Varanasi is not just a city but a feeling. It sets such a nostalgia that it is hard to erase its memories once you have been here. Sitting on the ghats and watching the flowing Ganga, the mind automatically becomes calm. From the temple bells to the mantras of the Aarti, every sound becomes a spiritual feeling. The things to do in Varanasi can be different for different people. Yet, some things remain common.
In this article, we will introduce you to 12 beautiful things of Varanasi. These things not only make your trip memorable, but will also give you an experience to cherish for a lifetime.
List of Top 12 Things to do in Varanasi
This city is not just the city of Lord Shiva, it is also a wonderful link between life and death, where every day has a new lesson hidden. These are some places to visit in Banaras and things to indulge in here:
1. Temple Visit – A Spiritual Experience Beyond Imagination
Banaras is known for its beautiful ghats and Hindu temples. Known as the oldest city in the world, the temples here are also equally ancient. The Kashi Vishawnath i.e. Lord Shiva temple has a powerful energy. You feel a sudden transformation in your energies as you enter this temple. So, irrespective of whether you are a religious person or not, visiting the temple is a worthwhile experience. In fact, mentioning the temple visit is absolutely essential while compiling the 12 best things to do in Varanasi list.
What is Special?: Visiting Kashi Vishwanath temple feels no less than a good fortune.
Must do activities: Attend the Mangala Aarti at 4 am in the morning and see the real form of the temple.
2. Boating in the Ganga – Self-Dialogue Flowing on the Waves
Boating in the serene waters of the Ganga early in the morning is quite an experience in itself. The light breeze, calmness of water, and soulful sound of mantras coming from a distance! All these together create such an atmosphere as if Mother Ganga herself is embracing you.
What’s Special?: Take a boat ride and see the whole of Banaras from a new perspective.
Must do activities: While looking at the ghats, just take a deep breath and feel yourself.
3. Visit Ramnagar Fort – Stories Hidden in the Dust of History
Ramnagar Fort, situated across the Ganga, is not just a building. It’s a treasure trove of old memories. Its walls have been witness to every passing moment. When you walk through its ancient rooms, it feels as if time has started running backwards. Therefore, visiting this fort is amongst the top things to see in Varanasi.
What’s Special?: Amazing collection of royal costumes, weapons and watches.
Must do activities: Sit in the courtyard of this fort on a quiet afternoon and listen to the rustling of the winds.
4. Walking on the Ghats – A Place to Understand the Pace of Life
The ghats of Banaras are among the 10 best places to visit in Varanasi. The saints meditate and the last rites of life take place at the same time here. This makes you realise how uncertain life is. Subconsciously, it makes you realise that you must make the best use of available time and resources. So, if you create a list of 10 things to do in Varanasi, don’t skip this at all!
What’s Special?: Dusk at Assi Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat.
Must do activities: Sit on the banks of the Ghat and just keep watching the flowing water for a while.
5. City Tour – Every Lane Has a Story
The lanes of Banaras are no less than a maze. But these are the lanes where the real soul of Banaras resides. Somewhere a street vendor is selling “malaiyo”, somewhere a paan seller becomes the reason for your smile. The colors of life are scattered on every corner here.
What’s Special?: Kachori Gali and Kabir Chaura
Must do activities: Take an auto or rickshaw and just set out without any plan.
6. Sarnath Darshan – Touch of Peace
The air of Sarnath has a depth, a calmness. This is the place where Buddha lit the first lamp of his knowledge. Just by coming here and sitting for a while, you feel a deep silence inside your soul. Therefore, it has become one of the most recommended places to see in Varanasi.
What’s Special?: Dhamekh Stupa and Buddhist Temple
Must do activities: Sit alone in the lush green garden and listen to your inner voice.
7. Ganga Snan – Bath of the Soul
It is said that bathing in the Ganga purifies the soul. But when you go through this experience yourself, you feel this. Irrespective of the season, when you bathe in the holy water of the Gang, it seems as if every worry is washed away. So, we must include it amongst the most revered activities to do in Varanasi.
