Varanasi TourismWorld's oldest living city, Varanasi - also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benaras, is the spiritual capital of India. It is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. The old city of Varanasi lies along the western banks of the Ganges, spread across a labyrinth of narrow galis. Be prepared to walk on foot and encounter some holy cows! Temples at almost every turn engulf Varanasi but the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most visited and the oldest of the lot. Benaras is known as the city of Lord Shiva for a reason, and rightfully so.
Varanasi is considered an auspicious place to die, as it is believed to grant moksha or liberation from the cycle of life and death. Spiritually enlightening, the heart of the city pulsates around the ghats, about 80 of which border the Ganges. Be prepared for the sights, sounds and smells! Don't miss out on the hot chaat and cool lassi. Though, all chaos and noise on the ghats take a pause before dusk when the Ganga Aarti begins to take place, a ceremony of immense grandeur.
This divine city is also an important destination for Buddhists. Gautam Buddha preached his first sermon in Benaras, a part which is now in Sarnath.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Varanasi lies along the banks of the river Ganges in the Indo-Gangetic plains region. This place has a harsh summer season. This ancient city lies just 80 m above sea level and thus, you will find a dry and humid temperature in this region. When it comes to religious rituals, the place is at prime beauty throughout the year.
Summers of Varanasi – April to June
Summer starts its take from the middle of March. However, April is officially the beginning of the season and it ends by June. Early summer would be pleasing and from there, the temperature and humidity start to raise. The peak of summer would hike the temperature to 45 degree C. Although it is a lean tourism season, the summer is preferred by those, who are looking for better deals in hotels and travel. In addition, you get to explore the temple without crowd. Rituals, religious processing and festivals are common in summer too.
The temperature ranges between 32 degree C and 45 degree C. Showers are rare but do occur with thunderstorms. During this season, the hot dry winds named ‘loo’ are quite common.
Monsoon of Varanasi – July to September
Thanks to River Ganges, the monsoon in this area will be moderately heavy. Sudden downpour and frequent showers are common from July to September. If you are looking for exploring Varanasi, it becomes quite hard, as the rain would hinder your travels. Many activities including Ganges cruise might be halted if the showers are heavy. On the other hand, photographic travelers find Varanasi at the prime beauty during rain. Showers are common and there will be a considerable drop in the temperature. However, the humidity will be high.
The temperature ranges between 24 degree C and 32 degree C. Evenings will be cool and refreshing.
Winter of Varanasi – October to March
Winter is the iconic tourism season for Varanasi. Night is cold and mornings are pleasing. Thus, you will be able to explore the region without exhaustion. Moreover, the winter season holds many religious festivals and celebrations. Catching Varanasi in festive mood will be quite a sight.
The temperature ranges between 5 and 15 degree C. Nights are very cold and days are pleasant. Showers are quite rare during winter season.
Best Season To Visit Varanasi
The best time to visit the city is from October to end of March. If you do not mind heat and are looking for spiritual activities and celebrations, April and May can also be added to the list, because they are the colorful months of Varanasi, thanks to interesting festivals and religious rituals.
HOW TO REACE VARANASI
Varanasi, also known as Kashi and Benaras, is one of the oldest cities in India. Being a prominent cultural and religious hub, the city draws a large number of foreign visitors every year and is well connected to other parts of the country with a good network of flights, trains and buses. The Varanasi Airport, popular as Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is well connected with various prime Indian cities while Varanasi railway junction and Kashi Railway station are the two major railheads serving the city. Moreover, the Uttar Pradesh state buses operate frequent buses from Varanasi to Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur and Ranchi, among others.
By air
Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport or Varanasi Airport is linked to some prime Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi. Domestic airlines like Air India and IndiGo operate regular flights from Delhi, Khajuraho, Bangalore, Mumbai and Goa. There are flights available for Kathmandu too. Once you reach the airport, you can hire prepaid taxis to reach the city centre.
