Best Places to Visit in Varanasi: A Complete Guide to Kashi Vishwanath and Beyond

Varanasi is a city which is awake before its tourists. Boats start their first journeys along the Ganges, and the ghats gradually become populated by pilgrims, locals, priests and early morning walkers. In the background, there is a chai shop that is already in business. The best places to visit in Varanasi may be easy to list, but experiencing them is another matter altogether.

This is the city of Shiv ki Nagri. Its ancient name is Kashi and also it is related to the “City of Light”. It is still known as Banaras by many people and Varanasi is the official name. Traditionally, the city is associated with the Varuna and Assi rivers.

But the visit itself is not the best part of the experience, it is the experience itself. It’s the walk to the temple, the food you stopped for on the way, the boatman pointing something out on the river or the chai you had because you needed a 5-minute break and it turned into half an hour.

Then somebody asks, “Ka ho, chai piyoge?”

Well, obviously.

That is Varanasi.

Varanasi, Banaras or Kashi?

All three of the names, Varanasi, Banaras and Kashi, are used throughout the trip and are synonymous with the same city.

Kashi is the old name, which is closely related to Lord Shiva and the identity of the city. Banaras is a common name, Varanasi is the official name.

No, you did not mess up and book three different destinations. So, no, you didn’t book three different destinations by accident.

If the shopkeeper says Banaras, the priest says Kashi and your hotel booking says Varanasi, no one is confused. You shouldn’t be either.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Varanasi?

October to March is the best time to visit Varanasi, as the weather is warm and pleasant. Walking is easier and the old city lanes are easier around the ghats, mornings by the Ganges are cool.

Summer can be a harsh season and monsoon can cause a problem for boat trips and riverbank activities. Festival periods are busier with a lot of religious holidays.

Winter is a great time for sunrise boat rides. The river is still, the light is soft and the city gently awakens around you.

For a brief moment, it’s as if there’s a sukoon in the air again…

Then there is a temple bell that rings and someone begins calling out for chai and Banaras is up and running again.

How to Reach Varanasi

Varanasi has very good connectivity via air, rail and road. The old city is narrow and has a lot of traffic so it’s helpful for visitors to know which station to take the train from.

Varanasi Railway Stations at a Glance

Varanasi Junction is usually the most convenient place to stay for the first time visitor who is staying around Kashi Vishwanath and the central ghats.

By air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is the main airport for the city.

By road: Varanasi has road connections with major cities across Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states.

Just one thing… the old city is not really designed for people to run around in cars. As you approach the ghats, walking is frequently the preferred mode of transport.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The Spiritual Centre of Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath is where many travellers start their trip to Varanasi.

One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the important temples in Varanasi. Rebuilt in the 18th century by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar.

But the temple is just a part of it. As one approaches the lanes leading to it, the religious atmosphere is felt more strongly, while flower sellers, puja shops and pilgrims are seen in the lanes.

While you’re searching for the entrance to the temple, a flower seller may be trying to get your attention, a pilgrim may be rushing by and someone may be yelling “Bhaiya, zara side se…”.

Typical Banaras.

The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has opened up the approach towards the Ganges, making the area easier to navigate before.

Traveling tip: If possible, go early. It can get very busy at the temple later in the day.

Best Places to Visit in Varanasi

Although the Ganges is the thread that weaves the city, the ghats are surprisingly different. Some are ruled by ceremonies, some by life, and some by traditions to be respected in silence.

These are some of the best places to visit in Varanasi on your first trip:

1. Dashashwamedh Ghat

The most popular evening spot in the city for people to gather is Dashashwamedh, and this is largely due to the Ganga aarti.

At night, the steps are full of people and worshipers. Lamps, incense, bells and boats are brought to the river to conduct the ceremony by the priests.

It is possible to get quite competitive, particularly at rush hour.

Come early to catch a good sight. Turning up five minutes before the aarti is a little optimistic…

Arre bhai! By then, half of the city has already reached.

2. Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika is one of the main cremation ghats of Varanasi and is very sacred.

It should not be considered as traditional Varanasi tourist places. Cremation services are conducted here daily, so it is important that visitors are respectful, don’t take photos and provide families with privacy.

People who want to learn about the traditions might want to hire a local guide to give them information without interfering with the rituals.

Where the best strategy is to keep it simple… watch quietly and leave people alone.

3. Assi Ghat

Yoga classes, concerts, chai and the first boat rides of the day are all part of the scene. One of the easier things to do in Varanasi is viewing the sunrise from here.

Assi is also one of the few Varanasi tourist places where you can be at ease and spend an hour without any attempt to “see”.

