Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world and a beautiful blend of religion, culture, history, food and daily activities along the River Ganga. This guide has all the best things to do in Varanasi whether you have 2 or more days. From sunrise boat rides, visiting temples, street food and shopping for silk, you will also get to see the incredible Ganga Aarti.
Why Visit Varanasi?
Varanasi (Also known as Kashi or Banaras) is a very important city for Hindus and a great cultural centre for Uttar Pradesh. With over 80 ghats lining the river, it has beautiful temples, Buddhist heritage in neighbouring Sarnath and a rich culture of music, weaving and food.
Varanasi is a great destination for seeing daily activities. From people bathing at sunrise, priests performing a fire ceremony at sunset, boats drifting along and narrow streets with lovely smells of kachori, jalebi and thandai.
Best Time To Visit Varanasi
The best time to visit would be between October to March as it will be a pleasant temperature. In the winter you may experience some mist over the Ganga.
If you want to have a truly spectacular time visiting make sure to plan your trip around Dev Deepawali, Ganga Mahotsav or Mahashivaratri. However avoid booking any boat rides during heavy monsoon rains.
1. Sunrise Boat Ride
The best way to start your visit to Varanasi is with a sunrise boat ride. Starting around 5.30AM you will see the whole city wake up with people bathing, priests and beautiful temples.
Most boats start from Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat or Raj Ghat. The ideal amount of time would be between 60-90 minutes. As it is early in the morning you will have cooler temperatures, a gentle light and less people.
Tip: Sit on the left-hand side of the boat as you will get a great view of the ghats as you head upstream. Pack a light jacket for the winter as it can be quite chilly.
2. Ganga Aarti At Dashashwamedh Ghat
One of the most iconic rituals in Varanasi is the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Priests wearing saffron robes perform a beautiful synchronised ceremony with lamps, incense, conch shells, bells and prayers.
This usually takes place after sunset. During the winter it will usually be between 6.30PM-7.15PM and during the summer between 7.00PM-7.45PM. However this can vary depending on the season. Try to get there early to get a good spot on the steps. Or get a boat to get a different view.
Best to book a boat for the aarti with a reputable company. Keep your belongings safe.
3. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is a much more relaxing place to start your day. Located at the southern end of the ghats it is famous for the Subah-e-Banaras. This involves yoga, vedic chanting, music and prayers as the sun rises over the Ganga.
After the programme you can have a walk along the river or enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes. This is also a popular place to start your sunrise boat ride.
4. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The spiritual centre of Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex is connected to the Ganga via the Kashi Vishwanath Dham. This is a large open corridor to make it easier for pilgrims to reach the temple.
Generally the best times to visit would be early in the morning or in the evening. As no vehicles can reach the temple you will need to walk through the old city streets after dropping off near Godowlia or nearby.
Check the temple website for the latest information on opening times, security, mobile phone policy and entry requirements.
5. Walk Along The Ghats
Varanasi is known for its beautiful ghats. Walking slowly along the ghats from Assi Ghat to Dashashwamedh Ghat will give you a glimpse into the lives of locals. You will see shrines, bathing areas, ashrams, priests, flower sellers, boatmen and lots more.
Ghats To Visit
- Manikarnika Ghat – One of the most sacred cremation ghats in Hinduism.
- Harishchandra Ghat – Another important cremation ghat.
- Panchganga Ghat – Known for its historical and spiritual significance.
- Raj Ghat – A more relaxing area along the river with historical links.
You will not be able to take photos at the cremation ghats. Take a quiet approach and keep your distance. Be respectful of the families.
6. Sarnath
Sarnath is located around 10km from the centre of Varanasi. This is where it is believed Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after becoming enlightened. This is definitely a must-do if you love history, buddhism or just want something a bit more relaxing.
Key Places To Visit In Sarnath
- Dhamek Stupa – A large ancient stupa.
- Chaukhandi Stupa – An important archaeological site.
- Mulagandha Kuti Vihar – A modern buddhist temple with beautiful murals and peaceful grounds.
- Sarnath Archaeological Museum – Famous for the Lion Capital of Ashoka.
Try to spend at least half a day here. The museum does not open every day so check the current times.
7. Visit The Temples
Varanasi has a number of amazing temples apart from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Having a walk around will help you learn why Varanasi has been a centre for hindu worship for centuries.
Temples To Add To Your List
- Kaal Bhairav Temple – Linked to the guardian deity of Kashi.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – An important Hanuman temple.
- Durga Temple – Red temple with spiritual significance.
- Tulsi Manas Temple – Linked to the Ramcharitmanas.
- Bharat Mata Temple – Contains a marble relief map of India instead of idols.