By road
Varanasi enjoys excellent connectivity by road with cities like Allahabad, Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur and Ranchi. A number of state buses and private services including some very comfortable air-conditioned luxury buses ply frequently from Lucknow to Varanasi. Well-maintained national highways, NH 2 and NH 28 (via Harlalka Road), lead to Varanasi from Lucknow, the journey taking around 6 to 7 hours.
By train
The Varanasi railway junction and Kashi railway station are the two main railheads in Varanasi. Travellers can make their travel bookings till either of these two stations. Both these railway stations are well linked with prime Indian cities via extensive rail network. From Delhi, there are several trains available for Varanasi, BSB Garibrath originating from Anand Vihar is one of them. Auto rickshaws, autos and rickshaws are easily available from outside these railway stations.
TOP TOUR AREA VARANASI
1. Assi Ghat – For Those Seeking Spirituality
varanasi ghat india gaining more popularity as tourism destination
This is easily one of the must visit places in Varanasi! Located far south, Assi Ghat is where pilgrims pay homage to Lord Shiva by worshipping a huge lingam situated under a peepal tree. This ghat is a lively space, rippling in chaos and commotion and one that vividly captures the ancientness of Kashi. Among the most famous religious places in Varanasi, Assi Ghat is a must visit. The alluring sight of the arti here makes Varanasi one of the most beautiful cities in India.
Address: Assi Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: Anytime
Famous For: Recreation and festivals
Built In: 1988
Built By: Uttar Pradesh Government
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
The main ghat in Varanasi on the Ganges river, Dashashwamedh Ghat is a flamboyant place known for its spiritual transcendence. It is common knowledge that Lord Brahma sacrificed 10 horses in a yajna here, and thus the name. Dashashwamedh Ghat tops the list of famous places to visit in Varanasi at night as it is a compelling space to dawdle in this small town. Be here for the Agni Pooja or Ganga aarti, as it is popularly called.
Note: Special aartis are held every Tuesday and on religious festivals.
Address: Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of varanasi, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Culture, Heritage, Temples
Built In: 1748
Built By: Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao
3. Manikarnika Ghat – The Prime Cremation Ghat
Considered to be an auspicious place to be cremated, Manikarnika Ghat is among the pivotal places of interest in Varanasi. This ghat is an exasperating and startling experience in itself as absolutely nothing is considered sacrilegious here. The setting sun and the glowing pyres along with candle-lit flower bowls floating down the holy river Ganga make Manikarnika Ghat a sight to behold. When looking for the best tourist places in Varanasi, consider visiting this ghat.
Address: Near Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Garawasi, Jugul Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Sacred riverfronts, Cremation grounds
Built In: 1730
Built By: Bajirao Peshva
3. Ahilyabai Ghat
Known as Kevalgiri ghat earlier, this place is famous for being the first one of its kind that got named after the person, like in this case, Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. While you can visit this ghat at any time, the best hour is in the morning when you can see Hindu devotees taking a dip with a belief that it’ll cleanse their sin and witness the beauty of the ghat at its best.
Address: Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Religious bathing rituals
Built In: 1785
Built By: Queen Ahilyabai Holkar
4. Rana Mahal Ghat – For The True Explorers
This places should definitely be a part of our itinerary for a memorable Varanasi sightseeing. Built by Raja Rana Jagat Singh at the time when he came to the city as a pilgrim, this ghat attracts a lot of tourists day in and out. It is situated right next to a palace which is believed to be the residence of the Maharaja during the period of his pilgrimage. If architecture is something that tickles your fancy, then there’s a lot to see and admire here.
Address: Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Heritage tour
Built In: 1670
Built By: King Rana Jagatsingh
5. Panchganga Ghat – Where The Five Rivers Met
No doubt Varanasi is full of the innumerable ghats, but the Panchganga Ghat surely stands out. Believed to be the mythical meeting place of five sacred rivers, this place has images of the five goddesses namely Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Dhutpapa, and Kirana. A lot of travelers stop by here to seek blessings and soak up some peaceful vibes of the place.
