10 Things to Do in Varanasi 2023: Upto 40% Off

This charming city in India is several thousand years old and has been popular among tourists since time immemorial. There are many things to do in Varanasi for tourists and pilgrims alike in order to explore the city's landscape and culture. It is known by different names such as Benaras, Varanasi and Kashi to different people but the magic in its spectacles, sites and rituals hold the same meaning to one and all.

Varanasi is a city which is awake before dawn and does not sleep till late in the night. Tourists typically start the day with a cruise along the holy Ganges as the first light of the dawn kisses the ghat-s, as early as 5:30 AM before the palaces, temples and the morning bathers rise from slumber. Pilgrims climb down the steps of the many ghat-s here to take a holy dip in the sacred water of the Ganga river in the eternal belief that it could wash away their past sins. Likewise, at dusk too, the cruise along the river is a sight to behold with the 88 ghat-s awakening to the rhythm of the evening aarti or prayers offered with beautiful brass lamps. Viewing the spectacular aarti ceremony at the Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most important of the things to do in Varanasi at night, without which a trip to the city is rendered incomplete.

The allure of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is known not just to the Indians but to tourists from all over the world who step into this magnanimous temple to experience the aura of religiosity and power of belief. In spite of being home to more than 23000 temples, seeking divine blessings is not the only thing that this city has to offer. There are many fun things to do in Varanasi as well which appeal both to the religious and the not-so-religious tourists. The gastronomic cruise in Varanasi is an experience of a lifetime. From mouth-watering crusty kachori-s, jalebi-s, thandaai, chaat-s, rabri to the famous Benaraasi paan, the list is endless.

The Sarai Mohana village in Varanasi is where the weavers spin out the masterpieces that make the sarees so special and a quick trip to this versatile centre is a must in the Varanasi itinerary. Just 12 kms from Varanasi is the Buddhist site of Sarnath where lies the famous Dharmekh stupa, Ashoka pillar, Mulagandhakuti Vihara and the Archeological museum which are worth exploring.

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Yoga Classes in Varanasi

2H

Transport Included
Mobile Voucher
Guide
Activity Location: VaranasiActivity Duration: 2 hoursActivity Days: Monday - FridayActivity Timings: 5:30 AMAbout Yoga Classes in Varanasi:Varanasi is a popular destination for travelers from all over the globe who want to experience its grace and holiness. The area is prominent in Hindu mythology and is seen as a microcosm of Hinduism's culture and current developments. The location is perfect for finding serenity and salvation because of the small, graceful population, mesmerizing environment, and continual Hindu god worship. Book your yoga classes and calm your mind and senses by attending this amazing session with your companions.
Superb

41 Ratings

4.5

41 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,044

₹ 700 per Adult

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Halfday Sarnath Tour from Varanasiflat 30 off

4H

Hotel pickup
Transport Included
One of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi is the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. 'Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together', writes Mark Twain, an American writer. Half-day Sarnath Tour from Varanasi is a must book if you are here in the city.About Half-day Sarnath Tour from Varanasi:Visit Sarnath-the world-renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon post-enlightenment. Located 10 km from Varanasi, this places has religious, cultural, and architectural significance. In this tour, you will get a chance to explore several parts of the UNESCO World Heritage site including Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, Tibetan Temple, Ashoka Pillar, and Archeological Museum.  This tour includes a private guide, transportation, and pickup and drop-off from the hotel of Varanasi. Time duration: 4 to 5 hoursNote:-Minimum 2 people are required to book this tour.-Meals are not included in the package. 
Superb

37 Ratings

4.5

37 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,500

₹ 1,200 per Adult

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21%
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Varanasi Food Walk Tour

6H

Meals Included
Mobile Voucher
Guide
Starting Location: Outside Hotel Ganges GrandEnd Point: Kachori Gali, Lahori Tola, Varanasi Activity Duration: 6 hours (approx.)Activity Timing: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PMAbout Varanasi Food Walk Tour:For all the food fans, the Varanasi food walk is a little glimpse of heaven opportunity that will assist with encountering all the indulgences of the oldest food shops. Besides, the blazing streets, the location of this tour is also a hub of great food that satisfies the taste buds of the visitors largely. Bring your loved ones for this experience and have a fun time exploring the food of the streets.
Superb