Sit near the river. Have chai. Watch the boats.

Bas…

Sometimes that is enough.

4. Man Mandir Ghat

Man Mandir Ghat is an excellent place to visit for those who are interested in the history and architecture of Varanasi.

The ghat is connected to Raja Man Singh and the nearby observatory was constructed by Sawai Jai Singh II. It can easily be visited while walking along the central riverfront.

Don’t just skip it because the next one will be up next. Take a moment to gaze up at the old buildings and details; there is more to see than you’d think.

5. Namo Ghat

Namo Ghat is one of the newer riverfront spots in Varanasi, known for its large Namaste sculptures and open spaces along the Ganges.

It has a more modern feel compared to the older ghats and is a nice place for a relaxed walk, river views and a few photographs.

Visit around evening when the riverfront becomes lively but not quite as crowded as some of the central ghats… a good change of pace.

6. Tulsi Manas Temple and Durga Temple

Tulsi Manas Temple is related to Tulsidas and Ramcharitmanas. The verses of the epic are written on its marble walls, which make it interesting for those who know the epic.

The nearby Durga Temple is famous for its red facade and religious value.

Both are easily accessible temples in Varanasi to visit during the same trip. These are also among the temples in Varanasi that can be covered together without spending too much time travelling between them.

Be mindful of what you have to watch around the monkeys.

They don’t have any sense of shame.

You are eating the prasad and they are thinking, “Accha… humko bhi chahiye”.

7. Banaras Hindu University and New Vishwanath Temple

BHU is a breath of fresh air in the hustle and bustle of the old city. The campus is quite spacious and Bharat Kala Bhavan is a worthy place to visit for art and history enthusiasts.

The other important landmark of the campus is the New Vishwanath Temple.

It is one of the places to visit in Varanasi with family at a leisurely and slower pace. After the crowded lanes, the extra space feels like a small luxury.

8. Ramnagar Fort

Across the Ganges lies Ramnagar Fort which has its own perspective of Varanasi.

The fort has a history with the old royal family and contains collections related to it. The river crossing and the view back to the city enhances the experience.

It’s a nice choice if you need a respite from the hustle and bustle of the ghats… particularly after a hectic morning.

9. Sarnath

Sarnath is like a separate trip from Varanasi.

It is believed that Buddha gave his first sermon here. The Dhamek Stupa, archaeological remains and museum are the main attractions.

The environment is open and somewhat tranquil, which makes it a convenient half-day excursion and one of the places to visit in Varanasi with family.

The shift can be quite refreshing compared to the hustle and bustle of Varanasi’s central area.

Places to Visit Near Varanasi

If you have an extra day, take a short day trip. Some of the places to visit near Varanasi include:

• Chunar Fort: A historic fort overhanging the Ganges.
• Vindhyachal: A major pilgrimage centre related to Vindhyavasini Temple.
• Jaunpur: A medieval town famous for its historic buildings.

These are useful options for travellers looking for places to visit near Varanasi beyond the main city.

Select the one you like and can devote your time to. You won’t have much time to enjoy all three if you try to do them all in one day.

Ka ho… holiday hai, road trip endurance test thodi na?

Things to Do in Varanasi

The list of things to do in Varanasi does not need to be complicated.

• Take a sunrise boat ride.
• Attend the Ganga Aarti.
• Walk through Vishwanath Gali.
• Try tamatar chaat, lassi, jalebi and Banarasi paan.
• Pick up some Banarasi silk if you are shopping for something traditional.

These are some of the simplest things to do in Varanasi, and they leave enough room for the city itself to fill in the gaps.

And then do something that does not appear on the itinerary.

Sit beside the Ganges.

Wander into a lane because it looks interesting.

Stop for chai because someone said, “Yahan ki chai try karo.”

Those unplanned moments often end up being the ones you talk about later.

Perhaps you’ll find a small shop that sells something yummy. Perhaps a local will lead you to a lane that you would never have considered. Perhaps you just sit and watch the river…

Kya pata?

Places to Visit in Varanasi at Night

Varanasi is still buzzing long after the night falls.

The obvious evening stop for the Ganga Aarti is Dashashwamedh and the nearby lanes are not devoid of activity, as there are plenty of food stalls, shops and pedestrians.

For places to visit in Varanasi at night, you can also take a boat ride, a stroll through the more populated old city, or time spent at a Banarasi paan stall or lassi parlor.

If anybody tells you, “Bhai, ek paan try karo…”, then you are in Banaras. Might as well.

