Three weeks ago, I was in Varanasi, and honestly, it was one of those trips that stays with you long after you leave. The cold breeze flowing across the ghats, the sound of temple bells mixed with everyday chaos, the endless crowd of fresh faces, and food that somehow tastes better when eaten while standing in a narrow lane — Varanasi is not just a destination. It is a feeling.
This guide is for travelers like me — people who don’t like fixed itineraries, who want to explore at their own pace, and who prefer real, on-ground tips over polished brochure advice. Everything here is based on actual experience and insights shared by fellow travelers, including Reddit discussions that reveal what most travel websites skip.
If you are planning your first trip and searching for tourist places in Varanasi, read this slowly. It will save you time, energy, and a few rookie mistakes.
Top Tourist Places in Varanasi
If you are short on time, these are the must-visit places in Varanasi for first-time travelers:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Most sacred temple, heart of the city
- Dashashwamedh Ghat – Famous evening Ganga Aarti
- Assi Ghat – Peaceful mornings & sunrise
- Manikarnika Ghat – Spiritual & cultural significance
- Sarnath – Buddhist heritage & calm atmosphere
- Banaras Hindu University – Green campus & museum
📌 Tip: If you have only 2 days, focus on the first four places + Sarnath.
Why Varanasi Feels Different From Any Other City
Varanasi is often called the spiritual capital of India and one of the oldest living cities in the world. But labels don’t really explain it. Varanasi is intense, messy, peaceful, loud, emotional, and calming — all at once.
Here, life and death exist side by side. Morning prayers happen just a few steps away from cremation rituals. Students, saints, tourists, locals, and photographers all share the same narrow streets. This contrast is exactly why Varanasi leaves such a deep impression.
Reaching Varanasi – First Practical Step
Most travelers arrive via Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is located outside the city center.
Important advice:
Use Uber or app-based cabs from the airport. Drivers waiting outside often quote inflated prices, especially if you look tired after a flight. The ride to the old city or ghats area usually takes 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
If you arrive by train, Varanasi Cantt (BSB) station is well connected and closer to the city.
Where to Stay in Varanasi
If there’s one decision that can make or break your experience, it’s where you stay.
Best Area: Near the Ghats
Stay close to:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
Yes, these areas are slightly away from the modern city center. But trust me — being able to walk to the ghats anytime, early morning or late night, is priceless. I stayed just 3 minutes from the temple and 5 minutes from Dashashwamedh Ghat, and it completely changed the trip.
Budget & Solo Travelers
If you are solo or traveling with friends:
- Zostel
- GoStops
- Wander Station
- Hotel Moustache
Dorm prices usually range between ₹700–₹1200. Online booking is mandatory. Even if you walk in, they will ask you to book through their app or website.
Understanding the Ghats of Varanasi
The ghats are the soul of the city. They are continuous, connected, and meant to be explored on foot. Don’t be scared when Google Maps takes you through narrow lanes — Varanasi is literally a city of alleys.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is the most crowded and energetic ghat. The famous evening Ganga Aarti happens here and is all over Instagram for a reason.
Tips for evening aarti:
- Timing: Around 6:30–7:30 PM (varies by season)
- Reach at least 45 minutes early
- Boat view is the best if you want clear photos
Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is calmer and perfect for mornings.
- Morning aarti and yoga sessions
- Less crowd
- Great for sunrise photography
- Cafes nearby
Morning Assi Ghat and evening Dashashwamedh Ghat offer two completely different experiences — do both.
Manikarnika Ghat
This is one of the holiest cremation grounds in India.
- Cremations happen 24×7
- Photography is not allowed
- Emotionally intense
Visit only if you feel comfortable. This is not a tourist attraction but a place of deep cultural meaning.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple – What No One Tells You Clearly
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the heart of Varanasi, and yes — queues are long.
Temple Timings (Real Info)
- Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM (ticketed)
- Normal darshan: From 4:00 AM
Big myth:
“Go early morning to avoid crowds.”
Reality: Even at 4 AM, the queue can be 2–4 hours long.
Best Advice (From Multiple Travelers)
Buy the Sugam / VIP Darshan ticket (₹300–₹500).
- Faster entry
- Special darshan
- Mahaprasad included
Buy extra besan laddoo prasad — it’s genuinely special.
Rules:
- No phones, electronics, cosmetics
- Only cash allowed
- Water bottle permitted
Avoid noon visits in summer. Marble floors get extremely hot.
Ganga Boat Ride – Prices, Reality & Negotiation
A boat ride is one of the highlights of Varanasi.
Best time:
- Morning (5:30–7:00 AM): Calm water, sunrise
- Evening: Aarti views, more crowd
Actual prices (approx):
- Shared boat: ₹100–200 per person
- Private motorboat: ₹1600–2400
They may quote higher. Negotiate confidently.