32 Ratings

4.5

32 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,400

₹ 1,100 per Adult

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30%
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Varanasi Sunrise Boat Tour

3H

Hotel pickup
Instant confirmation
Mobile Voucher
Guide
Activity Location: Varanasi, Uttar PradeshActivity Timings: 6:00 AMActivity Duration: 3 HoursAbout the Varanasi Sunrise Boat Tour:Located on the banks of the holy river Ganges, Varanasi or Banaras or Kashi is known for the Indian culture and Hindu rituals. Grab the opportunity to discover the tradition and culture of Hindus by booking tickets for the Varanasi Sunrise Boat Tour. Reach the ghats of the Varanasi and observe Hindu rituals performed during sunrise closely. Visit this magnificent city having more than 200 temples and various ghats and gain significant insight into the Hindu religion and traditions. Enjoy the boat ride and get mesmerized by the amazing and scenic views of the surroundings. Get a chance to visit the old city of Varanasi and see the glorious Kashi Vishwanath temple.
Superb

29 Ratings

4.5

29 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,343

₹ 930 per Adult

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Varanasi Spiritual Walking Tour

3H

Mobile Voucher
Guide
Activity Location: Varanasi, Uttar PradeshActivity Timings: 6:00 AMActivity Duration: 3 HoursAbout the Varanasi Spiritual Walking Tour:Varanasi or Kashi is known as Hindu traditions, customs, and rituals along with various temples and ghats. Book tickets and gear up for a spiritual walking tour to this mesmerizing city. Gather at the 'Assi Ghat' and start discovering the city in a 3-hour walking tour with your companions and gain more insight into Hindu rituals and history. Grab the opportunity to visit local markets nearby and admire the unique art and culture. Stroll through the city and get the chance to visit a range of historical monuments and temples.
Superb

36 Ratings

4.5

36 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 946

₹ 800 per Adult

Varanasi Village Tour Flat 20% off
Varanasi Village Tour Flat 20% off

5H

Varanasi

Varanasi, the land of ‘Lord Shiva’ is known for many reasons. Be it the cultural richness, the timeless history, the religious lineages or the devotion around its every corner, this city always offer a serene experience to the visitors. This 5 hours tour of villages of Varanai takes you deep into tranquillity and offers you an insight into how history and humanity have walked down throughout ages and centuries.The tour will start by picking you up from your hotel in an air-conditioned car at around 8 AM and drive towards the village. You will witness how life has restored all the vibrancies of nature, discover the stunning beauty of Mother Earth and delve deep into the life of the villagers. Visit the handlooms within the village and witness how the local craftsman incites life into their handloom products. Within your walk through the village, know more about the world-famous ‘Banarasi Sarees’ and also observe how the simple reels of thread change their existence and shape up into these sarees!Towards the end, visit the local farms, schools and also interact with the villagers. Spend time in the lap of the pristine nature, bag up some of the most delightful memories of your life and by the end of the tour, depart the village with a splendid experience.Pick up & Drop: Will be from your hotel.Note:Min 2 & max 5 people are allowed to book this package. 
Superb

30 Ratings

4.0

30 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,500

₹ 1,200

Maharaja Boat Ride, Varanasi
Maharaja Boat Ride, Varanasi

5H

Varanasi

Varanasi, or Benaras, (also known as Kashi) is one of the oldest cities in the world. It holds a prominent place in the Hindu mythology as well and is considered the microcosm of Hinduism itself. Within this city’s limits is the Ramnagar Fort which is located near the Ganges River on its eastern shore, opposite the Tulsi Ghat. The structure is constructed in typical Mughal style of architecture and has been the residence of the royal family of Varanasi since the eighteenth century. The guided Maharaja Boat ride lasts for 4-5 hours and you have the option of going for it either in the morning or evening. The start time for the ride is 8 am in the summers and anytime between 8:30 am and 3 pm in the winters. If the summers are too intense, the trip can be undertaken in a cab. The excursion would get going from Assi Ghat and takes you to the Ramnagar Palace across the river by boat. Apart from getting to see the palace from inside, you would be going on a short walk in the markets around the fort area. There is also an ancient 200 year old Durga Temple nearby which is included in the outing. You would be returning to the Assi Ghat once the tour concludes.  Duration: 4-5 hours
Superb

