Best Rentals in Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Varanasi, and all of India! It is amongst the most important temples of Lord Shiva, and graces the western flank of the Holy Ganges. Being one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the temple holds tremendous religious significance for Hindus who flock here every year as a mark of their devotion.

As a result of the ever-growing number of devotees visiting the temple, there’s now a Special Darshan booking system made available to ease the hassles of long queues. About 2 km away from heart of Varanasi city, the temple’s reigning deity is known as ‘Vishwanath’ or ‘Vishweshwara’.

Timings: 04:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM to 07:00 PM everyday

Location: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

In close proximity to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and most significant ghats in Varanasi. Lodged along the banks of the river Ganga, the name of the ghat literally translates to ’the place of 10 sacrificed horses’. Steeped in Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Brahma organised a sacrifice of ten horses here in order to welcome Lord Shiva.

The structure dates back several centuries, and had to undergo a couple of reconstructions during the 18th century. Another reason for the popularity of Dashashwamedh Ghat is the legendary Ganga aarti that takes place post sunset! You can also admire the aarti from a boat afloat the river. If you’re a devotee, you must visit the ghat on Kartik Purnima, when a grand Ganga aarti is hosted here.

Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat Road, Ghats of varanasi, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

One of the most religious, yet underrated, places to visit in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is the most sacred crematorium for Hindus. Social outcasts known as doms take care of the dead, who are draped in cloth and transferred to the waters of the Holy Ganges through the winding alleys of the Old City.

If you wish, you can witness the cremation process, but bear in mind that this is a sacred procedure, and you must act respectfully. Also keep in mind that photography is strictly not allowed here.

Location: Garawasi, Jugul Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

One of the most popular places to visit in Varanasi, the Tulsi Manas Temple graces the sacred Durga Kund, in close proximity to the Monkey Temple. Close to the Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple and the New Vishwanath Temple, this religious cluster is one of the most visited places in Kashi.

A religiously important monument, the temple is also said to be the very place where the eminent Goswami Tulsidas penned the Hindu epic Ramacharitamanasa, describing the life story of Lord Ram. Harbouring beautiful statues of Lord Rama, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year. 

Timings: 05:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM everyday

Location: Sankat Mochan Rd, Durgakund Rd, Near Jalan, Varanasi, 221005

Built in the 18th century by the king of Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort is a sandstone edifice overlooking the banks of the holy Ganges. It is presently home to the current king of Varanasi, Anant Narayan Singh. The structure is built in a typical Mughal architectural style, and houses several temples, huge pavilions and balconies, and a massive Darbar Hall.

Saraswati Bhavan is the museum centred in the fort, and exhibits a rare assortment of ivory works, medieval clothes, ornaments, palanquins and other vintage items. Although the fort lies in partially ruins, the unmistakable glory of its olden days is beautifully reflected in the walls.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Entry Fee: Rs.15 per person

Location: Mirzapur - Varanasi Road, Purana, Ramnagar, Uttar Pradesh 221008

Reigning over the spot where a Vishnu Temple once stood, Alamgir Mosque was the skilful creation of Aurangzeb. The imposing structure beautifully dominates the Panchganga Ghat, while portraying the subtle nuances of the architecture born by the fusion of Indian and Mughal styles.

The Hindu style stands out in the lower reaches of the mosque, while the higher ends remain rooted in Mughal design. It is also of the most architecturally beautiful places to visit in Varanasi.

Timings: 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM everyday

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Location: Panchganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

One of the most go-to shopping destinations in Varanasi, the Godowlia Local Market is always buzzing with tourists and locals. Lined by several shops and street-vendors, the market carries everything, right from household items and decor materials to hardware, clothes, jewellery, and groceries.

It is the one-stop shop for all your shopping needs, literally. It is like a mini version of the city, crammed into a few street blocks!

Timings: 10:00 AM to 09:00 PM

Location: Dashaswmedh Road, Ramapura Luxa, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221001