Varanasi Travel Guide

Varanasi, also called Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, the city is known as the spiritual heart of India. It’s where life, death, and devotion meet in the most unique way. You will find nowhere such experiences as Varanasi offers.

It is also a major pilgrimage site in India as it is home to the very famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are also other temples dedicated to different deities. That’s why sometimes it is also described as the Temple City of India. Besides, the city is also one of the principal tourist destinations and attracts tourists not only from India but also from different parts of the world.

People take a Varanasi tour not only for sightseeing but also for inner peace. Here, you will find several ghats filled with rituals, temples rich in history, and markets full of colors. Whether you are looking for spirituality, culture, or history, Varanasi offers it all.

Famous Temples to Visit on Varanasi Tour

Varanasi is often called the Temple City because of several temples located here. Some of the most popular and visited temples on Varanasi tours are as follows:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Vishwanath), Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most significant temple and attraction to see in Varanasi. No matter what you have seen in this ancient city, if you don’t visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, you have seen nothing. The temple is very popular among Hindu pilgrims, as it is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. If you want to visit this famous temple on your Varanasi trip, consider visiting early in the morning or in the evening. There is tight security and a lot of crowds here. The temple is located near the very famous Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Another significant temple to visit on a Varanasi tour is the Sankat Mochan Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Located near Banaras Hindu University (BHU), the temple was founded by Saint Tulsidas. Visiting this temple and seeking the blessings here is considered a way to fulfill wishes and relieve devotees from troubles (Sankat).

Durga Kund Mandir

The Durga Kund Mandir holds a special significance among devotees. It is believed that the idol here appeared on its own (Swayambhu). The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, and there is a pond (kund) nearby that adds to its spiritual ambiance.

Annapurna Devi Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Annapurna (goddess of nourishment and food), this famous temple is situated near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is known for providing food and prosperity to its devotees and visitors.

Kal Bhairav Temple

Kal Bhairav Temple is also one of the popular temples to visit on Varanasi tours. It is dedicated to Kal Bhairav (a fierce form of Lord Shiva) and is known as the Kotwal (the Guardian) of Varanasi. Locals say that you must take his permission to stay in Kashi. Photography is not allowed within the temple.

Tulsi Manas Temple

The Tulsi Manas Temple is a famous temple and tourist attraction in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the temple is situated at the site where Goswami Tulsidas wrote Ramcharitmanas. The walls of this temple are inscribed with verses from Ramcharitmanas.

Bharat Mata Mandir

The Bharat Mata Mandir is one of the most prominent temple attractions in Varanasi. It is one of the few temples in India that is dedicated to Bharat Mata (Mother India) rather than a deity. It houses a relief map of India carved in marble instead of a traditional idol.

New Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the New Vishwanath Temple is located in the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Built by the Birla family, it is a modern temple with peaceful surroundings.

Mritunjay Mahadev Temple

The Mritunjay Mahadev Temple in Varanasi is also dedicated to Lord Shiva as the conqueror of death. It is believed to offer protection from untimely death and diseases.

Vishalakshi Temple

Located near Meer Ghat, the Vishalakshi Temple in Varanasi is one of the Shakti Peethas. It is dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, a form of Devi Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva.

Famous Ghats to Explore on Varanasi Tour

Varanasi is not only famous for temples but also for holy ghats by the sacred River Ganges. These ghats are central to the city’s spiritual life. They are the places where pilgrims perform rituals, bathe in the holy river, and attend the famous Ganga Aarti. Here is the list of the most famous ghats that you can explore on your Varanasi tours.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous and lively ghat in Varanasi. According to legend, Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, performed yajna here by sacrificing ten horses. The special attraction here is the spectacular Ganga Aarti in the evening. So, don’t forget to attend the Aarti ceremony here.

Manikarnika Ghat

The Manikarnika Ghat is the primary cremation ghat in Varanasi. It is spiritually intense and sacred for Hindus. It is believed to grant moksha, and fire here is said to be eternally burning.

Harishchandra Ghat

The Harishchandra Ghat is another important cremation site in Varanasi. It is named after the legendary King Harishchandra, who worked here. Here, you will find less crowds but the place is equally significant.

Assi Ghat

The Assi Ghat is a lively ghat in Varanasi, popular among locals, students, and tourists. It is a great spot for sunrise views, yoga sessions, and cultural activities. It often features live music, aarti, and morning spiritual events.

Tulsi Ghat

Named after Goswami Tulsidas, the author of Ramcharitmanas, the Tulsi Ghat in Varanasi is a site of literary and spiritual importance. It is located near the famous Tulsi Manas Mandir.

Chet Singh Ghat

Built in the mid-18th century, the Chet Singh Ghat is one of the best ghats that you can visit on your morning boat ride on the Ganga River. It is built on the site of a fierce battle between local Maharaja Chet Singh and the troops of the British East India Company in 1781. Here, you will see the historic Chet Singh Fort, which is a fortress-style palace with a terrace overlooking the river and ghats to the water. It is less spiritual but more historic and photogenic.

Kedar Ghat

The Kedar Ghat is a popular ghat, especially among South Indian pilgrims. Here is the Kedareshwar Temple, dedicated to a form of Lord Shiva. The temple has more regional flavor in architecture and worship.

Scindia Ghat

The Scindia Ghat in Varanasi is visually appealing and a favorite of photographers. It is famous for the partially submerged Shiva Temple in the Ganges.

