Best Places to Visit in Varanasi
Varanasi isn’t just a city, it’s a mood, a rhythm, a living postcard that never stops moving. One moment you’re standing on the ghats watching the Ganga sparkle under the morning sun, and the next you’re lost in narrow lanes filled with chai stalls, silk shops, and temple bells that never stop ringing.
This is the city where every corner feels like it has a story to tell. People don’t just come here to “visit.” They come to feel something peace, chaos, spirituality, nostalgia, sometimes all at once. And honestly, that’s the charm.
If you’re planning a trip in 2025, consider this your friendly guide. From the iconic ghats to hidden gems tucked away in old alleys, here are the best things to do in Varanasi that deserve a spot on your travel list.
Why Visit Varanasi?
Varanasi isn’t just another dot on India’s map; it’s the soul of the country. Known as the spiritual capital, this city has been standing tall for over 3,000 years. Think about that for a second: empires have come and gone, but Varanasi kept flowing, just like the Ganga beside it.
What makes it so magnetic? A rare mix of spirituality, history, and everyday life that somehow blends into one seamless experience. You’ll see saints chanting by the river, college kids zipping through centuries-old lanes, and families bonding over a plate of hot kachoris all in the same morning.
And the food? Let’s just say Varanasi doesn’t only feed your soul, it spoils your taste buds too. From creamy lassi served in clay cups to spicy street snacks, every bite has a story.
That’s the beauty of Varanasi. It’s ancient, yet alive. Chaotic, yet deeply calming. A city that refuses to fit into one box.
Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in Varanasi (2025)
Varanasi isn’t the kind of city you just see; it’s one you feel. Every ghat, temple, and narrow lane carries whispers of stories that are thousands of years old.
One moment you’re soaking in the serenity of a sunrise on the Ganga, the next you’re caught in the vibrant chaos of bazaars selling silk and spices. That mix of spirituality, culture, and raw everyday life is exactly what makes Varanasi unforgettable. Here are the places that capture its magic best.
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The heartbeat of Varanasi. This legendary Jyotirlinga draws lakhs of devotees every year, and stepping inside feels like stepping into centuries of faith. The energy here? Electric. Even if you’re not deeply religious, the chants, the bells, and the sheer devotion around you will give you goosebumps.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
If there’s one place you must experience in Varanasi, it’s this ghat during the evening Ganga Aarti. The sight of priests in sync, lamps blazing against the twilight, and chants echoing across the river’s spine-tingling, the kind of moment that stays with you long after.
Assi Ghat
A favorite hangout for students, artists, and travelers. Mornings here often begin with yoga by the Ganga, and evenings flow with music, conversations, and street food. It’s youthful, cultural, and buzzing with life, a refreshing contrast to the city’s heavy spiritual vibe.
Manikarnika Ghat
The most sacred cremation ground in Hindu tradition. It’s intense, raw, and deeply spiritual. Life and death meet openly here, reminding you of the city’s timeless philosophy, that everything flows, just like the Ganga. Not for the faint-hearted, but definitely eye-opening.
Panchganga Ghat
Steeped in mythology, this ghat is believed to be where five holy rivers once met. It’s quieter than the bustling Dashashwamedh, making it a good spot to pause, reflect, and soak in Varanasi’s spiritual layers without the crowd.
Ramnagar Fort and Museum
Cross the river and you’ll find this 17th-century fort still holding on to its royal past. The fort itself has a rugged charm, and the museum inside showcases old palanquins, weapons, and vintage cars like stepping into a different era.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
Inside Banaras Hindu University, this museum is a treasure trove for history buffs. Sculptures, paintings, textiles, and archaeological finds, where Varanasi’s cultural richness is preserved with pride.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Campus
One of Asia’s largest residential universities, BHU’s sprawling green campus feels like a peaceful retreat from the chaos of the city. Walking through, you’ll find libraries, temples, and that laid-back academic vibe.
New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Mandir)
Also inside BHU, this marble-clad temple is a modern beauty. Inspired by the original Kashi Vishwanath, it’s grand yet serene, offering a calmer space for prayer and reflection.