- New Vishwanath Temple – Large modern temple complex at the Banaras Hindu University.
8. Ramnagar Fort And Museum
Located across the Ganga is the Ramnagar Fort. This was built during the 18th century by Maharaja Balwant Singh. Inside the museum you can see artefacts, vintage vehicles, weapons, costumes, palanquins and items from the former Royal Family of Banaras.
This is a lovely place to visit in the late afternoon as the light from the river is nice. You can get there by road or boat if the river conditions are good.
9. Eat Your Way Around Banaras
One of the best things to do in Varanasi is eat! The old streets around Godowlia, Dashashwamedh and Vishwanath contain lots of little restaurants with recipes passed down through the generations.
Local Specialities To Try
- Kachori-sabzi – A traditional Banarasi breakfast.
- Tamatar Chaat – A tangy and spicy street food dish.
- Malaiyo – A delicious winter dessert made from milk foam, saffron and dry fruits.
- Banarasi Paan – A lovely cultural experience.
- Thandai – A refreshing drink to enjoy during festivals and warmer days.
- Jalebi – Perfect if you have a sweet tooth!
Go to busy places. Make sure they are hygienic. Drink from packaged or filtered water.
10. Buy Some Banarasi Silk And Handicrafts
Varanasi is world famous for its Banarasi Silk Sarees, brocade, brassware, wooden toys, Rudraksha beads and spiritual gifts. The weaving culture in Varanasi is still very important.
Where To Go Shopping
- Godowlia Market – Saree, fabric and general shopping.
- Thatheri Bazaar – Brassware and traditional utensils.
- Around Vishwanath Temple – Religious items and gifts.
- Government approved Emporia – More reliable silk shopping.
Make sure to check the quality of the silk, weaving and returns policy before buying anything expensive. Avoid shops which push sales.
11. Banaras Music And Culture
Varanasi is well known for the Benares Gharana. This is a famous Hindustani Classical music tradition. Varanasi has produced some legendary musicians and still hosts classical music. Especially during the winter cultural season.
Look out for evening performances, sitar, tabla and cultural performances around Assi Ghat, BHU and local cultural centres. Having a live performance will give your trip more depth.
12. Banaras Hindu University
The Banaras Hindu University campus is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. This is a great place to relax and enjoy some greenery away from the busy old city. It also contains the New Vishwanath Temple and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
Spend a couple of hours walking around the campus, visiting the temple and museum. This would be a great addition if you are an education lover, art lover or interested in modern Indian history.
Suggested 3-Day Varanasi Itinerary
This structure balances the city’s spiritual, historical and cultural sides. It also keeps major activities in the cooler morning and evening hours.
| Day | Morning | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Sunrise boat ride, Assi Ghat and Subah-e-Banaras | Dashashwamedh Ganga Aarti |
| Day 2 | Kashi Vishwanath Temple, old-city walk and Manikarnika Ghat | Street-food walk and shopping |
| Day 3 | Sarnath, Dhamek Stupa and museum | Ramnagar Fort or a classical music concert |
Top Tips For Travelling
Varanasi has an airport called Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. This is around 25km from the centre. There are also some major train stations such as Varanasi Junction and Banaras Station.
To get around use an auto, e-rickshaw or cab for longer distances. However, as many of the old streets are narrow or vehicle restricted it is best to walk the last part.
- Wear modest clothing. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or religious sites.
- Have cash on you. Smaller shops, boatmen and street vendors may not take card payments.
- Book in advance. During festivals such as Dev Deepawali the hotels near the ghats can fill up very quickly.
- Be aware. Make sure you agree on how much the auto driver wants. Do not let anyone try to sell you as a guide.
FAQs
Varanasi is famous for its Ganga Ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Ganga Aarti in the evenings, sunrise boat rides, Banarasi Silk, classical music and spiritual atmosphere.
You can see the main attractions in 2 days however ideally you would want 3 days. This will give you time to visit the ghats, temples, boat ride, Sarnath, eat, shop and visit the Ramnagar Fort.
Sunrise boat ride, Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, walk around the old streets and a half day in Sarnath.
Varanasi is generally a safe place to visit as a tourist. Keep your valuables safe, avoid going to secluded areas late at night and agree on how much the transport will cost. Be wary of touts.
Kachori-sabzi, tamatar chaat, malaiyo, thandai, Banarasi paan, jalebi and local sweets. The old streets around Godowlia and Dashashwamedh are great for street food.
The best time to go on a boat ride would be at sunrise. The lighting is beautiful, the river will be calmer and the ghats will be busiest. Sunset is also a great time to go if you would like to see the aarti from ghat.
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