Varanasi, the city more commonly known as “Banaras”, also referred to as “Kashi”, is one of the most beautiful & ancient sacred destinations in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is globally famous for its spirituality, culture, rituals, & history.
From vibrant ghats, the spiritual aura of evening aarti, & the legacy of the Buddhist site, to local street food culture, every corner of Varanasi is filled with timeless charm that attracts every traveler. Just not these, but there are countless things to do in Varanasi, which make it a paradise in the world.
If you are planning a journey to Banaras, then this guide is just for you. We have shared the 10 best things to do in Varanasi to help you plan your trip more conveniently and spiritually.
List of the 10 Best Things to Do in Varanasi
Want to experience a soul-soothing experience? There is no place on earth like Banaras. To make your journey more exciting, devotee, spiritual, we have curated a list of things to do in Banaras. Let’s explore them.
One of the best things to do in Varanasi is a sunset boat ride on Ganges. Floating in the middle of the river & witnessing the sun setting is a calming moment—you can’t forget. Your journey will be incomplete if you do not enjoy this boat ride.
Take a Spiritual Boat Ride
To make your moment more memorable, you can ask your rower to sing a folk song. Many movies have also featured this memento.
Bath in Holy Waters of Ganges
The Ganga River is considered sacred in Hinduism. And they believe that bathing in Ganga water washes away one’s sins.
Banaras sits on the banks of Ganga River. And pilgrims from all over the world visit Banaras all year round.
People chant prayers to get blessings & appease the Goddess. And bathing in Ganga River is one of the authentic things to do in Banaras.
Explore the Bustling Ghats
One of the best things to do in Varanasi is to explore ghats. There are 88 Ghats in Varanasi. The Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the biggest Ghats near the famous Vishwanatha Temple.
Many believe that Lord Brahma created this place to honor and welcome Lord Shiva. Some also say he performed the Dasa-Ashwamedha Yajna here, sacrificing ten horses during the ritual.
Moreover, locals have celebrated Varanasi’s festivals on the ghats for centuries. If you are visiting here, then you must join them.
Watch the Mesmerizing Evening Aarti
“Banaras aaye aur Ganga ghat ki Aarti na dekhi?” is a popular saying which means “If you came to Banaras and didn’t see the Ganga Aarti, then you missed the essence of the city.”
One of the most spiritual things to do in Banaras is the evening Aarti held on ghats.
Arrive at the ghat before the Aarti starts to witness the Ganga Aarti, as it gets crowded quickly. With the hypnotic sound of temple bells, you feel true happiness.
Step Into History at the City’s Oldest Temple
Visiting the holy Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most meaningful and peaceful experience among the top things to do in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
It is one of the most visited temples in the whole city, which is crowded with devotees throughout the year. There are 12 Jyotirlingas (Sacred Shiva Temples) in the world. And Kashi Vishwanath Temple is among them.
Discover the Sacred Site of Sarnath
It is a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site. In this place, Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
If you are wandering around Varanasi, then visiting Sarnath is one of the must-try things to do in Varanasi. Many kings followed Buddhism and built numerous structures and stupas.
A large number of people also come here to enjoy with their families as it is a wonderful spot for a picnic.
Visit Magnificent Ramnagar Fort
Among the fabulous things to do in Banaras, visiting Ramnagar Fort brings a glimpse into the royal past of the region. Located in Tulsi Ghat, this Fort was built by Maharaja Balwant Singh in the 18th century with an influence of Mughal architectural style.
It is easily accessible with a 30-minute boat ride. Inside the Ramnagar Fort, there is a Bajrangbali temple, a museum, and a temple dedicated to sage Ved Vyasa.
Besides all these, there is one more exciting and best things to do in Varanasi – the Ram-Leena festival, which is held here around a month in December. Watch the Ramayana epic when you visit here.
Explore the Ancient Weaver Villages
Varanasi is not only famous globally for its ritual influence, but also for its stunning weaving creations. The village of Sarai Mohana is known widely for weaving Banarasi silk sarees.
These sarees are of top quality, designed with intricate opulent embroidery, and gold and silver brocade (zari) using the preserved traditional art form of their ancestors.
If you love exploring, then interacting with locals in Banaras will be the most satisfying experience among the top things to do in Banaras for you. For a convenient & hassle-free experience, hire a private driver in India as your journey guide and enjoy every moment.
Taste the Local Street Food Delights
For food lovers, a visit to Varanasi brings a refreshing experience with the captivating aroma of street food delights. From golden crispy kachoris to spicy aloo puri, every dish here comes served with love & respect.
While visiting the city, you must wander through the food street, one of the fun and enjoyable things to do in Varanasi. This city offers a variety of flavorful foods at low prices. This is why people say no one ever goes hungry here.
Shop for Vibrant & Traditional Crafts
Who doesn’t like shopping? If you are on the journey to Banaras, then shopping is going to be one of the most exciting and fun things to do in Banaras.
The local bazaars of this city overflow with traditional and vibrant crafts. From Banarasi silk sarees, Rudraksh mala to glass breads and Shiva lingas, you can buy numerous things from there.
Moreover, every visitor brings holy Ganges water home with them.
The Takeaway
No doubt, Varanasi is the most beautiful & spiritual destination for tourists in the world. But there are many more things to do in Varanasi that the city offers to its visitors. There are soul-soothing sunset views, a peaceful boat ride, iconic heritage sites, vibrant history, delightful cuisine, & traditional markets.
If you want your trip to be more adventurous & exciting, then explore the Golden Triangle with Varanasi tour. It takes the journey from history, royalty, to spirituality.
Book your trip and prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever.