Location: Varanasi
Top Things to do in Varanasi
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What to do and see in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: The Best Points of Interest & Landmarks
The north Indian city of Varanasi, or Benares, is regarded as sacred by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Situated in the fertile Ganga valley and on the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, who come to bathe in the holy river. Known as the City of Temples and a beacon of culture, Varanasi has produced many renowned writers. It’s also a center of silk weaving, so practice haggling at the chaotic bazaar for some beautiful souvenirs. Rickshaws are the best way to get about.
Restaurants in Varanasi
1. Vaanprastha Village Retreat
2. Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By prpal2009 - Navi Mumbai, India
During our Varanasi trip, we went for a day trip to Sarnath . After visiting Horinji temple , our next stop was the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar . Mulagandha Kuti Vihar monument was built in 1931 with donations from various countries and the international Buddhist community. There are spires on top of the huge building that make it seem like a church. The Vihara is enshrined with the sacred relics of Sakyamuni Buddha. It is open from sunrise to sunset and entry is free. The entire complex is set among beautiful and scenic gardens. ???????????? We Approached the monument via a paved walkway lined with multicolored Buddhist flags, which flap gently in the breeze. ⛩️ Gaze up at the attractive architecture, dominated by towers and intricately carved spires. We also seen the Bodhi tree, which is supposedly a descendant of the tree beneath which Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment. It was beautiful to watch the groups of monks that sit and meditate on the surrounding green lawns. At the entrance of the monument there is a huge bronze bell donated by royal family of Japan. There is also a Plum blossom tree inside the garden brought from Japan . After that we steped inside the monument to discover a superb collection of colorful frescoes depicting the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. ????⛩️ These art works were framed by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu. The golden statue of Buddha giving first sermons to 5 disciples is marvellous. Over-all, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar has become one of Sarnath’s greatest attractions for tourists. ???????????? This is a MUST vist site in your Sarnath itinerary . I strongly recommend this place to visit at Sarnath ! ????????
3. Banaras Ghats
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,836 reviews
One of the oldest cities of India, Banaras acts as an important religious center. The numerous bathing ghats (steps) along the bank of the Ganges attract huge crowds of pilgrims.
Reviewed By Satish1955 - Bengaluru, India
The Ghats in Varanasi are Riverfront steps leading to River Ganges, There are nearly 88 ghats in Varanasi where bathing, pooja ceremonies are held. The most prominent of the ghats and by far the largest and cleanest is Dashashwamedha ghat where Bramha performed Ashwamedha yagna. You need to reach the ghat from the main road near Godaulia crossing by rickshaw. You have to spend time in the ghat to soak in the atmosphere of the milling crowds, saadhus, cows, dogs, touts etc. The best way to see other ghats is to take a sunset boat ride on Ganges from Dashaashwamedha ghat. A single private rowing boat ride followed by viewing Ganga Aarthy from boat will cost you about 1500. Prominent ghats are Manikarnika & Harishchandra ghats where bodies are cremated 24 hours, Assi ghat, Bramha ghat etc . If you are travelling in winter make sure you are carrying adequate warm clothes
4. Chaumsathi Ghat
5. Assi Ghat
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,233 reviews
Reviewed By tmagrawal - New Delhi, India
If you are first timer and wants to see both morning and evening aartis my suggestion is to stay near assi Ghat as you won't have to walk half a km if you choose to stay near dashaswamed Ghat. You can take a boat ride in the evening and see evening aarti at dashaswamed Ghat as well as visit vishwanath temple in one go and attend morning aarti and subah banaras at assi Ghat.
6. Manikarnika Ghat
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,161 reviews
Reviewed By Storyteller688502 - Chennai (Madras), India
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi held in great reverence by Hindus. There are different lores associated with this place. One of the lore is as follows. It is believed that Mata Sati sacrificed her life after her father humiliated her husband Lord Shiva in a yagna. Lord Shiva took her burning body to the Himalayas. On seeing the unending sorrow of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu sent His Divine chakra to cut the body into 51 parts which fell at different places on earth. Shakthi Peets have been established at all these places. It is believed that Mata Sati's ear ornaments fell on this place by the side of the Ganges and hence the name Manikarnika ghat came into existence. The Shakti of Manikarnika is addressed as Vishalakshi & Manikarni.
7. Dasaswamedh Ghat
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,953 reviews
India Trip Offer Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main ghat in Varanasi on the Ganga River. It is located close to Vishwanath Temple and is probably the most spectacular ghat. Two Hindu legends are associated with it: According to one, Lord Brahma created it to welcome Lord Shiva
Reviewed By SSRaju - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The main ghat of Varanasi where there is action 24/7, the epitome is the Ganga Aarti performed every evening, witnessed by tens of thousands from the shore and from the river on boats. An elaborate affair that is truly breathtaking. Once a filthy spot, now it is absolutely clean and gleaming.
8. Sarnath
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,928 reviews
The Dhamekha stupa and other imposing structures adorn this holy site where Buddha first preached his message.
Reviewed By meriyatra - Mumbai, India
Very beautifully maintained and excellent facilities provided by the ASI and the Govt of India. Very impressed! The information provided is good. The place is neat and clean. A nominal fee is taken as entry charges. The museum is excellent. The highlight being the Ashok Chakra. It’s amazing to know that the national emblem is an integration of Buddhist philosophies. Truly unity in Diversity! For those who seek peace this historical place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining Nirvana is THE place to meditate in, the energies here are absolutely amazing! Loved being there and spending quality time in the place where the Teachings were given.
9. Horinji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By prpal2009 - Navi Mumbai, India
During our Varanasi trip, we went for a day trip to Sarnath . After visiting Tibetan temple , our next stop was the Horinji Temple or the Japanese Temple ......... Next to Vishwa Shanti Stupa, it is one of the popular Buddhist temples in Sarnath and among the prominent places to visit in Sarnath. ????⛩️ Japanese Temple is a uniquely built Buddhist pilgrimage site in Sarnath and is managed by the Dharmachakra Indo-Japan Buddhist Cultural Society. The original name of the Japanese temple is Nichigai Suzan Horinji Temple but it is commonly referred to as 'Japanese Temple' by local guides and tourists. The architecture of the temple is in a typical Japanese style which includes a double-storey pagoda. The pleasing architecture of the temple is reminiscent of the world-renowned Japanese temples in Kyoto, Japan. Just before the entrance of the main shrine, there is a statue of Lord Buddha beneath a tree on the right side. Whereas, on the left side, there is a pillar with Japanese inscriptions. The interiors of the temple are serenely beautiful. There is a huge wooden statue of the Buddha in reclining pose with an exquisite design on the head. The Buddhist mantra of 'Na Mu Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo' is close to the main statue. All the wooden sculptures and items at this Buddhist temple are made up of sandalwood. Besides, the ambiance of the temple is so surreal that one could spend hours just adoring the beauty and tranquillity of this must-visit tourist attraction in Sarnath. This is a MUST vist site in your Sarnath itinerary . I strongly recommend this place to visit at Sarnath ! ????????
10. Malviya Bridge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
Reviewed By amrisde - Kolkata (Calcutta), India
the ghats are part of Indian history and mythology.... best part was when you hear the story its gives you goosebump. have traveld in both and washed evening rituals which was fantastic.
