Varanasi, often referred to as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world and a spiritual hub for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. Known for its sacred ghats, ancient temples, and vibrant culture, Varanasi offers an unparalleled blend of history, spirituality, and tradition. In this article, we’ll delve into the top 20 attractions in Varanasi, starting with the first five. Each destination is detailed with everything you need to plan your visit.

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Description:
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located near the western bank of the Ganges, it is a spiritual haven for millions of devotees every year.

History:
The temple has a history spanning over thousands of years. The current structure was built in 1780 by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times.

Google Maps Link:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple Location

Official Website:
Kashi Vishwanath Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; ₹300 for priority darshan.
– Opening Hours: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walking. Parking is limited near the temple.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Baati Chokha Restaurant: Famous for traditional Banarasi thali.
– Shree Cafe Veg Restaurant: Known for vegetarian Indian cuisine.

Pro Tip: Early morning visits during Mangala Aarti offer a spiritual and serene experience.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Description:
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most vibrant and popular ghat in Varanasi. It is renowned for the daily Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform elaborate rituals with lamps and chants.

History:
According to mythology, Lord Brahma performed ten (dash) horse sacrifices (ashwamedha yajnas) at this ghat to welcome Lord Shiva, hence the name.

Google Maps Link:
Dashashwamedh Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; donations are welcomed during the Aarti.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7; Aarti begins around 7:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by boat, rickshaw, or walking. Cars are not allowed near the ghat.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Kashi Chat Bhandar: Famous for chaats and lassi.
– Bana Lassi: Must-try: Banarasi lassi and thandai.

Pro Tip: Arrive an hour before the Ganga Aarti to secure a good viewing spot.

3. Sarnath

Description:
Sarnath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It features historical ruins, stupas, and museums.

History:
Sarnath became a center of Buddhist learning during the Mauryan era under Emperor Ashoka, who built the iconic Dhamek Stupa here.

Google Maps Link:
Sarnath Location

Official Website:
Sarnath Tourism

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹30 for Indian citizens; ₹500 for foreigners.
– Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 10 km from Varanasi; accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Green Garden Restaurant: Known for Indian and continental dishes.
– Buddha Restaurant: Famous for vegetarian Tibetan and Indian cuisine.

Pro Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene environment.

4. Assi Ghat

Description:
Assi Ghat is a peaceful and less crowded ghat located at the southernmost part of Varanasi. It is known for its spiritual ambiance and morning Subah-e-Banaras cultural program.

History:
Assi Ghat is associated with the legend of Goddess Durga, who is said to have thrown her sword into the Assi River after killing demons. It has been a hub for sages and pilgrims for centuries.

Google Maps Link:
Assi Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7; Subah-e-Banaras starts at 5:00 AM.
– Travel Options: Easily accessible by taxi, rickshaw, or boat.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Pizzeria Vaatika Café: Known for wood-fired pizzas and Ganga views.
– Open Hand Café: Famous for coffee and sandwiches.

Pro Tip: Attend the early morning cultural program for a soulful experience of music, yoga, and chanting.

5. Manikarnika Ghat

Description:
Manikarnika Ghat is the most sacred cremation ground for Hindus, symbolizing liberation from the cycle of rebirth. It is a place of deep spiritual significance.

History:
Mentioned in Hindu scriptures, this ghat is believed to have been created by Lord Vishnu. The eternal flame here is said to have been burning for thousands of years.

Google Maps Link:
Manikarnika Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Accessible by boat or walking from nearby ghats.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Blue Lassi Shop: Must-try: flavored lassis.
– Kachori Gali: Famous for kachori-sabzi and jalebi.

Pro Tip: Respect the sanctity of the place by avoiding photography and observing in silence.

6. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Description:
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a prestigious educational institution and a cultural hub in Varanasi. Its sprawling campus houses iconic landmarks like the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and Vishwanath Temple (New Kashi Vishwanath Temple).

History:
Founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is a symbol of India’s educational renaissance. It was established to promote learning, research, and Indian cultural values.

Google Maps Link:
Banaras Hindu University Location

Official Website:
Banaras Hindu University Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry to the campus and landmarks within.
– Opening Hours: Open to visitors from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw; located 7 km from the city center.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– BHU Campus Canteen: Known for quick snacks and meals.
– Zaika Restaurant: Famous for North Indian and Chinese dishes.

Pro Tip: Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum for a rich collection of art, artifacts, and manuscripts.

