Top 10 Places To Visit In Varanasi – Tourist Places In Varanasi
Places To Visit In Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city in northern India that is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus. Varanasi, also known as the spiritual capital of India, is one of the world’s oldest living cities. With over 2,000 temples, Varanasi offers visitors a unique cultural experience, whether it’s seeking spiritual enlightenment or delving into its rich history. If you’re planning a short trip and looking for the best tourist spots in Varanasi, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the top 10 tourist places to visit in Varanasi.
Top 10 Tourist Places In Varanasi
Varanasi is a city filled with countless fascinating places to explore and things to do. If you’re short on time and unable to cover every corner of the city, then here are the top 10 tourist places in Varanasi that you simply can’t miss.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous and revered Hindu temples in India. It is located in the heart of Varanasi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout history, with the current structure dating back to the 18th century.
The temple is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance. It is believed that a visit to the temple can bring blessings and fulfilment of desires. The temple is also famous for its rituals and festivals, with the most important one being the Mahashivaratri festival, which is celebrated with great devotion and fervor.
Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple, but they can still visit the temple complex and witness its beauty and spirituality. The temple is open to visitors from early morning until late in the evening, with special aarti (worship ceremony) performed at various times throughout the day. The temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hinduism, spirituality, or Indian culture.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and most popular ghats (a series of steps leading down to a river) in Varanasi, India. It is located on the banks of the river Ganges and is known for its grandeur and vibrant atmosphere. The ghat is believed to have been constructed by Lord Brahma, and it is named after the ten horses that were sacrificed here by Lord Brahma in a yajna (sacrificial fire) performed to invite Lord Shiva to descend on earth.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a famous spot for performing various Hindu religious rituals, and it is especially popular for its evening aarti (worship ceremony) that takes place every day. The aarti is a grand spectacle of lights, incense, and chants, and attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every day. The ceremony is performed by a group of priests who offer prayers and light lamps to the river Ganges, seeking blessings and protection from the divine.
The ghat is also a popular spot for taking boat rides on the river Ganges, and visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the ghat and the surrounding temples and buildings from the water. There are several small shops and eateries near the ghat that offer a variety of local food and souvenirs, making it a great spot for shopping and trying out local cuisine.
Overall, Dashashwamedh Gat is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Varanasi, and it offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India.
Manikarnika Ghat
The Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most famous and oldest ghats in Varanasi, located on the banks of the Ganges River. It is a highly significant place for Hindus and is considered one of the holiest places in India.
The ghat is primarily known for its association with death and cremation. It is believed that a person who dies in Varanasi and is cremated at the Manikarnika Ghat attains salvation and is freed from the cycle of birth and death.
The ghat is always busy with people who come to cremate their loved ones, and it is believed that offering the last rites at this ghat helps the departed soul to attain moksha (liberation). The ghat is surrounded by several shops selling wooden logs and other materials required for cremation.
Visitors to the Manikarnika Ghat are advised to be respectful and maintain decorum, as it is a place of great spiritual significance. Photography is also prohibited in the ghat area. The Manikarnika Ghat is a unique and fascinating place to visit in Varanasi, offering an insight into the customs and traditions of Hindu funeral rites. It is also a great place to witness the daily life of the people of Varanasi and take a boat ride on the Ganges River to get a panoramic view of the ghat and the surrounding area.
Sarnath
Sarnath is an important pilgrimage site located about 10 km northeast of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a significant site for Buddhists, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
Sarnath has a rich history and is home to several ancient Buddhist monuments and temples, including the famous Dhamekh Stupa, which is said to have been built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The stupa is a massive cylindrical structure that stands at a height of 43 meters and has a diameter of 28 meters.
Other notable attractions in Sarnath include the Chaukhandi Stupa, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Ashoka Pillar, which is a prominent symbol of ancient Indian art and architecture.
Visitors to Sarnath can explore the various temples and monuments, attend meditation sessions and prayer services, and learn about the teachings of Lord Buddha. The site also offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and reflect.
Sarnath can be easily reached by road from Varanasi, and several tours and packages are available for visitors who wish to explore the area. It is an essential place to visit for those interested in Buddhism and ancient Indian history.
Ramnagar Fort
The Ramnagar Fort is a magnificent fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River in the city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The fort was built by the Maharaja of Banaras, Raja Balwant Singh, in the 18th century, and it served as the residence of the Maharaja of Banaras.
The fort is a fine example of Mughal architecture and features a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. It is surrounded by a massive wall that is over 60 feet high, and has several temples, courtyards, and gardens within its walls.
The fort is also home to a museum that displays a vast collection of antique weapons, vintage cars, and other artifacts belonging to the Maharaja. The museum is open to visitors, and it provides an opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of Varanasi.
One of the most popular attractions at the Ramnagar Fort is the annual Dussehra festival, which takes place in the fort’s courtyard. The festival features a grand procession of the Maharaja’s palanquin, decorated elephants, horses, and several other traditional elements, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.
The Ramnagar Fort is easily accessible by road and boat from Varanasi, and it is a must-visit attraction for those interested in history, architecture, and culture.
