Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is not just one of the oldest cities in the world—it’s the spiritual capital of India. Situated along the sacred Ganga river, this vibrant city radiates a timeless aura where ancient traditions, rituals, and stories of life and death intertwine. From ghats and temples to museums and ashrams, the Places to Visit in Varanasi offer a soulful blend of spirituality, culture, history, and local charm.

This guide brings you the 12 most iconic and meaningful places that every traveler must experience, whether you’re a pilgrim, photographer, historian, or peace-seeker.

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The Divine Centre of Varanasi

Timing:

• 3:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Why Visit:

• Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 holiest shrines in India.
• It’s believed that a visit here liberates one from the cycle of birth and death.
• The temple has a rich past of destruction and reconstruction through Mughal and Maratha eras.
• It features a new corridor connecting to the Ganga ghat, making darshan more convenient.

Travel Tip:
Morning Mangala Aarti is a divine experience. Reach by 3:30 AM if you wish to witness it.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Heartbeat of the Ganga Aarti

Timing:
Open 24 hours
Ganga Aarti: Daily at 6:30 PM (summer), 6:00 PM (winter)

Why Visit:

• One of the oldest and most vibrant ghats in Varanasi.
• Myth says Lord Brahma performed the Dasha-Ashwamedh Yajna here.
• The evening Ganga Aarti, performed by priests in perfect rhythm, is an unforgettable spiritual sight.
• The ghat is also a hub for boat rides, photography, and devotional chants.

Travel Tip:
Arrive an hour early for the aarti to secure a front-row view or take a boat seat for the best angle.

3. Assi Ghat – Where Devotion Meets Everyday Life

Timing:
Open 24 hours
Morning Ganga Aarti: 5:00 AM

Why Visit:

• Located at the confluence of the Ganga and Assi rivers.
• Offers a blend of spirituality, culture, and daily life of the city.
• Famous for Subah-e-Banaras, a morning event with yoga, aarti, classical music, and Vedic chants.
• Less crowded than Dashashwamedh, perfect for peaceful reflection.

Travel Tip:
Ideal for early risers looking for calm mornings and cultural immersion.

4. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – The Lord Who Removes Obstacles

Timing:
5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
3:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Why Visit:

• Established by Tulsidas, the author of Ramcharitmanas.
• Devotees believe that sincere prayers here remove all troubles (sankat) from life.
• The temple is particularly powerful for people facing challenges or fears.
• Thousands of monkeys roam the premises but are harmless if left undisturbed.

Travel Tip:
Visit on Tuesdays and Saturdays when special Hanuman prayers are offered.

5. Tulsi Manas Mandir – Where Ramcharitmanas Was Written

Timing:
5:30 AM – 12:00 PM
3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Why Visit:

• Built where Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitmanas in the Awadhi language.
• Beautiful white marble temple with engraved verses on walls.
• Houses idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman.
• The temple garden and museum enhance the cultural experience.

Travel Tip:
Read the wall inscriptions to understand the storyline of Ramayana in sequence.

6. Bharat Mata Mandir – A Unique Tribute to the Motherland

Timing:
9:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Why Visit:

• Unlike traditional temples, this one is dedicated to Mother India.
• No idol inside, but a massive relief map of India carved in marble, including rivers and mountains.
• Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936.
• Promotes national pride and unity, especially among youth and students.

Travel Tip:
Visit with children to introduce them to India’s geography and values in a sacred context.

7. Manikarnika Ghat – The Sacred Threshold Between Life and Liberation

Timing:
Open 24 hours

Why Visit:

• One of the oldest cremation ghats in India.
• It is believed that dying or being cremated here grants moksha (liberation).
• The eternal fire here never extinguishes and has been burning for thousands of years.
• Spiritually intense and emotionally moving, it gives a powerful perspective on life and death.

Travel Tip:
If visiting, go with a knowledgeable guide to understand rituals and maintain respectful distance.

8. Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – The Soul of Academic and Spiritual Varanasi

Timing:
Campus: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Vishwanath Temple inside BHU: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Why Visit:

• One of Asia’s largest residential universities, founded in 1916 by Madan Mohan Malaviya.
• Houses the New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple) within campus.
• Sprawling green campus, perfect for peaceful walks, culture, and student life exploration.
• Cultural and spiritual events are frequently hosted.

Travel Tip:
Don’t miss the art galleries and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum inside BHU.

9. Sarnath – Where Buddhism Was Born

Timing:
6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Archaeological Site and Museum)
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Why Visit:

• Just 10 km from Varanasi, this is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment.
• Explore Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Buddhist monasteries, and the Archaeological Museum.
• A peaceful and meditative place, ideal for spiritual travelers and history lovers.
• The site is well-maintained and provides profound cultural insights.

Travel Tip:
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and enjoy the tranquility.

10. Alamgir Mosque – A Symbol of Cultural Fusion

Timing:
6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Why Visit:

• Also called Beni Madhav Ka Darera, it’s situated on the Panchganga Ghat.
• A mix of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles, constructed under Aurangzeb.
• Overlooks the river and city, offering a scenic and spiritual view.
• Reflects the historical changes and cultural adaptation of Varanasi.

Travel Tip:
Respect both religious sentiments and dress modestly when entering.

11. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple) – A Wooden Gem on the Ganga

Timing:
4:00 AM – 12:00 PM
1:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Why Visit:

• Built in Nepali style with wood carvings, resembling Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.
• Constructed by the King of Nepal in the 19th century using termite-resistant wood.
• Located near Lalita Ghat and offers a peaceful escape from the busy ghats.
• Surrounded by peepal trees and spiritual calmness.

Travel Tip:
Ideal for architecture enthusiasts and those looking for quiet moments.

12. Gyanvapi Mosque – Witness to Varanasi’s Religious Layers

Timing:
Open during namaz hours (restricted access for non-Muslims)

Why Visit:

• Built during the Mughal period next to the original site of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
• A place of ongoing historical and cultural debate, representing India’s complex religious history.
• From outside, visitors can observe the unique combination of old temple remains and mosque architecture.
• It sits in the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which connects devotees from temple to river.

Travel Tip:
Visit with a guide to understand the socio-religious history; respect all religious boundaries.

Conclusion

Varanasi is not a destination—it’s an experience of eternity, faith, heritage, and spiritual realization. The top Places to Visit in Varanasi are more than just tourist attractions. Each site, ghat, or temple is a story, a poem in stone and soul. Whether you seek liberation, knowledge, cultural insights, or peace of mind, Varanasi offers something that lingers long after the visit ends.

Contact Mathura Vrindavan Tourism Today:
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Let Mathura Vrindavan Tourism help you explore these timeless wonders with well-curated packages, local guides, and spiritual experiences tailored to your journey.

FAQs – Places to Visit in Varanasi

1. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?
October to March is ideal due to pleasant weather and festival season.

2. How many days are enough to explore all major places?
At least 3 days are recommended to comfortably cover all important sites.

3. Are all ghats open 24 hours?
Yes, most ghats are open all day and night, but visit during daylight for safety.

4. Is photography allowed in temples and ghats?
Yes, but avoid clicking inside sanctums. Always ask if unsure.

5. Is Ganga Aarti performed daily?
Yes, it takes place every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

6. Can I attend aarti inside Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
Yes, through online bookings or early queueing in person.

7. Is Varanasi safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it is safe. Just follow general travel precautions.

8. How to reach Sarnath from Varanasi?
It is about 10 km away and easily accessible by auto, taxi, or bus.

9. Are there clean toilets near major ghats?
Yes, public toilets have improved significantly in recent years.

10. Does Mathura Vrindavan Tourism offer guided tours in Varanasi?
Yes, we provide local guides, spiritual tours, transport, and accommodations as part of our Varanasi packages.