Address: 7/111, Sonarpura Rd, Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Spiritual bathing, Prayers, Festivals
Built In: 1580
Built By: Maratha Empire
6.Chousatti Ghat – Famous Sanskrit Scholar’s Shelter
There are various reasons that this ghat is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Banaras. Famed for being the shelter of the famous Sanskrit scholar Madhusudan Sarasvati and for its palace built by King Digbatiya of Champaran, Bihar, this ghat is one of its kind. It also houses a temple complex that features images of Goddess Kali. And on occasions like Holi and 12th dark-half of Chaitra, this place welcomes tourists in a huge number.
Address: Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Temples
Built In: NA
Built By: NA
7. Kedar Ghat – Sacred Bathing Place
Counted as one of the oldest ghats in the town of Varanasi, Kedar Ghat is considered the best for holy bathing. The Kedareshwar Temple here is visited by various tourists who offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The breathtakingly beautiful surroundings and heartwarming vibes of this ghat make it one of the best Varanasi sightseeing places where one can spend quality time!
Address: Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Spiritual bathing, Prayers, Kedareshwar Temple
Built In: NA
Built By: NA
8. Manmandir Ghat – Marvel At Views Of River Ganga
Built in the early 17th century by Maharaja Mann Singh, this ghat is famous for a palace and an observatory. The palace was built by the maharaja and the observatory was built in 1710 by Savai Jaisingh II. You can marvel at the views of the River Ganga from a stone balcony situated on the northern side of the ghat.
Address: Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: NA
Famous For: Palace visit, Observatory, Views of the sunset on River Ganga
Built In: 1600
Built By: Maharaja Man Singh
9.Popular Temples In Varanasi
Being one of the holiest cities in India and with religious importance, it boasts several temples that are each distinctive in its architecture and the variety of deities each temples houses. A place of worship and spiritual retreat, check out the best temples to visit in Varanasi.
11.Tulsi Manas Temple – Where Ramcharitmanas Was Written
Among the many sightseeing places in Varanasi is the Tulsi Manas Temple, the place where Tulsidas wrote the Hindu epic Ramayana in an Awadhi dialect of the Hindi language. The temple was funded by the Birla family and constructed in white marble in 1964. Verses and scenes from Ramcharitmanas are engraved on the mandir walls.
Address: Sankat Mochan Rd, Durgakund Rd, Near Jalan, Varanasi, 221005
Timings: 5 am – 12 pm & 04 pm – 09 pm
Famous For: The ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas
Built In: 1964
Built By: Sureka Family of Howrah
12. Durga Temple – The Fabled Old World Legend
Also called the monkey temple, this mandir is among the mythical places to see in Varanasi. Built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani, the temple is painted red with ochre. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Durga in the temple was not constructed, it appeared on its own. If you’re looking for places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days, this is one attraction you can’t miss.
Address: 27, Durgakund Rd, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
Timings: 5 am – 11 pm
Famous For: Dedicated to Maa Durga
Built In: 18th century
Built By: Rani Bhabani of Natore
13.Chinese Temple – Dedicated To Lord Buddha
Chinese Temple is a shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha. It is built in the Chinese architectural style and is mainly done in different shades of two colors – red and yellow. The exterior is simple but the interior is elaborately and beautifully decorated. The meditation hall is spacious and peaceful, surrounding you with a spiritual vibe.
Address: Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007
Timings: 8 am – 6 pm
Famous For: Dedicated to Lord Buddha
Built In: 1939
Built By: Chinese devotees
14. Sita Samahit Sthal – Must Visit In Vrindavan
Sita Samahit Sthal is one of the must places to visit in Vrindavan and around. The site where this Hindu temple stands is believed to be a very significant site related to the epic, Ramayana. This is said to be the place where Goddess Sita spent her days in exile. This is also the spot where she descended into the earth after Lord Rama found out about their children.
Address: Jangiganj Dhantulsi Marg, Bankat Uparwar N. Barpur, Uttar Pradesh 221309
Timings: NA
Famous For: It is believed that at this place Mother Sita had absorbed herself in the earth.
