Best Places to Visit in Varanasi: Ghats, Temples & Sarnath
The best places to visit in Varanasi are the ghats on the Ganga, its ancient temples and Sarnath, where the Buddha gave his first teaching.
21 September 2026 · 2 min read · Best in Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
The best places to visit in Varanasi are the ghats on the Ganga, its ancient temples and Sarnath, where the Buddha gave his first teaching.
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
The main ghat, famous for the evening Ganga aarti.
2. Assi Ghat
A relaxed ghat at the southern end, with a morning aarti and music events.
3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The city's most important Shiva temple; check the current rules on bags and phones.
4. Manikarnika Ghat
The main cremation ghat, to be seen with respect and without photography.
Trips in Varanasi, all handled
See all5. Sarnath
A Buddhist site about 10 km from the city, with a museum and the Dhamek Stupa.
6. Sankat Mochan Temple
A Hanuman temple known for its Tuesday and Saturday crowds.
7. Ramnagar Fort
A fort across the river with a small museum of royal items.
8. Banaras Hindu University
A large campus with the New Vishwanath Temple and a museum.
9. Tulsi Manas Temple
A temple linked to the poet Tulsidas.
10. Weavers' lanes
The lanes of Banarasi silk makers, best visited with a guide.
Best time to visit
October to March is comfortable. Dev Deepawali in November lights up the ghats.
Take a sunrise boat ride first, then walk the lanes.
Timings, permits, ticket rules and dates change from year to year, so confirm the current details before you travel.
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