36 Ratings

4.0

36 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,950

₹ 1,800

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Varanasi Sightseeing Tour: Full Day Flat 15% off
Varanasi Sightseeing Tour: Full Day Flat 15% off

10H

Varanasi

Step into the charming lands of Varanasi early in the morning, explore its opulent and pious beauty. With this 10-11 hours guided journey of this ancient city, take boat rides, walking tours across the northern part of Varanasi and explore its grandeur.About Varanasi Sightseeing Tour:Starting at around 6:00 am. You will be picked up from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. First, take a boat ride into the holy Ganges. Witness the city getting soaked with the brimming morning rays, devotees starting their day with morning prayers and be a part of the devotion. After boating, you will proceed for Sarnath tour. Sarnath is one of the best travel destinations in Varanasi & has the utmost importance in Buddhism culture. Later in the afternoon, step into the streets of Varanasi and walk across the narrow lanes to discover a thousand years old alleys, temples which will leave you mesmerized. You will visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, famous food streets of Varanasi, Kachuri Gali, Perfume Market, Flower Market, Silk Market, Souvenirs Market, and many countless things. Later in the evening, you will be taken to the riverbank of Ganga to see cremation rituals followed by witnessing the mesmerizing grand prayer (aarti) ceremony with a boat ride.  Witness this auspicious event that fills the ambience with its vibes and sacredness! With the completion of the Ganga Aarti; at around 6:00 pm, this ever tour comes to an end.Pick up & drop will be from your hotel.Note:Min 2 & max 10 people can book this activity.
Superb

23 Ratings

4.0

23 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 3,100

₹ 2,600

The Golden Temple Walk, Varanasi
The Golden Temple Walk, Varanasi

3H

Varanasi

Stroll around the oldest city in the world, visit one of the most sacred Hindu temples, walk through the narrow alleys and also explore ancient mosques. Join the guided 3 hours Golden Temple walking tour in Varanasi at 8am or 4pm and discover a world embossed with myths, epics and legends. Arriving at Godowlia Crossing at around 8:00am, embark on this auspicious tour of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is also known as the Golden Temple. Located in the city of Gautameshwar Mahadev, this temple is known to be the most important Lord Shiva temple in India. Visit this temple and know more about the history and origin of Hinduism. Get a glimpse of the epics that depicts various stories related to Lord Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. Post this, meander through the hidden and narrow lanes of Kashi and explore the peace and harmony that exists in this vicinity. Visit one of the historical mosques in this holy town and witness how different cultures and beliefs confluences into one in this town. Moving onto through the local bazaars and marketplaces, make it the Manikarnika Ghat, the largest cremation ground in the world. While in this ghat, you can you can witness people from different corners of the world, completing the last rites of their ancestors and seeking salvation for their souls. Upon the completion of the visit to the Manikarnika Ghat, this unique tour will come to an end. Duration: Around 3 hours
Very Good

32 Ratings

3.0

32 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,750

₹ 1,500

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Varanasi Airport Transfers Flat 20% off
Varanasi Airport Transfers Flat 20% off

1H

Varanasi

If you are looking to be transported from Varanasi airport to the hotels/residence of Varanasi or vice versa, then you can book this package. Get an air-conditioned car and an experienced driver that will help you to reach your destination on time.The chauffeur will be there on time and will help you keep your luggage in the car. Just sit back and relax while you get transferred after you get picked up from the pick-up point. The cars are comfortable and air-conditioned and the driver is experienced and will allow you to get to the drop-off location right on time.Timings: Timings are flexible according to the customers' convenience.Note:No meals are included in this tour.Additional charges are applicable if you want to get transferred from/to outside the city limits.
Superb

34 Ratings

4.0

34 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 500

₹ 400

Varanasi Death & Rebirth Walk Flat 25% off
25%
OFF
Varanasi Death & Rebirth Walk Flat 25% off

3H

Varanasi

One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi is called the city of learning because of the great men who have made some of the greatest contributions to the cultural, literary, and artistic heritage of India. It is also called the city of burning as it embraces death, with its cremation grounds in the heart of the city.Join this 3 hours walking tour which starts at 6 AM. Our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel. Embark on exploring the history of the city with a visit to the ashrams where the Sadhus live. Learn about the great cultural contributions of Varanasi to the world. Hear the various stories related to the city and explore the reasons for Varanasi to be famous as the city which grants nirvana.Meet the ascetics and learn about their lives. You will take a boat ride to reach to the Manikarnika Ghat. Visit various places with historical significance and stories attached to them, such as the cremation grounds and a sacred pond which is believed to have the power to treat infertility.Pick Up & Drop:You will be picked up & dropped to your hotel.Note:Min 2 & max 6 people are allowed to book this activity.  
Superb

