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Varanasi, also known as the city of temples and ghats is a unique place to explore. For over 3000 years, the city has been running its spiritual legacy, drawing tourists from all across the globe. It is believed that the city was founded by Lord Shiva himself, which is why Varanasi is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Besides the famous places to visit in Varanasi, you can witness the enchanting Ganga aarti, take a walk through the old lanes, or go on boat rides.
Top 10 Places To Visit In And Around Varanasi
With so many temples and ghats scattered around the city, it may be difficult to cover them all. A smart move would be to include the top attractions in your Varanasi tourist places list.
1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Photo: Ashvin Kaitabhya / Wikimedia Commons
When sorting places to visit in Varanasi Uttar Pradesh, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple needs to be on the top of your list. As one of the 12 jyotirlingas in the country, Shri Kash Vishwanath is the foremost reason to visit Varanasi. The temple is over 3500 years old and welcomes devotees from all across the country. Besides the Shiva idol, the gold-covered domes and spires capture the attention of visitors. This was done by Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a part of Punjabi tradition. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva here purifies your soul and stays crowded all around the year.
Location: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Domari, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 3 AM – 11 PM
Entry Fees: Free
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Your trip to Varanasi will be void without visiting Dashashwamedh Ghat, the oldest ghat on the banks of the River Ganges. This place is particularly famous for the grand Ganga Arti ceremonies that are enjoyed by both visitors and locals. Since the ghat is accessible 24*7, you will witness a vibrant atmosphere whenever you go there. According to stories, the ghat was created by Lord Brahma to welcome Lord Shiva. A large crowd gathers here every evening to witness Ganga Aarti, which will bewitch you. During the day, you will spot sadhus, pilgrims, and tourists performing pujas, or taking boat rides.
Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of Varanasi, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: Free
3. Assi Ghat
Photo: Adinath Gilande / Pexels
Assi Ghat is one such place that shouldn’t be missed. Located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers, Assi Ghat offers a relaxed atmosphere. Like most other ghats in Varanasi, this place remains open 24/7, so you can visit there any time you like. Based on mythological stories, this ghat is the place where goddess Durga threw her sword after defeating Shumbha-Nishumbha. The best time to visit this place is early morning, so you can partake in the aarti. People also come here to enjoy sunrise and boat rides over the Ganges.
Location: Shivala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: Free
4. Ramnagar Fort
One of the Varanasi tourist places that is frequented by both national and international visitors is Ramnagar Fort. Nestled on the eastern bank of the Ganges, this fort was built by Raja Balwant Singh in the 17th century. The Mughal-inspired architecture features intricate balconies, open pavilions and courtyards. Even though the fort is several centuries old, it has a charm of its own. The fort houses the Vyas Temple and the royal residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi. There’s also a museum, where you can spot various antique artefacts, vintage cars, medieval costumes, ivory work, and astronomical clocks.
Location: Varanasi Rd, Ram nagar, Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20 onwards
5. Vishwanath Gali
Photo: Kunal Mukherjee / Wikimedia Commons
Vishwanath Gali is one of the most popular shopping lanes in Varanasi. Since this market area is located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, you can check out both places together. The market is studded with numerous shops and stalls. From silk sarees and religious items to souvenirs and snacks, you can buy a variety of things here. The place is also famous for its local handicrafts, especially Banarasi silk sarees which are known for their intricate designs. While you are at Vishwanath Gali, make sure to try out some authentic sweets like rabri, jalebi, and peda.
Location: Godowlia
Timings: 5:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fees: Free
6. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Photo: Kuber Patel, Rosehub / Wikimedia Commons
Although BHU is an educational institution, it is counted among one of the famous tourist places in Varanasi. Founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is a prestigious place to study. Besides the large campus, tourists come here to explore the New Vishwanath Temple. The entire place is covered in lush greenery, which offers a peaceful vibe to visitors. The campus is home to several institutions, including the Institute of Medical Sciences, the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, and the Institute of Technology. There’s also an art gallery and a museum that has a rich collection of artefacts.
Location: Ajagara, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
7. Manikarnika Ghat
After Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat is probably the most popular ghat in Varanasi. It is considered a sacred site that also serves as a cremation ground for Hindus. According to Hindu beliefs, cremating a person at this Ghat helps them attain moksha (liberation from the birth cycle). From day to night, you will witness endless funerals taking place at the ghat. Near the ghat is the Manikarnika Kund, a sacred well, which is believed to have been created by Lord Vishnu.
Location: Near Lalita Ghat, Ghats of Varanasi, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Domari, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: Free
8. Chunar Fort
Photo: Paramanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Located a few miles away from the city, Chunar Fort is one of the must-visit places to visit in Varanasi. In comparison to other places on the list, Chunar Fort is less popular, but it has a rich historical background. This ancient fort was built during the Mauryan period and was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mughals and the British. The location of the fort on a hill offers visitors a panoramic view of the Ganges and the surrounding countryside. Inside the fort, you will come across secret tunnels and passages. Other than that, the fort has a Sonwa Mandap, Samadhi of Bharthari, and the Bastion of Warren Hastings.
Location: Tammanpatti, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: Free
9. Durga Temple
Photo: Prateek Pattanaik / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dedicated to goddess Durga, the Durga Temple was constructed in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani. The highlight of the temple is the unique red colour, which symbolises Durga’s fierce and protective nature. The entire structure is built in North Indian style, which features a multi-tiered shikhara (spire). There’s a rectangular water tank beside the temple, which is called the Durga Kund. It is believed that the water in this tank is blessed by the goddess Durga. The best time to visit the temple is during Navratri when you can partake in the festivities and celebrations.
Location: Durgakund, Naipokhari, Chetganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 4 AM – 1 PM, 3 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
10. Kaal Bhairav Temple
Photo: Ashishbaskota / Wikimedia
Located in Bhairavnath Visheshwarganj, The Kaal Bhairav Temple, also known as “Kotwal of Kashi” is one of the most significant religious sites in Varanasi. It is said that your visit to Varanasi is incomplete without visiting the Kaal Bhairav Temple. As the name suggests, the temple belongs to Kaal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple holds immense spiritual importance, mainly because Kaal Bhairav is considered the guardian deity of Varanasi. It is believed that Kaal Bhairav has the power to ward off negative energies and misfortunes and protect its devotees.
Location: Bharonath, Vishweshwarganj, Varanasi
Timings: 5 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fees: Free
There are several religious and non-religious places to visit in Varanasi. Whether you are travelling solo, or with family, exploring one of the oldest cities in the country offers a unique experience. You will at least need a week or two to cover all the popular attractions in the city. To ensure a smooth journey through Uttar Pradesh, book your tickets with TripXL and make countless memories.
Cover Photo: Narin Chauhan / Pexels