Tulsi Manas Temple & Durga Temple
Both temples sit close to each other, and both are worth visiting. Tulsi Manas marks the spot where poet Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas. The Durga Temple, painted in striking red, has an energy that’s fierce yet inviting.
Sarnath
Just a short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Buddha delivered his first sermon. The Dhamek Stupa stands tall as a symbol of that moment, while the Ashokan Pillar and Buddhist monasteries add layers of history and serenity.
Tibetan Temple (Sarnath)
A quieter stop in Sarnath, the Tibetan Temple is adorned with prayer wheels and colorful murals of Buddha’s life. Spin the wheels, soak in the chants, and let the calm wash over you.
Spiritual & Cultural Experiences
When you’re exploring there are many things to do in Varanasi, it’s not just about sightseeing, it’s about soaking in moments that stay with you forever. From the glow of the evening Ganga Aarti to quiet boat rides at sunrise and the timeless charm of its silk and street food, the city wraps you in an experience that’s equal parts soulful and cultural.
Evening Ganga Aarti (Dashashwamedh / Assi Ghat)
The city’s most soul-stirring ritual. Priests move in rhythm with blazing lamps, chants echo through the air, and the river shimmers with devotion. Dashashwamedh is grand and packed, while Assi offers a calmer, more local vibe.
Travel Tips:
- Arrive 45 mins early for a front-row view.
- Watching from a boat is less crowded (but slightly pricier).
Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges
Wake up early, it’s worth it. As the first rays hit the ghats, you’ll see the city slowly come alive: priests praying, locals bathing, and temples glowing in golden light.
Travel Tips:
- Share a boat to save money.
- Bargain before you start the ride.
- Carry a light jacket in winter.
Walking Tour of Old Varanasi
Step into a maze of narrow lanes buzzing with temples, rituals, street food, and silk shops. It’s chaotic, colorful, and oddly addictive. You’ll never know what’s around the next corner.
Travel Tips:
- Hire a local guide if you don’t want to get lost.
- Wear comfortable shoes, lots of walking ahead.
- Keep cash handy; many shops don’t take cards.
Banaras Silk Saree Shopping (Godowlia / Vishwanath Lane)
No trip is complete without touching the legendary Banarasi silk. From handwoven sarees to stoles, the craftsmanship here is world-class.
Travel Tips:
- Bargaining politely is part of the culture.
- Genuine silk feels heavy; if it’s too cheap, it’s fake.
- Ask for a certificate of authenticity when buying expensive sarees.
Photography Tours in Varanasi
For shutterbugs, Varanasi is a dream. The ghats, rituals, morning mist, and people’s expressions are all frame-worthy.
Travel Tips:
- Mornings have the best light and fewer crowds.
- Always ask before photographing locals.
- Carry extra batteries and memory cards. Varanasi is photogenic nonstop.
Food Experiences in Varanasi
One of the tastiest things to do in Varanasi is to dive into its street food scene; kachoris, chaats, lassis, and of course, the famous paan. The city is a paradise of flavors, spicy chaats, crispy kachoris, melt-in-the-mouth jalebis, and creamy lassis that cool you down in the middle of all the chaos. Eating here isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about tasting tradition in every bite.
Street Food Crawl
Varanasi is a street food paradise where every corner smells like temptation. From spicy chaat to crispy kachori-sabzi, melt-in-the-mouth jalebis, and a glass of creamy thandai, your taste buds will thank you.
Travel Tips:
- Go easy, Varanasi street food is rich and filling.
- Mornings are best for kachori-sabzi, evenings for chaat.
- Stick to busy stalls for freshness and hygiene.
Famous Stops
Some spots are non-negotiable for food lovers. Deena Chat Bhandar is legendary for tangy chaat, while Blue Lassi Shop serves fruit-filled lassis in clay cups that double as souvenirs. Walk down Kachori Gali for the city’s best breakfast, and if you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss Shree Ji Ki Malaiyo, a frothy, saffron-infused dessert cloud.
