Bharat Mata Temple
📍 Location: Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus
⏰ Timings: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Unlike other temples in Varanasi, Bharat Mata Temple is dedicated to Mother India instead of deities. It has a unique marble relief map of undivided India, symbolizing national unity.
8. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
📍 Location: Varanasi
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Daytime
BHU is one of India’s most prestigious universities, established in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. The campus houses the New Vishwanath Temple, an architectural wonder, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which displays rare artifacts and paintings.
9. Tulsi Manas Temple
📍 Location: Near Durga Temple
⏰ Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:30 PM – 9:00 PM
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is believed to be built on the site where Tulsidas wrote the epic Ramcharitmanas. The temple’s walls are inscribed with verses from the Ramayana.
10. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
📍 Location: Near Assi Ghat
⏰ Timings: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is known for its spiritual energy and devotion. It is believed that prayers here help remove obstacles (sankat) from one’s life. Devotees are offered delicious besan ladoos as prasad.