ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT IN VARANASI

Historically referred to as Kashi or Banaras, one of the world's oldest, continuously inhabited cities transcends time. Beyond its spiritual significance, Varanasi’s narrow lanes are a treasure trove of traditional crafts, including the famous Banarasi silk. The city is also home to India’s first central university from a century ago and an irresistible culinary scene.​

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Standing on the west bank of the Ganga, one of the most important temples in India is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Vishwanatha, ‘Lord of the Universe’. It is one of the 12 jyotirlingas (temples where Shiva is believed to have appeared as a column of light), attracting huge crowds of devotees daily. Every year during Mahashivratri, a great procession takes place from the Mahamrityunjaya Temple to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

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Sarnath

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the Buddha preached his first sermon. In Buddhist literature, it is also known as Mrigadaya (Deer Park) alluding to the herds of deer that roamed here freely. Most of the structures were built by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, a couple of centuries after Buddhism was established. The most famous among these is a pillar that is the national emblem of India, featuring four lions and a dharma chakra (the wheel representing Buddhist teachings) which appears on the Indian flag.

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Ramnagar Fort

Situated opposite Tulsi Ghat, this 18th-century red sandstone fort was constructed by Kashi's ruler, Maharaja Balwant Singh. It features Mughal architecture with fortified walls, arched gateways and ornate pavilions. One of it’s most striking attractions is an ancient temple dedicated to the author of the Indian epic Mahabharata, Ved Vyasa, along with an astrological clock, vintage cars and a weaponry museum.

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Tulsi Manas Temple

One of the most famous temples in the city, it has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism. The ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas was originally written here by the poet-saint, reformer and philosopher Goswami Tulsidas in the 16th century. Various scenes from the epic are depicted on the marble temple’s wall, and there’s a lovely garden to stroll through.

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Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Founded by nationalist leader and reformist Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in 1916, BHU is India’s oldest and among the largest residential universities in Asia, blending traditional and modern learning. The university building is known for its stunning Indo-Gothic architecture reminiscent of the colonial era, sprawling lawns and the beautiful New Vishwanath Temple.

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Alamgir Mosque

Towering above Panchganga Ghat in the heart of the city, Alamgir Mosque has been an instantly-recognizable city landmark since the 17th century. Renowned for its distinctive fusion of Islamic and Hindu architecture, it’s an emblem of Varanasi’s multifaith culture, despite a contentious past. Come here for sweeping views of the Ganga and to witness traditional rituals.

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