Travel Tips:
- Blue Lassi gets crowded, so go early.
- Malaiyo is strictly a winter delight (Nov–Feb).
- Carry small change; many shops don’t accept cards.
Paan Culture in Varanasi
In Varanasi, paan isn’t just a mouth freshener; it’s a tradition, almost an art form. The most famous stop? Ramchandra Chaurasia Tambul Bhandar, where paan has been crafted for generations. Sweet, meetha, or loaded with spices, there’s a paan for every mood.
Travel Tips:
- Start with meetha paan if you’re new.
- Ask for recommendations, the paanwalas know their craft.
- Skip swallowing the betel nut (supari) if it feels too strong.
Best Markets in Varanasi for Shopping
Shopping in Varanasi is an experience in itself, messy, colorful, and completely addictive. From glittering Banarasi silks to handcrafted brassware and tiny souvenirs tucked into crowded lanes, every market here feels like a treasure hunt waiting to surprise you.
Godowlia Market
- Main shopping hub of the city
- A mix of sarees, handicrafts, spices, and street food
- Lively, colorful, and always buzzing
Vishwanath Lane
- Close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Known for religious items, beads, idols, and souvenirs
- Narrow, crowded lanes with a spiritual vibe
Thatheri Bazaar
- Famous for brassware and traditional utensils
- Home to skilled artisans and workshops
- Great for decorative and cultural pieces
Rajan Silk Market
- Popular for authentic Banarasi silk sarees
- A wide range from wedding sarees to daily wear
- Showcases the city’s centuries-old weaving craft
Chowk & Golghar
- Chowk: zari work, fabrics, and street eats
- Golghar: daily essentials and modern shops
- Blend of old-world charm with a local lifestyle buzz
Best Places to Visit Near Varanasi (Day Trips & Weekend Getaways)
When the ghats and temples have filled your heart, it’s time to wander a little further. Around Varanasi, you’ll find ancient forts, sacred temples, peaceful stupas, roaring waterfalls, and wildlife escapes, all perfect for a quick day trip or a lazy weekend getaway.
Sarnath Stupa & Buddhist Circuit
Just a short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. The Dhamek Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, and peaceful monasteries make this a must-visit for anyone seeking calm and history rolled into one.
- Distance: ~10 km from Varanasi
- Highlights: Dhamek Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, Buddhist temples
- Vibe: Spiritual, serene, and historically rich
Vindhyachal Temple (Mirzapur)
Perched on the banks of the Ganga, Vindhyachal is a vibrant Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. The energy here is powerful, especially during Navratri when pilgrims flock in thousands.
- Distance: ~65 km from Varanasi
- Highlights: Goddess Vindhyavasini Temple
- Vibe: Devotional, festive, and energetic
Chunar Fort
Standing tall on the Ganga, Chunar Fort is a mix of Mughal, British, and local history. Its rugged walls, secret passages, and sweeping river views make it feel like a storybook fort with real scars of the past.
- Distance: ~40 km from Varanasi
- Highlights: Ancient fort walls, river views, Mughal-British history
- Vibe: Historic, mysterious, and scenic
Chandraprabha & Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuaries
Nature lovers, this one’s for you. These lush sanctuaries are dotted with waterfalls, trekking trails, and rare wildlife like leopards and blackbucks. A refreshing escape from the city’s hustle.
- Distance: ~70–80 km from Varanasi
- Highlights: Leopards, blackbucks, exotic birds, trekking trails
- Vibe: Wild, adventurous, and green
Lakhaniya & Rajdari Waterfalls (Chandauli & Mirzapur)
Few things beat the roar of waterfalls surrounded by green hills. Lakhaniya and Rajdari are the perfect weekend picnic or photography spots—especially right after the monsoon when they’re at full power.