7. Tulsi Manas Temple

Description:
The Tulsi Manas Temple is a beautiful marble temple dedicated to Lord Rama. It holds historical and religious significance as the Ramcharitmanas (a retelling of the Ramayana) was composed here by the poet Tulsidas.

History:
Built in 1964, the temple is named after Tulsidas and features verses from the Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls. It serves as a spiritual and literary monument.

Google Maps Link:
Tulsi Manas Temple Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi; located near Durga Kund.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Banaras Treat: Known for vegetarian meals and sweets.
– Ram Bhandar: Famous for kachori and rabri.

Pro Tip: Visit during the evening for illuminated views and peaceful ambiance.

8. Durga Temple (Durga Kund Mandir)

Description:
The Durga Temple, also known as Durga Kund, is a striking red-colored temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The adjoining pond (kund) adds to its serene atmosphere.

History:
Built in the 18th century by a Bengali queen, the temple reflects Nagara-style architecture. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Durga in the temple appeared on its own.

Google Maps Link:
Durga Temple Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Easily reachable by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Annapurna Restaurant: Famous for traditional thalis.
– Flavors Cafe: Known for coffee and desserts.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Tulsi Manas Temple and Sankat Mochan Temple.

9. Bharat Mata Temple

Description:
The Bharat Mata Temple is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Unlike traditional temples, it features a large marble relief map of undivided India, symbolizing unity and patriotism.

History:
Built in 1936 by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, the temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. It celebrates the cultural and geographical richness of India.

Google Maps Link:
Bharat Mata Temple Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw; located near Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Kashi Rasoi: Famous for vegetarian North Indian dishes.
– Laxmi Chai Wala: Known for tea and snacks.

Pro Tip: Visit during the afternoon to explore the intricacies of the marble map in good lighting.

10. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Description:
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a popular temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Devotees flock here to seek blessings for removing obstacles and fulfilling wishes.

History:
Established by the saint-poet Tulsidas in the 16th century, the temple is believed to be located at the same site where he had a vision of Lord Hanuman.

Google Maps Link:
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Hanuman Bhojanalaya: Known for vegetarian thalis.
– Chulha Chauki: Famous for North Indian and Banarasi dishes.

Pro Tip: Tuesdays and Saturdays are special days for worship, but they can be crowded.

11. Ramnagar Fort

Description:
Ramnagar Fort is a historical fortification located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. This 17th-century sandstone fort is known for its intricate Mughal-style architecture, the Darbar Hall, and a museum showcasing royal artifacts.

History:
Built in 1750 by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh, Ramnagar Fort served as the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Varanasi. It is still the residence of the royal family.

Google Maps Link:
Ramnagar Fort Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for Indians; ₹150 for foreigners.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by boat or taxi; it is located about 14 km from the city center.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Banaras Haveli Restaurant: Known for traditional Indian dishes.
– Riverside Café: Offers continental cuisine and scenic views.

Pro Tip: Visit during the evening for picturesque views of the fort illuminated against the Ganges.

12. Alamgir Mosque (Beni Madhav Ka Darera)

Description:
Alamgir Mosque, also known as Beni Madhav Ka Darera, is a stunning blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. It is perched on Panchganga Ghat and offers a panoramic view of the Ganges.

History:
Constructed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century, the mosque was built on the site of a Hindu temple, which adds to its architectural and cultural significance.

Google Maps Link:
Alamgir Mosque Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7, but mornings are ideal for visiting.
– Travel Options: Accessible by boat, walking, or cycle-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Choti Kachori Wala: Famous for kachoris and jalebi.
– Benares Biryani House: Known for biryanis and kebabs.

Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise for a peaceful experience and stunning views.

13. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Description:
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, located within the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, is a treasure trove of Indian art, culture, and history. Its vast collection includes paintings, sculptures, textiles, and rare manuscripts.

History:
Founded in 1920, the museum gained prominence under the guidance of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It is one of the oldest museums in India.

Google Maps Link:
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum Location

Official Website:
Bharat Kala Bhavan Info

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults; ₹10 for children.
– Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Sunday closed).
– Travel Options: Easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw; located within BHU.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– BHU Cafeteria: Known for snacks and budget-friendly meals.
– Tandoor Villa: Famous for kebabs and North Indian cuisine.

Pro Tip: Allocate at least 2 hours to explore the extensive collections.

14. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)

Description:
The Nepali Temple, also known as Kathwala Temple, is a serene and lesser-known temple near Lalita Ghat. Built in traditional Nepali-style architecture, it is made of terracotta, wood, and stone.

History:
Constructed by the King of Nepal in the 19th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and serves as a symbol of Indo-Nepalese cultural harmony.

Google Maps Link:
Nepali Temple Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by walking or boat; located near Lalita Ghat.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Lalita Café: Known for light snacks and refreshing beverages.
– Banaras Coffee House: Offers coffee and quick bites.

Pro Tip: Visit during the early morning to enjoy the tranquil environment.

15. Hanuman Ghat

Description:
Hanuman Ghat is a peaceful and historical ghat dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is believed to be established by Saint Tulsidas and holds religious importance for devotees.

History:
The ghat has been a center of spiritual activity for centuries. It is associated with the Ramayana era and Saint Tulsidas, who composed parts of his work here.

Google Maps Link:
Hanuman Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Accessible by walking, rickshaw, or boat.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Ruchi Sweets and Snacks: Famous for kachori and laddoos.
– Ganga View Café: Known for vegetarian meals and river views.

Pro Tip: Spend some time meditating here for a rejuvenating spiritual experience.

16. Gyanvapi Mosque

Description:
Gyanvapi Mosque is a historically significant site located adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It showcases Mughal-era architecture and is revered by the Muslim community. The mosque’s structure features Hindu temple remnants, symbolizing the city’s complex history.

History:
Built in 1669 by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the mosque was constructed on the ruins of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The Gyanvapi Well, located within the mosque’s premises, is considered sacred by Hindus.

Google Maps Link:
Gyanvapi Mosque Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible by walking, rickshaw, or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Brown Bread Bakery: Known for organic meals and coffee.
– Spicy Bites Restaurant: Famous for Indian and continental dishes.

Pro Tip: Non-Muslims may have restricted access; ensure you inquire about entry regulations.

17. Panchganga Ghat

Description:
Panchganga Ghat is one of Varanasi’s oldest and most sacred ghats. It is believed to be the confluence of five sacred rivers: the Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutapapa.

History:
The ghat has deep mythological and spiritual significance. The Alamgir Mosque, located on the ghat, adds to its historical and architectural importance.

Google Maps Link:
Panchganga Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Accessible by boat, walking, or rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Kashi Annapurna Bhavan: Famous for vegetarian thalis.
– Lotus Lounge: Known for Ganga views and multi-cuisine options.

Pro Tip: Visit during the Kartik Poornima festival for a vibrant spiritual experience.

18. Tulsi Ghat

Description:
Tulsi Ghat is a serene and spiritually significant ghat named after the poet-saint Tulsidas, who composed the Ramcharitmanas here. It is associated with cultural events and rituals dedicated to Lord Rama.

History:
Built in the 16th century by Tulsidas, the ghat has been a center of literary and devotional activities. It is also known for its association with the Tulsi Festival.

Google Maps Link:
Tulsi Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or walking.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Cafe Aadha-Aadha: Famous for fusion dishes and coffee.
– Banarasi Bites: Known for authentic street food options.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening for a peaceful ambiance and to witness devotional gatherings.

19. Lalita Ghat

Description:
Lalita Ghat is one of the most picturesque ghats in Varanasi. It is home to the Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple), which adds a unique architectural charm to the area.

History:
Built by the King of Nepal, Lalita Ghat holds religious significance due to its proximity to the sacred Ganges and its association with the Nepali culture.

Google Maps Link:
Lalita Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Accessible by boat or walking.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Vishnu Tea Emporium: Known for flavored teas and light snacks.
– Soul Kitchen Café: Famous for pizzas and desserts.

Pro Tip: Ideal for photography enthusiasts due to its stunning architecture and riverside views.

20. Harishchandra Ghat

Description:
Harishchandra Ghat is one of the two most sacred cremation ghats in Varanasi, the other being Manikarnika Ghat. It is named after the legendary King Harishchandra, who is celebrated for his unwavering devotion to truth and duty.

History:
According to legend, King Harishchandra worked at this ghat as a cremator to uphold his commitment to truth. The ghat is believed to be a place where souls attain moksha (liberation).

Google Maps Link:
Harishchandra Ghat Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Accessible by boat, walking, or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Blue Lassi Shop: Famous for its refreshing flavored lassis.
– Baba Lassi and Chaat Corner: Known for street food and drinks.

Pro Tip: Be respectful while observing cremation rituals, as it is a deeply spiritual place.