Things to do in Varanasi
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Top 10 attractions in Varanasi
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a traditional temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in a quiet area of Varanasi. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts a large number of devotees and tourists with its unique golden architecture and long history. It houses an idol of Lord Shiva, and devotees come here to pray for health, wealth, and spiritual peace. Its architectural style incorporates traditional Hindu elements, and its golden exterior makes it stand out in the surrounding environment. The atmosphere here is solemn and serene, with many people meditating and praying to seek inner peace and guidance. It is not only a center for religious activities but also an important part of the local culture. A series of religious rituals and festivals are held here every year, attracting a large number of devotees, especially during the festival celebrations of Lord Shiva, when the atmosphere is even more vibrant.Domari · 1.5km from downtown
Assi Ghat Varanasi
The Asi Ghat is located at the confluence of the Ganges and Asi rivers. The sunrise on the other side of the river seen from the Asi Ghat is very beautiful, so many people come here to bathe in the morning. Walking into the Asi Ghat, you can see that there is an endless stream of parades from all walks of life. There is no rank difference here, all people are the same, wash their souls in the holy river. There is a flower shop on the road, and the front of the shop is full of beggars, begging for food from passersby. There are mothers with malnourished children, young children and dying old people. Occasionally someone will give them some money and food. Perhaps for the giver, it is a matter of virtue. Go up and down the stone steps of the Asi Ghat into the water. The Ganges River in front of us surpasses everything in human beings, and flows so silently. The crimson sun dyed the entire river red. It rises slowly, giving light first to those who bathe, and then to the whole of humanity. It is like reincarnation without beginning and end, telling people the passage of time.Varanasi · 4.5km from downtown
Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is a lively river altar on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi. It is the place where the Great Brahma performs the ten-horse sacrifice and has a very sacred religious status. From the small pier here, you can take a boat tour of the Ganges River, which is especially spectacular at sunset. It consists of five large stone platforms, the main platform in the middle is very large, and there are two small ones on each side. There are huge crowds of people here every night for the ceremonial activities. As night fell, priests dressed in yellow silk vestments cleaned and arranged the instruments and began the ritual of the day. Every Hindu solemnly sang chants, which was their response to the river god. There are many vendors selling flowers, tikka, rosary and other religious items on the steps of the Ghat, and believers, beggars and tourists from all over the world gather here.Varanasi · 3.9km from downtown
Sarnath
It is located about 10 kilometers north of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India, where Sakyamuni first taught the Dharma, and the Buddhist Sangha was also established here.Varanasi · 7.9km from downtown
Shri Kaal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi
Located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, Kaal Bhairav Temple is one of the most revered temples in this ancient city. Dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the temple is considered the patron deity of Varanasi. Upon entering the temple, visitors can admire exquisite stone carvings and quaint architecture, while the incense-filled atmosphere inspires reverence. The deities within the temple bear solemn features, and devotees come to pray for peace, wisdom, and strength. This temple is not only a symbol of religious faith but also a vital place to explore Indian culture and spiritual traditions. The surrounding streets are filled with the atmosphere of local life, with vendors selling garlands, spices, and offerings, creating a rich cultural atmosphere. Visitors can quietly absorb the temple's sacred atmosphere and experience the unique spiritual charm of Varanasi.Varanasi · 4.2km from downtown
Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath
Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath is a historic Buddhist site featuring the Dhamek Stupa, Buddhist stone carvings, the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, and more. Here, you can not only learn about the history and culture of Buddhism but also feel the serenity and solemnity radiating from this ancient and sacred place.Varanasi · 8.7km from downtown
Namo ghat, (Varanasi)