- Distance: ~50–70 km from Varanasi
- Highlights: Scenic waterfalls, picnic spots, nature views
- Vibe: Refreshing, photogenic, and laid-back
Suggested Itineraries for Varanasi Travelers
Whether you’ve got just a day to spare or an entire long weekend, Varanasi has a way of fitting into your plans. Sunrise boat rides, temple visits, street food crawls, and nearby escapes, there’s an itinerary for every kind of traveler.
1 Day in Varanasi (Highlights only)
Tight on time? No worries, you can still soak in the city’s soul in a single day. Start with a sunrise boat ride, dive into the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, wander the lanes, and end the day with the iconic Ganga Aarti.
- Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges
- Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple visit
- Breakfast at Kachori Gali
- Stroll through Vishwanath Lane & Godowlia Market
- Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
2 Days in Varanasi (Spiritual & Cultural)
Two days give you space to breathe and explore beyond the basics. Mix spirituality with culture, temples, museums, and some much-needed food indulgence.
- Day 1: Sunrise boat ride, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Old City walking tour, evening Ganga Aarti
- Day 2: Assi Ghat morning vibes, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (BHU), Ramnagar Fort, Banaras silk shopping, Blue Lassi stop
3 Days in Varanasi (Heritage, Food & Nearby Spots)
Three days let you see the city at its best, spiritual mornings, cultural afternoons, foodie evenings, plus a quick getaway to nearby gems like Sarnath.
- Day 1: Sunrise boat ride, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Old City lanes, Ganga Aarti
- Day 2: Assi Ghat, museums & BHU campus, Ramnagar Fort, street food crawl at night
- Day 3: Day trip to Sarnath (stupas, temples, Tibetan Monastery), shopping at Rajan Silk Market, paan at Ramchandra Chaurasia
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
- Winter (Nov–Feb): The most pleasant season with cool weather, perfect for sightseeing, festivals, and long walks along the ghats.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): The city turns lush and green, but humidity is high; good for fewer crowds and a quieter experience.
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Scorching heat makes travel tough, but it’s the best time for off-season hotel deals and fewer tourists.
FAQs About Visiting Varanasi
How many days are enough to explore Varanasi?
Two to three days hit the sweet spot. One day covers the main temples and ghats, the second lets you dive into food, shopping, and local culture, and if you have a third day, you can stretch out to Sarnath or nearby forts.
What is Varanasi most famous for?
- Sacred Ganga River and the evening Ganga Aarti
- Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Jyotirlinga)
- Banarasi silk sarees and brassware
- Street food like kachori, jalebi, and paan
Is Varanasi safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s safe for most travelers, including solo explorers. The ghats and markets stay lively until late, so you won’t feel isolated. Just follow basic safety rules, stay alert in crowds, avoid empty lanes at night, and keep valuables close.
- Stick to busy, well-lit areas at night
- Use registered autos or taxis for late travel
- Keep cash and essentials in a crossbody bag
- Trust your instincts if a place feels unsafe; move away
What food is Varanasi famous for?
- Kachori-sabzi for breakfast
- Tamatar chaat and dahi bhalla in the evenings
- Jalebi and malaiyo (only in winter)
- Lassi in clay cups at Blue Lassi Shop
- Banarasi paan, the city’s signature treat
Can I take a boat ride in Varanasi?
Definitely, a sunrise boat ride is pure magic, watching temples glow in golden light while the city slowly wakes up is unforgettable. Sunset rides are great too, especially if you want to witness the Ganga Aarti from the water.
When is the best time to visit Varanasi?
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Pleasant weather and festive vibes
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Greener but humid
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Hot but good for off-season deals
What are the best things to do in Varanasi?
- Watch the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganga
- Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other famous shrines
- Wander the Old City lanes and shop for Banarasi silk
- Enjoy Varanasi’s street food, from kachoris to lassi and paan
Author: Alok Mishra
Alok Mishra is a seasoned SEO professional and a proud native of Varanasi. Born and brought up in the spiritual capital of India, he combines deep-rooted cultural knowledge with expert digital insight. Through his writing, Alok offers authentic, insider perspectives that bring the timeless essence of Varanasi to life for every reader.
