Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Varanasi for First-Time Travelers 2024

Varanasi is an ancient city located in Uttar Pradesh state of northern India, famously known as Benares or Banaras too. Renowned for its sacred Hindu sites and vibrant spirituality, Varanasi has a rich history that makes it one the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. This culturally-rich city is filled with stunning architecture and offers visitors an enchanting experience like no other place in India or even worldwide. Here we will explore 12 must-see places to visit in Varanasi with its captivating metropolis to truly embrace its essence.

Places To Visit in Varanasi

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple rests on the western side of sacred Ganga River in Varanasi, being one among India’s twelve revered Jyotirlingas – places that symbolize Lord Shiva’s presence through their temple structures dedicated to him, is known to be most renowned places to visit in Varanasi. As for its presiding deity, he is fondly called Vishwanatha or Vishweshwarar which translates into ‘ruler of the universe’. The golden magnificence crowning this holy site weighing 800 kg adorns the imposing temple tower, making it a pivotal component in Varanasi’s spiritual milieu. Attracting fervent devotees and curious tourists alike for its divine significance and allurement, Kashi Vishwanath Temple plays an essential role within Varanasi’s religious fabric.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of top places to visit in Varanasi located by the holy River Ganges, carries deep religious and cultural importance. It’s well known for its enchanting daily ritual called ‘Ganga Aarti.’ Here, spiritual practices meet pilgrim activities in a lively environment. The evening Aarti is especially magical with prayers burning brightly against darkness showing devotion at every corner of this sacred place.

3. Manikarnika Ghat

The Manikarnika Ghat is where Hindus perform holy cremations in Varanasi, known as “the city of Shiva”. It’s believed that dying there ensures salvation for the departed soul. This sacred site offers an incredibly deep and distinct experience due to its perpetually burning funeral pyres and powerful rituals performed here every day.

4. Panchganga Ghat

This set of steps by a river is special because it’s said that five sacred rivers meet here: Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhuha Papa. This Ghat is regarded as one of best places to visit in India as people from all over come to this place for religious reasons – they perform rituals and take bath in the holy water which cleanses their souls by washing away sins and bringing them spiritual purity.

5. Ramnagar Fort

The Ramnagar Fort stands on the eastern side of the Ganga River, facing Tulsi Ghat. It’s an impressive example of Mughal architecture that was built by Raja Balwant Singh in 1750. The fort is known for its stunning details and inside it has a heritage museum as well as an old cars collection on display. One can also enjoy the beautiful view from there, especially when they are witnessing the colorful Ganga Aarti of Durga Puja festivities taking place around.

6. Ganges River

The Ganges River, also known as ‘Ganga,’ holds great importance for Varanasi city dwellers because it’s not just their lifeline but an emblem of religious significance in Hinduism too! Taking a serene sunrise cruise on this sacred river is like dipping into spiritual tranquility. In the evenings, you can immerse yourself more deeply into local culture by being part of traditional activities such as releasing small floating lamps with candles and fresh flowers – symbolizing unity while paying homage to Hindu beliefs.

7. Durga Temple

The Monkey Temple, being one of most popular places to visit in Varanasi,  Is also  called Durga Temple because it’s dedicated to the powerful Hindu Goddess Durga, has lots of monkeys living there which gives the temple an interesting character! The place features detailed carvings and bright paintings depicting different forms of this goddess that attract many visitors. During festivals like Navratri or any other important days in a Hindu calendar it becomes even more energetic as devotees come seeking blessings from her, making it quite popular among people with faith!

8. Sarnath

Sarnath is an important spot for followers of Buddha located near Varanasi in India. This was where he first shared his teachings about Dharma making it significant to all buddhists around the world who come here as pilgrims. At Sarnat, you’ll find historical ruins such as the ancient monuments –  like The Dharmarajika Stupa and Mulagandhakuti Temple- as well its Museum of Arts which houses relics from old times associated with Buddhist culture for visitors to explore and learn.

9. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghats stands out as one of Varanasi’s most bustling locations due to its energetic vibes. Here where the river Assi joins with River Ganga, it showcases an array of colorful local customs up close for everyone visiting this place! A spiritual hotspot in itself, you will find various religious rituals taking center stage along with evening prayers and numerous cultural events happening around here throughout the day.

This place has become one of famous places to visit in Varanasi not only for its mouth-watering street food but also because of how bustling it gets with people coming from surrounding temples and marketplaces that add to a vibrant ambiance here.

10. Banaras Ghats

The Banaras steps by the Ganges River are an iconic part of Varanasi’s landscape – each one has its own meaning and role in this holy place. From the lively Dashashwamedh ghat with plenty going on, all the way to tranquil Assi ghat. Walking along them will show you everyday rituals and spiritual life up close: morning cleansings by devotees as they pray for daybreak’s blessings.

11. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Located near River Assi, the Sankat Mochan Temple honors Lord Rama along with his faithful companion Hanuman. Established in the early 1900s by freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, this sacred site is an essential aspect of Varanasi’s religious culture. It stands out for its grand celebrations during Hanuman Jayanti, spiritually enlightening discussions, offering prasad to devotees, and striking architectural design.

12. New Vishwanath Temple, BHU

The New Vishwanath Temple, situated on Banaras Hindu University’s campus, boasts an advanced white marble structure often called the Birla Temple. Devoted to Lord Shiva, this temple showcases a vast courtyard and stands tall with its imposing spire, beckoning both devotees and travelers for its calm ambiance that blends seamlessly into stunning design elements, placing it in one of popular places to visit in Varanasi.

13. Alamgir Mosque

Dating back to the seventeenth century, this mosque – also called Beni Madhav Ka Darera – is one of Varanasi’s oldest structures. It stands out due its distinctive mix of Islamic and Hindu architecture styles.  

14. Manmandir Ghat

This Ghats boasts a stunning view overlooking the River and lively evening Aarti ceremonies. Notably, it also contains the Manmandir Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

15. Tulsi Manas Mandir

Located in Tulsi Ghat region, this modern temple honors Lord Rama. It’s popular for its serene atmosphere and intricate marble sculptures illustrating scenes from Ramcharitmanas – a famous Hindu epic poem.

Conclusion

Varanashi is an Indian city full of life thanks to its holy places and customs. Whether it’s witnessing devotion at ghats or exploring ancient temples, cruising along Ganges river can give one a profound experience connecting you with the cultural soul as well as spiritual core of India. If you’re planning more trips, you can also check out the best places to visit in Pune for a diverse travel experience.