Here’s a list of the 15 best things to do in Varanasi (India), along with famous landmarks, museums, and other points of interest.
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated right on the river banks of the Ganges.
The temple is a central part of the Shaiva Philosophy and is often also called the “Golden Temple” due to its golden towers. The sight is one of the must-visits in Varanasi.
Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple
Ratneshwar Mahadev Mandir is one of the most unique and interesting temples of Varanasi as it is located partially submerged in the Ganges river and leans towards the northwest.
At first glance, it might seem like the structure is in danger of collapsing but this is the way it was intended during the construction. Due to its unique position, it has become one of the most photographed sites in all of Varanasi.
Boat ride along the Ganges
One of the best ways to experience the city of Varanasi is by taking a boat ride along the holy Ganges river.
Renting a private boat for an hour or two is very popular as it is not expensive and offers a very unique experience and a new perspective on the river banks and the fascinating Hinduistic practices carried out by the believers.
The atmosphere on the river is particularly special during the early mornings. Being on the river during sunrise is an unforgettable experience.
Aarti Ceremony
The Aarti ceremony involves a Hindu priest carrying out a spiritual ritual involving the use of lamps and the chanting of special songs praising the river Ganges.
This ritual is supposedly blessing everyone in attendance, and it’s a very memorable experience that I think you shouldn’t miss while visiting Varanasi.
The ceremony takes place every evening on the banks of the holy Ganges. The easiest way to participate is by joining one of the Aarti tours that take visitors to the ceremonies. They usually include a guide that explains the ritual and the beliefs that it is based on.
Have a lassi at Blue Lassi
Lassi is the name of a typical Indian yoghurt drink that can be commonly found anywhere on the subcontinent. The drink can be enjoyed in various tastes that usually include yoghurt and your fruit of choice.
One of the best places to enjoy a delicious Lassi is the Blue Lassi, a small unpretentious stall that is known all over Varanasi. It offers around 40 different flavors and has many regular customers that come here almost every day.
The lassis here are delicious and authentic and best of all the Blue Lassi is located in an interesting area that invites for exploring.
Cremation Ghats of Varanasi
The cremation ceremonies are one of the most famous aspects of the holy city of Varanasi. Many Indians wish to be cremated along the river so their ashes can be buried in the waters of the Ganges.
According to Hindu traditions being cremated in the Ganges allows people to have a chance to attain Moksha, a term used to describe the end of the rebirth cycle in Hinduism.
Visitors can watch the cremation rituals freely on one of the well-known ghats but should keep in mind that taking pictures is strictly prohibited.
Take a holy bath in the Ganges
Many Hindus consider taking a bath in the Ganges a holy experience and go on a pilgrimage to the holy river at least once in their life. According to Hindu beliefs, taking a bath in the Ganges purifies the mind, washes away your sins, and renews your spirituality.
Some believers even drink the water as they believe it will purify them from the inside. Please keep in mind that the Ganges is a very polluted river and taking a bath in it cannot be considered safe.
Sarnath
Sarnath is located on the northern outskirts of Varanasi and is another cultural highlight of the city. The Buddhist pilgrimage site is believed to be the site where Siddhartha Gautama has given his first Dharma lessons after attaining enlightenment.
Sarnath is one of the world’s four holy Buddhist pilgrimage sites that were mentioned by the Buddha himself. The Buddhist teaching of the four noble truths has been taught here for the first time.
Today the historic city of Sarnath offers its visitors beautiful green spaces, temples, and exhibitions showcasing the history of the Buddhist religion and the role of Siddhartha Gautama. It’s one of the best places to visit in India to learn more about Buddhism.
Ramnagar Fort
The Ramnagar Fort is located on the eastern bank of the Ganges and was built using sandstones in the 18th century. This fort is a good example of the so-called Mughal style of architecture that was also used for the famous Taj Mahal.
The fort is particularly impressive because of its towering location above the Ganges and its many balconies. It’s one of the major attractions in Varanasi.
Weaver’s Village
Weaving is a centuries-old tradition in Varanasi. The town is known for its unique silk weaving and the beautiful clothing utensils made here. All the clothes are handmade in a process that has been almost completely unchanged during the last centuries.
Due to the modernization of India, this old tradition has slowly been dying out in the last decades but efforts have been made to market the weaving process and the products made as a tourist attraction.
One of the best ways to get in touch with this tradition is by joining a guided tour and having a guide lead you to a weaving workshop.
Jantar Mantar
The Jantar Mantar is one of the most interesting attractions of Varanasi and is unlike anything you will have seen before. The site consists of a collection of 19 fascinating tools used to measure not just time but also the declination of the Sun and Moon.
The equinoctial sundials have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason, they are truly amazing.
They consist of a triangular gnomon with a hypotenuse positioned parallel to the plane of the equator, truly marvelous machines. Exploring this unique collection is a great way to experience something truly new and exciting.
Try some local street food
India is known for its fantastic street food and no matter where you go in Varanasi one thing you will find everywhere is great street food stalls.
They offer everything, starting from simple Biryanis, Chabatis, or Lassis to more sophisticated meals that rival those of expensive restaurants. What they all have in common is how delicious and cheap the food they serve is and how much variety is on offer.
Varanasi also features many night markets that are great for food exploration as they offer a fantastic density of different vendors in a small space that can easily be explored on foot.
Banaras Hindu University
The Banaras Hindu University is one of the most historic education facilities in India. It is located in beautiful gardens and offers visitors a great mix of interesting architecture as well as the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
This museum is home to around 100,000 historic artifacts that showcase the educational history of the university. Simply taking a walk through the university and its gardens is an interesting experience.
Bhang from Godowlia
Godowlia is one of the most interesting markets in Varanasi and offers something called ”Bhang”. Even though Marijuana and Hash are illegal in India, food, and drinks containing Cannabis are technically legal and are often consumed throughout India.
There is Lassi Bhang, a Marijuana induced yogurt drink, which is very popular and often used by Shiva devotees but also Bhang Laddoos (a sweet) and Bhang Pakora (a fried snack).
Bhang is traditionally consumed during festivals but can be found throughout the year at the Godowlia market.
Ruchika Art Gallery
The Ruchika Art Gallery is one of the best addresses in Varanasi when searching for unique Indian art. The gallery sells a variety of great paintings depicting the city and its holy river, the Ganger.
Particularly impressive are the paintings showcasing the ghats and the cremation rituals performed in them. The Ruchika Art Gallery also offers workshops teaching interested visitors on how to paint, a great experience for art lovers.
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