Varanasi—also known as Kashi or Banaras—is more than just a city; it is a living symbol of India’s spiritual heritage. With its maze-like lanes, timeless temples, sacred ghats, and the ever-flowing Ganga, Varanasi welcomes millions of pilgrims and travelers each year.
If you are planning to visit, here are 8 must-visit places in Varanasi that will give you a complete experience of devotion, culture, and heritage.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
No visit to Varanasi is complete without bowing your head at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located near the western bank of the Ganga, the temple has stood as the heart of Hindu spirituality for centuries.
With the newly inaugurated Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the temple complex is now beautifully expanded, connecting directly to the ghats and offering a grand entry for devotees. The golden spire of the temple shines brightly, symbolizing divinity and faith.
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
The most vibrant ghat of Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat is famous for the Ganga Aarti that takes place every evening. Priests perform rituals with giant lamps, the sound of conch shells fills the air, and the reflection of flames dances on the Ganga—it is a magical moment that every visitor must witness.
3. Assi Ghat
Located at the southern end of Varanasi, Assi Ghat is popular among both locals and travelers. It is known for its peaceful mornings, yoga sessions, and evening cultural programs. Watching the sunrise here, with the Ganga flowing silently, is an unforgettable experience.
4. Manikarnika Ghat
Known as the gateway to liberation (moksha), Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation site of Varanasi. Hindus believe that those who are cremated here attain freedom from the cycle of birth and death. Though intense, visiting this ghat offers a deep spiritual understanding of life and death.
5. Harishchandra Ghat
Named after the legendary king Harishchandra, who sacrificed everything in the pursuit of truth, this ghat is also used for cremations. It is slightly quieter than Manikarnika but equally significant.
6. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Sankat Mochan Temple is one of the most visited shrines in Varanasi. Established by the saint Tulsidas, this temple is believed to remove all troubles (sankat). Tuesdays and Saturdays see a huge crowd of devotees chanting Hanuman Chalisa.
7. Durga Temple (Durga Kund) & Tulsi Manas Mandir
Both these temples are close to each other and are must-visits:
- Durga Temple (Monkey Temple) – Built in the 18th century with red stone, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple pond (Durga Kund) adds to its charm.
- Tulsi Manas Mandir – Built at the spot where Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas. The walls of the temple are inscribed with verses from the epic, making it a divine experience for devotees of Lord Rama.
8. Rameshwaram Cruise & Ramnagar Fort
To truly capture the essence of Varanasi, you must experience the Rameshwaram Cruise. Starting from Ramnagar Fort, this cruise takes you along the Ganga, offering mesmerizing views of all the ghats and temples in one journey.
Ramnagar Fort
Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Balwant Singh, Ramnagar Fort stands opposite Tulsi Ghat. The fort houses the royal family of Banaras and a fascinating museum showcasing vintage cars, old manuscripts, and royal artifacts. During Dussehra, the fort becomes the stage for the world-famous Ramnagar Ramlila.
From here, board the Rameshwaram Cruise and enjoy a panoramic view of Varanasi’s ghats, especially at sunrise or during the evening Ganga Aarti. It is without doubt the best way to experience the spiritual soul of Kashi.
✨ Final Thoughts
Varanasi is not just a destination—it is a timeless journey. From the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple to the eternal flames of Manikarnika Ghat, from the chants at Sankat Mochan to the serenity of Assi Ghat, and finally the majestic Rameshwaram Cruise along the Ganga, every corner of this city leaves you with memories and lessons for life.
Kashi does not just welcome you—it transforms you.