32 Ratings

4.0

32 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 1,800

₹ 1,350

Northern Bazzar Walking Tour in Varanasi
54%
OFF
Northern Bazzar Walking Tour in Varanasi

4H

Varanasi

Varanasi, a prominent spot to visit in India that refers to one of the oldest cities in the world. The location holds a significant place in the pages of Hindu mythology and is considered as the microcosm of Hinduism culture and trends. The narrow lanes with the graceful crowds and the mesmerizing atmosphere of the constant worshipping of Hindu gods make the spot ideal for achieving peace and salvation. About the Activity:This Varanasi Noth Bazzar walk tour commences in Northern part of the Ghats and will let you get glimpses of real Varanasi. You shall be able to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and step into the famous food streets of Varanasi along with Kachuri Gali, Perfume Market, Flower Market, Silk Market, Souvenirs Market and many other blazing spots.The package is inclusive of a friendly and supportive guide who would make you aware of the stories behind each dish. You shall also be able to travel in AC private car while you are picked and dropped to and from the hotel. You shall also be provided with a bottle of water.Starting Point/ End Point: Pick up and drop off from hotelTimings: 3 PM to 6 PMNote: The minimum number of persons required to book this package is 2.
Very Good

38 Ratings

3.0

38 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 2,398

₹ 1,098

Kashi Yatra – Boat Ride, Varanasi
Kashi Yatra – Boat Ride, Varanasi

5H

Varanasi

As you undertake the Kashi boat ride on the holy river Ganga, immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere and visit the 5000 year old Adi Keshav Ghat as well. The guided boat ride would take around 4-5 hours and can be undertaken in the morning or evening. The start time varies according to the prevalent weather and time of sunrise. During summers it starts around 5 am and in winters it is 6 am in the mornings. Similarly the evening tour commences at 5:30 pm in summers and 4 pm in winters. The ride begins from Assi Ghat and takes you along the stretch of the river where the ghats are located right up to the Adi Keshav Ghat. Apart from getting an opportunity to see the various ghats as you pass by, you would also get to alight the boat at a few places and visit some temples, palaces, mosques depending on your interest. This long ride which starts at the southern end of the ghats and reaches the northern most part of the city is an apt way to view Varanasi from the surface of River Ganga, as you leisurely soak in the sacred ambience. Duration: 4-5 hours
Very Good

32 Ratings

3.0

32 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 2,500

₹ 2,000

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Cultural Walk Tour of Varanasi

3H

Mobile Voucher
Guide
About Location: VaranasiActivity Duration: 3 hoursStarting Point: Hotel Ganges GrandEnding Points: Lolark KundAbout Cultural Walk Tour of Varanasi:Discover Varanasi, one of the most revered locations for Hindus and a beautiful synthesis of harmony with various religions and sects. By visiting, you can learn fascinating details about the many religious sites as well as about the cultural diversity. Get to know the locals and learn about what it's like to live next to the sacred Ganges.
Superb

29 Ratings

4.5

29 Ratings

Starting from

₹ 852

₹ 850 per Adult


People Also Ask About Varanasi Things To Do

  1. What are the things to do in Varanasi?

    1. Visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Also known as the Golden temple, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the 12 prolific Jyotirlingas in the country. Tourists can visit this temple to witness the holy grand Shivling and to worship Lord Shiva. It is one of the most prominent things to do here in Varanasi. Also, the dome of this temple which is said to be made from pure gold and constitute as one of the finest architecture of the city is a gem to the eyes.

    Location: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

    Timings: 3 am – 11 am, 12:30 pm – 08 pm, & 09 pm – 11 pm

    2. Exploring Manikarnika Ghat: Considered as the holiest place in the city, Manikarnika ghat is the prime location for the cremation of bodies as per Hindu traditions. One can visit the Manikarnika ghat at any hour of the day and observe the whole cremation process which takes place here. People travel all the way especially to witness the cremation process which apparently provides peace to both dead and alive. 