Built In: Sri Prakash Narayan Punj
Built By: 1990
15.Tibetan Temple – Marvel At The Tibetan Architecture
A stunning temple with a Tibetan architecture, this temple is where Lord Buddha taught his disciples the four truths of life. Visit the temple and marvel at the Buddhist paintings that nicely adorn the walls of the temple. The temple has another distinctive feature which is the prayer wheel that releases strips of paper with chants written on them if rotated clockwise.
Address: Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007
Timings: NA
Famous For: Soothing ambience, Religious purpose, Spiritual
Built In: NA
Built By: Tibetan Monks
16. Batuk Bhairav Mandir – Temple With Healing Powers
This temple is a place of worship for Aghoris and Tantriks, it is a place of profound energy, good vibes and of utmost religious importance. Dedicated to Batuk Bhairav who was an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple also has a unique feature that is the lamp which is said to have healing powers.
Address: Rathyatra Kamachha Rd, Near Kashirag Apartment, Maharana Pratap Colony, Gurubagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010
Timings: 4 am – 10:00 pm
Famous For: Religious activities
Built In: 17th century
Built By: NA
17.Bharat Mata Mandir – Worship Mother India
It’s a unique shrine that is dedicated to our country, Mother India as the name suggests. This temple is very different from others as it’s not dedicated to any specific deity or a lord. The temple features a relief map of India carved in marble. The temple was the brainchild of Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, a freedom fighter.
Address: Vidyapeeth Road, Cantt Road Lalapura, Chanuwasatti Chandua Chittupur, Guru Nanak Nagar Colony, Chetganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: 7 am – 5:30 pm
Famous For: A huge map of undivided India carved in marble
Built In: 1936
Built By: Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta
18.Gyan Vapi Well – The Well Of Knowledge
The Gyan Vapi well is located within the Gyanvapi Mosque, which was constructed by the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, on the site of the demolished Kashi Vishwanath Temple. During the British regime, the well was considered to be holier than the Ganges and was among the important and best places to visit in Varanasi as it contains the Shiva lingam.
Address: 31-24, Gyanvapi Main Road, Lahori Tola, Gyanvapi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Famous For: Religious purpose, Spiritual
Built In: 1664
Built By: Aurangzeb
19.Ramnagar Fort & Museum – The Mughal Era For
Located opposite to the Tulsi Ghat, the Ramnagar Fort is an 18th-century crumbling ruin in dire need of restoration. However, the crimson sunset as viewed from inside this enclosure is reason enough to give Ramnagar Fort a spot on the list of places to visit in Varanasi. This old rampart is also home to a vintage museum that is famous for its rare collection of old American cars, ivory works, medieval costumes, and a huge astronomical clock. When gong for Varanasi sightseeing, this place should definitely be considered!
Address: Ram nagar, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221008
Timings: 10 am – 05:30 pm
Famous For: Sightseeing, Photography
Built In: 1750
Built By: Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh
20. Chunar Fort – A Spooky Little Rampart
Situated in the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, the Chunar Fort is located approximately 23 km southwest of Varanasi and certainly one of the best Varanasi sightseeing experiences. The earliest recorded history in Chunar is from the 16th century, traced to a garrison of the Mughal emperor, Babar. The tombs of some of his soldiers are still venerated here. The fort is believed to be divinely blessed and is among the popular places to visit in and around Varanasi in one day.
Address: Tammanpatti, Uttar Pradesh 231304
Timings: 8 am – 5 pm
Famous For: Historic, Sightseeing, Phootgraphy
Built In: 1029
Built By: King Sahadeo
21.Sarnath – The Famed Historical Ruins
Located 13 km northeast of Varanasi, Sarnath is among the famous Buddhist pilgrimages in India that will give you the best Varanasi sightseeing experience. It is a popular place to visit around Varanasi for those seeking peace and solitude after jostling their way through the frazzled ghats and gullies of Kashi. After achieving enlightenment at Bodhgaya, the Buddha came to Sarnath seeking his former companions and thus gave his first sermon here. Sarnath is known to be one of the best places to visit in Banaras.
