Varanasi, a beautiful north Indian city in Uttar Pradesh, attracts many travellers annually with a variety of activities. While frequent travellers know the top things to do in Varanasi to have fun on a trip, the same can’t be said for first-time comers. Still, first-time Varanasi comers can have fun. They just need a list of top places to visit in Varanasi and fun activities. Here is a blog listing everything you can do in Varanasi on a vacation and make memories.
Before we jump to the things to do in Varanasi, it would be better to learn about this iconic city.
What Is The Significance Of Varanasi?
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the most religious places in India. Due to this reason, Varanasi is often regarded as the spiritual capital of India. This city is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus, and visiting here is considered to make it easier to get salvation, freeing people from the cycle of birth and death. That is why many Hindus visit the Ghat of Ganges in Varanasi to perform Asthi Visarjan or immersion of the ashes of their loved ones.
Things To Do In Varanasi For The Ultimate Sacred Experience
You have learned about the significance of Varanasi, Now, let’s check out the list of things to do in Varanasi for a dream vacation.
1- Tour The Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath is one of the most famous Shiva Temples across the nation. It’s also known as the Golden Temple due to the 1 t0nne gold plating used in it. Maharaja Ranjeet Singh donated this gold for plating. There are a total of 12 Jyotirlingas across the nation, and this is one of them, making it one of the top places to visit in Varanasi on your trip. When going to this temple, don’t forget to attend an aarti and experience sacred vibes, which is one of the best things to do in Varanasi’s Kashi Vishwanath.
Location: Lahori Tola
2- Relive The History At Ramnagar Fort
Ramnagar Fort is one of the must-visit places for Varanasi sightseeing. Located near the eastern bank of the Ganges and opposite the Tulsi Ghat, this fort was built by Raja Balwant Singh in the 18th century. The Ramnagar Fort is wholly made of sandstone and showcases Mughal architecture, making it one of the important places to visit in Banaras for history buffs. Here, visitors can explore the Veda Vyasa Temple, King’s residential complex, and a museum that offers a glimpse of rich history.
Location: Mirzapur-Varanasi Road
3- Indulge In Festivities In Dashashwamedh Ghat
Indulging yourself in the festivities in Dashashwamedh Ghat is next among the things to do in Varanasi on a tour. This place hosts festivals like Dev Deepawali, Kartik Purnima, and Diwali. It is believed that Lord Brahma created this Ghat to welcome Lord Shiva, and he sacrificed 10 horses when Dasa-Ashwamedha Yajna was performed. So, if you want iconic places to visit in Varanasi, you must consider Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Godowlia
4- Witness The Buddhist Intervention On Dhamek Stupa
During Varanasi sightseeing, you must visit the Dhamek Stupa at least once. It’s one of the most important pilgrimages of Buddhists and was built in 500 CE. The lower part of this huge stupa features floral carvings, while the upper part is unfinished. You can also stroll in the lush green surroundings and relax on benches, admiring the beauty of this stupa. With all this to offer, Dhamek Stupa is one of the historical places to visit in Banaras.
Location: Dharmapala Rd, Singapur, Sarnath
5- Bathe In The Ganges
When listing the things to do in Varanasi, we can’t miss to mention bathing in the Ganges. The river goddess has been providing charm to the iconic city of Varanasi and is believed to wash away people’s sins with a small bath. There are around 84 Ghats in Varanasi, including Manikarnika, Darbhanga, Harishchandra, Tulsi, etc. Visit any of these Ghats and take a short bath; we bet you will love the feeling the river goddess invokes in your heart.
6- Enjoy The Sunset At Assi Ghat
Enjoying a sunset in the evening after a long, exciting day would be the cherry on the cake. It offers relaxing vibes and takes you far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can witness the sunset from Assi Ghat while you are in Varanasi sightseeing. This Ghat even hosts Ganga Aarti in the evening, which you must attend.
Location: Shivala
A Soulful Trip To Varanasi
Here, we discussed the best places to visit in Banaras and the top activities to indulge in for a memorable vacation in the spiritual capital of India. Visiting Varanasi would take 3 – 5 days to explore all its features. The best time to visit Varanasi is between October and March, when festivals come one after another, offering you an opportunity to explore the vibrant colour of this city. You know about the things to do in Varanasi, so why wait? Plan a vacation right away!