    Location: Near Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Garawasi, Jugul Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

    Timings: Open 24 hours

    3. Strolling on the Assi Ghat: One of the most important things to do in Varanasi is visiting this ghat which is located in the south of the city. Assi ghat is the heart of Varanasi and the locals. Famous for its Shiva Lingam under a tree, Assi Ghat is one of the most lively places around the city. People also travel all the way to this ghat to witness the amazing sunrise and sunset.

    Location: Assi Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Timings: Can visit anytime

    4. Outing at Sarnath: It is believed that Lord Buddha preached his first sermon here. Situated 13kms to the north of the city, Sarnath is the perfect location for a one-day outing outside the city. The place is surrounded by lush green gardens and lawns which serve as the best place for a small picnic and also you can visit the famous Buddhist monasteries around and the Jain temples. It's the best place to visit near Varanasi for those who seek interest in the history of Buddhism and India.

    Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007

    Timings: 24 Hours

    5. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: What a spectacle it is to witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat! Ganga Aarti is one true example of the rich cultural and traditional history of this place. It is what makes this ghat one of the few best things to do in Varanasi at night. Watching this Aarti is a truly phenomenal experience in itself.

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

    Timings: 24 Hours

    6. Beholding the miracle at Panchganga Ghat: Varanasi is known to be the place for the Sangam(meeting) of the five holy rivers namely Ganga, Yamuna, Sarasvati, Dhutpapa and Kirana. At Panchganga Ghat the travellers can witness the place where these five rivers meet and can also explore the various small temples nearby the ghat.

    Location: 7/111, Sonarpura Rd, Ghats of Varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001

    Timings: 24 hours

    7. A peek into the history at Tulsi Manas Temple: Just as the Bible is to Christianity and the Quran is to Muslims, Ramayana is to the Hindus. This epic holy book of the Hindus was written by Tulsidas here in the Tulsi Manas Temple. The most important thing to do at this beautiful white marble temple apart from gazing at its beauty is to capture the greatness of the original verses and scriptures of Ramayana which are engraved on its walls and which give you literal peek into the history.

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

    Timings: 5 am – 12 pm & 04 pm – 09 pm

    8. Visiting the Durga Kund Temple: Built-in the honour of Goddess Durga, this temple is popularly known as the monkey temple. It is also one of the major highlights of the city. The main attraction here is the temple itself which is completely painted in red and draws tourists who love its architecture and strolling in and around the temple feeding the monkeys eatables.

    Location: 27, Durgakund Rd, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005

    Timings: 5 am – 11 pm

  2. What are the things to do in Varanasi at night?

    The city is full of surprises at night. Even though it's restless and overwhelming during the day, it's full of magic at night. In the evening rituals and Aarti's takes place alongside many river ghats which not only attract the locals but also the foreign tourists. Here are a few things to do in Varanasi at Night.

    1. Experiencing the famous Ganga Aarti : One of the most famous things to do in Varanasi is experiencing the Ganga aarti that takes place every night from 7 PM to 8 PM on the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Watching this Arti is a true blessing in itself.

    2. Taking boat rides alongside the ghats: During the dusk time, the aura of Varanasi is something that everyone who travels to this city in the first place should encounter. This time of the day is perfect to ride a boat alongside the ghats and see the beautiful sun setting from the boat.

    3. Going shopping in the local markets: Varanasi is also famous for some of its local products such as silk saree, wooden handmade toys, pearls and stones etc, which are a must-buy for everyone. The street vendors start setting up their shops near the ghats as soon as the Ganga aarti gets over so that the people can directly head towards the market after the aarti.

    4. Trying the famous Banarasi Pan at night after the dinner is true bliss.

    5. Witnessing the breathtaking view of the city of lights from a rooftop restaurant like B4 Cafe & Rooftop Restaurant(Assi Ghat), Hotel Heritage Inn Rooftop Restaurant etc.

    6. Experiencing traditional classical music and dance on the ghats at night: The city sleeps in sinking silence during the night and has an atmosphere that makes it worth stepping out of the houses and staying up late for it.

  3. What is Varanasi Famous For?

    Also known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is not just famous for mere one or two things but a lot of things that make the city so special.

