Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, is a place that casts a spell on everyone who goes there. It's a spot where time seems to stand still and traditions that have been around for thousands of years continue to thrive. It's on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Here's a well chosen Varanasi travel guide with the top things to do in Varanasi to help you grasp the city's soul if you're going there.
Best Things to Do in Varanasi Information:
| Activities | Solutions |
| Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat | Attend the iconic evening ritual of lamps, chants, and devotion at the main ghat. |
| Explore the Ghats | Walk along the 80+ ghats to witness rituals, meditation, and daily life along the Ganges. |
| Boat Ride on the Ganges | Take a sunrise or sunset boat ride to see the city from the river. |
| Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple | Visit this sacred Shiva temple, one of the most important in Hinduism. |
| Explore Sarnath | Discover Buddhist history at the Dhamek Stupa, ruins, and museum. |
| Yoga and Meditation | Join a yoga or meditation class in the serene spiritual atmosphere. |
| Sample Local Cuisine | Try chaat, thandai, litti chokha, and Banarasi paan from street vendors. |
| Wander the Old City Lanes | Explore narrow lanes filled with hidden temples, markets, and artisans. |
| Attend Music or Dance Performance | Experience Indian classical music and dance in the cultural heart of India |
| Engage with Locals | Interact with friendly locals, learn their traditions, and enjoy games at the ghats |
| Visit More Temples | See Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and others to experience Varanasi’s spiritual depth |
| Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Walk through the university, its Vishwanath Temple & Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum |
| Take a Dip in the Ganges | Purify your soul with a holy dip in the river |
| Visit Jantar Mantar | Explore the ancient observatory showcasing Indian astronomical knowledge |
| Discover Ramnagar Fort | Visit the historic fort with its museum and royal artifacts |
| Sunset at the Ghats | Watch a magical sunset over the river, a serene experience |
| Explore Weaver Villages | See artisans weaving exquisite Banarasi sarees in nearby villages |
1. See the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Seeing the beautiful Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most famous activities to do in Varanasi. As the sun sets and the stars come out, expert priests perform this ancient ceremony with lamps, incense, and chants. You have to see this spiritual and cultural event while you're in Varanasi.
2. Visit the Ghats along the Ganges
To really get a feel for the spiritual and cultural center of Varanasi, you have to walk down the ghats. There are over 84 ghats, and each one has its unique tale. For example, Dashashwamedh Ghat is very busy, whereas Manikarnika Ghat is very holy and where cremations take place. Along the holy Ganges, this riverbank trip lets you see devotion, ceremonies, and meditation.
3. Go for a boat ride on the Ganges
A peaceful boat journey on the Ganges River at dawn or dusk shows a picture of Varanasi that has been around for a long time. As the city wakes up or goes to sleep, float past the ghats. This is a genuinely spiritual and beautiful experience that will link you profoundly to this old city.
4. Go to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. People think that it frees people from the cycle of rebirth, and it's a very moving spiritual place for both pilgrims and visitors.
5. Visit Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism
Sarnath Varanasi, which is only a short ride away, is where Lord Buddha gave his first speech. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, explore the ruins, and learn about the long history of Buddhism at the Sarnath Museum. It's a nice place to get away from the busy ghats.
6. Join a yoga and meditation class
Try yoga in Varanasi to find calm inside yourself. The city's spiritual aura and experienced teachers make it the best place to do yoga and meditation, no matter how good or bad you are at it.
7. Try the local food: Varanasi street food
If you love food, you have to go on a street food tour in Varanasi. Enjoy the legendary Banarasi paan, zesty chaat, creamy thandai, and hearty litti chokha. The tiny streets are filled of strong tastes that show off the city's rich culture.
8. Walk Around the Old City's Narrow Streets
Visiting the historic city of Varanasi is like going to a museum that is still alive. As you wander through its winding lanes, you'll find secret temples, colorful markets, and artists making traditional handicrafts.
9. Go to a performance of classical music or dance
Varanasi is a great place to see Indian traditional arts, so going to a music or dance show there is a great way to explore its rich culture.
10. Talk to the locals
A thorough Varanasi travel guide must include meeting the friendly locals. Share stories, play a game by the ghats, and see how friendly and welcoming they are.
More things you can't miss in Varanasi
Visit the peaceful Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, which is one of Varanasi's most important spiritual sites. Explore the famous Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and its Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which is a treasure of India's art and history. One of the best spiritual things to do in Varanasi is to take a sacred dip in the Ganges. Go to Jantar Mantar Varanasi, an astronomical wonder that shows how smart ancient Indians were in science. Explore the royal splendor of Ramnagar Fort, which has a museum and everyday activities. See a beautiful sunset over the ghats—an unforgettable occasion in Varanasi. Visit the beautiful weaver villages of Varanasi, where beautiful Banarasi sarees come to life.
Last Thoughts, Varanasi isn't just a place to go; it's an experience that will stay with you forever. The city has experiences that will stay with you forever, whether you're visiting spiritual sites, trying the food, floating on the Ganges, or getting lost in its old streets.
Use this guide to the finest things to do in Varanasi to plan your own amazing trip to India's spiritual capital, which is full of timeless beauty.