Top 15 Famous Things to Do in Varanasi

Varanasi is not a city you simply “visit”—it’s a place you experience. As the first light touches the Ganga, temple bells echo across the ghats while rituals quietly unfold beside everyday life. Here, spirituality, tradition, and routine exist side by side without separation.

For first-time visitors, Varanasi can feel intense at first—but soon, it becomes deeply grounding. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, cultural explorer, or curious traveller, the city offers moments that stay with you long after you leave.

Here are the top 15 experiences in Varanasi that truly define the city.

1️⃣ Walk Along the Sacred Ghats

The ghats are the heart of Varanasi, stretching along the Ganges River with over 80 stepped riverbanks.

Must-visit ghats:

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat – Main ritual hub
  • Assi Ghat – Calm, spiritual mornings
  • Manikarnika Ghat – Sacred cremation site

🕒 Best time: Early morning or sunset
⚠️ Tip: Be respectful, especially near cremation areas

2️⃣ Witness the Ganga Aarti

The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a powerful spiritual ritual.

  • Fire lamps, chants, and incense create a rhythmic ceremony
  • Represents gratitude to the river as a living goddess

🕒 Timing: 6:30–7:00 PM (seasonal)
🚤 Best view: From a boat for a calmer experience

3️⃣ Take a Sunrise Boat Ride

A sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River reveals Varanasi at its most peaceful.

  • Soft light, temple silhouettes, and morning prayers
  • Ideal for reflection and photography

💰 Cost: ₹300–₹1200 depending on boat type

4️⃣ Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

  • One of the 12 Jyotirlingas
  • Recently improved access via temple corridor

⚠️ Note: Phones not allowed inside

5️⃣ Explore Other Important Temples

Varanasi is filled with powerful local shrines:

  • Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
  • Durga Temple
  • Kaal Bhairav Temple

Each reflects a different aspect of faith and local devotion.

6️⃣ Take a Holy Dip in the Ganga

Bathing in the Ganges River is believed to cleanse sins spiritually.

✔️ Safer spots: Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat
⚠️ Avoid swallowing water

7️⃣ Visit Sarnath

Just 10 km away, Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon.

Highlights:

  • Dhamek Stupa
  • Ashoka Pillar

A peaceful contrast to Varanasi’s intensity.

8️⃣ Explore Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort offers a glimpse into royal history.

  • Museum with vintage artefacts
  • Beautiful river-facing views

9️⃣ Experience Banaras Hindu University

Banaras Hindu University feels like a calm world within the city.

  • Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
  • Explore the New Vishwanath Temple

🔟 Visit Jantar Mantar

The Jantar Mantar Varanasi showcases ancient Indian astronomy.

  • Stone instruments used for celestial calculations

1️⃣1️⃣ Shop Banarasi Silk Sarees

Varanasi is world-famous for its silk weaving.

🛍️ Buy from:

  • Government emporiums
  • Trusted cooperative stores

✔️ Look for authentic zari work and handloom quality

1️⃣2️⃣ Visit Silk Weaving Areas

Local areas like Madanpura showcase traditional weaving.

  • See artisans at work
  • Support local craftsmanship directly

1️⃣3️⃣ Taste Varanasi Street Food

Food here is deeply rooted in tradition.

🍽️ Must-try:

  • Kachori Sabzi
  • Tamatar Chaat
  • Malaiyo (winter special)

📍 Best areas: Godowlia, Vishwanath Gali

1️⃣4️⃣ Join a Walking Tour

Guided tours help you understand hidden meanings behind rituals and architecture.

✔️ Ideal for:

  • First-time visitors
  • Cultural learners

1️⃣5️⃣ Attend Classical Music Performances

Varanasi is a hub of Indian classical music.

🎶 Experience performances at:

  • Assi Ghat mornings
  • BHU auditoriums

✨ Why Visit Varanasi?

Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest living cities, where traditions continue without interruption. It’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about understanding life, spirituality, and culture in its rawest form.

❓ FAQs

Is 2 days enough for Varanasi?

Yes, you can cover major highlights, but deeper exploration needs more time.

What is Varanasi most famous for?

The Ganga, spiritual rituals, silk weaving, and ancient traditions.

What should I wear?

Modest, comfortable clothing—especially for temples.

Best plan for first-time visitors?

Focus on:

  • Ghats walk
  • Ganga Aarti
  • Sunrise boat ride
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple
  • Sarnath visit