    Varanasi is known to be the city of Ghats and Temples, one can find a temple at almost every corner of the road here. This city situated on a riverbank has several ghats, from Manikarnika ghat to Assi ghat and many more, each being different and special in its way. The city also has a rich culture and history to look out for.

  4. What is famous in Varanasi for Shopping?

    The trip to this holy place is incomplete without stepping into the local markets and making your way into buying these local things.

    Varanasi has a huge local market where you can find traditional hand made things for international products. Some of these famous things to buy in Varanasi are:

    1. Famous Banarasi Silk saree
    2. Wooden handmade toys
    3. Crystals and Stone Shivling
    4. Glass Beads
    5. Hand-knotted Carpets
    6. Bangles and other glass accessories
    7. The holy water of river Ganga
    8. Rudraksha Malas
    9. Wooden flutes
    10. Ramnami cloth
    11. Mouth-Watering Sweets
    12. Stone Carved Curios
    13. Ancient Books related to Hindu Mythology

  5. Which are the famous Ghats to visit in Varanasi?

    Situated on a riverbank, Varanasi is also known as the city of Ghats and has miles of Ghats in and around the city. Each outshining the other differently.

    Here are the most famous Ghats to visit in Varanasi:

    1. Assi Ghat:

    Assi Ghat is one of the most vibrant and lively ghats of all. Lord Shiva is worshipped here on the ghat through a Shiva Lingam which is under a giant pipal tree. It's spacious and is usually less crowded than the other ghats during the daytime. Recently, the Ghat started having Aarti in the morning which is a must-watch if you want to experience the true feel of Varanasi.

    Highlight: Shivalingam under the pipal tree.

    2. Chet Singh Ghat:

    Built-in front of the Chet Singh fort, this ghat has quite an importance from the historical view. Maharaja Chet Singh, who ruled Varanasi, fought the 18th century battle with the British on this Ghat. 

    Highlight: History of the Fort

    3. Darbhanga Ghat: 

    Darbhanga Ghat has quite an appealing view and an architecture that just makes then that more appealing to the eyes. It also features the luxury Brijrama Palace Hotel beside the ghat. Famous for its photogenic view, this ghat attracts a lot of tourists who love to capture pictures on the steps of this ghat and are driven off by its beauty.

    Highlight: Palace alongside the ghat

    4. Dashashwamedh Ghat:

    The enchanting famous Ganga Aarti takes place on the steps of this ghat every evening. It is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi. Hundreds of priests and pandits come together every evening to perform this Arti in unison. The prayers and mantras are being sung by each of them simultaneously and there are diyas and lamps flowing everywhere.

    Highlight: Ganga Arti

    5. Manikarnika Ghat:

    Also known as the burning ghat, Manikarnika ghat is one of the prime locations for cremation as per Hindu traditions. It's believed that getting cremated here will free them from the never-ending circle of life and death and will bring peace to the dead.

    Highlight: Witnessing how the whole process of cremation takes place

    6. Panchganga Ghat:

    One of the most sacred ghats of Varanasi, Panchganga Ghat is the point of the meeting of the five holy rivers, namely Ganga, Yamuna, Dhutpapa and Kirana. The water of this ghat is considered holy and pure. People also come to worship the meeting point of these rivers here, as they consider it a miracle. 

    Highlight: The point of Sangam(Meeting) of rivers.

  6. Which are the famous temples to visit in Varanasi?

    Varanasi is believed to be one of the most important cities according to the Hindu religion. Mark Twain recognized the historical importance of this city when he wrote, "Varanasi is older than history,older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together". Varanasi is the epicentre of temples which are spread all across the city. Few of those famous temples are: 

    1. Vishwanath Temple -

    Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country. It is one of the oldest temples in the city. The domes of this temple are said to be made of pure gold and its considered as one of the most important temples in the country.

    2. Sankat Mochan Temple-

    Said to have been established by Saint Tulsidas, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman as the name itself suggests. People come to this temple chanting verses related to the lord in the most problematic situations because of their firm belief in Lord Hanuman

    3. Tulsi Manas Temple-

    The epic Hindu Mythology read 'Ramayana' was written at this place by Saint Tulsidas. Ramayana is a very precious book of Hindu mythology. Verses of Ramayana are also engraved on the walls of this temple

    4. Durga Kund Temple-

    Also known as the monkey temple, this temple dedicated to Goddess Durga is one the main highlights of the city. The temple is painted red which represents the colour of the goddess Durga

    5. Kaal Bhairav Temple-

    It is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Varanasi. Kaal Bhairav is believed to be the guardian of the city. Fun fact is, unlike other temples, alcohol is served to the lord of the temple.

