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There are incredible things to do in Varanasi, thanks to its culture, spirituality and history. This historic city, one of the oldest in the world, is divided into two aspects: the quiet rivers and the active streets filled with trade, making it both a lounging place and an exploration zone. Most importantly for tourists, there are many things to explore in Varanasi and other sights, ensuring visitors will never have a dull moment during their stay.
10 Things To Do In Varanasi
Some of the most common things to do in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, which mainly include spiritual sites and sacred temples.
1. Experience The Divine At Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Photo: Ashvin Kaitabhya / Wikimedia Commons
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple which is devoted to Lord Shiva, is one of the most exquisite pilgrimage Hindu temples one can think of. This shows that this temple is one of the best things to see in Varanasi where millions of pilgrims go to pay their last tribute and feel the holiness of the place. Engaging designs and a golden dome added beauty to the temple.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late evening
2. Witness The Dawn At Dashashwamedh Ghat
Photo: Abhishek Royal / Pexels
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the famous things to see in Varanasi for every person or visitor, owing to its cultural atmosphere and activities. It is the centre of different religious activities and involves the Ganga Aarti practice, performed every evening. Things to see in Varanasi include sightseeing boat rides on the Ganga, which are also enjoyable, with great views of the ghats and the river, especially at sunset and sunrise.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
3. Pay Respects At Manikarnika Ghat
Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Unsplash
The Manikarnika Ghat is among the oldest and most sacred ghats within Varanasi’s sprawling confines and is particularly famous for the array of funeral pyres that dot its banks. The site is significant to Hindu spirituality as this on-location burning ghat is believed to confer moksha to all those burnt within. Seeing such death rituals has a fantastic effect on cultural understanding of life’s most incredible events. There are many things to see in Varanasi, such as Inashi, which every individual who comes to Varanasi has to see.
Best Time To Visit: Anytime
4. Discover The Buddha’s Enlightenment At Sarnath
The Sarnath temple, located near Varanasi, about 10 kilometres from that city, is one of the main Buddhist pilgrimage places where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. While looking for what to do in Varanasi, Sarnath should be visited owing to its serene gardens and historical structures, such as the Dhamek Stupa, and Ashoka Pillar, among others, which provide perfect environments for quiet reflection and spirituality; thus, this becomes one of the best things to do in Varanasi.
Best Time To Visit: morning or late afternoon
Entry Fees: ₹5 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
5. Visit Ramnagar Fort
Photo: Paramanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Built on the Ganges River, the Ramnagar Fort is a historical construction well known for its beautiful design and artistic relevance. While on the list of best things to do in Varanasi, the fort has an indoor museum with royal relics exhibiting antique cars, clothing, and armouries showing the history of royalty in the area.
Best Time To Visit: Morning or late afternoon
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians
6. Find The Inner Peace At Tulsi Manas Temple
Photo: juggadery / Wikimedia Commons
The Tulsi Manas Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Rama, is an exquisite white marble temple decorated with beautiful engravings illustrating the story of the Ramayana on its walls. In the list of things to see in Varanasi, this temple is a perfect place, and you can even meditate here. Its calm atmosphere and tranquil gardens make it an ideal place for anyone looking for spiritual nourishment.
Best Time To Visit: Early Morning or Late Evening
7. Soak In Tranquillity At Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat comprises a diverse tourist appeal, and the citizens of Varanasi also come here for enjoyment. While planning the things to do in Varanasi, it becomes pertinent to visit Assi Ghat, which has a lot of cultural activities. It is a top-rated centre for practising yoga and often has concerts and shows where you can play music and dance. In its own coat, the morning Aarti, coupled with good local cafes located in the vicinity, augments the appeal.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
8. Seek Blessings At Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Photo: Rahul Mishra / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is famous in Varanasi and noted for its calm and spiritual ambience. Scores of devotees throng this place to pray to Lord Hanuman for his grace. The temple’s peaceful environment offers a soothing relief from the otherwise busy city, making it an undeniable draw for individuals seeking a spiritual getaway.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
9. Immerse Yourself In Art At Bharat Kala Bhavan
Photo: Jeff Hart / Wikimedia Commons
Bharat Kala Bhavan is one of the few famous places in India that is typically a university and houses a lot of art and cultural value within it. When looking at what to do in Varanasi, This Museum is among the recommendations because of the impressive array of ancient history preserved in manuscripts, sculptures, paintings, and so on. The quiet environment provides a sanctuary for both the artists and the art appreciators.
Best Time To Visit: Morning or early afternoon
Entry Fees: ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
10. Witness The Craft Of Weaving At The Weavers’ Village
Photo: Jorge Royan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Weavers’ Village, or Maundy, is an exquisite glimpse into the very art form of weaving in the case of Varanasi. Along with what to do in Varanasi, women are also busy sculpting beautiful silk sarees and other woven stuff. The visitors can also enjoy this active village as it has local stores that allow tourists to buy these beautiful artefacts made by the weavers.
Best Time To Visit: Afternoon or morning
Varanasi is a vibrant city metaphorically, owing to its spirituality, culture, and history. There are many things to do in Varanasi, from the tranquil ghats to the lively markets, and every nook and cranny is sure to offer an experience you will never forget. Be it the quest for peace of mind or the love for the culture, the best things to explore will be in your memory forever. Plan a trip with TripXL and travel seamlessly.
Cover Photo: Narin Chauhan / Pexels
