Things to do in Varanasi

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Varanasi which includes boating, a bay or harbor and a coastal town
Varanasi which includes boating, a bay or harbor and a coastal town
Varanasi featuring religious aspects
Tulsi Ghat showing religious aspects, general coastal views and boating
Varanasi featuring a bay or harbor and boating
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What to do in Varanasi

Discover the most popular places to visit in Varanasi

The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Guptakashi, believed to be constructed by the Pandavas during their Guptavasa, is located in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, India.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

After visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Varanasi. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the temples in the area.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Dasaswamedh ghat featuring markets as well as a large group of people

Dasaswamedh ghat

Observe sadhus conducting rituals, pilgrims bathing in holy water and priests performing the enthralling Ganga aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River.

Dasaswamedh ghat
Ancient Varanasi city architecture at sunset

Assi Ghat

You can find out about the history of Varanasi when you stop by Assi Ghat. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the temples in the area.

Assi Ghat
New Vishwanath Temple historical building in Varanasi, India

Banaras Hindu University

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Banaras Hindu University, during your travels in Varanasi. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the temples in the area.

Banaras Hindu University
Varanasi, India. Bird Take Off from Sacred Ghat In Varanasi. Pigeons Fly Up In Slow Mo. Birds Flight. Orange Flags Fluttering In Slow Mo, Symbolizing Hanuman. Cinematic View On Ganga River. Many

Hanuman Ghat

You can find out about the history of Varanasi with a stop at Hanuman Ghat. Amble around the area's riverfront or visit its temples.

Hanuman Ghat
Tulsi Ghat showing religious aspects, general coastal views and boating

Tulsi Ghat

Watch pilgrims bathe in sacred water, see holy men perform ancient rituals and visit the former home of a great Indian poet.

Tulsi Ghat
Ramnagar Fort featuring a ruin, a house and heritage architecture

Ramnagar Fort

Admire the architecture of this 17th-century fort, discover exhibits of armor, jewelry and vintage cars and watch stunning sunsets over the Ganges River.

Ramnagar Fort
Durga Temple showing religious aspects and markets

Durga Temple

Discover an immaculate image of a revered Hindu god and watch mischievous troops of monkeys at this attractive centuries-old temple.

Durga Temple
New Vishwanatha Temple featuring heritage architecture, religious elements and a temple or place of worship

New Vishwanatha Temple

Spot interesting statues and artwork and relax amid pristine gardens at this serene temple, set within an attractive university campus.

New Vishwanatha Temple

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Varanasi

River Ganges, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India; 30-Jan-2019; Siberian migratory birds over river Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Mahmoorganj

Though Mahmoorganj might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Scindia Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat.

Mahmoorganj
Historic Buddhist temple in Varanasi, India. Buddhist temples structure like Bangkok ,Thailand

Lanka

Though Lanka might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Sant Ravidas Ghat and Assi Ghat.

Lanka
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Many Boats moored on Ganga river near ghats. Hundreds of tourists and locals come in boats to watch Ganga Maha Aarti ceremony and the fire ceremony. Purple sunset sky

Sigra

When in Sigra, you can plan a visit to Bharat Mata and Scindia Ghat, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Sigra
Varanasi, India - March 07, 2025: Main ghat at Ganges river in Varanasi city, India

Godaulia

While Godaulia isn't home to many top sights, Scindia Ghat and Bharat Mata are some notable places to visit nearby.

Godaulia
Hindu Holi city of Haridwar near Ganges, Uttranchal, India

Varanasi Nagar Nigam

While Varanasi Nagar Nigam might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Scindia Ghat and Bharat Mata.

Varanasi Nagar Nigam

Popular day trips from Varanasi

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara Monastery showing heritage architecture, religious aspects and a temple or place of worship

Sarnath

Landscape view of beautiful waterfall in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, India with selective focus. Beautiful tourist spot at Tanda waterfall in Mirzapur with copy space.

Mirzapur

Dev Deepawali at varanasi

Bhadohi

Varanasi, seen from Ganges.

Chandauli

Frequently asked questions

Is Varanasi worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to discover the local charm and cultural highlights or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Varanasi.
How do I spend a day in Varanasi?
Archaeological Museum and Kashi Vishwanath Temple are two excellent places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Varanasi while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Varanasi?
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the top tourist attractions in Varanasi and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Varanasi?
You can easily tour popular attractions like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat and Hanuman Ghat with a three-day getaway in Varanasi. On average, most travelers plan three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a bit longer and head to Chandauli.
Is Varanasi a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Varanasi, like Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Assi Ghat, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometers from the city center of Varanasi is Sigra and Mahmoorganj is 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Varanasi with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all ages, have a look at these awesome ideas for what to do in Varanasi with kids.

What to do in Varanasi for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are plenty of things to do in Varanasi for adults including Sant Ravidas Ghat and Alamgir Mosque.
Are there free things to do in Varanasi?
From checking out parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Varanasi. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.

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