Popular sightseeing places in Sarnath include the Dhamekh Stupa & Monastery Ruins, the Archaeological Museum, the Chaukhandi Stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Chinese & Thai Temple and Monastery.
Address: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007
Timings: Always open
Famous For: Historical ruins, Sightseeing, Photography
Built In: 300 BC
Built By: Emperor Ashoka
22.Man Mandir Observatory – The Varanasi Heritage
Located on the Man Mandir Ghat, this masonry observatory is established atop the Man Singh Palace. It was built in 1737 by Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur city. The observatory consists of 4 main astronomical instruments and is among the heritage places to see in Varanasi. The Man Mandir Observatory is now under the Archaeological Survey of India and needs to be refurbished.
Address: Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: Sunrise – sunset
Fanous for: It showcases and preserves the ancient heritage of Varanasi
Built In: 1737
Built By: Maharaja Jai Singh II
23.Alamgir Mosque – Reminiscent Of The Mughal Era
Built on the site of a desecrated Vishnu temple in the 17th century, the Alamgir Mosque is among the famous Varanasi tourist places. The mosque as it stands today, dominating Panchganga Ghat is proof of the ludicrous methods adopted by the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. Non-muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque. Needless to say, this is one of the top places to visit in Varanasi.
Address: Panchganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings: NA
Famous For: Religious purpose, architecture
Built In: 17th century
Built By: Aurangzeb
24.Ramnagar Ramlila – Witness The Oldest Ramlila
A tradition that is being performed as a set of plays to tell the story of Lord Ram and Lord Laxman’s journey as told by the Ramayana. The Ramlila act played at Ramnagar is said to be the oldest and the best Ramlila in the world. It goes on for 31 days as the audience anticipated to witness the story of Lord unfold in front of their eyes.
Address: Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh
Dates: 29 September – 8 October
Famous For: Ramlila Play
Built In: NA
Built By: NA
25. Aqua World – A Summer Paradise
Aqua World is a popular theme park located on the Varanasi-Allahabad highway. This is a small water park but a good place to enjoy in the water. There are several slides connected to a huge main pool. The colourful slides and rides make Aqua World an interesting place to visit with your friends and family.
Address: NH 2, Mohan Sarai Bypass, Panditpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221011
Timings: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Famous For: Water rides, Theme park
Built In: NA
Built By: Uttar Pradesh Government
26.Varanasi Fun City – For Thrilling Roller Coaster Rides
Varanasi Fun City another highly popular water park in Varanasi. The place has several fun rides and activities. The thrilling Roller Coaster is one of the highlights this park. This is one of the best places to spend your holiday with your family and friends. Varanasi Fun City also has a food court where you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks with your loved ones.
Address: Pandeypur Panchkoshi Road, In Front of St. Mary Convent School Daniyalpur, Sona Talab, Uttar Pradesh 221007
Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Famous For: Amusement Park, Roller Coaster Rides
Built In: NA
Built By: Uttar Pradesh Government
27.Godowlia Market – The Busiest Shopping Junction In Town
The biggest and the busiest market in town, Godowlia is among the popular tourist places in Varanasi. It sells everything from daily household items to glass bangles and trinkets. The smell of camphor that wafts out of every second shop in this market will surely get you drunk on the divine. So, make sure you do not skip this place at all as it is one the famous places to visit in Banaras.
Address: Dashaswmedh Road, Ramapura Luxa, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221001
Famous For: Household items, accessories, jewelry
28. Chowk & Vishwanath Gali – Real Essence Of The City Lies Here
Two of the most popular street markets in town, Chowk and Vishwanath Gali are the quintessential places to visit in Varanasi. Famous for their silk items and ornate jewelry, these markets are always full of life, whether it is in the sweltering summer or the foggy winter. Head here to experience the real Banarasi mizaaj.
Address: Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Famous For: Silk items, Ornate jewelry
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