What’s Special?: Early morning bath at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Must do activities: After bathing, offer water to the sun and resolve to make a new beginning.
8. Banarasi Saree – The Silk Story
Banarasi saree is not just a cloth, it is the soul of the artisans. The zari work in it is the result of generations of hard work. When you watch the saree being unfolded, it feels like you are seeing history with your own eyes.
What’s Special?: Authentic handmade Banarasi sarees
Must do activities in Varanasi: Talk to the artisan for some time, he will connect you with his art.
9. Visit Mohan Sarai Village – The Magic of Simplicity
Far from the crowded places of Banaras, Mohan Sarai Village gives you a glimpse of a simple yet prosperous life. The fragrance of the soil, the greenery of the fields and the genuine smile of the people! These things make you feel that the real India resides here. So, Mohan Sarai happens to be one of the most interesting places to visit near Varanasi.
What’s Special?: The calm atmosphere and warmth of the village
Must do activities: Talk to the village children, their questions will awaken something within you.
10. Exploring the Food of Varanasi
Your visit to Varanasi doesn’t start unless you taste the little paradise. There is an endless variety of local street food that you can enjoy in the streets of the city. From crispy Kachoris to bhandara aloo, gorge on tasteful cuisine served with love. The best part of Varanasi food is its reasonable price, starting at Rs 10. Nobody starves in the city of Lord Shiva, for sure. Food in this city can be considered a gastronomical experience. Some of the famous snow cones, roasted peanuts, items like Tamatar Chaat, Pani Puri, Aloo Tikki, and a variety of sweets like Jalebis, Banarasi Kalakand, Rabri, and more. Visiting the food stalls can be one of the most exciting things to do in Varanasi if you are a foodie.
11. Street Shopping – Big Things in Small Shops
The streets of Banaras are full of treasures. Some have bangles, some have brass statues, some have Rudrakshas, and some have gamchhas. Bargaining and chatting with the shopkeeper is also a part of this shopping.
What’s Special?: The colourful shops of Vishwanath Gali
Must do activities: Buy one thing that will remind you of Banaras.
12. Bharat Kala Bhavan – Mirror of Culture
If you love art, culture and history, then Bharat Kala Bhavan is a must visit. The paintings, statues and rare collections hanging on the walls here give you a deep insight into our country’s diversity.
What’s Special?: Tagore Gallery and ancient artefacts
Must do activities: Roam around alone for a while and let your imagination fly.
Conclusion
Sometimes some places are not understood through books or pictures, they have to be felt. Banaras is one such place. Here mornings come with new hopes on the banks of Ganga, and evenings touch the soul in the light of aarti.
If you live even two or three of these 12 experiences, then believe me, Banaras will settle in you. Its smell, its echo, its abuses, and everything settles inside somewhere. This is the true magic of Varanasi!
FAQ’s of things to do in Varanasi
1. When should I visit Varanasi?
Want to explore the true Banaras? Then book tickets anywhere between October to March. During this time, neither the weather is bothersome nor the crowd is so much that you get lost.
2. Is bathing in Ganges safe?
Yes, absolutely. In the morning, there is less activity on the ghats and the cleanliness is also good. Just avoid areas with flowing water, do not leave the hands of children and after bathing, sit on the banks of the ghat for some time and gather yourself.
3. How to identify the real Banarasi saree?
The real Banarasi saree is handmade and its work is very fine. Sit in the shop and listen to the story of the artisans. They themselves will explain to you what is the real one.
4. Is Sarnath worth visiting or not?
Sarnath is not just a place worth seeing, but also worth feeling. The peace there, the prayers of the Buddhist monks, and the greenery give peaceful vibes. If you come to Banaras and do not go to Sarnath, then something will be missed.
5. Is Banaras a good place to visit with family?
Absolutely. Banaras has something for every age group. Boat rides for children, temples and ghats for the elderly, and chaat-pakoras for food lovers. Just plan well and take out time to sit on the ghats.
