Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, predating recorded history. Standing on the banks of the sacred Ganges, this 5,000-year-old city is where Hindus come to achieve moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). Every narrow lane, ancient temple, and riverside ghat tells stories of spirituality that has flowed unbroken for millennia.
Top Attractions
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times through history. The current structure dates to 1780, built by Ahilyabai Holkar. The newly opened Kashi Vishwanath Corridor connects the temple directly to the Ganges ghats across 5 lakh square feet.
Visitor Information
- Entry Fee: Free (VIP darshan: INR 300)
- Hours: 3:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Best Time: Early morning (4-5 AM) for Mangala Aarti
- Tip: Book online for queue-free darshan
Dashashwamedh Ghat
The most famous ghat in Varanasi where Lord Brahma performed the Dashashwamedh sacrifice. Every evening, the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony draws thousands, with priests performing synchronized fire rituals to the rhythm of bells and chants.
Visitor Information
- Entry Fee: Free (Boat view: INR 100-300)
- Hours: Aarti at 7:00 PM (summer) / 6:00 PM (winter)
- Best Time: Arrive 30 minutes early for front-row seats
- Tip: Book a boat for the best aarti views from the river
Manikarnika Ghat
The most sacred cremation ghat where the funeral pyres have burned continuously for over 3,000 years. Hindus believe that cremation here guarantees moksha. The ghat sees 200-300 cremations daily and has its own profound, humbling spirituality.
Visitor Information
- Entry Fee: Free (No photography allowed)
- Hours: 24 hours
- Best Time: Early morning or late evening
- Tip: Maintain respectful silence; photography strictly prohibited
Sarnath
Just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa (500 CE) marks this exact spot. The Archaeological Museum houses the famous Lion Capital, India's national emblem.
Visitor Information
- Entry Fee: INR 25 (Indian), INR 600 (Foreign)
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Best Time: Morning for peaceful meditation
- Tip: Combine with Thai and Japanese temples nearby
Morning Boat Ride on Ganges
A sunrise boat ride along the 84 ghats is the quintessential Varanasi experience. Watch the city come alive with morning prayers, yoga practitioners, and ancient rituals as the golden sun rises over the Ganges.
Visitor Information
- Entry Fee: INR 100-500 per person (shared/private)
- Hours: 5:30 AM - 7:30 AM
- Best Time: Sunrise for magical light
- Tip: Negotiate price beforehand; 1-hour ride is ideal
Varanasi Food Guide
Varanasi's culinary scene is as old as the city itself. The famous Banarasi paan, the creamy lassi, and unique street foods have delighted pilgrims and travelers for centuries.
Must-Try Dishes
Banarasi Paan
The legendary betel leaf preparation, filled with various sweet and digestive ingredients. A Varanasi experience is incomplete without it.
Price: 20-150 INR
Try: Keshav Paan Bhandar (80+ years old)
Malaiyo/Nimish
A winter-only delicacy - cloud-like milk foam collected overnight, flavored with saffron and cardamom. Available only November-February.
Price: 30-50 INR
Try: Godowlia area, morning vendors
Banarasi Kachori-Sabzi
Crispy lentil-stuffed kachoris served with spicy potato curry and tangy chutneys. A breakfast staple.
Price: 40-80 INR
Try: Ram Bhandar, Kachori Gali
Thandai
A refreshing milk drink with almonds, fennel, rose petals, and saffron. Especially popular during Holi.
Price: 30-80 INR
Try: Blue Lassi near Manikarnika
Practical Information
Getting Around
- Cycle rickshaws: INR 20-50 for short distances
- Auto-rickshaws: INR 30-100 (no meters, negotiate)
- Walking: Best way to explore the ghats and lanes
- Boats: INR 100-500 for ghat-hopping
Budget Guide (Per Day)
- Budget: INR 1,000-2,000 (~$12-24): Hostels, street food, shared boats
- Mid-range: INR 3,000-6,000 (~$36-72): Heritage stays, restaurants, private boat
- Luxury: INR 10,000+ (~$120+): Boutique hotels, guided tours, premium experiences
Best Time to Visit
- October-March: Pleasant weather (10-25°C)
- Dev Deepawali (November): Ghats lit with million lamps
- Mahashivratri: Biggest celebration at Kashi Vishwanath
- Avoid: May-July (extreme heat and humidity)
Interactive Map
Explore Varanasi's top attractions on the map. Click markers for details and directions.
Key Attractions on Map
Want the Complete Guide?
Get our 80+ page Varanasi ebook with all attractions, itineraries, maps, and more.
Ebook Coming Soon