Avoid areas that are dark and unfamiliar. There’s no need to make the evening complicated when there’s so much to see.

Things to Know Before Visiting Varanasi

A few practical details can make the trip much easier:

• Wear comfortable footwear: The old city and ghats involve plenty of walking.
• Carry some cash: Useful for smaller shops and stalls.
• Confirm local fares: Agree on boat and rickshaw prices before starting.
• Secure valuables: Crowded lanes require normal precautions.
• Respect photography restrictions: Especially around cremation areas.
• Leave some free time: Traffic and crowds can easily shift your plans.

Do not make the itinerary too tight. Varanasi has a habit of slowing you down, whether you planned for it or not.

A chai stop becomes longer than expected… someone recommends a snack… the lane ahead looks interesting…

And suddenly your carefully planned 4 PM schedule is history.

No big deal.

Varanasi 2 Day Itinerary

A Varanasi 2 day itinerary is enough to cover the major sights while leaving some room to enjoy the city.

Family tip: If Day 2 feels too packed, skip Ramnagar Fort and spend the evening around the ghats instead.

Places to Visit in Varanasi in 1 Day

With only one day, avoid crossing the city repeatedly. Keep the route around the Ganges, Kashi Vishwanath and the old city.

This covers the main places to visit in Varanasi in 1 day without turning the day into a race.

Save Sarnath and destinations outside the city for another day.

Places to Visit in Varanasi in 3 Days

With three days, the schedule can breathe a little.

For places to visit in Varanasi in 3 days, the third day is best kept flexible. Choose one nearby destination rather than trying to squeeze several into the same schedule.

By Day 3, you might just want to wander, eat something good and sit by the Ganges…

And honestly, fair enough.

Where to Stay in Varanasi

Your choice of neighbourhood matters, particularly if you are visiting for the first time.

Godowlia and the Central Ghats put you close to the main attractions, but they are busy. Assi is more relaxed, while BHU and Lanka are better suited to travellers who prefer a quieter base with easier road access. Explore stays in Varanasi.

Final Thoughts

The best places to visit in Varanasi will get you to the places you have come for, but rarely will Varanasi remain in an itinerary.

The monument may be remembered more for the sunrise. The chai was more important than the shopping. The bell tolling in a lane not listed on the map.

Perhaps it will be a boatman uttering a joke as the sun rises. Perhaps the first bite of hot kachori. Perhaps an abandoned temple in a secluded alley, discovered by chance…

The enchanting allure of Banaras.

It takes one day to get the essentials. Two days allow you to relax, three days enable you to get off the beaten track.

Don’t be afraid of leaving an hour blank, but make sure to include the key places.

In Shiv ki Nagri, that hour of silence could be the highlight of the journey!

Bas… yahi toh Banaras hai.

Solis Nature offers handpicked nature centric stays.

FAQs

1. What are the best places to visit in Varanasi for a first-time visitor?

For a first trip, include Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Sarnath and the old-city lanes. If time allows, add BHU, Ramnagar Fort or a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges.

2. How many days are enough for Varanasi?

Two to three days are enough to cover the major places to visit in Varanasi without rushing through everything. One day works for the main highlights, while three days gives you time for Sarnath and a nearby destination.

For additional ideas on planning a short solo trip, you can also read this Quora discussion on spending 2-3 days in Varanasi.

3. What is the best time to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Early morning is generally a good time to visit Kashi Vishwanath, particularly if you want to avoid some of the heavier crowds later in the day. Check the temple’s current timings and entry requirements before visiting, as these can change.

4. What are the best things to do in Varanasi?

Some of the most memorable things to do in Varanasi include taking a sunrise boat ride, visiting Kashi Vishwanath, attending the Ganga Aarti, walking through Vishwanath Gali, trying local food and spending some unplanned time beside the Ganges.

5. What should I visit in Varanasi in 1 day?

If you have only one day, start with a sunrise boat ride from Assi Ghat, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Vishwanath Gali, explore the central ghats in the afternoon and attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh in the evening. Sarnath is better saved for a longer trip.

For another perspective on first-time planning and timings, see this Quora discussion about key places to visit on a first trip to Varanasi.

6. Which are the most important temples in Varanasi to visit?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most significant for many visitors, while temples in Varanasi such as Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple and the New Vishwanath Temple at BHU can also be included depending on your interests and available time.

7. What are some places to visit near Varanasi?

Sarnath is the easiest addition to a Varanasi itinerary. If you have an extra day, places to visit near Varanasi include Chunar Fort, Vindhyachal and Jaunpur. Choose one rather than trying to fit all three into a single day.