Varanasi India – Top 10 Tourist Attractions

Whether you are visiting Varanasi for the salvation of your soul or just wishing to get an insight why there is so much hype about this city, Varanasi won’t disappoint you. We have listed the top 10 tourist attractions in Varanasi which will help understand the personality of the city.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

With 84 ghats in total, a trip to Varanasi is incomplete without seeing the most famous one – Dashashwamedh Ghat. They say Varanasi dwells in its ghats and witnessing the aarti ceremony held daily at 6 in the evening is an out-of-the-worldly experience.

Sarnath or Dhamek Stupa

Calling all history buffs! If you enjoy visiting important archaeological sites, Sarnath should be on your list. This is the place where Lord Budhha gave his first sermon. A guided tour around Sarnath is a good idea as it will help you to find the story behind the ruins and their importance.

Jantar Mantar

A hidden gem of ancient creativity, Jantar Mantar is where you’ll spend a good amount of time exploring a variety of devices and yantras for calculating time, planetary positions and much more. Entry ticket cost INR 15 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign tourists. Open to public from 6am to 5pm.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Sitting on the banks of the river Ganges, Kashi Vishwanath Temple should not be missed. It is one of the most famous Hindu temples in the whole country. If you want to be a part of the pooja, either book online or simply walk into the temple during pooja time. Due to heavy crowd you will not be allowed to stand and pray for as long as you want. Open from 4 am to 11 pm.

Batuk Bhairav Mandir

The ancient temple of Kal Bhairav is the place where the Aghoris (saints) meet. It houses the eternal light lamp and is built in honour of the ferocious form of Lord Shiva. The temple is not accessible for motor vehicles so you will need to climb up to reach it.

Ramnagar Fort

About 2 kilometres away from Benaras University there is a small museum which will appeal to everyone who loves history. On display there are ancient weapons, carriages and other historic artifacts. Probably the most entertaining part about visiting this museum is getting there by boat – the ride is very pleasant.

Statue of Standing Budhha

Surrounded by beautifully kept landscaped gardens, this 80-feet statue of standing Buddha is the tallest Buddha statue in the country. Located on the grounds of Wat Sarnath it is the most revered landmark of the city. Allow a couple of hours to explore the place.

Vaanprastha Village Retreat

Vaanprastha Billage Retreat located in the Village Mishirpur, Jagatpur, offers a beautiful insight into the local life of villagers in India. Well, it does feel touristy, but the traditional rural ambience compensate. Don’t forget to take the bullock cart ride there!

Archaeological Museum

The archaeological museum near Sangharama monastery is the must-see destination for all sculptures lovers. All the exhibits have good explanatory signs in English. The collection of the artifacts is simply amazing and – opposite to many other attractions and museums in Varanasi – the property is very well maintained.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

A very sacred Hindu temple enjoys great popularity among the visitors partly thanks to a large community of monkeys residing there. The animals are pretty much harmless, though it is still a good idea not to flash your belongings. Come any day but Tuesday to escape the crowds.