top places in Varanasi

Situated on the bank of the Ganga river Kashi Vishwanath a sacred attraction is a Home to the 12th Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. Over the past 800 years, the temple has been demolished and reconstructed several times. legend has it that lord shiva rewarded Lord Vishnu for his honesty as he being worshiped as equal to Shiva with his temples for all eternity. It is said that visiting this temple will pave your path towards moksh (liberation). Not only is this temple famous for its religious aspects but also it is well known for its architecture. It has been coined the name golden temple for its striking spire made with around 800 kilograms of pure gold. A trip to this enchanting temple will certainly be worth your while.

Aarti timing
3:00 am to 4:00 am - Mangla Aarti
11:15 am to 12:20pm - Bhog/Aarti
7:00 pm to 8:15 pm - Saptirishi Aarti
9:00 pm to 10:15 pm - Night Shringar/Bhog Aarti
10:30 pm to 11 pm - Night Shayan Aarti

Best time to visit - October - march

Must watch Occasions- maha Shivaratri, dev Diwali, makar Sankranti

Note-Visitors are not allowed to carry cell phones, cameras, belts with metal buckles, shoes, cigarettes, and lighters into the temple premises. Lockers can be hired at a nominal charge.

Another vivid, bright place in the town that captures the essence of Varanasi. Sit on the steps and relax for a moment to absorb the ghat’s mystical atmosphere. Come at sunrise to marvel as the sun casts a magical light over the river and enjoy the boat cruise early in the morning. Another fascinating event held here every day is Ganga aarti, an exquisite event held at the riverfront after sunset.

Aarti timing
6:30 pm - in summers
7:00 pm - in winters

Located at the southernmost part of Varanasi Assi ghat captures the essence of ancient Varanasi. There are a lot of activities for tourists to engage in at the ghat. Visitors can go for boat rides, go up in a hot-air balloon for an aerial view of Assi ghat, enjoy the daily talent show in the evening or eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area.

Aarti timings
7:00 PM in summers
6:00 PM in winters

NOTE- subah e Banaras a special event is held at Assi ghat every day
5:00 am - 7:00 am - summers
5:40 am - 7:30 am - winters

Located on the eastern bank of the Ganga river, Ramnagar Fort is a sandstone structure built in Mughal style in 1750 by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh. Although the present condition of the fort is not in a good shape. However, the museum inside the compound is worth your time it showcases collectables belonging to the royal family. It is also known for its exhibits of antique scripts and scriptures, vintage furniture, cars, royal costumes.

Timings
10 am - 5 pm - open

Best time to visit - October to march

Also referred to as Isipatana, Sarnath is said to be the birthplace of Buddhism. It is this place where Gautam Buddha preached their first sermon If you are looking for a peaceful, clean, and calm environment then this is the place for you. It can be felt like a new world of heaven on the earth, totally away from the rush, dust, and crowd. Popular sightseeing places in Sarnath include Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Dharmarajika Stupa

Timings
8:00 am - 06:00 pm

Best time to visit - October to march

Durga temple, also known as Durga Kund Mandir or monkey Temple, is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi dedicated to the goddess Durga. It was constructed by rani bhabani of natore. This beautiful shrine holds great religious significance for the Hindus. A narrow lane flanked by flowers leads up to this ancient temple. Inside, the low roofed, bright red-walled temple has a small sanctum with a vivid idol of the Devi riding a tiger, armed with a trident, discus, and sword. Durga Mandir receives most tourist attraction at the time of Navratri

Timings
5 AM - 8 PM

Best time to visit - October to march

Must visit occasion - Navratri

Holding a special place in the people of Varanasi, Manikarnika ghat is said to be one of the oldest ghats. According to one of the many ancient legends, Mata Sati sacrificed her body to fire after her father humiliated her husband, Lord Shiva. It is said that being cremated here opens your gateway to heaven. Since this ghat is mainly a cremation site viewers must not expect a pretty site

Established by famous Hindu preacher and poet-saint Shri Goswami Tulsidas in the early 16th-century hanuman mandir is dedicated to the Hindu god hanuman. It is believed that the temple has been built on the very spot where Tulsidas had visions of Hanuman. A special procession or Shobha Yatra is also arranged which starts from Durgakund at the famous Durga Temple. The Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh takes place every year in April. This temple is a pleasant place with mouth-watering sweets.

Timing
5 am to 10 pm
4 am - Subha aarti
9 pm - sandhya aarti

Note - mobile phones are not allowed inside the premises

Located between the Dashaswamedh Ghat and the Rana Mahal Ghat, Darbhanga Ghat was named after the royal family from Darbhanga. Popular for its visually appealing and photo favorite view this ghat is a perfect getaway after a busy week. Explore interesting themes, fabulous designs, colorful landscapes, amusing characters, ambient music, props, and merchandise available in nearby stores- all in one place.

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