Places to Visit in Varanasi

Discovering the Eternal City

Varanasi is a living museum of spirituality, history, and culture. Known as Kashi, the city is dotted with temples, vibrant ghats along the Ganga, historic forts, and academic institutions. From sacred pilgrimage sites to cultural centers, Varanasi invites travelers to witness its timeless blend of devotion, art, and daily life.

1. Temples of Varanasi

Temples are the soul of Varanasi. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the city’s most revered shrine. Pilgrims believe a visit here grants liberation (moksha).

Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The holiest Shiva temple, rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – Established by Tulsidas, it is dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
Durga Temple – Known as the “Monkey Temple,” built in the 18th century with a striking red facade.
Tulsi Manas Temple – Marks the site where Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas.
New Vishwanath Temple – Located on the Banaras Hindu University campus, built with marble.

2. Ghats of Varanasi

The 80+ ghats lining the Ganges are central to the city’s life. From ritual bathing to cremation, each ghat holds unique spiritual and cultural significance.

Dashashwamedh Ghat – Famous for the grand evening Ganga Aarti.
Manikarnika Ghat – Sacred cremation ground symbolizing the cycle of life and death.
Assi Ghat – Popular for yoga, sunrise boat rides, and cultural events.
Harishchandra Ghat – Another ancient cremation site tied to King Harishchandra.
Tulsi Ghat – Associated with saint Tulsidas and known for music festivals.

3. Sarnath

Just 10 km from Varanasi lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. It is one of Buddhism’s four sacred sites. Attractions include the Dhamek Stupa, the Ashokan Pillar, and the Archaeological Museum with artifacts from the Mauryan and Gupta periods.

4. Ramnagar Fort

Located across the Ganga, Ramnagar Fort was built in the 18th century by the Kashi Naresh. The sandstone fort houses a museum displaying vintage cars, weapons, royal costumes, and manuscripts. The fort is also the venue for the month-long Ramnagar Ramleela, one of India’s grandest theatrical performances of the Ramayana.

5. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of Asia’s largest residential universities. Its sprawling campus includes the New Vishwanath Temple, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum with rare paintings and sculptures, and cultural spaces that host performances and academic events.

6. Cultural & Heritage Spots

Beyond temples and ghats, Varanasi offers vibrant cultural sites:

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum – Inside BHU, with over 100,000 artifacts.
Sankat Mochan Music Festival – Celebrates classical music annually at Sankat Mochan Temple.
Tulsi Ghat Akhara – Preserves wrestling traditions of the city.
Godowlia Chowk – Bustling market with Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts.
Ravi Shankar’s Ancestral House – A tribute to Varanasi’s role in Indian classical music.

7. Hidden Gems

For those who wander beyond the obvious landmarks, Varanasi reveals hidden treasures:

Alamgir Mosque – Built by Aurangzeb on the site of a Vishnu temple, blending Mughal and Hindu styles.
Kabir Math – Dedicated to the 15th-century mystic poet Kabir.
Ravidas Park & Temple – Honoring Saint Ravidas, a prominent Bhakti movement saint.
Nepali Temple – A replica of Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath Temple, made of wood and stone.

The Timeless Attractions of Kashi

From sacred temples and historic ghats to cultural festivals, museums, and hidden gems, Varanasi is a city that unfolds layer by layer. Each place is a story, each corner a memory. Visiting these sites offers not just sightseeing, but a journey through India’s spiritual and cultural essence.