  7. Where can I find the best street food in Varanasi?

    Varanasi is also famous for its spicy mouth splashing traditional street food which might turn out to be the best food you've ever had in your life. Few of this famous street food is -

    1. Chacha ki Dukan in Lanka:

    Chacha ki Dukan is a very famous shop in Varanasi which serves the most delicious Kachori Sabji. There are a lot of places that serve the same dish but this one’s the best.

    2. Deena Chat Bhandar, Dashashwamedha ghat:

    This chat bhandar has it all. It serves a variety of dishes that are famous in Varanasi such as Chana Dahi vada, Laaiya Chana, Chooda Matar etc. It is the one-stop destination for everything that you want to try.

    3. Godowlia Chowk:

    This place serves the best Malayyio of Varanasi, which is a famous masala malai drink.

    4. Rabri Malai Lassi -

    The best-known lassi in Varanasi is the Blue lassi, of the Kachori Gali Chowk, served in smallkuldefinitelys.

    5. Deepak Tambul Bhandar, Dashashwamedh Ghat-

    There’s no point coming to Varanasi if you go without trying the famous Banarasi Pan. There is one thing that is a must-try out when you visit this place and that is having a Banarasi Pan here at this shop which is again the best in the city.

    One can also find several small street food vendors across each ghat having some special delicacies of its own.

  8. Where Can I go for Ganga Aarti?

    The spectacular Ganga Aarti takes place at the Dashashwamedh ghat every evening. The Arti ceremony is performed in the evening for 45-minutes, this ritual is held at sharp 6: 45 PM every day. It is truly mesmerising to watch the whole ritual taking place in commotion, the priests and pandits chanting together and circling the heavy brass lamps together in motion. Watching this Arti and listening to the mantras automatically makes you feel more positive and energized. During the Aarti people also put lit diya’s into the river on a leaf which in turn makes the whole place more bright and alive by adding this to its beauty.

    One can also observe the astonishing beauty of this ritual on a boat ride alongside the same ghat surrounded by hundreds of Diya's and Flowers flowing in the river.

  9. Where can I do Boating in Varanasi?

    One of the best things to do in Varanasi is going on a boat ride which takes you across the different ghats in the city. All the ghats in Varanasi have boats standing across them which will take you to a beautiful ride in the holy Ganges for a mesmerising tour. The best time to enjoy a boat ride of the Ganges River is the dawn hour as well as the dusk hour. Early morning from 5:30 AM to 8 AM is the best time to witness the sunrise on a boat.

  10. Which are the best Ancient Alleys and Streets of Varanasi to visit?

    Along with exploring the ghats and rivers across the city, equally as interesting, it is to get lost in the narrow alleys of this ancient city.

    There are no names of these Alleys as such but you can find these alongside every ghat. Within the lanes, you'll find guest houses, restaurants, street stalls, stores and all sorts of other businesses.

    The best ancient lanes are the ones across the Manikarnika ghat, Assi Ghat and other prominent holy ghats.

    Strolling through these narrow alleys is also one of the best things to do in Varanasi at night. The nights here are much more peaceful than the days. 

    You might see some things that will make you squeamish, but at the same time, you'll just be amazed at what goes on and what takes place inside these alleys. 

    You might also end up finding local weavers, carpenters, bangle makers carrying on their businesses in their small houses.

  11. Varanasi safe for tourists?

    The city and its people offer warm hospitality to everyone travelling in and around the city. Varanasi is quite very safe and sound for all the tourists coming here. Being of the oldest city, the city caters beautifully to those who come to visit the place. The people here are a bit keen on serving the tourists and taking care of their safety by even going out of their way.

    Even though the place is safe, night time calls for special precautions no matter where you are.

Newly Added Varanasi Experience

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The entire trip was seamless with no issues. The most enjoyable part of the trip was the variety of places, we were able to experience and all with top quality information.100% recommended
The guide provided by Thrillophilia was brilliant. He took us on an unforgettable journey through the city, giving us a great insight into the amazing, unusual, extraordinary sights that are around every corner. Overall nice trip and systematically arranged

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