Imagine wandering through ancient streets lined with temples; that’s Varanasi for you. This sacred city, one of the oldest in the world, offers a mesmerizing blend of spirituality and culture. Witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti at the ghats, savor delicious street food like chaat and lassi, and explore the vibrant markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Varanasi promises an unforgettable experience steeped in history and tradition.
Varanasi, India
Top things to do in Varanasi
17 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
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Religious site
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of Hinduism's most sacred temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the heart of Varanasi's old city.
Landmark
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Varanasi's main ghat, famous for the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony held every evening at sunset.
Religious site
Sarnath
Where Buddha delivered his first sermon, a serene Buddhist pilgrimage site with ancient monasteries and stupas.
Religious site
Dhamek Stupa
A towering 43.6-meter stupa in Sarnath, marking the sacred spot of Buddha's first sermon.
Park & nature
Sarnath Deer Park
A tranquil deer park in Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon, now a serene spot for nature walks and spiritual reflection.
Neighborhood
Ramnagar, Varanasi
A historic town across the Ganges from Varanasi, known for its sandstone fort, vintage museum, and month-long Ramlila festival.
Religious site
Gyanvapi Mosque
A historic mosque near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, notable for its controversial location and Mughal-era architecture.
Landmark
Jantar Mantar, Varanasi
An 18th-century astronomical observatory with massive stone instruments, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II to study the skies.
Landmark
Assi Ghat
A scenic ghat at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers, popular for morning rituals and boat rides.
Religious site
Bharat Mata Mandir
A unique temple featuring a marble relief map of India, symbolizing national unity.
Religious site
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
A famous Hanuman temple in Varanasi, known for its peaceful atmosphere and Tuesday crowds.
Landmark
Tulsi Ghat
A serene ghat on the Ganges linked to poet Tulsidas, offering a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection away from the main crowds.
Religious site
Chaukhandi Stupa
An ancient Buddhist stupa in Sarnath marking where Buddha met his first five disciples, with a distinctive octagonal tower.
Museum
Sarnath Museum
Home to the original Lion Capital of Ashoka, India's national emblem, and other Buddhist artifacts.
Landmark
Manikarnika Ghat
The most sacred cremation ghat on the Ganges, where Hindu funeral rites are performed around the clock.
Tickets & tours
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