Pro tip:
Most evening aarti boat rides last 2+ hours and offer the best photo angles.
Sarnath – A Peaceful Break From the Chaos
Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. After the intensity of the ghats, Sarnath feels calm and spacious.
- Distance: ~10 km from city
- Time needed: Half day
- Best for families and elderly travelers
Must-see: Dhamek Stupa, museum, Ashoka Pillar remains.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Banaras Hindu University is often skipped by tourists, which is a mistake.
- Green, peaceful campus
- Bharat Kala Bhavan museum
- Ideal for evening walks
It gives you a completely different side of Varanasi.
Food in Varanasi – Where and What to Eat
Food here deserves its own itinerary.
Highly recommended:
- Kashi Chaat Bhandar (opens after 2 PM, very crowded)
- Litti Chokha (local style)
- Malaiyo (winter only)
- Special Rabdi Lassi
- Pehelwan or Blue Lassi
- 1916 Café
- Itihaas Alley Kitchen
- Dolphin Café (great ghat view)
Busy places usually mean fresher food.
Suggested Itinerary (Flexible & Practical)
Day 1
- Early morning ghat walk + boat ride
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Rest in afternoon
- Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Day 2
- Morning Assi Ghat
- Temples (Durga Temple,, Sankat Mochan)
- BHU campus
- Late evening ghat walk
Day 3
- Sarnath visit
- Old city exploration
- Food trail
You can compress this into 2 days, but 3 days feel relaxed.
If you have a few extra days after Varanasi, many travelers like to extend their trip with a 3 Days Golden Triangle Tour to experience Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur in one journey.
Safety, Weather & Common Mistakes
Safety
Varanasi is generally safe, even at night.
- Ghats are safer than isolated streets
- Avoid flashy jewelry
- Walk confidently
Late-night ghat walks after 11:30 PM are surreal.
Weather Warning
Avoid peak summer heatwaves (April–June).
October to March is the best time.
Common Mistakes
- Over-planning
- Ignoring weather
- Arriving late for aarti
- Underestimating walking distances
Final Thoughts
Varanasi is not a place you “cover.”
It’s a city you absorb.
Walk slowly. Sit by the river. Watch people. Get lost in lanes. Eat when hungry, rest when tired, and don’t rush from one checklist point to another.
If you let it, Varanasi will give you moments you won’t find anywhere else.
Har Har Mahadev.
FAQs – Tourist Places in Varanasi
What are the top tourist places in Varanasi?
The most popular tourist places in Varanasi include Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Sarnath, and Banaras Hindu University. These places cover spiritual, cultural, and historical experiences.
How many days are enough to explore Varanasi?
Two days are enough to see the main attractions of Varanasi, including the ghats, temples, and Ganga Aarti. If you want a relaxed experience and plan to visit Sarnath, three days are ideal.
Which ghat is best for first-time visitors in Varanasi?
Dashashwamedh Ghat is best for first-time visitors because it hosts the famous evening Ganga Aarti. Assi Ghat is recommended for peaceful morning visits and sunrise views.
Is the Ganga boat ride in Varanasi worth it?
Yes, a boat ride on the Ganga is one of the best experiences in Varanasi. Morning boat rides offer calm views and sunrise scenery, while evening rides provide a unique perspective of the Ganga Aarti.
What is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit Varanasi is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, and monsoon months may make ghats slippery.
Is Varanasi safe for tourists?
Yes, Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, including solo and female travelers. The ghats are well-patrolled, but visitors should avoid isolated areas late at night and keep valuables secure.
What is the best time to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
Early morning (before 7 AM) is considered the best time to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple. However, queues can still be long, so many visitors prefer purchasing a Sugam or VIP darshan ticket to save time.
Is photography allowed at all tourist places in Varanasi?
Photography is allowed at most tourist places and ghats in Varanasi. However, photography is strictly prohibited at Manikarnika Ghat and inside certain temple premises.
Can elderly people comfortably visit Varanasi?
Yes, elderly travelers can visit Varanasi comfortably, but the ghats have many steps. Visiting early in the morning, taking breaks, and using nearby accommodation help make the trip easier.
What are some common mistakes tourists make in Varanasi?
Common mistakes include arriving late for Ganga Aarti, underestimating walking distances, visiting temples during peak heat hours, and overloading the itinerary without rest.
Written by India Travel Bear
India Travel Bear is a travel-focused platform sharing real travel experiences, practical guides, and honest tips for exploring India. From spiritual destinations like Varanasi to iconic routes such as the Golden Triangle, the content is based on first-hand journeys, local insights, and detailed research—created especially for travelers who prefer clarity over clichés.
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