Tulsi Manas Temple
The Tulsi Manas Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is believed to have been built at the site where the Hindu epic, Ramcharitmanas, was written by the poet, Goswami Tulsidas.
The temple is an impressive structure built in white marble and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. It is one of the most visited temples in Varanasi and is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
The temple has several halls where visitors can read the verses from the Ramcharitmanas, which depict the life and deeds of Lord Rama. The walls of the temple are adorned with murals and paintings depicting scenes from the epic.
The Tulsi Manas Temple is surrounded by lush gardens and has several fountains and ponds within its premises, making it a perfect place to relax and meditate. The temple is also a popular spot for tourists, who come to witness the grandeur of the temple and the beauty of the surrounding area. The Tulsi Manas Temple is easily accessible by road from Varanasi and is a must-visit attraction for those interested in Hindu mythology and culture.
Durga Temple
The Durga Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, also known as the Goddess of Power, and is one of the most revered temples in the city.
The temple is known for its unique architecture, which features intricate carvings and a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles. The temple is also surrounded by a small market area that sells traditional items like incense, flowers, and other religious articles.
The temple is a popular destination for devotees of Goddess Durga and attracts a large number of visitors during the Navratri festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Varanasi. The temple also hosts several cultural and religious events throughout the year, including musical performances and religious discourses.
One of the most unique aspects of the Durga Temple is its connection to the Bengali community in Varanasi. The temple is famous for its annual Durga Puja celebrations, which are organized by the Bengali community and attract devotees from all over the city.
The Durga Temple is easily accessible by road from Varanasi and is a must-visit attraction for those interested in Hindu mythology and culture. The temple is a place of great significance and offers visitors a chance to experience the rich culture and traditions of Varanasi.
Banaras Hindu University
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a world-renowned public central university located in the city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. The university was founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya in 1916 and has since grown into one of the most prestigious educational institutions in India.
BHU is known for its excellent academic programs in various fields, including engineering, medicine, management, arts, and sciences. The university has a beautiful campus that covers over 1,300 acres and is home to several historic buildings, including the famous Vishwanath Temple.
The university also has several research centers, including the Institute of Medical Sciences, the Institute of Technology, and the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, which conduct cutting-edge research in various fields.
Apart from academics, BHU is also known for its vibrant cultural and social life. The university has a rich history of hosting various cultural events and festivals, including the popular annual cultural festival, Spandan, and the international film festival, Cinephilia.
The university is easily accessible by road and is a must-visit attraction for those interested in education, culture, and history. The campus offers visitors a chance to experience the academic excellence and rich cultural heritage of Varanasi.
Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is one of the most popular ghats located in the southern part of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The ghat is situated at the confluence of the Assi river and the Ganges river and is considered to be one of the five most sacred ghats in Varanasi.
Assi Ghat is known for its picturesque surroundings and serene atmosphere. The ghat is surrounded by numerous temples and ashrams, which make it a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. The ghat is also known for its cultural and religious significance and is a hub for many activities such as religious ceremonies, yoga classes, and boat rides.
The ghat is famous for the Shiva Linga located at the southern end, which is believed to have been established by the famous saint, Agastya. Devotees come from far and wide to offer prayers at this sacred spot.
Assi Ghat is also known for its vibrant evening aarti, which takes place every day after sunset. The aarti is a beautiful spectacle of light and sound, and is a must-see attraction for visitors to Varanasi.
In addition to its religious and cultural significance, Assi Ghat is also a popular spot for boat rides along the Ganges river. Visitors can take a boat ride from the ghat and explore the various ghats and temples along the river, including the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Assi Ghat is easily accessible by road and is a must-visit attraction for those interested in spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. The ghat offers visitors a chance to experience the rich traditions and culture of Varanasi in a serene and tranquil setting.
Bharat Kala Bhavan
Bharat Kala Bhavan is a famous museum located in the Banaras Hindu University campus in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The museum is known for its vast collection of Indian art and artifacts, spanning over 5000 years of Indian history.
The museum was established in 1920 and was initially known as the Bharat Kala Mandir. The museum was later renamed Bharat Kala Bhavan and is now one of the most important cultural institutions in India.
The museum houses a vast collection of Indian paintings, sculptures, textiles, and other artifacts, including rare manuscripts and documents. The collection includes works from various regions of India, dating back to the ancient period.
The museum is divided into several sections, including the archaeological section, the decorative art section, the textile section, and the painting section. Each section is dedicated to a specific type of art or artifact and offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of India.
Bharat Kala Bhavan also hosts several exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, including workshops, seminars, and performances. The museum also has a library with a vast collection of books and documents related to Indian art and culture.
Bharat Kala Bhavan is easily accessible by road and is a must-visit attraction for those interested in Indian art and culture. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of India through its vast collection of artifacts and works of art.
Having a well-planned trip is key to fully enjoying the beauty of Varanasi. To ensure a hassle-free experience, it’s important to plan-ahead. Planning in advance is a convenient and easy-to-use platform that can help you create an unforgettable travel experience.