Top Attractions Of Varanasi

The Ultimate Guide For Travelers

Kashi Varanasi or Banaras, One of the oldest living cities in the world. The Most Sacred City.

Introduction: Why You Must Visit Varanasi

Nestled on the banks of the holy River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi (also known as Kashi, Varanasi or Benares) is one of the world’s oldest living cities. This spiritual capital of India offers a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience—spiritual rituals, breathtaking ghats, centuries-old temples, and a rich tapestry of culture and ceremonies. Whether you’re dreaming of spiritual tourism in Varanasi, boat rides at dawn, or sampling famed street food in Varanasi, this guide covers all top-notch attractions.

One must know about the Top Attractions Of Varanasi

Varanasi is one of the most prominent tourist places in India. The city attracts millions of domestic and international tourists. The Temples, Ghats, Narrow lanes, Buddhist sites, Music, and Yoga school, the old heritage values make Varanasi totally different.

 

The city of Culture, Tradition, Festival, Education, Temples, Yoga, and Music.

Here is the list of Attractions In Varanasi —

1. Kaal Bhairav Temple

The Kaal Bhairav Temple in Varanasi (also spelled Kaalbhairava) is one of the most ancient and significant temples in the city, dedicated to Kaal Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Revered as the Kotwal (Chief Guardian or Protector) of Varanasi, Kaal Bhairava is considered the city’s protector deity.

Key Facts about Kaal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi:

   Location:

• Situated in the Vishweshwarganj area of Varanasi, close to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
• Easily accessible from the main ghats and city center.

   Spiritual Significance:

• Locals believe that no one can stay in Kashi (Varanasi) without the permission of Kaal Bhairava.
• Pilgrims often seek his blessings before starting any spiritual activity or pilgrimage in the city.
• He is considered the “Kotwal of Kashi” (the divine magistrate) — it is said that even death (Yama) is afraid to enter the city without his permission.

   Rituals & Offerings:

• Worshippers offer mustard oil, black cloth, and alcohol (unusual in Hindu rituals) to please the fierce deity.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat: The Soul of the Ganges

Legend has it that Lord Brahma performed a sacrifice here, giving rise to its name The ghat is famed for the evening Ganga Aarti, a fiery, rhythmic ceremony that draws crowds nightly, best experienced on a boat ride along the Ganges

Insider Tip: Book a variable-time sunrise or sunset boat journey, capturing the glowing ghats and spiritual rituals.

3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Heart of Hindu Faith

Known for its golden spire, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a revered Jyotirlinga shrine for Lord Shiva . Rebuilt multiple times, its current form emerged in 1780 under Ahilyabai Holkar, with a recent corridor expansion in 2021 to enhance pilgrim access

Tip: Visit during Maha Shivaratri festival for the most electrifying atmosphere.

4. Manikarnika Ghat: Where Moksha Begins

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest and oldest ghats in Varanasi, and holds profound spiritual and mythological significance in Hinduism. It is most famously known as the main cremation ghat in the city, where Hindus believe that death leads directly to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).

Visitor Advice: Bring a local guide to better understand the rituals and significance.

5. Sarnath: Buddha’s First Sermon Site

Sarnath is one of the most important and revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Located about 10 km (6 miles) northeast of Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, it is the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment — known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta or “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.”

• Dhamek Stupa and Chaukhandi Stupa
• Sarnath Museum with the Ashoka Lion Capital

Sarnath near Varanasi, Buddhist pilgrimage India, Dhamek Stupa

Visitor Advice: Morning visits avoid crowds and offer serene vibes.

6. Banaras Hindu University & Bharat Kala Bhavan

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of India’s most prestigious and historic universities, located in Varanasi (Banaras), Uttar Pradesh. It is not only an educational institution but also a cultural and spiritual symbol, blending modern learning with ancient Indian traditions.

Established in 1916, Founder; Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya,  BHU is Asia’s largest residential university. Don’t miss:

• Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum with ancient art and artefacts
• The New Vishwanath Temple, modelled after Kashi Vishwanath

Banaras Hindu University, BHU Varanasi attractions, Bharat Kala Bhavan

Pro Tip: BHU’s leafy campus offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.

7. Ramnagar Fort: Royal Heritage & Riverside Views

Ramnagar Fort is a historic fort and palace located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, It offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal past of Kashi (Varanasi) and remains the official residence of the Maharaja of Banaras (Kashi Naresh).

Constructed in 1750 by Maharaja Balwant Singh,

Ramnagar Fort Museum (Saraswati Bhawan)

The museum houses an eclectic collection of:

• Vintage Cars and Royal Palanquins
• Old Weaponry and Armor
• Royal Costumes, Furniture
• Ancient manuscripts and books
• Astronomical clocks
• Ivory artifacts, elephant saddles, and ornate silver items

Despite being dusty and less maintained compared to modern museums, the museum exudes an old-world charm, offering a peek into India’s royal heritage.

Ramnagar Fort Varanasi, Ramlila festival, royal museum

Visitor Tip: Visit during Dussehra’s Ramlila performances held within the fort.

8. Other Notable Temples: Divine Diversity

Beyond the primary temples, Varanasi boasts several gems:

• Vishalakshi Temple. Shaktipeeth.
• Mahamruntajaya Temple.
• Tulsi Manas Mandir, inscribed with verses from Ramcharitmanas
• Annapurna Temple, dedicated to the goddess of food

Temples in Varanasi, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Annapurna Devi

9. Festivals: Lights, Music & Rituals

Varanasi transforms during festivals, with top events including:

• Dev Deepawali: millions of lamps illuminate the ghats
• Mahashivratri: massive homage to Lord Shiva
• Ganga Mahotsav: cultural performances along the Ganges
• Festivals in Varanasi, Dev Deepawali Varanasi, Ganga Mahotsav

10. Varanasi Street Food & Local Markets

Varanasi’s culinary scene is legendary with dishes like Kachori Sabzi, Zalebi, Tamatar chaat, Malaiyyo, and the iconic Banarasi paan . Food hotspots:

• Vishwanath Gali – silk and brass shopping.
• Kachori Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat, Malaiyyo, and Banarasi Paan.
• Visit Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazaar, and Chowk for Banarasi silk sarees, brassware, and traditional handicrafts.

street food in Varanasi, Banarasi sarees shopping, local markets Varanasi.

11. Spiritual Retreats: Yoga, Ashrams, and Inner Peace

Seeking more than sightseeing? Varanasi has many ashrams and yoga centers perfect for spiritual seekers.

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is not just the spiritual capital of India — it’s also a powerful destination for yogic awakening. Practicing yoga in this ancient city offers a unique blend of:

• Sacred riverfronts (ghats)
• Centuries-old temples
• Authentic yoga schools and ashrams
• A meditative, soul-enriching environment

Recommended retreats:

• ISKCON Varanasi: Krishna bhakti and cultural programs.
• Kriya Yoga Ashram: Traditional meditation techniques.
• Sankat Mochan Foundation: Community-based spiritual and environmental programs.

Yoga retreats in Varanasi, ashrams Varanasi, spiritual healing.