Namo Ghat Phase 0 is a new cultural attraction in this ancient city, situated on the banks of the Ganges. Part of Varanasi, this jetty has been renovated and redeveloped in recent years to provide a cleaner and more pleasant environment for tourists and locals alike. Combining modern design with traditional elements, Namo Ghat Phase 0 stretches along the Ganges, offering visitors a chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll. The architecture of this site embodies Indian cultural characteristics, preserving ancient traditions while embodying modern concepts. The open spaces and benches along the jetty offer a perfect place to rest and enjoy the beautiful view of the Ganges, especially at sunset, when the surrounding scenery becomes particularly tranquil. Namo Ghat has also become a hub for daily activities for locals, many of whom come here to stroll, pray, or relax with friends and family.Varanasi · 6.2km from downtown
Shri Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, (Varanasi)
Varanasi · 4.7km from downtown
Manikarnika Ghat
The Manikarnika Ghat is one of the many stone-staired piers along the Ganges River. Countless pilgrims come here to cleanse their bodies and worship. Tourists can watch the cremation directly beside the Ghat under the guidance of a tour guide, or they can take a ride. Cruise boats watch on the Ganges.Domari · 1.1km from downtown
Dhamekh Stupa
Ameike Pagoda, also known as Zhuan Falun Pagoda, is a symbol of Luye Garden. It was first built in the Peacock Dynasty and was rebuilt during the Gupta Dynasty. It is a two-story cylindrical red brick pagoda. The tower body is divided into upper and lower layers. The upper part of the big tower is a cylindrical red brick building, and the lower part of the tower body is built of huge stones, and the concave Buddhist niches are carved on the octagonal surface. In the 12th century, all the buildings in Luyeyuan were destroyed by the Turks, but the Tameike Pagoda was preserved in the ruins. The tower is 39 meters high and more than 28 meters in diameter. It is a rare building in the Ashoka period. . According to the description of "The History of the Western Regions of the Tang Dynasty": "There is a shrine in the big wall, more than 200 feet high, with gold hidden on the top, made of rhododendrons, stone as the base, bricks made of layers of niches, around the niches, festivals. There are hundreds of grades, all with hidden golden Buddha statues.Varanasi · 8.7km from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Varanasi
Featured Cultural experiences in Varanasi
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Free things to do in Varanasi
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Domari · 1.5km from downtownAssi Ghat Varanasi
Varanasi · 4.5km from downtownDashashwamedh Ghat
Varanasi · 3.9km from downtownSarnath
Varanasi · 7.9km from downtownShri Kaal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi
Varanasi · 4.2km from downtownArchaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath
Varanasi · 8.7km from downtownNamo ghat, (Varanasi)
Varanasi · 6.2km from downtownShri Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, (Varanasi)
Varanasi · 4.7km from downtownManikarnika Ghat
Domari · 1.1km from downtownDhamekh Stupa
Varanasi · 8.7km from downtown
What travellers say about Varanasi
Luke8916 January 2025
5.0
By far one of my favourite places I’ve visited in India. very busy but amazing culture and religious ceremonies
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Nickolas C11 February 2025
5.0
Sarnath is 30 mins away from Varanasi. It is one of the main sacred sites in all of Buddhism. Here you’ll find a great audio tour! 10/10 recommended
Sarnath
_TI***3t20 April 2024
5.0
Peaceful, holy place. entrance fee for foreigner: 300rupe cash. Or there is Indian man who helps to buy online ticket for entrance 250 ruppee. Business Hours: from sunrise to sunset
Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath
Sashimi Hamimi14 October 2021
3.0
The temple seems bit gloomy and scary to me. Perhaps due to we visit almost sunset hours and there weren't much people including their workers. All i see myself and their so called god.
Shri Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, (Varanasi)
泰宁根吴承恩23 December 2019
4.0
Manikarnika Ghat is a place for dealing with death. Out of respect, we did not take photos. Of course, due to natural psychological factors, we left quickly after a quick glance. If you are interested, you can come and experience it yourself.
Manikarnika Ghat
suifeng20197 December 2019
5.0
In the 5th and 6th centuries AD, the Gupta dynasty began to pay attention to Buddhism. A large number of Buddhist buildings were built in Sarnath. The Damek Stupa, which is now the landmark of Sarnath, was built during this period. On the day we went there, there was an event here, and many believers circled the stupa clockwise.
Dhamekh Stupa