Panchganga Ghat

The Panchganga Ghat is a mythologically significant ghat in Varanasi. It is where the five revers are believed to meet. It also houses the Alamgir Mosque, built by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

Raj Ghat

Located on the northern end of Varanasi, the Raj Ghat is a less crowded ghat. It is one of the most famous ghats in the city in terms of tourism. Many travel agencies arrange walks here and use the riverfront as the starting point for the boat ride on the Ganges. Although this famous ghat does not hold much religious significance, it remains the center of attraction for history lovers. It is the location of one of the most recent excavation sites conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Spiritual Experiences on Varanasi Tour

A trip to Varanasi always offers significant spiritual experiences to visitors coming from different parts of the world. On your tour to this ancient city in Uttar Pradesh, there are two things that you should never miss.

Ganga Aarti

Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a mesmerizing spiritual experience that you should not miss on your Varanasi tour. The aarti is performed every evening on the banks of the Ganges River. Chiefly, it takes place at three main ghats: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Rajendra Prasad Ghat. Watching the priests perform rituals with lamps, chants, and music at these ghats is truly unforgettable.

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Another important thing that you should not miss on your Varanasi trip is a peaceful ride at sunrise on the Ganges. It shows you the spiritual life of the city in its truest form. Popular ghats to start a boat ride in Varanasi are Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Raj Ghat, Namo Ghat, and Ravidas Ghat.

Cultural Attractions in Varanasi

The ancient temple city of Varanasi is also known for its cultural attractions. Some of the most popular attractions that you can see on your Varanasi tour are as follows:

Banaras Hindu University

Simply called BHU, it is a prestigious educational institution with a huge campus and historical importance. It is also the largest residential university in Asia, with over 30000 students and 18000 residing on campus.

Bharat Kala Bhavan

Bharat Kala Bhawan is a museum inside BHU. The university museum has a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts. It has been crucial in spreading knowledge about Indian art and culture. It is also one of the major tourist attractions at Banaras Hindu University and in Varanasi.

Ramnagar Fort

Located near the eastern banks of the Ganges, opposite to the famous Tulsi Ghat, the Ramnagar Fort is a significant cultural attraction in Varanasi. The fort was built by Kashi Naresh Maharaja Balwant Singh in 1750. The location of this historic fort is scenic. You can reach here from BHU via the newly built Ramnagar bridge. It will hardly take 10 minutes from BHU to Ramnagar Fort. You can also take a boat ride from Dashashwamedh Ghat to reach the fort.

Food Scene in Varanasi

Varanasi is known for its diverse food scene. When on Varanasi tours, don’t miss famous street foods like kachori-sabzi, chaat, and litti chokha. You should also try traditional sweets like Malaiyo (Makhan Malai) and Rabri. And the iconic Banarasi paan is a must-try.

Shopping in Varanasi

Your Varanasi tour is incomplete without shopping.

Banarasi Sarees: World-famous silk sarees with gold and silver brocade work.
Handicrafts and Souvenirs: Wooden toys, brassware, and spiritual items are popular.
Local Bazaars to Explore: Visit Godowlia and Thatheri Bazaar for the best shopping experiences.

Festivals in Varanasi

The most famous festivals where Varanasi stands out are as follows:

Dev Deepawali: The ghats light up with thousands of diyas, creating a magical view.
Mahashivratri: The biggest festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated with devotion and grand processions.
Banarasi Holi: Holi here is colorful, vibrant, and filled with music and joy.

Accommodations in Varanasi

Accommodation options on Varanasi tours include:

Budget Stays: There are several guesthouses and hostels near Assi Ghat that offer budget accommodation facilities for travelers.
Mid-range Hotels: You can find many comfortable hotels near the ghats and the main city areas.
Luxury Resorts: Varanasi is also home to many high-end hotels along the river offering the best comfort and views.

Excursions or Day Trips from Varanasi

On your Varanasi tour, you can also take excursions or day trips to nearby places. The two most popular places where most travel companies organize excursions from Varanasi are as follows:

Sarnath: Sarnath is a historical town near Varanasi. It is an archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also a famous Buddhist pilgrimage because it is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. The major attractions are the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Sarnath Archaeological Museum. You can reach Sarnath from Varanasi by taking a short drive of 10 minutes. The distance is only 9.5 km.

Chunar: Chunar is a historic city situated in the district of Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh. Many travel companies organized a day trip to Chunar from Varanasi as a package deal. The place is an attraction because of its ancient fort, called Chunar Fort. The fort is associated with interesting legends and beautiful views of the Ganges. You can reach this historic fort from Varanasi by taking a drive of approximately 1 hour.

Travel Tips for Varanasi

Wear modest clothes when visiting temples and ghats in Varanasi.
Stay alert in the crowded areas and on ghats to keep your belongings safe.
Maintain protocol at temples and ghats.
Respect local culture and traditions.
Avoid clicking photos during rituals without permission.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

Summer in Varanasi: Summers (April to June) are hot, with temperatures often reaching above 40°C. Not the best time unless you are used to the heat.
Winter in Varanasi: From November to February, the weather is cool and pleasant. This is the peak season for tourists.
Monsoon in Varanasi: The monsoon season lasts from July to September. The rains make the ghats look fresh, but travel can get tricky.